Benefits of Olympic Medalists

Those athletes who win medals at the Olympics may live longer and this perhaps can be attributed to healthy lifestyles, physical fitness and extra money. The study found that compared to the general population, those who won a gold (or silver or bronze) medal, lived almost three years longer on an average.

Scientists have always tried to see the link between success and longevity. "Some elite sportspeople may be influenced by fame and glory, which could confer longevity through increased affluence, unless undermined by excessive partying and hazardous risk-taking behaviors."

Healthy lifestyles and physical fitness could be providing them the survival advantage, researchers said.

The study also found that athletes in endurance sports had a 13% likelihood of being alive after 30 years as compared to their peers in the general population.



Source-Medindia