Athletes of all shapes and sizes that compete at the National Senior Games have given the world an important, but simple, blueprint for active longevity: If you want to keep moving, you have to keep moving.
Nearly 12,000 athletes from age 50 to over 100 competed in more than 20 sports in the summer of 2023, showcasing what can be accomplished as we age. One might assume these masters athletes were blessed with superior genes that allowed them to compete into their 80’s, 90’s, and 100’s. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
According to research by Blue Zones founder Dan Buettner, 80% of how long we live is determined by our daily life style choices, such as playing sports, and only 20% of how long we live is determined by our genes.
Events like the National Senior Games give the entire country a chance to pick a sport, make new friends, stay in shape and add more healthy and happy years to our lives.
Benefits of Physical Movement
Source: National Institute on Aging
- Boosts energy
- Reduces fatigue
- Reduces the risk of falls
- Prevents diseases like arthritis, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer
- Improves sleep
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Maintains weight
- Increases cognitive function
- Controls blood pressure
