4 Thoughts on Strength Training and Longevity
In recent years, strength training and longevity has become an incredibly popular topic. As a 35-year old personal trainer, I would be lying if I said it wasn’t on my mind. I’m reaching a stage of my life where training becomes an investment for the future, and I have to take my longevity seriously.
Longevity in training refers to our ability to offset mortality risks as we age, ostensibly allowing us to live longer. I would also argue that the current usage of the term goes further. When people talk about using strength training and longevity, they’re often also talking about improving quality of life at older ages. Our ability to retain our movement capabilities, perform tasks, and avoid injuries are a huge appeal of the longevity training movement. These are the pillars of a healthier later life.
Unfortunately, as with many fitness topics, the concept of longevity has been co-opted to promote any number of “life hacks,” snake oil supplements, and training regimes. The fear of old age and ill health is a strong motivator that can be harnessed to manipulate people into making bad decisions. That’s why I want to simplify the topic and discuss how we can use strength training to improve longevity.