# Exercise Is the Only Proven Way to Extend Healthy Years, Review Finds

*Interventions that prolong multidimensional indicators of healthspan in humans: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials.*

- **Evidence Level**: Moderate
- **Publication Types**: Journal Article
- **Journal**: The journals of gerontology. Series A, Biological sciences and medical sciences
- **Sample Size**: 15 trials with 4,656 participants
- **Authors**: Zheng HT, Phyo AZZ, McCubbin C, Wu Z, Bischoff-Ferrari HA, Ryan J
- **Published**: 2026-05-22
- **Topics**: exercise, healthspan, quality of life
- **DOI**: https://doi.org/10.1093/gerona/glag133
- **Original Source**: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42172592/

## Summary

Researchers looked at 15 trials testing ways to extend healthspan, the years you live in good health. Exercise, alone or combined with other approaches, was the only thing that consistently improved how well people functioned and felt. Other approaches like supplements and calorie restriction had too little evidence to draw conclusions.

## Practical Takeaway

This review suggests regular exercise, whether aerobic or strength training, may help extend the years you spend in good health.

---

_Canonical: https://usa-longevity.com/en/research/exercise-is-the-only-proven-way-to-extend-healthy-years-review-finds · Part of Longevity Cities · Updated 2026-05-22_