Scientists say they have found key clues into how long we will live. One of them is a (1)________ handshake. British researchers believe a strong grip is not just a sign of confidence but also an (2) ________ of longevity. Lead author Dr. Rachel Cooper, of University College London, said her study looked into 33 different reports on the strength of handshakes. The research (3)________ more than 50,000 men and women and spanned 40 years. Dr. Cooper concluded that those with weaker handshakes were 70 per cent more likely to die ear- lier than those with the strongest handshakes. She concludes that people with strong grips may have benefited (4)________ a happy childhood that included a healthy diet and plenty of exercise.
The new study, (5)________ in the British Medical Journal, al- so found other signs of living a longer life. These "measures of physical capability" include walking at a faster (6)________, getting out of a chair quickly, and being able to balance on one leg. The study showed that slow walkers were almost three times (7)________ to die at a younger age than those who walked briskly. Those who struggled to get up from their armchairs were twice as likely to die earlier than those who (8)________ out of their chairs. Dr. Cooper believes there needs to be more (9)________ into the link between physical capability and longevity. "Research that helps people to enjoy a long and healthy life is ever more important to help (10)________ an ageing population," she said.

A. firm
B. loose
C. warm
D. friendly