Expert say the longevity Olympians enjoy is within the reach of everyone. Research published on the British Medical Journal (BMJ) website suggests athletes live 2.8 years longer on average than the average lifespan.The research indicated those who took part in non-contact sports such as cycling, rowing and tennis enjoyed the longest life of all. The conclusion by two public health professors came after they reviewed two studies of Olympic athletes published by the BMJ website. The studies looked at the lifespan and health of 25,000 athletes who competed in Games dating back to 1896. Those taking part in contact sports such as boxing had the least advantage, while cyclists and rowers enjoyed the best health. But the researchers also found those who played lower intensity sports such as golf enjoyed a boost. The recommended level of physical activity for adults is 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise each week. Studies suggest people who manage that amount or more live for up to several years longer than those that do not.