Dr. David Geier is an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist in Charleston, South Carolina and Charlotte, North Carolina. He helps athletes and active people feel and perform their best, regardless of age, injuries and medical history. He has been featured in major media publications and shows over 2,500 times throughout his career.
New research suggests that social sports might be better than exercising by yourself for living longer. In a new study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings, researchers collected data on physical activity habits from around 8,500 adults with no history of heart disease, stroke or cancer and then monitored them for 25 years. In that time, over half of the participants died. They found a clear link between longevity and social sports. In fact, tennis was the best for longevity, adding almost 10 years to their lifespan. And while group sports and exercise were the best for lifespan, solo exercise was also good. Jogging added over 3 years, and working out at a gym or health club added 1.5 years.
Through the stories of a dozen athletes whose injuries and recovery advanced the field (including Joan Benoit, Michael Jordan, Brandi Chastain, and Tommy John), Dr. Geier explains how sports medicine makes sports safer for the pros, amateurs, student-athletes, and weekend warriors alike.
