We all have longevity goals, but a leading cardiologist suggests there’s an unspoken question we must ask: can our bodies support them? A simple 10-second, one-legged stand is your body’s direct answer, revealing if its foundational support is strong enough for a long life.
This concept is validated by a 2022 study that “interviewed” the bodies of 1,700 older adults. The research found that the body’s answer to the balance question was a powerful predictor of its ability to sustain life and health over the long term.
The study’s data was clear. A body that answered “yes”—by passing the 10-second test—was structurally sound and had a greater than 90% chance of supporting its inhabitant for seven more healthy years. A “no” was a sign that the support system was failing.
The cardiologist explains that this is because balance is a direct measure of your body’s support infrastructure. It relies on a sturdy frame (muscles and bones) and a precise control system (brain and nerves). A weakness in either can jeopardize your entire longevity plan.
If your body’s answer is “no,” you can work to strengthen its support. The expert recommends a “structural reinforcement” program. She advises that practices like Tai Chi and yoga are excellent for improving your core stability and muscular support, ensuring your body can carry you toward your longevity goals.