I just turned 39 recently. I am like most who don't necessarily "enjoy" growing older, yet there is nothing anyone can do about their actual age (and of course it beats the alternative). Yes, we are powerless of that number which signifies how long we have been on the earth. However, what we can control is our actual "fitness age", which according to a recent study is a better predictor of longevity than chronological age. Unlike your actual age, your fitness age, with training, can decrease, or unfortunately increase as well.

One's fitness age is primarily determined by their VO2max, which is a measure of the body's ability to take in and utilize oxygen, which is a direct correlation of cardiovascular endurance. For example, if your VO2max is below average for your age group, then your fitness age is actually older than your chronological age. But if is it above average, then you can actually turn back to the clock to a younger fitness age.

The problem is, most of us do not know our VO2max, as precise measurement requires high-tech treadmill testing. To work around this, Norwegian scientists developed an easy method for estimating VO2max by studying the demographics and habits of 5000 people. They determined that, if plugged into an algorithm, one could learn a close approximation to their VO2max.

The study also found that those who had a VO2max 15 percent or more below average for their age had an 82 percent higher risk of dying prematurely than those whose fitness age was the same or younger than their actual age. Thankfully there is an online calculator for determining fitness age and you can find it at worldfitnesslevel.com. I was quite pleasantly surprised with my results!

If you take this test and are unhappy with your results, fear not! Fitness age can be altered. Ulrik Wisloff, a professor of Exercise in Medicine at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology advised to those who wish to lower their fitness levels simply stated "Just exercise." He also said that almost any type and amount of exercise should help to increase VO2max and lower fitness age, potentially increasing lifespan. "There is a huge benefit," he said "larger than any known medical treatment, in improving your fitness level to what is expected for your age group or, even better, above it."

While lowering your fitness age may add years to your life, equally important, in my opinion, it will add quality into your years. Like I said at the beginning, the number according to your birth certificate is your actual age, whether you like it or not. But your fitness age is by and large in your control. Regardless if you have a long or little way to go, every little bit counts.