A new study by researchers from Barts and University College London reported that training and completing a marathon can improve the health of a new runner’s arteries, cutting about four years off their “vascular age”.

138 novice runners attempting the London Marathon were tested.

Over six months of training, their arteries regained some youthful elasticity, which should reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Their blood pressure also fell as much as if they had been prescribed pills.

Those who were the least fit beforehand appeared to benefit the most, and smaller amounts of aerobic exercise are likely to have similar effect. This is according to the British Heart Foundation (BHF), which funded the study, in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

However, lead researcher Dr Charlotte Manistry said: “People with known heart disease or other medical conditions should speak to their doctor first”.

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Original Article: MSN news