Fitness

A groundbreaking 17-year international study has found that a structured exercise program, prescribed and monitored for people recovering from colorectal cancer, can reduce risk of death by 37% and lower recurrence rates by 28%. The findings, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, are being hailed as a major shift in the standard of care for one of the world’s most common and deadly cancers, with direct implications for Thai patients and healthcare providers grappling with rising colorectal cancer rates.

As Thai society becomes ever more health-conscious, fresh scientific insights are changing how we understand the path to greater stamina—no matter one’s age or starting fitness. Recent research and expert guidance are making it clearer than ever: anyone can improve their endurance through proven, practical steps that benefit not only physical performance but also long-term well-being (Prevention). The latest studies emphasise that increasing cardiorespiratory fitness, measured by VO₂ max (the body’s capacity to use oxygen efficiently during exercise), does more than allow you to take the stairs with ease. It actively reduces the risk of chronic disease and lowers the risk of early death (AMA), making stamina enhancement a vital goal for Thais of all backgrounds.

A 17-year international study shows that a personalized, structured exercise program for people recovering from colorectal cancer can reduce the risk of death by 37% and lower cancer recurrence by 28%. Published in a leading medical journal, the findings signal a major shift in post-surgery care with direct relevance for Thai patients and clinicians facing rising colorectal cancer rates.

Researchers tracked 889 patients across six countries who had completed surgery and chemotherapy for colon or bowel cancer. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either standard post-cancer lifestyle advice or a tailored, exercise-focused plan. Over three years, the exercise group completed about 250 minutes of aerobic activity weekly, with sessions such as brisk walking guided like a medical prescription.

A unique and controversial exercise known as the “hanging neck” workout is making headlines in China, capturing the attention of health professionals and the general public across Asia. The trend, in which elderly participants suspend themselves by their necks from tree branches or fitness bars, was spotlighted after multiple accounts surfaced online touting its supposed benefits for neck and back pain—but also, alarmingly, after news broke of a tragic death resulting from the practice (Times of India).

New research highlights that everyday walking mistakes—often unnoticed by most people—can quietly contribute to premature aging of the body, according to a leading fitness expert. While walking remains one of the safest, most accessible forms of exercise with well-documented health benefits, the latest findings underscore that poor mechanics can undermine its positive effects and even accelerate physical decline, especially among Thai adults who view brisk walks as a cornerstone of healthy living (Eat This, Not That!).

New research suggests that everyday walking mistakes—often unseen—can quietly accelerate body aging. Walking remains one of the safest, most accessible exercises with clear health benefits, but poor mechanics may blunt those gains and contribute to physical decline, especially among Thai adults who rely on brisk walking for health.

When done with proper posture and technique, walking supports mental health, lowers cardiovascular risk, and promotes longevity. Yet even small errors—slouching, short steps, rigid arm movement, sticking to flat surfaces, or ill-fitting footwear—can place extra strain on joints and muscles over time, increasing pain, instability, and injury risk.

A controversial trend known as the “hanging neck” workout has drawn global concern after emerging in China. Elderly participants reportedly suspend themselves by their necks from branches or bars, with some testimonials claiming relief from neck and back pain. Public warnings followed a fatal incident in Chongqing, highlighting severe risks from this practice.

The movement began in Shenyang, where a 57-year-old man created a homemade device to self-treat chronic neck discomfort. Videos showed seniors swinging gently from trees, which quickly went viral on social media. Supporters claim the technique reduces nerve pressure and improves sleep, prompting more elderly people to try it. However, medical professionals caution that the neck is not built to support body weight in dynamic motions, and improper use can cause nerve damage, disc injuries, or cervical fractures. Recent reporting notes a tragic death linked to misused equipment, underscoring the danger of unsupervised practice.

A NASA-linked study is sparking global talk by suggesting that just 10 minutes of rebounding on a small trampoline may deliver cardiovascular and muscular benefits comparable to 30 minutes of jogging. The finding has circulated widely on social media and in mainstream outlets, fueling a shift toward time-efficient, space-saving fitness options—especially in crowded urban environments.

For Thailand, where busy schedules and limited space常 pose barriers to daily exercise, rebounding presents an appealing alternative. The research, reportedly tied to astronaut conditioning research, indicates that rebounding not only boosts heart health and endurance efficiently but also involves less joint impact than running. Medical commentators in Thailand note the potential for office workers, students, the elderly, and people recovering from injuries to benefit from this approach, which is gentler on joints yet still effective.

For Thailand’s aging population, staying mobile and self-reliant is both a dream and a challenge. New expertise from researchers in Europe, echoed by Thai scholars, suggests two simple daily practices can significantly improve health and independence: regular mobility training and a Mediterranean-inspired eating pattern. These insights are resonating from Bangkok to Bangkok’s aging communities, with implications for Thailand’s rapidly graying society.

Thailand already faces a growing share of citizens aged 60 and over, a trend that highlights the urgency of extending healthspan—the years lived in good health. Community classes, local healthcare programs, and elder-support networks are increasingly focused on helping seniors stay active, avoid falls, and manage daily tasks without assistance. Research from sport and nutrition experts underscores that consistent movement and balanced nutrition are central to these goals.

For many Thais entering their later years, the prospect of living long and independently is both a hope and a challenge. Recent research affirms that two simple but powerful daily habits—performing regular mobility exercises and embracing a Mediterranean-style diet—may hold the key to staying healthy, active, and self-sufficient as we age. These recommendations, highlighted by experts at the University of Limerick, are gaining global and local traction, with direct implications for Thailand’s rapidly aging society (Fit&Well, 2025-05-27).

A recent NASA-linked study has sparked global discussion by revealing that just 10 minutes of “rebounding”—a form of aerobic exercise using a small trampoline—can offer cardiovascular and muscular benefits on par with half an hour of jogging. This finding, which has gained momentum across social media and mainstream news outlets, is redefining perceptions of efficient exercise and raising hopes for more accessible fitness routines, especially in urban settings where time and space are at a premium.

A newly emerging walking method known as the “5-4-5 walking technique” is gaining popularity for its ability to simultaneously energise both body and mind. The technique, recently highlighted by a fitness writer at Tom’s Guide in a first-person account, injects interval-style variety into daily walks and promises notable health benefits. As everyday Thais seek affordable and accessible ways to improve physical and mental wellbeing, could this innovative approach offer a new model for nationwide fitness?

A new fitness approach called the 5-4-5 walking technique is catching attention for boosting energy and mood through simple, interval-style walk patterns. Reported by a Tom’s Guide writer in a first-person account, this method adds variety to everyday strolls and promises meaningful health gains. For busy Thais seeking affordable, accessible ways to improve wellbeing, could this approach become a practical nationwide model?

The method is straightforward and adaptable. After a gentle warm-up, you jog or run for five minutes, slow to a four-minute relaxed recovery walk, then resume a brisk five-minute walk. This 14-minute cycle can be repeated for as long as desired—two cycles for a 28-minute workout or three for a 45-minute session. The routine alternates high, low, and moderate intensities to elevate the heart rate without the harsh impact of nonstop running. In daily life, such intervals mirror HIIT benefits with much gentler joints, making it suitable for a broad audience.

As Thailand’s population ages rapidly, maintaining physical activity among older adults has become a public health priority. Recent research highlights not only the physical benefits of regular exercise but also the crucial role of motivation and tailored support in keeping seniors active—and independent—well into their later years. The latest findings, spotlighted in a report by Deseret News and supported by both scientific and Thai-specific studies, reveal that community, enjoyment, and personal meaning are key elements for seniors to keep moving (Deseret News, News-Medical.Net).

A growing body of scientific evidence has illuminated a surprisingly simple yet powerful habit for unlocking healthy aging: strength and resistance exercise. Recent research led by a renowned US cardiologist and echoed by Thai health trends reveals that building muscle may be even more critical than previously believed for maintaining health and independence late into life. As Thailand faces rapid population aging, these findings offer valuable lessons for families, healthcare providers, and policymakers striving to boost the nation’s well-being.

A growing body of evidence shows a simple, powerful habit for healthy aging: strength and resistance exercise. Recent international research, highlighted by a leading US cardiologist, aligns with Thai health trends. Building muscle may be more crucial than once thought for preserving health and independence in later life. As Thailand prepares for rapid population aging, these findings offer practical lessons for families, healthcare providers, and policymakers aiming to boost well-being.

Thailand faces a rapidly aging population, making sustained activity among older adults a public health priority. New research emphasizes that motivation and tailored support are as crucial as guidelines for keeping seniors active and independent. Studies indicate that community, enjoyment, and personal meaning drive lasting engagement in physical activity.

A senior recreation program in the United States illustrates this approach in action. Participants gather regularly for exercises that build strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health, guided by university students. The class is about camaraderie as much as fitness, with personalized adaptations and a powerful example from a 94-year-old participant who models commitment. “If she can do it, so can I,” one attendee said, capturing how role models can spark ongoing participation.

A London-based general practitioner sparked headlines by sharing how he shed nearly half his body fat in three months. He didn’t rely on extreme diets or long-distance runs. Instead, he adopted small, sustainable tweaks to exercise and eating. The piece has circulated widely, highlighting practical strategies that could resonate with time-pressed Thai readers seeking healthier living.

The story centers on a mid-career doctor who faced a shoulder injury and a break from gym routines. He found his body fat creeping up and confidence waning. With the guidance of a personal trainer, he shifted to efficient, science-backed methods: full-body workouts, mindful portion control, and a daily protein target. In three months, a smart scale showed fat reduction from 19% to 10%—achieved without drastic lifestyle sacrifices.

A London-based general practitioner recently made headlines after sharing how he lost nearly half his body fat in just three months—not through extreme dieting or marathon training sessions, but by making manageable changes to his exercise and eating habits. The story, widely shared after publication by Business Insider, shines a spotlight on straightforward strategies that could benefit health-conscious Thais facing similar challenges of time, energy, and motivation in their pursuit of wellness (businessinsider.com).

Walking has long been a staple in daily Thai life, weaving through the rhythms of city streets and countryside paths alike. But as urban lifestyles grow more sedentary and gym culture rises, many are left wondering whether this simple, accessible activity can genuinely help us build muscle, burn fat, or both. Recent research, highlighted in a comprehensive GQ feature, draws on a global body of evidence and new scientific studies that shed fresh light on the true impact of walking—insights that offer practical guidance for Thais seeking healthier habits.

Walking is woven into daily life across Thailand, from busy city sidewalks to peaceful rural trails. Yet with more sedentary routines and rising gym culture, many wonder if this simple activity can truly build muscle or torch fat. A recent feature in GQ reviews a global body of research and new studies, offering practical guidance for Thais seeking healthier habits.

As obesity and sedentary work rise in Thailand, understanding walking’s benefits could shape both national health strategies and personal choices. Data from a multi-regional study shows walking remains the most popular form of physical activity worldwide, including in Thai cities where parks, elevated walkways, and footpaths bustle with walkers of all ages. For millions who stroll for exercise or daily transport, the big question is whether they are reaping real health benefits.

A quirky wellness trend has taken over social media platforms worldwide, with the so-called “fart walk” gaining traction for its digestive and metabolic benefits. The idea, which shot to fame on TikTok, involves taking a gentle stroll after a meal to stimulate digestion, help pass intestinal gas, and moderate blood sugar spikes. The trend—which might induce a giggle with its name—has been met with both public amusement and encouragement from medical professionals, who note it is a surprisingly sound health practice with scientific backing (Healthline, NPR, Economic Times).

A renowned cardiologist and expert in longevity, now aged 70, has revealed that adding strength training to his routine transformed his health, making him fitter than ever—even compared to decades earlier. Sharing insights with TODAY.com, the cardiologist, an authority in cardiovascular medicine and aging research, admits that a lifetime focused purely on aerobic exercises like running and cycling left a critical gap in his regimen: neglecting resistance training. This realization prompted a fundamental shift. Now, after a year of consistently engaging in at least an hour of strength training three times a week, or shorter sessions more frequently, he credits resistance work with boosting his strength and fitness well beyond what aerobic activity alone ever achieved. “If I’m going to be old, I’d rather be strong and old,” he remarked, encapsulating a philosophy with deep resonance for Thailand’s fast-aging society (today.com).

A light, post-meal stroll has captured global attention as the “fart walk.” Proponents say a gentle walk after eating can aid digestion, help release gas, and moderate blood sugar spikes. The trend gained traction on TikTok and has drawn interest from health professionals who describe it as a sensible, accessible practice with real, practical benefits.

For Thai readers, this trend arrives at a time when practical health tips are valued. In Thai culture, conversations about digestion can be delicate, but the idea of a simple walk after meals offers a friendly entry point to gut health that is easy to discuss and adopt.