Predict how long you live by this simple test of grip #CarryGobySeanKellz #FutureGroupNG via @myentertain9jar

THREE simple strength tests in middle age can predict life expectancy, say scientists.

Three simple strength tests in middle age can predict life expectancy[GETTY]

People aged 53 who have a weak grip, are slow to get up from a chair and are unstable when standing are more likely to die in the following 13 years.

Using research that has been tracking more than 5,000 people since their births in 1946, researchers at University College London found there were 177 deaths – 88 from cancer, 47 from heart disease and 42 from other causes – in those aged 53 to 66.

People who were less physically able in their early 50s tended to be from poorer backgrounds, lead less healthy lifestyles and have more illnesses – such as heart or respiratory problems and diabetes

People who were less physically able in their early 50s tended to be from poorer backgrounds, lead less healthy lifestyles and have more illnesses – such as heart or respiratory problems and diabetes.

But even taking these factors into account, people in the lowest 20 per cent in terms of physical ability were found to have higher rates of mortality than the group that was much more able.

The study, published on bmj.com, said those who could not perform any of the tests at 53 had more than 12 times higher death rates compared with those who could.

The researchers, led by Dr Rachel Cooper at UCL’s Medical Research Council Unit for Lifelong Health and Ageing, concluded that there is value in using the three tests to identify those people who are less likely to achieve a “long and healthy life”.