The Zoomer Report: Muscles and Zoomers

Now you know you’ve got no excuses not to hit the gym.

A small U.S. study finds you can use strength training to build muscle mass
and fight off the debilitating effects of old age – until you reach the age
of 80.

After that, researchers at Ball State University say, forget about it.

They found that during a 12-week training regime, six men in their 80s did
get somewhat stronger; however, their whole muscle size and fibre size did not
grow.

The director of Ball State’s Human Performance Laboratory, says the best
way to keep our muscles from shrinking is through resistance training, which
allows our body to maintain muscle size and strength as we go through our 60s
and 70s.

He recommends people pack on the muscle while they still have the time.

Photo ©iStockphoto.com/Derek Latta

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About The Zoomer Report

Libby Znaimer, a prominent Canadian journalist specializing in business, politics, and lifestyle issues, is producer and host of The Zoomer Report, a special feature on topics of interest to baby boomers and the 50+. It covers everything from health and wealth to leisure and volunteerism, from the special vantage point of the generation that has changed society in its wake.

Ms. Znaimer is also Vice-President of News and Information for Classical 96.3FM and AM740. Her first book, “In Cancerland – Living Well Is The Best Revenge” – was published in October 2007 by Key Porter.

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