In engineering, a “Go/No-Go” test is a simple pass/fail check. A leading cardiologist says your body has one for longevity: the 10-second, one-legged stand. Your result is a clear “Go” for a healthier future or a “No-Go” signal that you need to make changes.
This binary health test is backed by a major 2022 study that followed 1,700 older adults. The research essentially gave participants a Go/No-Go test on their balance and tracked the consequences. The results were stark.
The study found that a “Go” result—passing the 10-second stand—put individuals on a trajectory with an over 90% chance of living for another seven years without major disability. A “No-Go” result was a critical warning of increased mortality risk.
The heart specialist explains why this simple check is so decisive. The ability to balance is a non-negotiable requirement for a fully functional body. It demands that your core neurological and musculoskeletal systems are in a “Go” state. A failure means a critical system is in a “No-Go” condition.
If you get a “No-Go” result, it’s not a final verdict but a decision point. The expert advises that you can turn it into a “Go” by taking action. She recommends initiating a “repair sequence” with activities like yoga and Tai Chi to fix the underlying issues and get the green light for a longer life.