Exercising After 35: Boost Your Physical Capacity by Up to 10%
The study uncovered how physical capacity and endurance changes throughout a person’s lifetime(Image: GETTY)
A long-term study spanning 47 years has revealed critical insights into physical fitness, particularly at what age peak performance occurs and when a decline begins. In a positive development, research indicates that starting to exercise later in life can still yield significant improvements, enhancing physical capacity by as much as 10%.
The findings reveal that physical fitness begins to decline at around age 35, which may surprise many. According to research from the Karolinska Institutet, both men and women reach peak physical capacity and muscle endurance between ages 26 and 36.
After the age of 35, the decline in fitness and strength is expected, regardless of activity levels. Sedentary individuals may experience an even more pronounced decline in physical function after reaching their peak.
Interestingly, even individuals who start exercising later in life can boost their physical capacity by five to ten percent. This reinforces the idea that it’s never too late to get active and prioritize health.
Maria Westerståhl, a lecturer at the Department of Laboratory Medicine and lead author of the study, noted: “It is never too late to start moving. Our study shows that physical activity can slow the decline in performance, even if it cannot completely stop it.”
The researchers aim to investigate the reasons behind why peak physical performance typically occurs at age 35 and how exercise can mitigate performance decline.
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Published in the Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle, the study looks to provide a comprehensive understanding of how our bodies evolve in terms of physical capacity over the years. Notably, the research suggests that educational attainments can positively influence aerobic capacity and muscular endurance.
Initially, scientists aimed to uncover whether the musculoskeletal decline often felt in one’s 60s might stem from underlying issues decades earlier. Previous studies involving elite athletes had shown a decrease in peak performance before age 35, prompting researchers to explore if these findings extend to the general population.
The study, which began in the 1970s, followed 427 randomly selected individuals born in 1958. These participants were assessed over time, from age 16 to 63, and the research remains ongoing.
Next year, as those involved reach age 68, further examinations will occur. The researchers hope to gain deeper insights into the connections between physical performance, lifestyle choices, and overall health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while it’s important to recognize that physical fitness begins to decline as early as age 35, it’s equally crucial to understand that starting an exercise regimen at any age can bring tangible benefits. Whether you’re in your 30s or beyond, incorporating physical activity into your daily routine can enhance your strength, endurance, and overall health. So lace up your sneakers and take the first step—it’s never too late to prioritize your fitness!
