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How to Live Longer - Even If You're Overweight

By Craig Ballantyne

If you have a hard time losing weight and you're worried about your health, I have good news. The most recent research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association suggests that being fit can help you live longer even if you still need to lose five or 10 pounds.

In this study, researchers reviewed more than 2,600 adults (ages 60 and over) and followed them for up to 24 years. Folks with a healthy body mass index (a BMI of 18-25) had the lowest rate of death, but fitness level was also associated with a lower risk of dying.

If you are overweight, the best way to add years to your life (and life to your years) is to lose weight and get fit. But even if you struggle with the former, the latter will help you.

It's not too late to get started on an exercise program. Find a safe walking surface, get good walking shoes, and get out there every day for at least 20 minutes. Add in two short total-body resistance-training sessions per week and you'll feel better, have more energy, and enjoy those extra years.

[Ed. Note: Stop fretting about that extra five pounds you can't seem to kick. Stay active, and you can still live a long, healthy life. For a fat-burning, muscle-building exercise routine, try fitness expert Craig Ballantyne's Turbulence Training program.]