For Older Adults Losing Muscle, Lifting Weights Beats Cardio
This review suggests resistance training may be the most effective exercise for older adults losing muscle.
As we age, we lose muscle and strength, a condition called sarcopenia. Looking at dozens of trials in older adults with this problem, exercise clearly improved muscle, strength, and physical function. Resistance training (lifting weights) worked best for building muscle mass. Adding nutritional supplements to exercise helped a bit more, but that evidence was weaker.
Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.
Related Studies
All researchGenetics Hint Vitamin D Helps Muscle Mass, But Not Grip Strength
Researchers used gene variants tied to lifelong vitamin D levels to test cause and effect, which sidesteps the usual confounders.
Creatine Built Muscle in Midlife Adults Even Without a Single Workout
Adults aged 45 to 65 took 10 grams of creatine daily for 12 weeks, either alone or alongside exercise and a weight-loss diet.
For Older Muscle Quality, Lifting Weights Beat Supplements and Cardio
Looking at dozens of trials in adults over 60, resistance training was the only thing that clearly improved muscle quality (strength…