At Precision One, our gym community is multi-generational – a fact that we love.
Many of us recognise the importance of staying active as time passes and we age – and know that we either ‘move it or lose it’. However, the science behind exercise and health into later life extends much further than this; a recent study has dramatically proven that what we do now has immense impact on what your older age may look like…
đź“– A study from 2018, published by the American National Institute of Health, found that:
- High cardiovascular fitness in midlife was associated with a decreased risk of subsequent dementia.
- “High fitness delayed age at dementia onset by 9.5 years, and medium fitness delayed dementia onset by 5 years“.
- Promotion of a high cardiovascular fitness may be included in strategies to mitigate or prevent dementia.Â
This fact, in black and white, is staggering! However, it is not only people approaching middle-aged who should be aware of the impact of their cardiovascular health and fitness, as further studies show that –
- “Low Cardiovascular fitness and cognitive performance at age 18 were associated with increased risk for future early onset dementia and mild cognitive impairment in later life.”
đź«‚ The sad facts that our society is facing are that:
- One in two people will experience cognitive difficulties after age 55 (ARUK)
- There are currently over 944,000 people with dementia in the UK. By 2030, this number is projected to exceed 1 million (NHS)
Adding cardiovascular training in to your weekly routine is therefore enormously beneficial for most of the population.
Moreover, we know that the benefits of strength training are vital in protecting ourselves against the degenerative effects of aging:
- Improves muscle mass & bone density: Vital for preventing age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia) and osteoporosis, reducing fall and fracture risk in older adults.
- Supports metabolic health: Enhances insulin sensitivity and helps regulate blood sugar, lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Boosts cardiovascular health: Though not aerobic, strength training improves circulation and helps reduce blood pressure and cholesterol.
- Aids in weight management: Increases resting metabolic rate by building lean muscle, supporting long-term weight control.
- Enhances mental health & cognitive function: Regular resistance training is linked to improved mood, reduced anxiety, and better cognitive performance, especially in aging populations.
- Promotes independence in later life: Maintains mobility, balance, and strength, reducing reliance on others and improving quality of life.
The Precision One Team know how invaluable today is for our health, in preparing us for the challenges of tomorrow. If you need any help to understand and improve your fitness, speak to the team, we’ll be happy to help.