As they pointed out, this result may help convince currently inactive people that a modest physical activity program may have health benefits, even if it does not result in weight loss.
The researchers continued: “The findings also suggest that physical activity at recommended levels or higher may increase longevity further, and that a lack of leisure time physical activity may markedly reduce life expectancy when combined with obesity.
“Although the accuracy and generalisability of these findings may be limited by certain aspects of the study’s design (for example, some study participants may have overestimated their leisure time physical activity), these findings reinforce the public health message that both a physically active lifestyle and a normal body weight are important for increasing longevity.”