A top cardiologist is offering a 10-second reality check that can provide profound insights into your health and longevity. The test is simple: stand on one leg. Your ability to do so is a scientifically validated indicator of your future well-being.
The science behind this is a landmark 2022 study that monitored 1,700 older adults over a decade. The study discovered a powerful link between their ability to balance and their risk of mortality from any cause, establishing it as a critical health indicator.
The research concluded that participants who could hold the stance for at least 10 seconds had an impressive 90%-plus probability of living for another seven years without major disability. This makes the simple balance test a potent, non-invasive tool for self-assessment.
According to the cardiologist, this is because balance is a complex, integrated function that acts as a reality check for your overall health. It relies on the harmonious operation of your nervous system, sensory organs, and musculoskeletal frame. A failure suggests a reality that needs attention.
If this reality check is a wake-up call, the expert recommends a proactive response. She advises moving beyond just cardio to embrace practices like Tai Chi and yoga, which are specifically designed to improve balance, coordination, and the mind-body connection essential for a long and healthy life.