If you want to live a longer, healthier life, making your body stronger could be the key. In a study conducted by researchers from Pennsylvania State University and Columbia University, older adults who did strength training exercises at least twice a week were found to be 46% less likely to die from all causes. The participants were also 41% less likely to die from a cardiac event and 19% less likely to die from cancer. This research is the first to show that strength training can significantly lengthen a person’s life.
To reap the benefits, you don’t need an expensive gym membership or fancy equipment. Bodyweight exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, and leg squats all count as strength training, as do yoga poses that work against gravity. For those looking to up the intensity, resistance bands are an inexpensive way to take your strength training to the next level. Their ability to improve balance and target muscles often missed by traditional weights make them a valuable part of any workout routine.
Age isn’t a barrier
While it is never too late to start strength training, the earlier you begin, the better. The recommended age to start is 65, as this is the age at which muscular strength begins to decline. From here on out, muscle loss happens at a rate of roughly 1% per year. This loss not only affects your ability to move and stay strong but can also be a predictor of your lifespan.
Getting started with strength training is easy, no matter your fitness level. With just a few key exercises, you can effectively work your muscles and reap significant health benefits. As your fitness improves, you can start to increase the resistance or explore more complex exercises to challenge your body further.
Making it a habit
When it comes to strength training, consistency is key. Aim to include at least two strength training sessions per week, targeting the major muscle groups. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends using two to four sets of 8-20 repetitions and adjusting the number of sets and repetitions based on your fitness level and goals.
The benefits of strength training extend far beyond increasing muscle mass and living a longer life. Regular strength training has been shown to improve bone density, leading to a decreased risk of osteoporosis. It also enhances blood flow, making it easier for your body to deliver oxygen and nutrients to where they are needed most.
Strength training has even been shown to improve sleep quality. A study from Appalachian State University found that participants who engaged in regular strength training sessions slept better and longer than those who did not. Better sleep quality has numerous health benefits, including reduced stress, improved immune function, and increased mental clarity.
Strength training for all
The good news is that strength training is not just limited to the young and fit. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that older adults who participated in a strength training program saw improvements in muscle mass, strength, and metabolic rate. These benefits were observed in participants aged up to 87 years old, showing that it’s never too late to start improving your health through strengthening your body.
In conclusion, incorporating strength training into your routine can provide significant health benefits and lead to a longer life. With just a few simple exercises, no matter your age or fitness level, you can start enjoying these advantages for yourself. So get moving, get stronger, and get ready to live a healthier, longer life.