In addition to the strength benefits, visceral fat levels did not increase in the groups participating in the research.
Resistance training, such as weight training, has shown lasting muscle benefits for people over the age of 64. Researchers at the University of Copenhagen found that one year of lower-body focused exercise can have effects that last up to four years in this group.
Published in the scientific journal BMJ Open Sports and Exercise MedicineThe study included 369 participants aged 64 to 75, who were monitored for four years in the Live Active Successful Aging (LISA) clinical study.
Participants were divided into three groups: heavy weight lifting three times a week, moderate intensity training (with bodyweight circuits and resistance bands three times a week), and a comparison group.
After four years, it was observed that leg strength was preserved in the group that performed resistance training with heavy weights, unlike the other groups.
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Another notable finding was that there was no increase in levels of visceral fat – stored around the organs – in either the heavy or moderate-intensity weight-training group.
Decreased muscle strength is a common problem with aging, making it difficult to move and increasing the risk of falls and serious injuries. The researchers concluded that some long-term parameters are not solely dependent on exercise load or intensity.
“The findings provide a basis for practitioners to encourage older adults to engage in heavy resistance training,” the researchers said.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
