How Strength Training Can Be a Part of Anti-Aging Strategy

As we age, our bodies begin to automatically lose muscle. During our 30’s and 40’s, we lose about .5 pounds of muscle every year. After the age of 50, the rate of loss may double to about 1 pound of muscle per year. Strength declines with age as well at about 3 times faster than muscle mass. With the loss of muscle, our body fat percentage naturally increases. In addition, lower activity levels and a poor diet equal greater fat storage. Less muscle mass and higher fat levels lead to a slower metabolism. A slower metabolism means we burn fewer calories. The result: weight gain, increased fat, and higher risk of disease. Without intervention, we become a frail, older adult without the muscle or strength to support our own skeletal system.

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