Benefits of Regular Exercise - Why a Little Dab'll Do Ya!

Discover the benefits of regular exercise and learn why a little dab'll do ya.

A Little Dab'll Do Ya

Among the many memorable scenes of One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest, there is a sequence where a nurse applies conductant during electroshock therapy, leading Jack Nicholson to quip: "A little dab'll do ya." 

It's a funny line. But where does it originate from?

A little dab will do ya became the Brylcreem marketing slogan that ran on radio and TV commercials back in the 1950s. The men's styling product promised to put life back into dry hair, and give you that look the ladies love. 

So, what does this have to do with exercise?

Well, just like the Brylcreem ad, recent research shows "a little dab'll do ya." 

And that isn't all. Making exercise a habit - even in later life - can make you up to seven times more likely to stay healthy.

Benefits of Regular Exercise

The research comes from an 8-year British study and found that those who exercised at least once a week were between three and seven times more likely to be classified as "healthy agers".

Researchers say regular exercise is key to preventing serious disease and disability, and that being active also boosts mental health by protecting against depression.

How much exercise do you need to make a difference?

Less than you might think.

Here is what lead researcher, Dr Mark Hamer at University College London said: "Every 10 minutes counts. So even hopping off the bus a couple of stops early or taking a brisk walk on your lunch break will help."

3 Top Reasons to Exercise

The study was published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine. Researchers tracked 3,500 people with an average age of 64 for more than eight years. 

Results showed:

1. There is a direct link to the amount of exercise taken,

2. After 4-years of regular exercise, people are three times more likely to age healthily,

3. After 8-years of frequent activity, people are up to seven times more likely to age healthily.

These findings add to a growing body of evidence to suggest regular exercise and physical activity is essential for maintaining good health - that's 3 great reasons to begin abbreviated training today! 

Like the Brylcreem ad says, "A little dab'll do ya."