Journal: Aging Cell (Muscle Study) (Immune Study)

In this study, data from 125 cyclists (aged 55 to 79) who have exercised most of their lives was compared with data from two control groups: a group of 75 older folks and a group of 55 young adults. Both groups were considered healthy (free of illness at least), but didn’t exercise regularly.

The results showed that the older cyclists who exercised regularly defied the aging process, having the immunity, muscle mass, and cholesterol levels of a young adult.

Just one of those benefits would be a game-changer, but all of them combined is remarkable!

Although aging may be as inevitable as death, some of the negative physical changes that we associate with being old might actually be avoidable.

When analyzing the cyclists muscle, the researchers noted that “aside from an age‐related change in capillary density in males, no other parameter measured in the muscle samples showed an association with age.” This considered important muscle health markers, including fiber type distribution and sizes, capillarity, and mitochondrial complex protein composition.

I mean...that’s incredible. To have the same muscle conditions as someone who is 35-45 years younger is a big deal that will allow more activity and less injury later in life.

But wait there’s more. In a separate analysis, researchers found that the older cyclists showed significant signs of reduced immunesenescence, which refers to the gradual deterioration of the immune system brought on by aging.

They concluded that in fact, “many features of immunesenescence may be driven by reduced physical activity with age.”

Takeaway: Older adults who exercise regularly didn’t show signs of expected, age-related muscle deterioration or immune system decline. These are two of the most common physical weaknesses that are often attributed to aging. This research suggests that some of the deteriative effects of aging might be caused by a lack of movement, not by an inevitable force associated with growing old.

Committing to regular exercise throughout your life is a good idea to live longer and healthier.