Keep moving, stay healthy

A generally active life, even without regular exercise sessions, was tied to better heart health and greater longevity in a study of older Swedes.

Based on nearly 3,900 men and women over age 60 in Stockholm, the study adds to evidence suggesting that just sitting around may be actively harmful, researchers say.

"We have known for 60 years that physical activity is important for the heart," says lead author Elin Ekblom-Bak, of the Astrand Laboratory of Work Physiology of the Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences in Stockholm.