Study Shows Going To Concerts Regularly Will Help You Live Longer

Regularly going to concerts could lead to a longer, happier life according to a new study from O2 and behavioral science expert Patrick Fagan of Goldsmith University. The study suggests that going to a concert once every two weeks can increase your life expectancy by up to nine years. They say there is a link between overall well being and longer lives, claiming, "with just 20 minutes of gig-time resulting in a significant 21% increase in feelings of wellbeing." The study reports: "The gig experience increased participants feelings of wellbeing by 21% – with key markers across the happiness spectrum showing increases, including feelings of self-worth (+25%) and closeness to others (+25%) whilst mental stimulation climbed by an impressive 75%." 

The report also states, "over two thirds (67%) of Brits surveyed saying experiencing live music makes them feel happier than simply listening to music at home—showcasing that the shared experience, which performed so strongly in the research, is key to increasing wellbeing."

"Our research showcases the profound impact gigs have on feelings of health, happiness and wellbeing—with fortnightly or regular attendance being the key," Fagan says. "Combining all of our findings with O2’s research, we arrive at a prescription of a gig a fortnight which could pave the way for almost a decade more years of life."

The social aspect and the shared experience of going to a concert is the real driving factor behind increasing happiness and well-being, the study states. Unfortunately, just listening to music by yourself will not give you a quick fix. 

While this is great news for those who have attended our iHeartRadio Music Festival and our upcoming iHeartCountry Festival, it has to be noted that the study was commissioned by O2, the commercial brand of Telefónica UK Limited, who tout themselves as the "world’s most popular music and entertainment venue" and are clearly in the business of selling concert tickets. The results of the study obviously help O2's goal to sell tickets but it's impossible to deny the rush of endorphins you get after attending a concert. 

Another study from Karolinska Institutet showed that drummers are incredibly intelligent and actually make everyone around them smarter as well.  

In conclusion, concerts are good for your health. Just stay away from the mosh pit. 

Photo Credit: Getty