HOW HEALTHY ARE YOU REALLY?

1 The sit-to-stand test

A deceptively simple marker of strength and flexibility, acing this test means we’re likely to live for longer. As we age, we lose muscle mass and balance, increasing the risk of dangerous falls and fractures. In a study of 2,000 patients aged 51-80, those who scored poorly were found to be up to five times more likely to die within six years.

TRY IT

1 Stand in bare feet and, without leaning on anything, lower yourself