02/10/2026
Breakdown below 👇
This study (PMID: 30646252) looked at 122,000 individuals, mean age 53.4 years, and analyzed their cardiorespiratory fitness levels (low, below average, above average, high, elite) as well as their comorbidities, and evaluated the association between these things and all-cause mortality over a period of 23 years (1991-2014).
The hazard ratios are displayed in the graphic which depict the statistical likelihood of death happening in one group vs. another.
For example, when comparing individuals with low vs. elite cardiorespiratory fitness, individuals with low cardiorespiratory fitness had a 5x greater risk of mortality.
Another example is that individuals that smoked had a 1.41x greater risk of mortality compared to individuals that did not smoke.
What this shows - cardiorespiratory fitness is essential for reducing risk of death. More so than many comorbidities including smoking, hypertension, and diabetes.
This is important for individuals of all ages and is motivating to try and improve cardiorespiratory fitness.
As a doctor of physical therapy, we should be on the frontlines in educating people of this importance and designing individualized programs for people.
If you are someone that is interested in having a custom program made for you, reach out to me via DM or link in bio. I offer free consults and online programming.
Stay moving!
