For Older Adults Losing Muscle, Lifting Weights Beats Cardio
Graded Moderate — meta-analysis of 72 randomized trials in older adults with sarcopenia, though only half were at low risk of bias and certainty of evidence ranged from very low to moderate.
- Design
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- Participants
- 72
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- Funding
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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.
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