Long-term Physical Inactivity Linked to Higher Stress Burden in Midlife

A 15-year study reveals that lifelong physical inactivity leaves lasting biological scars, while consistent exercise may buffer the body against chronic stress.

The research tracked 3,300 participants from age 31 to 46 in the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966. Allostatic load—a measure of accumulated stress on the body—was assessed using biological markers such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammatory proteins.

Participants who failed to meet World Health Organization (WHO) physical activity guidelines consistently showed higher stress burdens in midlife compared to those who maintained regular exercise habits.

Notably, individuals who increased their activity levels later in life did not experience a significant reduction in stress burden compared to those who had been consistently active.

This suggests that sustained physical activity, rather than late-life interventions, may be critical for mitigating long-term stress effects. The study’s longitudinal design allowed researchers to observe patterns over time, reinforcing the importance of maintaining exercise routines across adulthood.

Dr. Maija Korpisaari said:

"The results suggest that the importance of physical activity is not limited to individual life stages; rather, regular exercise throughout adulthood may protect the body from the harmful effects of long-term stress."

The findings, published in Psychoneuroendocrinology, highlight a correlation between lifelong inactivity and elevated stress markers.

However, the researchers caution that further studies are needed to explore how different stress indicators interact with physical activity across the lifespan. The study does not establish causation and should not be interpreted as clinical guidance.

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