Last week we shared the first culprit of a slower metabolism with age: Less Everyday Activity.
This week, we’re looking at the next major cause:
Muscle loss.
“Sarcopenia” is the clinical definition of muscle loss and is a syndrome characterized by progressive and generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength and it is strictly correlated with physical disability, poor quality of life and death. Risk factors for sarcopenia include age, gender and level of physical activity. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov › pmc › articles › PMC4269139
On average, adults lose between 3% and 8% of their muscle mass each decade after the age of 30.
One reason this matters – beyond your general strength and ability to move easily – is because muscle burns slightly more calories (even at rest) than fat.
You can help maintain and build muscle as you age with consistent strength-training workouts: free weights like dumbbells or kettlebells, sandbags, barbells, machines, and even water fitness classes can help!
The most important part is to create some resistance for your muscles to work against.
→ The takeaway: get in at least 2 strength-training workouts a week that work all of your body’s major muscle groups.
Not sure how to strength training safely and effectively?
We’ve got you.
Book a Tour & free Strategy Session and we can get started on creating the perfect muscle-focused program for you PLUS coach you on exactly how to do it.