Forget cosmetic surgery, needles, suctions, nips and tucks that are supposed to keep us looking younger. Fortunately, there is a simpler, more sensible and natural way to delay the aging process: Exercise! A recently released Canadian study shows what previous research had already revealed: regular physical activity combined with reduced caloric intake help us not only stave off physical and mental degeneration of aging, but also increase our longevity. This new study reiterates what doctors and fitness professionals have known for a long time — that exercise and healthy weight can delay the aging process and prevent early death. How exactly does regular physical activity keep us younger and healthier, while increasing our life span? The most logical explanation is that exercise and healthy weight go a long way toward preventing heart disease, which is the leading cause of death among Americans. By the same token, physical activity prevents other potentially fatal illnesses and conditions such as certain forms of cancer, as well as obesity and diabetes, which can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Exercise also increases blood flow and oxygenates body cells, keeping them from aging. And, certainly as important, it boosts our mental health by releasing “feel good” hormones known as endorphins. Any regular physical activity that gets you moving is beneficial, but your best bet is a combination of four routines for maximum youth-boosting effects: Strength training It helps slow down or stop muscle loss that accompanies aging and even raises the body’s metabolic rate. Strong muscles protect your heart, keep your joints flexible, strengthen the bones and help manage back and arthritis pain. There is nothing that visually ages you more than stooped shoulders and a crooked posture. Endurance exercises They boost your energy levels, prevent tiredness, oxygenate the entire body and burn excess calories, which in turn helps decrease excess fat. Flexibility training Among other benefits, it helps balance muscle groups that are overly exerted as a result of physical activity or bad posture. It improves performance and decreases the risk of injury, as well as muscle soreness. Core exercises They strengthen, support and stabilize your spine, pelvis and shoulders, while flattening abs too. If your core is strong, you’ll look years younger.  — Matthew Johnson has a bachelor’s in kinesiology with an emphasis on fitness, nutrition and health. He is the owner of Dream Body Boot Camp, located at 7330 Opportunity Road in Kearney Mesa. Launched in August 2009, Dream Body Boot Camp is a fitness program specializing in rapid fat loss and muscle toning. Johnson can be reached at Info@GetSexy SanDiego.com or (619) 481-2284.