Regular moderate-intensity exercise is widely acknowledged for its longevity-promoting effects. However, scientific consensus on the effects of extreme endurance exercise on lifespan is divided. A recent study found that athletes who ran a sub-4-minute mile tend to live longer than the general population.

Researchers used data from a publicly available database of runners who have successfully run a sub-4-minute mile. They compared the lifespans of 200 of these runners with the life expectancies specific to each athlete’s country of origin.

They found that about one-third of the sub-4-minute mile runners had died, but those still alive had surpassed their predicted life expectancy by an average of 4.7 years. Interestingly, longevity benefits varied by decade, with those completing the mile in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s living longer by 9.2, 5.5, and 2.9 years, respectively, beyond their expected lifespan.

These findings suggest that high-level endurance training associated with running a sub-4-minute mile may increase longevity. They also challenge the notion that extreme endurance exercise is detrimental and support the benefits of vigorous physical activity for extending lifespan. Learn more about how vigorous exercise and other healthy lifestyle habits promote longevity in this episode featuring Dr. Rhonda Patrick.