Why being physically active matters

How would you react if you were offered a therapy that improves your heart function, boosts lung capacity, reduces stress, supports mental health, kickstarts fat metabolism, and can even help with weight loss?

The good news: this method has already existed for millions of years. It emerged when our early ancestors began moving permanently on two legs. Walking upright laid the foundation for an ability that would prove evolutionarily decisive for humankind: endurance running.

While reading the book Born to Run by Christopher McDougall, one line stuck with us in particular:

"You don't stop running because you get old. You get old because you stop running."

This thought gave us pause. Looking at running through an evolutionary lens opens up a new perspective on movement - and can also spark motivation to become, or stay, physically active.

Over the course of evolution, the human body adapted increasingly well to running long distances. Long legs, powerful glutes, elastic Achilles tendons, a stable arch in the foot, and the ability to release heat efficiently through sweating made humans exceptional endurance runners. These traits not only improved our chances of survival but also strengthened social bonds.

Running doesn't have to mean training for a marathon right away. Scientific studies show that even a moderate increase in endurance activity has positive effects on metabolism and health. A brisk walk during your lunch break already has value - just as much as regular training for a 10K or half marathon.

Also interesting: research shows that for many health benefits, it makes little difference whether activity is spread evenly across the week or concentrated mainly on the weekend. What matters most is simply that you move.

What goal could motivate you to move more? Would you like to spend more time in nature? Feel physically fitter? Or preserve your mobility and independence well into old age?

Then let Fauja Singh inspire you: the British runner of Indian descent became known as the first 100-year-old person to complete an official marathon.

It's never too late to start a healthy habit. We're happy to support you in reaching your personal goals.