Aiming at Optimal Physical Activity for Longevity (OPAL)

Although even small volumes (15-20 min) of daily physical activity (PA) are associated with health benefits, the optimal volume for healthy aging and longevity is substantially larger, amounting to about 100 min of daily moderate PA. The accomplishment of this objective likely requires the development of an appropriate PA lifestyle at an early age. Research initiatives are necessary addressing the motivational contribution of families, school surroundings and sport clubs, perhaps combined with role model effects and instructions for the specific implementation. Such approaches would need an enlarged agreement in readdressing this new aim followed by the launch of a new research strategy in order to develop specific offers for the respective age cohorts.

Automated summary

While small amounts of daily physical activity are beneficial for health, achieving healthy aging and longevity may require around 100 minutes of moderate physical activity each day. Developing a suitable physical activity lifestyle from an early age is key, with a focus on the motivational contributions of families, school environments, and sport clubs. Initiating a new research strategy to develop specific programs for different age groups is essential for promoting this new goal.