Stronger You Fitness

“Muscle mass decreases approximately 3–8% per decade after the age of 30 and this rate of decline is even higher after the age of 60“

– National Center for Biotechnology Information

As the pages of the calendar turn and the years add up, our bodies undergo a series of changes that can often seem like an inevitable part of aging. One such change that many of us may not be fully aware of is the muscle loss as we age, a phenomenon known as sarcopenia. Let’s delve into the science behind why we lose muscle as we age, explore some eye-opening statistics from medical journals, and discover how resistance training emerges as a powerful weapon in the battle against this muscle decline.

The Science Behind Muscle Loss: Sarcopenia Unveiled

Sarcopenia, the age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass and function, is a complex process influenced by a combination of factors, including hormonal changes, decreased physical activity, and altered protein metabolism. As we age, our bodies experience a decline in anabolic hormones like testosterone and growth hormone, which play a crucial role in maintaining muscle mass. Additionally, a reduction in physical activity, often due to a more sedentary lifestyle, contributes to muscle loss over time.

Statistics Speak Volumes: The Gravity of Muscle Loss

Medical journals have shed light on the significance of muscle loss as we age, revealing startling statistics that underscore the importance of addressing this issue:

1. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, Muscle mass decreases approximately 3–8% per decade after the age of 30 and this rate of decline is even higher after the age of 60
2. Research from the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine highlights that adults over 60 years old can experience a staggering 30% reduction in muscle strength between the ages of 50 and 70.
3. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) reported that more than 40% of individuals aged 60 and above have sarcopenia to some extent.

Resistance Training: The Mighty Shield Against Muscle Loss With Age

Amidst these concerning statistics, there’s a beacon of hope: resistance training. Also known as strength or weight training, this form of exercise involves working against a resistance, such as weights or resistance bands. Its impact on muscle preservation and growth, even in older adults, is backed by extensive research.

1. A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society demonstrated that resistance training twice a week for 12 weeks significantly increased muscle mass and strength in individuals aged 65 and older.
2. The Journal of Aging and Physical Activity featured research indicating that resistance training not only builds muscle but also improves overall functional capacity, thereby enhancing the quality of life for older adults.
3. The American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association jointly recommend that adults engage in resistance training exercises at least two days a week to combat age-related muscle loss.

The Mechanisms Behind Resistance Training’s Magic

So, how exactly does resistance training combat the loss of muscle as we age? Here’s how:

1. Stimulation of Muscle Protein Synthesis: Resistance training triggers the body to produce more muscle protein, offsetting the decreased protein synthesis commonly observed with aging.
2. Hormonal Balance: Engaging in resistance exercises promotes the release of growth hormones and testosterone, both of which play vital roles in muscle maintenance.
3. Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Resistance training enhances insulin sensitivity, aiding the delivery of nutrients to muscle cells and promoting their growth.
4. Functional Independence: As muscle strength improves, older adults can maintain their ability to perform everyday tasks independently, thereby enhancing their overall quality of life.

Empowering the Golden Years

The journey through the sands of time need not be a one-way trip to muscle loss and frailty. Armed with the knowledge that sarcopenia can be effectively countered, we can take charge of our physical well-being as we age. The evidence is clear: resistance training stands as a formidable ally, preserving muscle mass, strength, and functional capacity well into our golden years. So, whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer or someone just starting on the path to fitness, remember that the weight you lift today might just be the key to a stronger, more resilient tomorrow.

REACH OUT TO START A RESISTANCE TRAINING ROUTINE TO HELP YOU STAY STRONG AND ACTIVE AS YOU AGE: