Soviet studies in the fitness of the aged

Much attention is being paid in the Soviet Union to the relationship between physical exercise, health and longevity. Many studies are conducted with the purpose of substantiating the hypothesis that physical activity has a positive effect on longevity while the lack of it shortens life. These studies are conducted in close cooperation between specialists in physical culture and medicine. Many groups of athletes are formed with the purpose of investigating the effect of physical exercise on different organs and systems of the human body. The Soviets also consider physical exercise as an economic factor: improving the health of the individual worker raises his level of productivity. To promote and encourage the participation of older people in athletic activities, special athletic meets are organized in which people as old as 70 show remarkable results.