Summary We have progressed considerably during the past 60 years, from the point at which endurance training was widely considered to be the sole domain of the young and those involved in sport, to our current evidence based position of recommending endurance exercise for virtually all sectors of the population, and particularly for those whose occupation lacks physical activity. In conclusion: • Endurance training is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, some cancers and allcause mortality risk. • Moderate intensity endurance training conveys many health benefits. • Some intervention studies indicate that physical fitness rather than physical activity levels is more strongly associated with the health benefits. • Higher intensity (vigorous) endurance training can provide greater health benefits than moderate intensity training. • Whilst the optimal condition is to exercise throughout life, the health benefits of regular endurance training can be attained from commencing an exercise program at almost any age, but conversely these gains are lost if this activity is ceased. • Endurance training conveys health benefits that are independent of losing weight.
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