Exercise to live longer

The average life expectancy in the U.S. is close to 80, according to the National Institute on Aging. But now, researchers are saying exercising can help you reach 90 or even 100 years old. Recent studies found that high-intensity aerobic activity, such as jogging, can boost your longevity–adding up to 10-12 biological years to your life.

Don't have time to hit the gym? Here are a few ways to get fit at home.

1) Get off the couch An easy way to burn calories is to jump rope in front of the TV at night. Jumping jacks work great too.

2) Borrow the kids' toys Use the kids' toys as "weights" and do arm exercises as you play with them.

3) Start Steppin' If your home has stairs, strive to go up and down 10 extra times a day. It is an easy way to get your heart rate up and tone your legs.

Besides striving for a longer life, regular exercising can reduce type 2 diabetes, keep your heart and bones stronger and reduce your risk of falls and fractures as you age. And even if you can't hike a mountain or go jogging, just increasing the amount you walk by 30 minutes each day will yield positive results.

Be sure to tune in to Dr. Sanjay Gupta every weekend on HOUSE CALL. You'll find the answers to your medical questions Saturday and Sunday at 8:30 a.m. ET on CNN.