60-Year University of Tokyo Fitness Study Proves: More Physically Fit Students Tend to Have Higher Post-Graduation Incomes

Is intellectual ability the only thing that matters in studies and work? A fitness study conducted on University of Tokyo students for about 60 years has revealed that the habit of physical activity during youth has a long-term impact on various performances in later life. At the University of Tokyo, as part of practical classes, students' vertical jump, side-to-side step, push-ups, step test, height, and weight are measured at enrollment (April) and at the end of the first year (December). Furthermore, a follow-up survey of graduates has shown that those with higher physical fitness during their student years tend to be more active, have fewer mental health issues, and have higher incomes* after graduation. *Source: University of Tokyo Laboratory of Physical and Health Education, University of Tokyo Fitness Test Study (UTFS) Survey. Looking at the data spanning about 60 years, the basic physical abilities of jumping, supporting, and endurance have been declining for both men and women. For men, vertical jump and push-ups have been on a downward trend since the late 1980s. Women show a similar trend, with a significant drop in push-ups in 2025. With no major changes in physique and an actual improvement in diet, the background for these results could be the increasing convenience of life and reduced opportunities for outdoor physical activity, compounded by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a general weakening of motor functions. In a survey conducted by Taisho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. in April 2026 on 1,000 men and women aged 18-29 nationwide regarding their exercise frequency, "not at all" was the most common answer at 44.6%, followed by "2-3 times a week" (13.4%), "hardly ever" (11.8%), and "almost every day" (11%). Professor Emeritus Hideo Hatta from the University of Tokyo states that what's important for accomplishing studies and work is not to push oneself recklessly, but to continue efforts in a balanced manner. The foundation for this is maintaining a healthy body. In this so-called 100-year life era, what exercise habits one adopts from a young age, and what kind of diet and nutrition support the body, are crucial themes related to future health, vitality, and quality of life. We asked Professor Hatta about the exercise habits to be conscious of from youth and the nutrition that supports them. [Supervisor] Hideo Hatta, Professor Emeritus, The University of Tokyo. Active in research on training theories utilizing lactic acid, with numerous publications and research achievements in sports science. He has also been dedicated to coaching the University of Tokyo's track and field club for many years, and his appearance providing water at the 2025 Hakone Ekiden became a topic of conversation. After graduating from the University of Tokyo's Faculty of Education in 1983, he completed his graduate studies at the same university's Graduate School of Education. He became an associate professor at the University of Tokyo's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences in 1996 and a professor in 2010. He retired in 2025. Specializing in exercise physiology, particularly lactate and energy metabolism, he has long led research that re-evaluates lactate, traditionally considered a "fatigue substance," as an important energy source during exercise. Exercise and Dietary Habits are as Important as Intellectual Ability. When trying to accomplish something, like exams, job hunting, or work, we tend to focus on training our knowledge and thinking skills. However, people who consistently perform at a high level in their studies and work often also possess a healthy body and physical fitness. Exercise has a positive effect on the brain, such as promoting blood flow, which can lead to sustained concentration and thinking skills. Furthermore, moderate exercise helps balance the autonomic nervous system, contributing to stress reduction and improved sleep quality. When these physical and mental states are in order, it can result in a stable increase in learning efficiency and work performance. While physical fitness is often postponed and done in spare time compared to studying or work, it is actually the foundation that supports learning and work, and is just as important as intellectual ability. Continuing Without Overdoing It Leads to Effective Exercise Habits. It is not necessary to perform long or high-intensity exercise to improve physical fitness. The effect of exercise is not determined by simple "volume" but is greatly influenced by the balance of "intensity" and "rest." While there was a time when "pushing to the limit" or "overcoming hardship" was seen as a sign of growth, this view is now being reconsidered. Excessive load or chronic fatigue can affect not only the body but also the mind, and can make it harder to continue exercising. Therefore, when developing an exercise habit, it is important to consider not only "how to use the body" but also "how to recover." For those who have not had a habit of exercising, even exercising once a week consistently is meaningful. Gradually increasing physical activity in daily life, such as walking more, using stairs, and avoiding sitting for long periods, is the first step in building physical fitness. It is important to start within a manageable range and incorporate it in a sustainable way. Essential Diet and Nutrition to Support Exercise Habits. Energy is consumed and muscles are stressed, so if the supporting nutrition is insufficient, it can lead to fatigue accumulation and a decline in condition. In an internet survey on "drinks and foods consciously consumed during exercise" conducted by Taisho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. in conjunction with the aforementioned exercise frequency survey, the top five were "water" (265 out of 1000 people), "tea/unsweetened beverages" (184), "sports drinks" (110), "coffee/tea" (83), and "protein drinks" (75). The results suggest that while there is high awareness of hydration, caffeine, and protein drinks, awareness and knowledge of other nutrients may not be widespread. The basis is to have a balanced meal with a staple food, main dish, and side dishes. On top of that, being conscious of the necessary nutrients according to the intensity and purpose of the exercise leads to maintaining daily condition and continuing exercise habits without strain. Here are some nutrients and components to be aware of during exercise. ● Taurine: Maintains endurance and improves performance during exercise. Taurine is abundant in seafood and is involved in regulating osmotic pressure and maintaining cell function in the body, helping to regulate the internal environment, including muscles. Animal experiments have shown that mice that consumed taurine ran longer, and it is gaining attention as a component that supports the body's condition during exercise. A 2013 study by Balshaw TG et al. on middle-distance runners reported that ingesting taurine before exercise improved performance in a 3km time trial*. *Balshaw, T. G., et al. (2013). The effect of acute taurine ingestion on 3-km running performance in trained middle-distance runners. Taurine may affect thermoregulatory function through increased sweating and suppression of core body temperature rise, making it easier to maintain performance in harsh environments. It is a recommended nutrient not only for those who engage in strenuous exercise but also for those who want to start an exercise habit, maintain their condition while being active, and want to minimize post-exercise fatigue. ● Carbohydrates: Energy source for moving the body. Carbohydrates are an important energy source during exercise, and the higher the exercise intensity, the more they are needed by the muscles. Drastically reducing staple foods can not only make you feel weak but also lead to a decline in concentration and increased fatigue. It is important to secure an appropriate amount in the diet, not only during exercise but also to maintain activity levels in daily life and continue exercise habits without strain. ● Protein: Builds the body and supports post-exercise recovery. Protein is a material for building not only muscles but also blood, enzymes, and hormones. It is essential for repairing the body that has been stressed by exercise. To continue exercising as a habit, even light exercise, it is important to maintain muscle mass and bodily functions. Protein is not just for athletes but is also an important nutrient for the foundation of daily physical activity. ● Iron: Carries oxygen and supports endurance and vitality. Iron is a material for hemoglobin and plays a role in carrying oxygen throughout the body. A deficiency can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, and a decrease in endurance. It is a nutrient to be especially conscious of for menstruating women and young women who tend to restrict their dietary intake, especially if they have an exercise habit. It is also important for supporting daily vitality and condition. ● B Vitamins: Support energy metabolism and help build a fatigue-resistant body. B vitamins are necessary nutrients for converting carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into energy and support the foundation for physical activity. No matter how many energy-source nutrients you take, B vitamins are essential to use them effectively. A deficiency can lead to fatigue, listlessness, and a decline in concentration. It is a nutrient to be conscious of not only for those who exercise a lot but also for those who want to maintain their activity level and balance study/work with exercise. Fitter Students Tend to Be More Active and Have Higher Incomes After Graduation. Exercise can improve and prevent mental health issues and even affect future social life. The University of Tokyo's fitness survey also includes a follow-up survey of graduates*. The results showed that those with higher physical fitness during their student years tend to be more active after graduation and less likely to seek medical care for mental health issues. Furthermore, they were found to be more positive about social activities and had higher incomes. These results suggest that physical fitness may function as a fundamental strength that supports daily life and work. Physically fit people may be better able to maintain their energy and concentration in busy or stressful situations and may be more resilient in difficult situations. *Source: University of Tokyo Laboratory of Physical and Health Education, University of Tokyo Fitness Test Study (UTFS) Survey. Exercise experience during student years is important, but what is more important is to maintain a lifelong habit of physical activity. It is more significant to maintain an exercise habit into adulthood than to exercise in youth and then stop. It is never too late to start for a better life. Regardless of past exercise history, it is important to continue moving the body, even a little, in the context of one's current life.