We have always been told that physical exercise is good for us. It keeps us healthy. But recent research also shows that exercising not only keeps our body sane, it also slows down the aging process. When a cell ages, its telomeres (tiny caps that protect DNA) shorten and fray. That process, however, is accelerated when things such as obesity, diabetes, smoking and other bad aspects of health and lifestyle are included. Exercise can slow down that process, though, allowing your cells to last and function longer. The findings show that this has a significant impact particularly in people between the ages of 40 and 65. For them, it’s crucial to start or maintain physical activity so they can be forever young.