by Quantify Fitness |
Last Updated: February 16, 2025 Which would you rather be: the oldest at the gym or the youngest at the nursing home?
I just came across a new study that perfectly underscores what we’ve been saying all along about the power of exercise. This research involved 139 adults—from their 20s to their 90s—and asked one straightforward question: What are the relative effects of aging and exercise on body composition and muscle function?
Here are the key findings:
Body Composition Breakthrough
One of the most fascinating findings was how closely the oldest active group mirrored that of the youngest inactive group. Active seniors (average age 76) had body compositions almost identical to inactive folks in their 20s and 30s (average age 30). We’re talking about differences of just 0.1% in body fat and 0.2% in lean mass.
This matters because if you’re not actively working to build and maintain muscle, you’re setting yourself up for a natural decline as you age. Sure, aerobic activities like walking, swimming, and biking are fantastic, but ignoring resistance training is a missed opportunity for long-term strength and health.
Muscle: Your Secret Endocrine Weapon
Beyond just building strength, muscle is a powerhouse endocrine organ. It secretes hormones like irisin, which help reduce neuro-inflammation, boost BDNF (essential for neurogenesis and cognition and may reduce your risk of cognitive decline and dementia), and send vital signals to your brain to keep it sharp. Every ARX Leg Press you do isn’t just sculpting your body—it’s fueling your brain for long-term health.
Your muscles also act like a powerful sponge for blood glucose, helping keep your blood sugar in check—which, in turn, supports your blood vessels and boosts brain health.
The bottom line?
Resistance training isn’t just about aesthetics or avoiding frailty. It’s about actively safeguarding your future health and mental clarity with every smart, efficient workout!
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