Ten seconds of standing on one leg could reveal your mortality risk

November 21, 2022
relaxed sporty woman standing open air with closed eyes keeping palms together standing one leg wearing sportswear enjoying training beautiful forest

The link between aerobic exercise and health has long been understood. Less focus has been placed on nonaerobic form of workout, which includes elements like balance, and muscular strength/power. However, a new study recommends that it should be emphasized more and that balance tests should be part of clinical evaluations.

How standing on one leg can reveal the mortality risk

In line with a recent study, adults that can’t balance on one leg for ten seconds have an increased twofold likelihood of passing away within the next ten years. The link between different measurements in sports and other characteristics and risk factors was learned by engaging individuals in the CLΙNIMEX cohort, which was initially set up in the 90s. The scientists worked with a cohort of 1,702 people for their study. The study members had to balance themselves unaided for ten seconds while balancing on one leg during examinations. The group was given 3 chances to try this technique.

The outcomes were astonishing

Single leg stance (SLS) test failure was experienced by one in five members, and age was correlated with inability. In the age of 50-55, failure looked to increase twofold at intervals of five years.

After observing the group for a further 7 years on average, the scientists discovered that 7 % (123 individuals) had passed away. Cancer accounted for 32 per cent of those fatalities, heart disorder for 30 percent, lung illness for 9 percent, and coronavirus problems for 7 percent.

However, neither the death rates of individuals who passed the SLS nor those who did not show any temporal trends. The percentage of fatalities among those who unsuccessfully passed was far higher: 17.5 % vs. 4.5 %.

The scientists found that those who could not finish the SLS had an increased risk of passing away from any cause in the next ten years of 84 percent after controlling for age, sex, and medical terms.

Can this test accurately estimate the likelihood of dying?

Those who didn’t pass the test appeared to be in worse health: obesity, hypertension, and/or cardiovascular disorder were more prevalent in the failed group.

The majority of cases of frailty are caused by poor nonaerobic workouts, which is typically but not always linked to an inactive lifestyle. It is generally recognized that being weak is closely linked to a nonsufficient quality of life, less physical activity/exercise, and other factors.

The problem is not a good physical state. Furthermore, it goes without saying that falls are linked to bad balance. The likelihood of significant fractures and other related problems is extremely high in older adults who fall. This could possibly contribute to the greater mortality rate.

We frequently have to perform a one-legged position, get out of the automobile, walk, and so forth. It is probably tied to a loss of control and independence and, as a result, less exercise for those who lack the ability or are frightened to do so, and this is where the snowball effect begins.

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