Comments on: Resistance Exercise Reverses Aging in Human Skeletal Muscle

By: Steven Turner

Steven Turner — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:23:12 +0000

I have read the study and also find the research fascinating. I can only speak from my own experiences in regards to steady state-aerobic activities for many years I trained and competed in triathlons most of my training parnters who are now into their 40′s and 50′s suffer from some type of chronic over-use injuries (also refer Greg Anderson’s article). Gregrory’s post above points out that there are also a number of studies that cite that steady-state aerobic activities can also provide reverse aging benefits. Although that these points may be true my experience with endurance athletes is that eventually most are forced to stop due chronic injuries. Most endurance athletes well meaning they may be is that they contiually “add and add volume” until a point where chronic injuries force them to stop training altogether. I have discovered that HIT strength training if applied properly can provide strength, cardiovascualar and endurance benefits.

By: Gregory

Gregory — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 20:07:22 +0000

I read the study and find the results sound, but it seems that either I misunderstood him or Doug McGuff misinterpreted the results of the study in relation to endurance exercise. (It might be that his idea of what is low-intensity, steady-state aerobic exercise and mine are different.) The study itself cites several studies that establish lifelong performance of endurance exercise leads to more youthful cardiac tissue (Bronikowski et al 2003) and is known to reverse some of the effects of aging in skeletal muscle (Short et al 2005). True, resistance training will lead to better health, but responsible endurance exercise (meaning non-excessive, properly performed, and properly trained) does have demonstrated health benefits. Again, it might be that his idea of low-intensity is much lower than my idea of low-intensity.

By: Alex McNulty

Alex McNulty — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 13:23:46 +0000

Fascinating! I agree this is probably the best argument against steady state cardio I’ve heard.