Penn State College of Medicine conducted a 15 year study of persons 65 years of age and older. Of those that did some type of strength training there was a 46% less likely chance they would die than the members of the cohort that did not strength train. The assumption that the persons that strength trained were most likely in better health in the first place is probably true,. But, the study adjusted for BMI, chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, and habits like total physical activity, drinking, and smoking, and lifting was linked to a 19 percent reduced rate of death in the persons participating in the study.
Strength training strengthens muscles which in turn increases stability, balance and stamina as well as bone density. All necessary components of a healthy longer life. If you think you are too old and unfit to lift weights don’t fret you can see strength gains and improvement in overall health with the proper plan and concerted effort on your part. Muscles will respond and adapt to training no matter their age. Of course it can’t happen overnight but it will happen under the right circumstances. Exercise of any type will improve energy level, how well you sleep and overall health. Strength training will improve insulin response and the increase in muscle will burn more calories. All positive health improvements. If you feel better you will move more, participate in life activities more and have an improved outlook.
If you are intimidated at the thought of lifting weights and just don’t know how to get started talk with a personal trainer or health coach they can point you in the right direction. We lose muscle as we age, fight the good fight and increase your resiliency and improve your ability to battle what life throws at you. Lift some weights it will help you live longer and healthier.