I guess I'm lucky. I play tennis. It never seems like work, it's more like going to a party. I laugh, I talk and I really really "work" out. When I was forty, I marveled about a friend I played who was in his seventies, who beat me with regularity. Tennis is a covid-friendly game since its very nature keeps you six feet away from your opponent, even if you're volleying with one another...let's be clear, I'm talking about singles (my fave), doubles isn't quite as covid friendly.
1
While i agree with some of the comments that suggest "But this study is again one of these stupid studies that show nothing but correlation not causation. Period. It means nothing."
Look at how many comments the article generated! It definitely causes people to think about exercising and aging. That's a good thing!!!
1
Ten years ago I used to ski with a guy who in his 80s. Bill and I would go down a narrow expert trail side by side at 40-45 mph, on a mountain he hiked several times a week. I was on skis. Bill was usually on a snowboard.
IMO the point is getting out there and doing something that burns some calories, makes one stronger and fitter. The thing is to get out there. I live in Maine, am 72, and walk a mile or two a day, regardless of weather. Come the warmth of spring and summer I'll be back on my road bike at doing 15-25 miles 4 -5 times a week. Not as much as when I was 60 when I did 100=120 miles a week, but still not bad.
I think of my late father-in-law who walked the 18 holes of golf he played 3-4 times a week when he was 80+. Some 30-something guys who rode golf carts where giving him a hard time one day. He told them he was over 80 and if they still wanted to be playing well in 50 years they ought to park the cart and walk. They shut up.
Like the Nike ad says, "Just do it."
5
I confess that a large factor related to my regular exercise routine is vanity.
Vanity, to an extent, is good.
Yes, the health benefit is more important, but vanity can help that along.
5
I'm going for a hike!
3
Yeah! What are "old" people, like me, supposed to do during the pandemic? Risk going to gyms?
@RichG If you're vaccinated and you wear a mask, you'll probably be fine. If that feels like a risk, just walk or hike outside, or like the people in this article, ride a bike.
3
Both of my parents had osteoporosis, which they generously handed down to their children. My rheumatologist emphasized lots of exercise and said weight-bearing activities were important for bone health. Cycling and swimming weren't best. So exercise, but make sure you mix it up.
3
Your article lost my heart at "pedaled about 400 miles per month". I live in California and I don't drive 400 miles per month; I walk as much as I can. I also do my own carrying, lifting, etc. I am still going strong.
Good article and information and thanks. Maybe I should resume cycling
@kate sf ,
Hope this article is on time.You sound like your in a good position.Maybe pick up a reasonable priced stationary bike for another tool in your health bag.
I'm 67 and have been an avid mountain biker for a long time. I haven't noticed any aging yet.I still feel as good as ever if I get enough sleep - but it's always been that way for me. That said, I am more careful than I used to be and can't keep up wit the young guys.
6
@Ken
Found myself in your predicament with road cycling at 81. However you are right to be more careful and cautious. I used to (50 years ago) fly along @ 25-30MPH while taking clothing on/off, eating, laughing while in a pace line. I gradually slowed down and forgot what that was like over the years. I got caught in a killer tail wind recently that allowed my speed to get over 30MPH, a speed that 40, 50 years ago I would have thought nothing of. It proved to be an enlightening experience as to the effect of age on multiple bodily systems. I realized, at that speed, my eyesight could no longer quickly change focus from far to near, a critical ability at that speed. My sense of balance was not what it once was. Although I could still "hold my line", I had to constantly think about it while making small over-corrections that years ago would have been automatic and I would not have even been aware of. I could barely remove one hand from the handlebars to grab a water bottle while maintaining stability, let alone take both hands off to get clothing on/off. The final effect was the thought of a fall and the possible results of skidding along the ground at my age. 50 years age no big deal, a "hip-burger", a little road rash, get up and have at it again. Now, I'll defer to my imagination, at least that appears not to have changed that much.
3
Cycle, run, core work, balance exercises, healthy eating, meditation, social and sex life, love, acceptance = 120 :-)
6
At 77 I swim 3/4 of a mile 7 days a week and have been for several years since back issues precluded me from bicycling and gym workouts.
The no-impact effect of swimming has toned my entire body and while I don't look like an adonis when I walk nothing jiggles.
5
I'll keep getting older, chronologically, because that's unavoidable.
However, comma, at 60 years old and even with a bicuspid aortic valve, I ride my mountain bike in the mountains; my gravel bike on roads and trails and singletrack; and my road bike on, well, roads.
I'll be doing a century (100+ mile ride) next weekend in Palm Springs.
Am I a bit slower than I used to be? Well, sure!! I have to keep any eye on the heart rate if I want to live long enough to have the valve job. And I will.
Cycling and swimming are low impact but hugely useful activities.
I also do the NYT crossword, Spelling Bee, and Vertex. Every. Single. Day. I read, a lot. I still work.
Keep your body and brain active and you will enjoy life even if you keel over one day without warning.
I refuse to sweat the small stuff. We will all check out someday; my goal is to not know when it happens.
8
@Mark. You nailed it: Don’t sweat the small stuff.
At 64, I love cycling. I bike only on flat areas, on a comfortable and sturdy beach cruiser bike on off-road bike paths. I definitely feel I’ve had a better cardio workout than walking, indoor cycling, treadmill, etc and it’s more fun too.
4
I definitely feel the delta in energy/capability in my 50 plus year old body, but I exercise regularly at 60 minute intervals. I run/walk with my dog a mile or so most days. Lift weights here and there. Fast most days.
I've been mistaken two years running for my 25 year old's girlfriend.
Exercise. It does a body good!
1
I am 82 years old............I ride a stationary bike for 35 minutes at least five times a week at 80 RPM.....around 6 miles each time......I do weight machines the same amount of times a week..........one day upper body the next lower body.............BP is normal with help of meds....no weight issues...........a few medical issues but at least I AM STILL HERE which is the title of my favorite Stephen Sondheim song
9
I will not cycle for exercise, only for pleasure. And for my entire life, I have always owned and used a bicycle.
Here's why... for reasons this article didn't cover, cyclists experience higher accident rates over other forms of regular exercise and cyclists have significantly reduced bone density that leads to higher fracture rates, especially for cycling only enthusiasts.
Anecdotally, I live near a popular walking and cycling path that is heavily used by cyclists. I can't tell you how many times I have been nearly run down when leisurely biking by Type A cyclist packs. It would be interesting to see the psych studies on cycling enthusiasts.
I'm in my late 60s, a doctoral level RN, still working full time doing large scale clinical research and I've been walking 4-5 miles a day, 7 days a week for 20 years.
Cycling is not sport or exercise that makes sense for me to participate in. I walk roughly an hour a day because walking enhances bone density and adds new brain cells.
Granted, any good exercise program adds brain cells (my doctorate is in dementia). But at least I will have a much higher probability of being able to exercise using my legs into more advanced age by walking over cycling.
9
@MMonck: the study on bone density related to road cyclists. The same result was not found in mountain bikers, presumably a question of the jolting from riding on rough surfaces and taking jumps. "Load bearing" is best understood as a succession of brief but intense jolts: walking is not as good as jumping when it comes to strengthening bones.
4
@MMonck I hear ya. I have almost been hit several times. I got a Peloton. Love it!
One of the smartest things I did upon my retirement at age 60, was to bicycle solo across the country from Astoria, Oregon to Portand, Maine. I used a recumbent bicycle called the Bike E (non-electric), self-supported, camping every night.
It was a "Peak Experience" traveling 4200 miles across the country meeting so many wonderful people along the way and crossing the Cascades, Rocky Mountains, and the Applachians.
I had experienced neck problems riding on long trips with regular tour bicycles. When I switched to Recumbents, it was like going from night to day. With a strong back rest for full body support, it was more like riding a comfortable chair with wheels. Unfortunately, the company Bike E, went out of business, although they are occasionally found on Craig's List.
Now in our 80's, my wife and I still ride our Bike E recumbents in the USA and Europe. Every time I ride a bike, it reminds me of when I was eight years old and I rode for miles, breaking away from family chores, and experiencing the freedom of movement and adventure for the first time. Every day on a bicycle brings a smile to my face regardless of age!
11
Aging is as real as death. You can slow aging and delay death but you can’t cancel them. You can also speed up aging and bring about an earlier death. It’s all in our behavior, what we do or don’t do. Unfotunately even the healthiest behavior does not necessarily mean slower aging or a longer life, nor does unhealthy behavior mean faster aging and a shorter life necessarily e.g the 100 year old who smoked all her life!There are other factors to consider. It’t just that you might be able to move the chance for slower aging and a longer life or faster aging and shorter life by what you do. There is some control over how we age and when we die.
2
My niece, age 67, was the epitome of good health. She biked endlessly, in her home town on Vancouver Island and on group bike tours in Europe which lasted around two or three weeks. After her latest bike tour of Spain she complained of back pain. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and died within three months. Biking may be healthy but it is not a panacea. Otherwise the Dutch and the Danes would live forever...
5
I am 67 and developed degenerative disk disease. I went from 220 pounds to 128 pounds in 9 months from nausea and this gift saved me - along with physiotherapy and the realization that endorphins are great natural pain killers. I also switched from opiates to medical cannabis and now I can hold an elbows/toes plank for 6 minutes and can speedwalk at peak cardio for 32 minutes straight without skipping a beat. Now I am ready to try the 2 day fast that will reset my immune system - I tell you - the final frontier is to explore the true potential of the human body - no matter the age.
5
Where was the editor for this article? Lots of comments reflect the concern that this study shows only a correlation, not causality. Older individuals who ride bikes are likely to be far healthier than the average person their age. The article does not mention this as a limitation. Even more: if it were discussed, the author could then expand on what we know, from this study and others, that makes us think there really is more than a correlation at work here. Please, NYT, get an editor who will insist that all your health articles address this concern!
1
My Dad at 88 has a difficult time acting his age. Every year, starting on April 15 thru Oct 15, he bikes a total 1,000 miles. He's suffers from stenosis and says getting on the bike is pain free and keeps him going strong. He'll outlive us all!
13
As many have pointed out, this study reveals correlation not causation. I believe attitude toward aging is an important factor. If staying healthy and being active is important to you, you will do it. You will make the time, shrug off the aches and pains and forge ahead even on those days when you don’t really feel like it. I know many folks my age (62) and younger who have “let themselves go” so to speak believing that aging is inevitable so relax and have that fudge sundae. Anticipating that you have many, or least a lot, of years ahead and wanting to enjoy them with those you love is a powerful incentive!
4
You can bike and be healthy, and have two fudge sundaes if so desired!
1
Im 77 and was a less than good athlete in my youth. Nevertheless I lived near the ocean and took up surfing at 23 then ice hockey at 38.
I continued both until 65 when age , creaky knees and hips took over and I had to stop. I still swim laps, 1,000 yards 3 times a week. I also do light weights and crunches a few days a week.
I feel much better when I stick to this regimen and have lost a substantial amount of pounds lately by cutting drastically down on beer and watching my portions.
Swimming keeps everything moving without pounding on joints and bones.
13
This isn’t rocket surgery. Keeping the pedal down, both literally and figuratively, will yield benefits throughout life.
3
And what if you can't exercise regularly because your protein intake is low? My porphyria-induced neuropathy limits what I can eat.
You need adequate protein to exercise regularly; every movement you make tears a little muscle tissue and if, for some reason, you are unable to consume enough protein you have to limit how much you exercise.
My solution to slowing down aging: caloric restriction. I have no choice.
1
Only 10% of people past the page of 65 work out regularly? I am 65 and I cycle 8 miles to Studio Blue the best pilates/yoga studio in the world in Northwest Portland, Oregon. Mat pilates, springboard and yoga keep me in shape. Then Silver Sneakers allows me to lift weights. I just don't understand why more people don't cycle, it's super fun, and relaxing, just ride on the bike trails as much as possible.
6
Please stop promoting cycling. We have enough old
Men wearing lycra. Would love to go back to the days when cyclists were battling for the right just to ride on the road. Now cycling has become so bougie. 10k for a push pedal bike. Lame.
3
I think I look pretty good in lycra.
11
Who said anything about lycra in this study? Some do; some don't. Who cares?
6
While most of us look foolish in the lycra, it is a well know fact that tight lycra stimulates healthy perspective and retains a youthful attitude with the hopes that we actually look like we could go fast. The other hope is that the awful color schemes will prevent drivers from smashing into us or splattering us like squirrels crossing a road. Clearly lycra extends life span, promotes youthfulness and supports an optimistic point of view.
17
Another scientific study that reveals what is more or less obvious to anyone who exercises regularly or closely observes in this age group who does: exercise maintains muscle health into old age, and — get this! — keeps people’s bodies and minds in better xhape that couch potatoes’.
6
Exciting headline, but what is presented in the article is simply correlation and doesn’t imply causation as the author suggests. Although one certainly can look at the linked reference for details, I find it disappointing that this article does not mention any control group.
1
Do not over-think it.
"Let us rather run the risk of wearing out than rusting out"
-Theodore Roosevelt-
1
Ageing in our time is not and will not be, what it was in other eras. Exercise, healthy, plant based diets, and wider understanding about health have changed ageing, making it less of an ineviability, and more of a choice.
I personally believe most of what we consider ageing is just a series of unhealthy food, and habit created ailments and conditions. In your childhood, most of us can eat anything we want in moderation. By the time we reach our fifties, the salt, sugar, yeast and cholesterol, the western adult diet, we eat has a more dramatic, negative effect. Our immune systems age as we inflict it with the daily abuse of unhealthy foods and habits. If you can keep your immune system healthy, virtual eternal youth, and a much longer life span, are entirely possible.
4
This is an interesting but not surprising correlation. However, the role of the genetics we inherit likely plays a large role. I have been exercising nearly all of my life (in my late 50’s now). I’ve had a knee and hip joint replaced. My grandfather, who had arthritic knees and hips led a largely sedentary life after approximately age 50 because of this and lived to be 93. While I agree that exercise likely leads to better health a causal relationship between observations seems to be lacking in this study.
3
And I knew a woman who used to live next door to us. Every one of her siblings---including her---lived to their mid-nineties.
The only exercise she got was taking her dog for short walks and gardening. Genetics are definitely a factor in aging.
5
Sure, occasionally folks will live into their 90s without exercising (although you seem to know the exercise habits of just one of the siblings you cite). And, sometimes a 3-pack-a-day smoker lives into their 90s without contracting lung cancer. Of course genetics is a factor in aging but are you proposing people adopt risky behaviors --e.g., smoking or not exercising-- and trust/hope that they have good genes? Not a smart strategy in my book. Smarter to control the environmental factors that we can, such as diet and exercise, and know that we are doing the things that we have control over.
1
Aging muscles between the ages of 55 and 79? That is the "young" of "old".
My father, 95, plays tennis 3 times a week. He's not just batting the balls, he "beats" much younger (those in their 40's) players. An inspiration to all on the courts.
12
I am 60 and exercising at least 15 hours a week, cycling, running, and hiking.
But this study is again one of these stupid studies that show nothing but correlation not causation. Period. It means nothing.
Perhaps, just perhaps, people that work out, work out because they have the different physical traits that the researches found!
9
Or: the people with better health and immune systems were the ones who were able to keep cycling in later years .... where is the proof of causality in this MeSearch (sorry) research?
6
Interesting that a bunch of “recreational athletes” would find that exercise has huge benefits.
4
My spouse reclaimed lost fitness through using an electric bicycle to slowly bring up his strength from an injury. He certainy seems you ger! I so admire his love of all things bicycle and its fantastic positive effects for his health.
However, I just am not that keen on bicycling for myself.
But I am an avid gardener and who studies gardeners and firness?
Athletes, former athletes yes of course.
So my constant gardening...some have called it garden maddness,,, and its benefits to my health remained a very subjective experience.
Then the Fitbit tracker and all its offshoots arrived.
Tracking my pulse, energy consumption and steps during the years unofficially confirms that a good day of wheel barrowing mulch, turning compost, weeding and just pottering gives me a high level of fitness for my age.
Hurray for biking, but there are alternatives.
13
This is encouraging news. Daily exercise is beneficial in so many ways and I just cannot imagine going without it.
9
I'm 63 and I've been exercising aggressively since I was 26. The last three years I've been swimming 3000 yards freestyle close to daily and aggressively. I can confirm the benefits that this study has uncovered.
7
Muscles And T Cells (haiku) "Much of aging's curse - once thought inevitable - is preventable"
12
I am a 65-year-old woman and I have worked out pretty much all my adult life since the age of 18. Currently, I alternate indoor cycling, lap swimming and resistance exercises, and I'm happy with this combination of activity. Running is now out of the question for me (I used to be an avid runner) but I can still do HIIT workouts on my cycle and I enjoy swimming long hauls in the 50-meter pool at my local college campus. I also happen to have a detailed journal record of every workout I've done for about the last ten years, including times, intensities and heart rates. I find that in the last six years my times and intensities have decreased significantly. NO MATTER HOW HARD I TRY I cannot swim or cycle at the pace I could do six years ago, and yet I've never had any significant lapse or hiatus in my exercise habits. For me, this has been a stark confrontation with the reality of aging. I still enjoy the exercise that I do and I don't ever plan to stop, BUT there is no denying that time marches on! We all age eventually, some of us faster than others, and I wonder if the athletes in these studies are by nature slow agers.
26
GH: I'm 70 and still play racquetball three times a week. My physical game has slowed a bit but my mental ability allows me to be much more cunning against younger opponents.
I say this because the 'best' player is a 79-year-old retired fireman. He plays at a level most of us can only dream about. Gary still knocks off the 25-year-old A level athletes.
Gary was born with just the right kind of genetics.
We look at him with admiration and envy!
So there is hope but we must keep going and not give up.
11
bobj: Good for you for keeping up your raquetball game at age 70. I know that takes grit, stamina, and most importantly, reflexes (reflexes that I just no longer have - there's a reason why I go for the gentle art of swimming!) - how great that you know some other great, though aging, players to face off with. May you continue for many years to come.
3
Good for them. They also happen to be the most annoying, obnoxious cult on the planet. When they aren't blocking traffic, they're running pedestrians off the side of the road. Get a life. And a stationary.
19
Don’t forget running red lights when they think nobody’s looking.
4
I am enjoying reading everyone's stories. One caveat, though: "The plural of anecdote is not data." Be well.
12
Use it or lose it.
4
Biking is great! But did the study really look at folks riding 400 miles PER MONTH? That’s like 13 miles PER DAY, every day. In my book that goes way beyond “recreational cycling.” If the stat is right then, hey, more power to ‘em!
6
Before I retired I commuted 10 miles each way to work and often did organized rides on weekends of 50 miles or more. 400 miles per week was not taxing. Now that I’m retired I ride 75 miles per week, in three sessions, for about seven months of the year and indoors on an exercise bike an equivalent amount three days a week. The other two days I hike in mountains between six and seven miles. All of this takes me longer at 70 than it did at 50, but if you’ve been doing it all your life, hard exercise is just another habit.
4
Great article, but I have one question. Is it the case, as the article states, that the active cyclists actually biked 400 miles per month (or roughly 100 miles a week)? Really? I'm training now for a 45 mile organized ride in the San Luis Obispo area and find at the age of 65 that a 30 mile cycling routine is quite taxing and demands both planning and recovery. I thought I was doing alright jogging, doing push ups and crunches, lifting moderate weights, and riding my bike about 20-30 miles a week, NOT 100 miles a week. I know no one past the age of 50 that bikes 400 miles a month and question whether that data point is correct.
4
I know lots of people that age who ride that and more.
3
I am 62 and routinely ride arduously at least 150 miles per week. Much of that distance is climbing mountains. Several of my cycling friends ride similar or longer distances. The biggest challenge is to find the time to ride. I complement cycling with some weight lifting to maintain upper body muscles. I also focus exercises on the abdominal areas and muscles that are not used much in cycling to maintain muscular balance.
1
This past summer I was a crew member for a team of four women average age over 60 who compete in Race Across America (RAAM). These athletes averaged 100 miles A DAY EACH. One was a breast cancer survivor, another rode on a replaced hip. Team rode over 3000 miles in about 7.5 days. So it can be done.
Message absorbed.
Hate work outs. Does anyone like workouts?
Speak up.
Must decide if living is worth it.
Decision.
Hate Trump, Putin, current developments.
Think I will take a walk, in the snow.
I cleaned off the roof twice last week. Broke a slight sweat.
Spring will come by April 15.
That will help.
15
400 miles of cycling a year for older folks?
Give me a break! (…and hopefully not literally).
The researchers examined muscles, T-cells, etc etc-
but what about the poor joints these people were inevitably wearing out?
Stay active of course, but be reasonable as you age.
I myself prefer walking , in a great walking city like New York.
And my joints and muscles - as well as my mental acuity - are fine in my old age.
And of course diet is crucial (you are what you eat),
giving our bodies the building-blocks and fuel
to be and do our best - at any age, if we choose wisely.
And so, in the words that Dylan Thomas never quite uttered:
Do go gentle into that good night,
Old age should not burn and rave at close of day;
Don’t rage, rage, rage against the dying of the light.
Take a nice walk instead.
8
Walking induces a weight bearing factor. Cycling has NONE of that. Non weight bearing exercise is the only way to go.
4
400 miles per month, not per year.
But weight bearing exercise helps to prevent osteoporosis.
4
Sometimes I feel like exercising, but then I lie down until the feeling goes away.
19
Confounding variable: the article refers to *groups* of cyclists. Regardless of muscle development, their socialization may be what will contribute most to their longevity.
10
Also while cycling you are not listening to family members complain, watching Trump on tv, etc. Correlation does not prove causation!
5
To have excellent health as you age does not mean doing vigorous exercise. Movement is key. The ancient art of qigong for health and longevity - focuses in a very gentle but powerful way to remove energy blockages in our bodies - the major cause for poor health.
People such Marissa at YOQi.com (with lots of free stuff on uTube) and Lee Holden, a PBS favorite, are bringing qigong to the west in a very accessible way.
8
The article takes a group of healthy people and concludes that "aging is in fact preventable"? Did it occur to the researchers that (some? many?) older people who do not exercise quit doing so because they are not very healthy? I've seen people drop out of sports clubs/activities for this reason. Correlation is not causation.
23
I agree. I see article after article from many credible sources that say, "Seniors, just move. That's all you have to do to live a long life." I wonder if they are all written by people under 40. I am 67 years old and have been an avid exerciser my whole life. As the years go on, I am less able to exercise. Every year something else has to be eliminated because of injury and or fragility. It is very sad and frustrating. These articles make me sad and angry. A lot of my problems doctors can't solve for me. Really bad feet. I have tried everything. Bad lower back. I have tried everything. Maybe if the medical community would pay more attention to the things can put a lot of us out of commission before old age, more of us would exercise. Many of my friends are in a similar condition.
16
And if Medicare covered more chronic situations adequately.
1
This comment is much too negative and defeatist. Movement is key to one's good health and vitality. There are many more EXCELLENT ways of keeping your body very healthy than the vigorous mechanical exercise of sports clubs and bicycling etc. QiQong for health and longevity is an ancient Chinese practice and a very gentle way to maintain excellent health. Of course, the key is finding the right qiqong teacher. I would suggest Marissa at YOQI,.com she has many free videos on utube to try out. Also, Lee Holden, a PBS favorite also has excellent qiqong programs for different levels e.g. Healing sounds with very gentle movementsfor the 5 organs that can be done both sitting and standing. So no excuse to vegetate in self-defeat.
First off, could we finally retire the 19c sounding adjective SPRY (please note, Gretchen Reynolds). My father, who lived to a ripe old age of 94 was often described in breathless admiration as being so 'spry.' Spry is an outright agist word. A fit person, no matter what his or her age is FIT.
I have a neighbor in my co-op who is 102. She is now pretty much apartment-bound, but up until age 100, she was still taking her daily, long walk in our neighborhood. If she didn't get outside, she'd walk our long halls, back and forth.
Exercise is just a great thing. We were meant to use our bodies vigorously throughout our lives.
20
It would be great if manufacturers of athletic wear and sporting goods would feature more older models.
10
And if there were gyms exclusively for people over 50. I would enjoy the gym more if it weren't monopolized by "hotties", and seemingly at all hours.
2
me: Try senior citizen centers. Not saying everywhere but they are out there.
4
I think a BIG part of the problem here, is that when folks think of "exercise" or "working out", many of them just inwardly groan, thinking of the exertion and effort required, then go back to munching candy in front of their various screens (TV, computer, cell phone, tablet, gaming system....). STAYING ACTIVE is a much more positive way of putting things: this means having FUN!!! Biking is a wonderful way to get out in the fresh air and go places you wouldn't normally go, and meet people along the way and when you get there. Swimming is wonderful for most parts of your body also, and is a social activity as well - going to a pool or a lake, pond, river or ocean is a FUN thing to get off out butts and do. Gardening, with all its bending and pulling and spading and such, is also good physical activity, as are hiking, canoeing, boating of all sorts, surfing, climbing trees (lol i still do this at 62..... why not??), exploring interesting places - even just a nice brisk walk in a "green space" is a delightful, relaxing way of remaining physically active and reaping all the associated benefits. Just get out and DO stuff - you don't have to "exercise" or "hit the gym" to work out (notice that this phrase contains the word "work", lol!!) - just keep on moving, and enjoying life in physical ways and you'll be fine.
33
Could smoking an occasional bicycle prolong our life?
5
Bicycling is a wonderful activity, but for one thing.
It isn’t load-bearing.
Mix cycling with a routine of daily, vigorous walking or running, and once weekly light weights to help maintain bone density. Voila!
But cycling is indeed the linchpin. Get serious about it and get into serious-amateur road or mountain biking, and you mind will never lack challenges to enjoy and you’ll never ride alone, unless you want to.
All will ask where you found the Fountain of Youth.
6
I solve the load bearing problem by walking my bicycle up steep hills. Actually, that solves two problems...the steep hill being the second one.
6
I'll be 80 next year going on 39. I have limited walking due to old-age onset hydrocephalus. I work out hard with a trainer 4 times per week. Able to travel the world from home in San Francisco, with my sidewalk scooter in tow. India, France, China, Canada and more. A couple trips a year.
13
Nearing 65 and lift weights and run on a treadmill several times a week. Never felt better.
5
We are chimps who before had no mechanical transportation so exercise was required to hunt meat long distances with women walking to gather nut, berries and wild grains. Not surprising that brain illness along with other illnesses because our exercise and food changed drastically within last 150 years.
We are chimps and must have companionship, mental stimulation and swinging in trees for good health and long life.
Not rocket science!
9
In my opinion there is a possible problem of cause and effect here. The study does not unequivocally say exercise keeps us younger. It could easily be that people who age less with time are capable of being active bicyclists later in life and enjoy the sport because they are in good health. People who have aged more with time may not undertake it because they find it more difficult. By selecting active bicyclists for the study the investigators may have biased their results at the outset.
26
Simple. Because most commenters are not interested in data, in stats, in research, in carefully constructed studies. Nor do they have the brains, patience or sufficient scientific schooling to understand such studies. Hence, they prefer anecdotal evidence and urban myths handed down from generation to generation.
10
i don't understand this article. Haven't we known for decades that physical activity keeps the immune system working at any age and improves health? Also slows alzheimers etc?
Why is this a surprise?
11
I've said it before, it all comes down to STRESS. I've been reading about and watching video's on super agers. Many do not exercise. They smoke, drink and eat what they want. Their brains are still sharp,they still take care of themselves. Watch a video on Mr Richard Arvin Overton going on 112. Smokes 13 cigars a day, drinks, eats soups and ice cream everyday. No real exercise. The only reason I exercise is I enjoy it. I also want to be self sufficient as long as possible. I have ache's and pains my grandmother never had. She didn't exercise, she drank at least 8 -10 beers a day. Drove till she was 97, and died at 98. She was asked about her secret. She said luck.
14
I truly believe (not withstanding genetic disorders) 90% of disease that we face today is a function of lack of exercise and diet. We have created all these drugs to solve for a problem that nature has already given us. Are bodies haven't evolved that much over the last 5,000 years or so when we were running around the plains, hunting food and eventually creating agriculture. The "blue zones" of this world have one thing in common. They all move, every day and the frequency of movement is due to day to day activities tending gardens, getting resources ..etc. They take nearly zero drugs and outlast us all.
5
Longer lifespan is partly a result of evolution. Earlier humans, for all their healthful physical activity, had considerably shorter lives. Nowadays, long life is closely related to affluence that allows time for strenuous, but leisurely exercise.
2
For those with time, and money. For those whom life hasn’t worn down. I find these articles themselves have shortened my lifespan.
25
Many of these folks were born genetically superior, and they stayed that way, healthy.
7
How do you know this?
9
There's no evidence for that.
I received my results from 23 & Me and much to my surprise they told me that my muscle DNA is that of an "elite athlete" . First I laughed out loud . Then I thought about it . I am 71 years old and recently returned from a 8 day /10 mile walking trip in the UK . It was not terribly difficult . When I turned 50 I celebrated by biking cross country , 3200 miles in 45 days . I never thought of myself as anything other than a plodder but maybe that DNA is behind all this activity plus the fact that I don't suffer from arthritis and can do these things if I want to . I am inclined to believe we are born with certain exercise assets and are just lucky .
4
I wish. However, I will stick with horses, since a bike doesn't care if it falls over, and a horse does.
11
You also have far less control over a horse than over a bike...
2
The Chinese has known this secret for a long time. They call it Huo (活) = To live Dong (動) = To move; which simply means if one want to live, one must move. Thus if one want to live, better start moving. Couch potato surely won't help the cause.
15
why is it that when articles are about fitness commentors think it's a license to share their life stories?
7
Welcome to the human race!
See my reply further up.
Years ago an exercise program was developed by the Royal Canadian Air Force. There are graded levels of exercises and timed repetitions (based on 11 minute "workouts") that start out at something a dedicated and experienced couch potato can handle to those that an Olympic caliber athlete can attain. You can start at any age -- and there are "age appropriate" levels given. It's more about maintaining flexibility and conditioning than developing brute strength or staggering stamina.
9
I remember that from when I was a teenager in the early 70s. I'm going to look it up -- thanks for the reminder.
4
I knew all of this already... I'm living it. I've been a cyclist since my early 20s and a comparative cyclist until I was 35. I'm now 48. I don't feel old and I don't look old.
People need to get off their collective butts and get out and ride...
11
Because you aren’t old yet.
19
We just celebrated the 100th birthday of a neighbor. She lives alone in her condo, although her son (who some of us have jokingly called neglectful) lives a few doors down. She still cooks for us a few days a week (5 minutes at a time, she says, leaning against the counter), insists on using canes instead of a walker or wheelchair except when absolutely necessary and showers/dresses herself. She once told her internist, when asked about "exercise vital signs," that "I get up and go to the bathroom 6 times a day!" Oh, and she reads the NTY on her iPad. I've exercised nearly every day of my 62 years, but LH inspires me with her "just keep moving" attitude. About aches and pains, physical and spiritual? "What's the use of complaining? Just do what you can do."
15
It could just as well be the opposite: that those 70-year olds cyclist took to regular cycling because they muscles and immune system were youthful to begin with. Their peers idling on the sofa may just be those who had aged early -- bad genes and all sorts of health issues could have made cycling too tiring and possibly dangerous for them.
11
Stationary bike
After all is said and done, if you do not really use muscles, they will deteriorate! Cycling is great as it allows lots of muscle use without much direct impact damage to joint or ligaments, so is just great common sense. That said, the human body is a mesh of muscle systems, mostly moving bones. The more of these muscle systems that we can get into action at the same time, the greater the benefits will be per unit time. It also allows the muscles to become accustomed to working together. We all know that things that work together are usually better, for the long run.
Muscle builders like to work on specific muscle groups or even a particular lagging muscle like the right fore arm. Staying fit and healthy is not about buffing up a single muscle, it is about having a fit complete body that will support all your activities.
My point is, teach and work your muscles together so that the most activity fits in the shortest amount of time, allowing you to do other things without sacrificing good fitness.
2
I heard zookeepers are working with chimps in this way.
there are all sorts of socioeconomic and cultural factors of course likely to confound studies of a population of self-selecting, time-winnowed volunteers. perhaps it might be possible to design a randomized double-blind experiment using subjects paid to cycle (or be sedentary) without regard to their preference. there may not be enough money in the world to effect compliance over the long-term, especially for cyclists forced to be couch potatoes.
4
Yes, it would indeed take a large sum of money to get me, a middle aged runner/yogi, to be sedentary. I took a job that paid well so that I have money to enjoy my life. I exercise so that I can enjoy my life. I need both. If pushed, I'd probably give up money first. For me, I would enjoy life less surrounded by comfort but unable to move, versus living homeless, but able to walk and enjoy nature and my own endorphins.
7
MORE GOOD NEWS About the benefits of exercise as a counter to aging. Not everyone will choose bicycles as their preferred exercise regimen. But any sort of aerobic exercise will move things in the right direction of increased health and longevity.
8
Well of course people in this study who ride a lot of miles are very healthy. It killed everyone else!
Seriously, whatever you can do to exercise, keep doing it. There are lots of ways to be healthy, The only exception is not to try.
3
How about the telomeres of active vs. inactive people?
1
The original research is widely published in the British press, and, I am sure, will end up in a BBC program(me). Some of these older folks do 100 kilometers per day. 400 miles a month? In groups? These are competitive athletes, and this is not exercise as we know it. Exceptions do not establish rules.
9
It all comes down to a basic law in life. It's one I've always tried to live by, and can be summed in one simple sentence. Use it or lose it.
John~
American Net'Zen
3
You must mean “use it or let go of it”. The other phrase implies reward, or punishment, which is decidedly not zen.
2
This is an observational study and as such it's insufficient, in general, to establish causality. That means, these people are active because they are healthy, not the other way around! Or maybe there is a third factor that causes both the state of health and the propensity to exercise. One would think that science reporters for the NYT would get a primer on the basics of the scientific method.
6
The possibilities are far greater than I had thought possible. After six months, I can now do three hundred full-drop chins on a very fat and slippery overhead bar.
The key is grip. At first, I couldn't even do one full-drop chin on the new bar. Then, I started gritting up my hands using a mixture of dirt and sand. What a transformation!
The second issue is the ratio of maximal strength and maximal power to body mass. Having lost roughly one third of my body mass from what it was at its greatest, my chins are now much easier.
I'm now far better at chins than I was fifty years ago. I can scarcely believe it.
8
Before you invest in a bike, consult a friend who cycles. S/he might have one that they can sell and also show you how to ride. I had to learn to ride in the city on my own, and it cost a bit in time, money, and safety. In selling or gifting two of my bikes, I gave each new owner lessons. My nephew got the longest and most dangerous lesson, but I returned him to my sister alive. Safety is not a joking matter, as a broken wrist or clavicle can seriously affect your future performance, and level of enjoyment.
Riding in traffic, in the city, and aggressively, is an amazing way to heighten your senses and reflexes. I avoid Central Prk. for all its pedestrians, skaters, and other cyclists; traffic can be safer if you dress and behave accordingly. I do not use clipless pedals, but prefer New Balance Minimus shoes and flat metal pedals. The grip is amazing, and the option to bail on the bike and fly free in a fall is safer and being anchored to your bike. Watch the amount of wear and buy new shoes immediately. Pedaling efficiency will suffer, but you will be stronger. Here in NJ, the weather is turning, and despite a snow hiatus, I can easily ride out 30 miles to past Raritan with few stops if any. In the city, I can do I high intensity 30 mile loop (91st St. > 5th Ave. > Houston > 3rd Ave. > Madison > 91st St.) in about 3.5 hours. Abide the lights and stay with the same group of cars...they will be more aware of you.
3
The Authors of the two reported studies, whose results have been published on Aging Cell current issue, have not fully enlightened the patho-physiological mechanisms of physical exercise on keep aging. We must remember the central role played by the healthy environment, they are living on, and especially the endothels biological condition. To understnd the real benefits of physical movements, I like highlight the influence of physiological blood-flow along the microvessels, i.e., vessels under 100 micron diameter, on the local endothel biology. During physical exercise, endothels are elongated, due to local shear stress, so that their adhesion points, located on abluminal endothelial wall, are more approached in a small area of the membrane, stimulating trabeculae of the cellular skeleton in a more intensive way. As a consequence, cell nucleous is intensively stimulated to synthesize m-RNA for enzymes, proteines and usefull components. In addition, thanks to physical activity, insulin receptors of target organs are well functioning, adiponectine greater amount is secreted.
3
I’m an avid bicyclist for 45 years and a runner before that. Not only does it keep you healthy, it keeps you healthy even if you like to drink a lot. My theory is that when the blood flows quickly for a while, it cleans the liver as well. The liver being a sedentary organ.
That said, I would recommend long fast walking, as well; especially for those who are exercise beginners. Doesn’t cost anything, either.
7
Just think about how frequently age was used as a negative against Bernie Sanders, who is in excellent physical health & continues to travel the country at a pace few could match. Why didn’t the NYTimes ever comment on that?
11
I am 50 and ride 100+ a week. I am immunodeficient. I rarely get sick! This winter, after not riding for 2 months due to weather (too cold and ice) i got really sick. I am almost better and know that biking will help me get back to full health.
My parents are 80 and have set the example.... going to the gym every day, every morning....no daily medicine, no hospitalizations, no major mental health issues. Great article!
3
Lucky you and lucky parents. My guess is that the very vast majority of 80 year olds have developed one or more serious medical conditions even if well controlled by modern medicine. Which is not to say that an active life is not beneficial. Quite the contrary. But bad luck can easily change the story no matter how much exercise is involved. Not to mention those medically required therapies which simply impair muscle mass.
5
I have friends whose health would be vastly improved by losing weight and exercising. They won’t do it.
Bike good, couch bad! KISS: Keep is Simple Stupid.
Go is better than stop; stand is better than sit, pedal is better than drive, ride is better than watch!
19
Wouldn't "Keep it simple sweetie" be nicer?
1
Does anyone else often find the comments more interesting than the article?
286
now That brought a smile to my morning....thanks! And Yes.
2
More interesting as well as informative. A real trove a useful info
3
@Sam-
Always ...
3
Tao Master Mantak Chia on “Immune System Activating”. On YouTube at p5gF0zaclKg (18 min full version) and 6NSN1HuN9g4 (1.3 min of clips) You can also find 7 and 4 minute condense audios of the talk on my soundcloud. I highly recommend watching the full 18 minute video. I have done so many times, and I practice it regularly, alone, obviously.
THE THEORY
Red and white blood cells are produced by the bone marrow
The sacrum controls all the bones
The kidneys control the sacrum and the bone marrow
Cells travel to the thymus, abdomen and lymph nodes
THE PRACTICE
Rub hands warm
Rub,Touch Smile to sacrum
Feel sacrum breathing
Rub hands warm
Cover kidneys
Activate kidney fire filling the sacrum and all the bones
Touch, smile and laugh to your hip bone
Feel your bones smiling, funny, laughing and happy
GIVE THE COMMAND to the bone marrow to produce healthy red and white cells
Lightly touch your thymus
Laugh into your thymus, vibrating it
SEE white blood cells marching into the thymus healthy and happy
[Burp]
Rub hands warm
Hold, smile and laugh into abdomen, inner vibration
SEE white blood cells going into the intestines
Rub hands, cover neck and SEE lymph nodes receiving good attention and energy - bright, clean, warm and blossoming with good smelling white flowers
Do same for arm pits, abdomen and groin
3
I'm almost 72 and offer this observation, related to good health.
"You don't stop having sex because you get old, you get old because you stop having sex!"
Not long after my fiance' came into my life, my musculature decline has reversed itself w/o exercise. In the gym, anyway. The reversal of declining testosterone has been dramatic. From flappy arms to filling the sleeves of a tee shirt; eyebrow length (an age related phenomena) now back decades, full length.
And a heck of a lot more fun than cycling! (Which I do like.)
5
They can be rather expensive, but for those who, for whatever reason, can no longer cycle or run, an elliptical is an excellent exercise device.. Just my $.02.........
6
Ellipical is my favorite exercise machine at the gym. No impact on joints. Upper and lower body workout. Higher calorie burn than the bike and most other exercises. Great for both beginners and advanced HIIT. They are expensive for the home though.
2
very interesting but not surprising. still there are many caveats here;
1) 400/month = 100 miles/week. thats alot of cycling. at 15mph (not too slow) thats over *a full day/week* -on the bike-. when I did triathlons in late 20's and most of 30's, 150/week (half at min 20mph) was plenty. I question the mileage.
2) bicycling uses mostly *slow* twitch muscles. these arent bulky muscles of bodybuilers, crossfitters or even runners. they are slimmer muscles and dont have much bulk to begin with. they retained their "bulk" bc there wasnt much there to begin with.
3) strange there was no thought to measure VO2 max. as an older former triathloner/marathoner now crossfitter, you better flat believe you lost ALOT of that speed and stamina compared to trained 30-somethings. sad but true and backed up by a nyt aticle months ago which let you determine what your marathon times would be at certain ages. when I plugged my PR in, I almost cried. bottom line, a study of decrease in VO2 max would be extremely useful additional info to get a fuller picture.
and invasive muscle biopsies? I had one when on by US Natl Team Dr. over 30 years ago. one of the most painful things I've ever had done. whew!
7
Why cry about a lower PR? I just won my first age group marathon medal in 35 years - first at age 20 vs. 8th at age 55 - two hours slower, but still enjoying it. It's about enjoying the running, not the racing times. (And note: there have been masters and seniors categories in a lot of sports for many decades!)
No, the mileage is accurate, the research has been widely scrutinized in the British press. But I understand why you question - this is not exercise, it is excessive, and not a yardstick for anything other than getting taxpayer subsidy for the next bit of research. The research completely lacks something else - statistics on rates of illness, injury, death and medication use among the subjects. IOW, the data is useless.
2
Different people enjoy different things. I hate cardio. I hate sweating. I can walk miles at a moderate pace and do Pilates but I'm never gonna run or bike.
5
Walking is as good...
Thermal Dynamics Guinness Max HR with a dash of learning how to enjoy the “suffering”.
1
Use it or lose it.
6
Don't give us so soon. Try a recumbent trike, you'll be surprised how much that will extend your cycling life. Adult trikes are another good bet!
3
Now the opposite study needs to be done. Take a dozen seventy-year-old's and have them eat junk food and watch TV all day and get up only to eat and go to the bathroom. The results will surely make everyone rethink their ideas of aging and the study will surely merit publication in the NY Times. Honestly, this doesn't add up to anything more than common sense.
5
We only have one subject in the study, but the current occupant of the White House is following the program you suggest. And his physician says he's in the best health of anyone in the country!
2
That's our president you know. We can test him.
3
Review the literature on bone health. The immune system and muscle tissue may be better in Cyclists but bone mineral density doesn't look very good.
2
Great article as always, Gretchen. The study results don't surprise me, although it's always interesting to dig down to the cellular/glandular level to understand the biological mechanisms.
But the comments section takes us somewhere else. People just want to believe that aging is an inevitable process, that the trips around the sun and perhaps their genetics are the chief determinants. I think the culture of exercise in America –spandex, intensity, personal trainers, and the line in this story about 100-mile biking weeks – deters people from simply adopting physical activities like walking, cleaning your own home, gardening, active vacations, playing with dogs and kids, etc. I'm the 60-yr-old triathlete who loves to exercise, but that's not necessary for good health. Being active every day, multiple times each day, and eating a balanced, whole food diet, is what makes for better health.
16
The causal direction most likely is that state of health determines cycling.
7
I think this study is flawed in its focus on British cyclists. Clearly, such a population will have a great affinity for Guinness, and the scientists have apparently neglected to consider that, maybe, it's the beer.
120
Don, that's the Stout Irish. These drink room temperature Ale.
2
But Guinness is Irish no?
1
Does cycling make you strong, or does being strong make you cycle? Older cyclists are a self-selecting group -- those who continued cycling into their older years. Ten years ago I cycled 100-200 miles/month. As my muscles aged, it became less fun to cycle & I cut back. Those who keep it up may be those who are blessed with youthful muscles, not the other way around.
39
I'm a triathlete hitting age 60 this summer, having "competed" (actually, I just do them as a hobby) every summer since 1987. I supplement race "training" (my cycling buddies and I stop for a meal halfway through our weekly training rides) with strength training (squats, lunges, calf lifts) in the winter. You can regain and build muscle at any age.
3
The study described here does not test your hypothesis: "You can regain and build muscle at any age". To test that one would have to use two randomly selected groups and have one group exercise and the other remain sedentary. To entirely remove bias it would need to be blinded. The study described here has selected healthier people at the outset by selecting active bicyclists.
3
Only in the PC ridden world of Well at the NYT must it be told that exercise keeps your muscles robust. What would one suppose, that laying around in front a TV keeps you stronger? I am over 60 and I can beat most 40 year olds up a flight of stairs, I can run my heart at 145 for two hours. That means I am fit and I don't need a study to help me understand this.
7
I am amazed and inspired by you! HR 145 for two hours at age 60 is phenomenal! I am a 53 year old woman who has cycled and lifted and used an elliptical machine off and on for most of my life but decided it was time to get consistent three years ago after my weight had gone up and my health metrics began pointing in the wrong direction. I've been training at least four days a week for three years and have reversed all of my bad numbers and improved my good numbers. I've never tried to train for two straight hours but you have inspired me to work up to longer cardio sessions. Presently I do 45 minutes on the treadmill, elliptical, or Peloton and my average HR ranges from 145-150. I intermittently hit 150-161, though my doctor has discouraged me from sustaining the latter level of elevation for more than a minute.
Thank you for the inspiration! I wish you continued robust health!
The skeptics are funny. Read the study and get the real story. There are many, many studies showing causation of health benefits by exercise. The claim that only super-healthy people can and do exercise is a myth. The fact is the vast majority of people are healthy enough to exercise, and the human animal is designed to move - that is our heritage. Not exercising is a choice, but don't blame anyone else not exercising and getting the health benefits from it - mainly a longer healthy and productive life (not necessarily a longer life, however!).
10
Joe how old are you? Exercise has benefits of course for all -- but the elderly cannot simply put on a pair of bike trunks and bike hard either. Get your hips replaced and see how easy it is....
5
I don't think this article is saying everyone can just go out and start exercising now, after muscle loss, decreased bone density, etc. These cyclists had been doing it for decades. I think the point is that people should start young and never stop. I certainly wish I'd done more when I was younger ...
4
Look up what Ruth Bader Ginsberg, a two-time cancer survivor, does every day. Even if parts of your body aren't working so well, you have 600 muscles that can often pick up the slack.
6
I am 61. I was an athlete in high school and college (Wrestling and Tennis). In my 20's I started working a desk job. My activity level gradually diminished over the years as I became increasingly sedentary. My muscles atrophied, my body fat increased and the number of chronic aches and pains increased year after year. At age 57, I suffered a debilitating back injury (ruptured disk, L4-L5) which left me barely able to walk without a cane or crutches. I had surgery to relieve the pressure. My doctor prescribed "walking". I walk as much as I can, sometimes up to 12 mi/day, but on average it is really 3-5 miles per day. I feel and look younger as a result. I have more energy than before and actually feel ill if I don't get my walking in. It's only anecdotal, but how I feel falls right in line with the study results. I have been in both groups, the sedentary and the active older group. I'm never going to stop trying to exercise. It makes life so much more enjoyable!
42
I am well aware of the challenges of executing a good study in these realms.
But, one thing I can tell you as a cyclist: nobody cycles 100 miles a week or more because you're just generally healthy / genetically gifted / because you can, at any age. Cycling at that level and above takes serious dedication, high pain and risk tolerance, and love for the sport.
The few folks who actually have that genetic gift quickly find that out and become part of an extremely small set of elite riders. The rest of us power through countless difficulties and setbacks because we love it. The muscles, T cells, and clarity of mind are mere side benefits.
14
Huh? I ride my normal loop of 20 miles 4-5 times per week at an average speed of around 18.5 mph, while being employed full time, married with a teenage child, a large house/property to maintain, dogs to walk, etc. Last year from April to November, I rode just over 2,500 miles, usually 20 miles at a time, but with occasional 45-65 mile rides. I turn 61 in three days. Do I have a genetic gift? No...I just like to ride. I love the outdoors and I love the speed fix.
1
I ride between 2,500 to 3,000 miles per year. The season only runs between May through October so I hit the gym the rest of the year. My cholesterol is high but my ratio is very good. I was prescribed statin drugs to lower the numbers and I immediately felt like my energy level was low. I couldn't get up the hills.
I quit the drugs fast and went for a calcium scoring test which came up zero. That was good enough for me to never take the drugs again. That was ten years ago (now I am 63) and this year I went back for the calcium scoring test again - zero.
Can't wait for the snow to melt!
3
Same here but continue with indoor bike trainer in the off season..... Kinetic trainer
oh god no. Healthy 80 years olds -- YES they are more likely to be active then sedentary. BUT the notion that really hard extensive rigorous exercise will actually prolong life is bull hockey.
The real issue is that there is truly a world of difference being 55 and 75. Aging is happening. Being healthy and eating healthy is very important. But do not expect that rigorous exercise in your 50s will save you from cancer in your 60s either. Articles like this appear almost every week in the nytimes Well section and they are deeply misleading happy-speak.
6
But the article doesn't claim that such exercise prolongs life, only that it prolongs good health. You may want to reread it.
1
Nothing in this article claimed that you would live longer by exercising in extremely rigorous programs. The article described a study which measured actual benefits of exercise. Please do not keep discouraging people from doing what they can, when you can't doubt on the efforts of people to measure and reporters to report on what is learned about the human body, you are helping to doom people to a more miserable senior life.
The message is simple, exercise will improve your body even at an older age. Couldn't you have just let that good message lie there?
2
Exercise will not save you from cancer, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, etc. My dad ran for over 50 years before developing Parkinson's in his mid-70's and he continued to walk and exercise for as long as possible before his death at 80. It's not about prolonging your life, it's about enhancing your quality of life. This article says that the cyclists' body composition is comparable to much younger individuals due to their exercise - it says nothing about them living longer.
2
All I see here is correlation with no mention of evidence of causation. Either the studies did not demonstrate causation, in which case most of the claims made in this article are premature and inaccurate, or they did, in which case you should say so.
6
"could help to keep our muscles and immune systems robust..."
"But the British scientists, many of them recreational athletes, suspected that exercise might have an impact on the trajectory of physical aging..."
"That analysis had left many questions about exercise and physical activity unanswered, however."
"The results also are limited to recreational British cyclists."
Nothing definitive here, just a an article a few paragraphs long about conjecturing of a correlation.
These studies are published in peer reviewed journals, I think they would have caught that.
3
One cannot make causation until randomized control trial is done i.e. the kind used in drugs. Its similar that we can only say that smoking is highly correlated to causing caner but not that smoking causes cancer, it would be statistically inaccurate.
Not a surprise, but the question remains: how much and what type of exercise? I had to give up cycling because of back issues.
4
You could get a recumbent.
Every study seems to say that more is better, and intervals are the best. Cycling gives you intervals if you ride in a paceline, if you ride in rolling hills or if you sprint away from every stop sign til you're back at speed.
Actually recumbents can be more stressful on the back if the hamstrings are too tight. It's easy to lean into the low back and take the spine out of optimal alignment.
1
I in fact started cycling because of back issues, three disks removed and then I re-injured.
Cycling has kept me pain free and healthy. I'm 61 and ride with the the 30 year olds and those in their 70s and 80s. I very seldom get sick, can't remember the last time I had a cold and sleep great. I supplement cycling with rowing and stretching.
Keep pedaling.
6
Its not just that exercise makes you healthier and happier, it makes you more human and alive all around. Exercise is not a "chore" to get through, somehow, to just trudge through. It is joyous to throb inside your body. Im 65, still jog, sometimes walk and run, sometimes walk, stay active. I don't pretend to be 30...but I'm good, healthy, lucky. Be the best you can be at the age you are.
28
Why is it that so many comments bring out such narcissism?
Any comment that starts with I...is irrelevant. I don’t really care if you ride 50 miles, if you started at 20 or 60, if your knee hurts...these comments prove nothing.
People’s individual experiences and judgements do not add to the conversation. Critical thinking is in very short supply.
10
People just want to provide examples based on their experience. Others can learn from that experience. Why that would bother anyone is beyond me.
24
Daniel: Some, but not all comments about personal experience with exercise are narcissistic, but certainly not all. After all, our personal experience is all each us of has to communicate to others. There is a big difference between stating "this is what I do and it happens to work for me" and "I do x workouts at such and such intensity and duration and if you don't you are lazy, undisciplined, etc." I find the anecdotes interesting and valuable because they demonstrate the vast array of physiological differences among people - differences that ideally should be taken into consideration when designing an exercise program.
9
The comments describe personal experience and give advice, and while some may be narcissistic, the people are healthy and are sharing their experiences. There’s such a thing as healthy narcissism. Better I than the late I.
As a former 4:06 miler and CC runner, a Cat 4 cyclist that has done coast to coast and Can.-Mex a few times, surfed, skated and skied. Atop a career pounding nails and bending over for a living, I'm curious to know how many of these chosen, and you all, actually worked labor as a career?! I did note that none of these studied where competitive athletes.
It seems that a lot of these aging athletes, more power to them, started moving later in life.
Those that burned brightly in early thorough mid life, are the ones hobbling and wincing as they now move around now.
Exercise is a great mind relaxer for me now. But I am relegated to walking the golf course once a wk. and swimming laps every other day.
Two TKR's and soon a shoulder, a bad neck and elbows, limit how and often I can indulge in athletic endeavors.
Yes, exercise is great.
But please temper the condescension with some empathy for those that may not be out and about. Until you ran in their shoes, or worked in their boots, you have know idea about why they are now sedentary.
Enjoy your health. That extra year you're living for, some others lived it already previously.
24
"Death is nature's way of telling you to slow down." - Until then, keep active and interested!
8
I'll be 73 in a month or so. Up until last September, I'd been working out three days a week and riding a bike recreationally 50 miles aa week for several years. As I was going under sedation for a colonoscopy, I heard a med tech say, "Wow look at that sinus!"
I muttered, "I thought were checking out the other end, not my nose."
The MD said, "We're talking about the sinus rhythm of your heart, Its rare to see that god of a ......" I went to sleep.
I woke to find three days later that I had colon cancer. It was removed robotically and diagnosed as just barely a stage IIb. Just outside the colon but not into the body or the 21 lymph nodes that were removed.
Sorry for all that but here's the relevant point. The oncologist put me on a six month regimen of Folfox chemotherapy because my physical age was about 10 years younger than my calendar age. Folfox is the less toxic chemo and the side effects are annoying but not debilitating. I don't have cancer anywhere in my body but this therapy reduces my risk from 1 in 3 to only 1 in 5.
Get your colonoscopy and ride, baby, ride!
31
These studies are, at best, suggestive. And most likely they are uninformative.
They are correlational in nature. Cause-effect conclusions cannot be drawn from them.
Exercise is only assumed to be the controlling variable, but is not proven to be. And a host of other factors could be the controlling variable(s).
The most likely controlling variable is genetically-based fitness/health. People who are very fit when they are young will be very fit when they are older, regardless of their exercise level.
In addition, the group of older cyclists that were studied did not include any who had died before reaching their 70s. The conclusion reached by the researchers is essentially that people who live a long time are people who have not died.
I am 70, and my wife is in her upper 60s. We cycle 2000 miles/year, hike with heavy backpacks 500 miles/year, ballroom dance regularly, do our own yard work, play ping pong regularly, etc. I have a lot invested in believing the powerful conclusions stated regarding this study, but I don't. Oh, and for both me and my wife our parents lived (or are living) into their 90s, supporting a genetic interpretation of the results (anecdote alert!) None of them exercised like the people in this study do.
These studies add to the literature, but it will require hundreds more of varying kinds of studies, all with varying levels of controls on extraneous variables before we can draw the conclusions drawn from the studies in this article.
9
Quite the opposite is true. Intelligently pursued exercise improves one's body, an improved body = an improved life. Period, no tortured analysis required.
7
"the group of older cyclists that were studied did not include any who had died before reaching their 70s. "
Which -- as you point out -- is a major problem for the study because it makes the study too selective to be useful
2
I really had to smile. In case you haven't noticed, quite a few people live beyond 70.
I am one week from my 65th birthday. I run over a thousand mile a year ( if you can call 11 minutes a mile running), lift weights twice a week, and spin cycle when I can. I am attempting to live as healthfully as I can, for as long as I can.
I agree that some forms of exercise are very expensive, but to stay healthy you must use your body.
I am not rich and I am not white, I have major health issues, but I strive to continue living, not to find a reason to give up.
46
Alternatively, people who have the genes for good muscle health and good immune systems are more likely to enjoy exercise and continue to do it. This says nothing about whether exercise improves the youthfulness of their systems, just that people with more youthful systems exercise more.
9
The problem with the vast majority of these sorts of "studies," at least the way they are reported, is that they do not have proper controls. I suspect strongly that older people who engage in strenuous physical activity do so because their bodies permit them to. It's not the physical activity that produces a "younger" more fit body, but a less-rapidly-aging body that allows the possessor therof to engage in more strenuous physical activity without causing injury.
7
I'm living a healthy, active lifestyle at 68 exactly in the manner described (albeit with a few new orthopedic parts). My advice running is... the worst thing you can do, cycling and swimming are the best life-sports. Treat exercise as a bodily function not a choice.
6
I've been running for over 30 years, interspersed with almost as many years of recreational cycling, and I have no new orthopedic parts. Have switched entirely over to running 5 days a week (just under 20 miles) due to a long commute. So your advice works only for you-everyone is different.
5
I'm 62 and have run daily for more than 40 years. I have hardly taken a day off with the exception of foot surgery a few years ago. I feel it is just as important to my mental well being and problem solving skills as it is physically beneficial. And, I look far younger than my age and must keep up with my teen age students every day.
6
The skeptics are hilarious. This research is not self-selection. The cyclists had cellular level differences that were clearly attributable to exercise.
I've been both highly competitive and not over the years, but have averaged 5 or 6 days a week of training for 40 years. Today I'll mountain bike for an hour or more and "get air" on the jumps with the kids (30 and 40 year olds). I'm 71.
The physical benefits are unquestionable. But the pure joy of being a good animal is even greater reward. I would continue challenging my body and engaging with the natural world even if it meant slightly diminished longevity. Life is too short to sit around.
9
You are probably right, but it’s a basic tenet of scientific study that you can’t go around claiming you’ve shown a cause-and-effect relationship when all you’ve done is shown a correlation.
3
The number of comments that say it's not the exercise that results in healthy people, but its the healthy people that are able to exercise is startling to me.
I imagine you can give yourself all sorts of reasons to be inactive and waste away and not even try to help yourself feel better and be healthier.
4
That exercise is beneficial I think is largely unquestioned. What is questionable are the "studies" that "show" that exercise significantly alters aging and mortality. These sorts of "studies" are almost always scientifically unsupported. Perhaps some of the commenters would have benefited by doing less exercise and spending the time learning a little science. After all, it's been "shown" that if you use your brain more, you can avoid Alzheimers.
3
S, how old are you? Any aches and pains that are normal with being 65plus? one of the truths that is never expressed in the media is that at a certain point hard exercise like biking is not possible as one ages past middle-age. SURE, some can still bike 20 miles at 70plus, but most cannot. That's the problem with the study.
4
The article suggests that many of those who can't are unable to because they haven't kept in shape, which is hardly surprising. Yes, some people suffer disabilities, but for too many the only disability is the sofa.
1
Interesting article on the impact of exercise on our immune system and the benefits of more T cells coursing through our bodies, boosting our immune system! The original peer-reviewed scientific paper published in Aging Cell. (2018 Apr;17(2). doi: 10.1111/acel.12750. Epub 2018 Mar 8.) may alleviate readers concerns about the scientific validity of this article. While the numbers are small, the hypotheses is clearly supported. Would love to see a similar study in other forms of exercise too. Gotta love our immune system and i for one hope to keep on exercising throughout my life and continue to generate more T cells!
2
Please tell us how we know that septuagenarian cyclists have healthier bodies because they cycle and not merely that healthy septuagenarians cycle? After all, we notice that most avid professional basketball players are tall, does playing basketball make them tall? Is regular exercise on the basketball court a good prescription for people wishing to be taller? Like many columns in this series, the casual link between health and fitness is rarely identified in the snippets of research studies that are quoted.
9
No data required, really. We notice pro basketball players are tall, and "know" they are genetically destined to be so, while we also know that trim and healthy-looking physiques are far more common among distance runners and cyclists beyond genetic causation.
4
I always am heartened when I see the older cyclists in my area. We have lots of older downhill skiiers on the local hill. I plan to become one too!
4
Maybe so, but once you hit 70 or so, active or not, most people's bones are fragile enough that serious cycling is just too dangerous. Any fall at all is practically guaranteed to break something, most likely a hip fracture, from which a pretty high proportion of people never fully recover.
5
Reminds me of my 90 year old neighbor who walked her dog 3 times every day until she fainted at home and broke her pelvis. She did recover and stay in her home but now she limits walking to puttering in the yard and needs lots of helpers. She's doing well considering, and it is probably because she walked regularly before the fracture.
A lot of self-congratulation in the comments. One of the requirements for biking is safe streets and roads. I'm lucky to live on the Upper West Side of Manhattan where I have easy access to Central Park and the Hudson River bike path that runs from the Battery north to the George Washington Bridge and beyond. The biggest risks are the oblivious tourists walking on the bike path and the equally oblivious Spandexed bike jocks riding their $5000 bikes at 25+ mph. BTW, the collective costs of the bikes, clothing, shoes, helmets, little computers, etc, in the photo would be 8-10K at a minimum.
6
I agree with the street safety concern you raise. I used to ride my road bike just before sun up for an hour or so to avoid cars and pedestrians on PCH in SoCal. Now I live on the east coast and for the very reasons you've cited here, sold my road bike and bought a Peloton. At 53 and with a congenital hip defect that flares up every once in a while but out of the blue I find that I am more consistent and feel safer in the basement than I ever did on the road...but I sure do miss the marine layer, the rumble of the pacific waves, and the songs of the seagulls. I use a treadmill and an elliptical too, depending upon what mood my bones are in on any given day.
So much inspiration here from mature riders. I love it!
"The dozens of male and female riders they eventually recruited were between the ages of 55 and 79, had been cycling for decades, and still pedaled about 400 miles per month. "
That is likely more than 30 hours/month. That is an awful amount of time. How many non-retired folks can find the time to ride that amount (in the daylight). I did it last year (5400 miles). I found that amount actually wore me out. You almost have to be obsessive to put in that many miles.
What happens to those you only do half that amount?
2
I get about 5,000 miles per year just commuting 25 miles round-trip to work by bike. That's about 80 minutes per day, and if I wasn't cycling I would be driving or riding in a a train, so no extra time at all. It is easy.
But other studies show just 30 min per day of moderate exercise is beneficial, and over an hour does not add much extra benefit. In other words, an hour per day or less is optimal for health benefits.
4
Many of those people may have been commuting to work on their bikes and that mileage adds up quickly. Here in the Northeast, the bike commuters are the hardest core riders and do it pretty much year around (except for days like this past Tuesday when we got 1-2 feet of snow). They just ride beater bikes which can take the salt and slush, which may add to their fitness because they are usually big heavy bikes.
3
Totally missing from this article is a balanced assessment of the risks associated with exercise as one gets older. I'd like to see what the knees of these geriatric cyclists look like when an MIR is taken. From running over the years I find that my feet are shot. I tried swimming. I ended up with a pinched nerve in the brachial area. I've done weights. My back is a mess and I suffered a pinched nerve in the sacrolumbar area. I lay off exercise now, and my pain is finally easing up for the first time in my life.
4
Sounds like you may not have been performing any of these activities with proper warm-ups or cool-downs, and stretching to stay flexible. With wieght lifting, proper form is essential to avoiding injury. I know many cyclists who put in a lot of miles into their 60's, 70's and 80's after they retire.
3
I've been running 40+ years, still going in my mid-fifties. I just had some Xrays done for an on-and-off right hamstring pain; they showed zero arthritis or other damage in my knees and hips, and only minimal traces of arthritis in my lower back. I have moderate arthritis in my hands, often painful, but I doubt that can be blamed on the running. The hamstring pain was determined to be most likely incurred as a minor tear occurring during spring skiing, rather than training for and running a marathon the subsequent summer. It healed up with a few weeks of physical therapy. Most people end up injured, often permanently, because they push through pain rather than consulting with a sports medicine professional. I hope your health improves, and that you can find an exercise you can enjoy without pain, if you so desire.
1
The only veritable fountain of youth.
We must have evolved to be highly active and maybe the worst part of Western lifestyle, for most, is sedentarism.
At 58, I also have noticed lately the need to convince myself to do the very challenging stuff I did in my youth.
Apparently I am fighting the psychological clock, too.
4
There should be an article on the other trove of important 60 biking-related data: accidents. We have a lot of post middle-aged road cyclists around here, and also have one of the highest bike accident rates in the country. As fit as you think you are at this age, I'm betting another study would show that your peripheral vision and response times to traffic and to sudden opening of car doors is not as sharp as it was when you were 30. Dangerous not just for the riders, but for everyone around them.
5
The benefits are enormous. But if you find you don't have confidence in your abilities, then find another form of exercise. The study used cyclists, but it doesn't mean you have to become one.
Are they sure the yound muscles are the effects of exercise and not the other way around? Of course not. Although I do not doubt their conclusion, and I have personal anecdotal evidence they are correct, I find it troubling these articles rarely mention the correlation vs. causation caveat. Especially diet & exercise studies, the vast preponderance of which are, in my opinion, poorly researched and ill-thought out fluff pieces invented for publication - not replication.
3
Well, this is good news! As a teen growing up at Muscle Beach, I was blown away by these old guys in their 60s/70s who would jump up on the high bar, rings, parallel bars, etc, and do their stuff....I made a verbal promise that if I lived that long, I would do that also.
Now as an old guy in my 70s, I've kept that promise. I love my workouts and it's the highlight of my day. I just don't feel "old".
10
Without discounting the science behind the exercise, I'd say that its the moderation in life which should count a lot. And this is from anecdotal evidence, btw. I have literally ***dozens*** of uncles and aunts all of them have made into their 70's without ever exercising and without any one of them getting into serious medical issues. My guess is that they ate mostly organic food, had a deep family sense of belonging, were fairly physically active--at least didn't spend days couch-surfing.
That must be worth some consideration.
1
My dad said, " You never train a race horse by letting it rest!"
3
I don't know, but I've been told, if you never slow down you never get old.
2
Brief naps are also good.
26
So are hot fudge sundaes and greasy curly fries but just like with exercise you have to do all in moderation...
2
Not according to my sleep doctor. Her advice is to get all of your 7-8 hours in at once.
2
At any age, it is generally considered back for the organism to become sedentary, regularly fighting gravity and stimulating muscles.
Prolonged bed rest and living in zero gravity both “decondition” us.
So, a certain amount of exercise periodically is good.
A critical set of questions include what is the minimum necessary for benefit for a particular individual, how to design an “optimal” exercise “prescription” for oneself, and what is too much in the short and in the long run.
5
Excellent post Stephen...you brought up all the right points and questions.
4
Get up off the couch and find out yourself. There is no one prescription-you have to figure out what works best for you. That is the problem-everyone wants to be told that if they do exercise X for Y minutes Z days a week it will ensure good health without problems. Unfortunately, everyone has a unique physiology which is a combination of your genetic background and what you have done to it (diet, environment, stress, education, drugs/alcohol, etc) since you were born. That's why there is (and never will be) a one-size-fits-all solution.
4
Try consulting with a trained physical therapist and/or a doctor who specializes in sports medicine. Individual analysis will help find an individual "prescription" faster, if you're serious about becoming fit. (And I'm not a doctor or medical professional, or in any fitness-related industry or position. I just like to run and ski.)
"Exercise cannot secure us from that dissolution to which we are decreed; but while the soul and body continue united, it can make the association pleasing, and give probable hopes that they shall be disjoined by an easy separation."
Samuel Johnson : Rambler #85 January 8, 1751
8
Amazing - a story that doesn’t talk about the glories of running!
13
Running is high impact. Most runners will have bad knees as they age. Cycling won't cause this.
3
Unlike cycling. running places a huge stress on your lower body's joints. The rotational action of cycling, though it's equally valuable aerobically, is amazingly kind to them. That's why the vast majority of competitive runners switch to the latter as they age, myself included (NJ USCF state champion 1999-2003).
2
Indeed. See Gretchen's Feb 8 piece: Lessons on Aging Well, From a 105-Year-Old Cyclist: From its lead: "At the age of 105, the French amateur cyclist and world-record holder Robert Marchand is more aerobically fit than most 50-year-olds — and appears to be getting even fitter as he ages, according to a revelatory new study of his physiology." Clarification on my prior post: USCF = United States Cycling Federation, not U.S. Chess Federation. This is the prior name for what is now named "USA Cycling". Requires a higher VO2 capacity than does competitive chess, though high I.Q. is not necessarily a pre requisite.
1
What about the fun of cycling? The fresh air and sensory exercise? I surf at 67 and can tell you I've never known heartier, healthier, happier people than surf geezers.
12
Please, if you've been on a statin drug and found your ability to exercise either severely diminished or lost, post your story at statinvictims.com.
Between 1/3 and half of older Americans have statins pushed on them, in many cases with no proof of benefit. No proof of benefit, and yet as with all drugs, the certainly of risk.
How severe is the risk? In some cases, death. In others, the apparent triggering of lifetime neuromuscular diseases. As a neuromuscular specialist at a top university medical school said to me, "Statins in those genetically predisposed can trigger diseases that they wouldn't have gotten for 30 years." (At age 70, this "30 years" is a way of saying never, right?)
statinvictims.com
5
My doctor is aggressively urging me to take statins due to high LDL. Yet I also have high HDL, exercise regularly in my 60s, and have a family history of high LDL but no heart disease or heart attacks. I will not take statins. I know that there’s a risk in refusing these drugs, but I also know the adverse effects, so I will bet on family history and say “no.”
1
Why do you think that "there's a risk"? Statins for primary prevention, in contrast to secondary prevention, are not proven of benefit. Whether there's a benefit or not is still being argued. See November 15, 2016 issue of JAMA if you like.
Good decision, I think. StatinVictims.com
Age is just a number , how many 20 something walking around in there 50 years old body are around you if you just look ; A LOT!
3
I used to believe that, but after 60 too many of those numbers have been adding up.
3
If Janet Lord is any relation to JOHN Lord, these findings really rock. If you're over 55 and don't get this comparison, please conduct the usual google search and start exercising more.
1
Senior cyclists whether recreational or not have one very important thing in common that they will notice as they age, and that is they may need more recovery time between hard rides than when they were younger. Meaning that as we age, and even if we are in phenomenal shape, we need more rest between hard workouts than we once did. I used to coach competitive senior cyclists, and found that I had to build in more rest/recovery into their training plans. But, here is the important take away, I find that senior cyclists can still go as hard as they did when they were younger when doing their hard workout days, even if they are not as fast. I have a strong suspicion that the British study subjects were not just getting their miles in, but, also there was a fair measure of intensity in those miles. It is not just mileage, but intensity I suspect that is resulting in the British study findings.
13
Your observation about the need for increased recovery time rings true, empirically. As a cyclist, hiker, x-c skier and mountain climber, I find I can still bike or climb as well - if not quite so fast - at 68 as I did 30 years ago; sometimes, if progressively conditioned to a higher level, I can still go equally hard for two consecutive days. But if I try to go hard for a third day, I am likely to pay for a week. The day after a hard workout, don't be sedentary...walk!
2
"Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, "Wow! What a ride!" Hunter S. Thompson. Mental attitude is everything.
6
@jbone
What? You are trying to turn the message upside down. How does being sedentary make life more exciting? Have all of the wild fun you want. There's no need to be physically lazy while you are doing it.
2
Sorry Gretchen, but I think I read somewhere in ancient manuscripts that the Stone Age people first made this study.
Moderate exercise like this is the key.
If you are a couch potato or a ultra marathon runner anytime in life especially after age 65 with rare exception you will pay for it with all types of physical ailments.
4
Cycling 100 miles a week is really not moderate exercise.
6
Agreed Kally, while one can differ on the definition, sitting on a couch all day or biking 100 miles a week is not moderate exercise.
2
Nope.
While I have no doubt that exercise is better than a sedentary lifestyle, this sort of study is about as far from scientifically valid as one can get. Without the ability to do a longitudinal study with appropriate control groups one can conclude anything, and have it mean next to nothing. This is what leads to such a preponderance of poor and reversible conclusions and interpretations in fields such as exercise and nutrition; correlation is not causation. Are those 10% of aged adults that aren't sedentary also not arthritis sufferers or otherwise less capable of significant exercise? Next year you'll be reporting that another study shows that exercise selects for individuals that aren't as impacted by aging.
4
@VKG
You are grossly exaggerating the limits of studies like this. This is just another of hundreds of examples of what should be obvious by now. Vigorous exercise, begun gradually and then continued throughout life, is darn near magical in its effects. The millions of people taking meds for high BP and diabetes or struggling with diets are ignoring the solution to their problems.
4
I don't know... The author claims that "the years mount at the same pace for each of us."
Having just turned 63, I can tell you definitively that the years are mounting at a quicker pace all the time.
10
I have exercised off and on all my adult life. But there were times when work was so busy I could not find the time or energy.
Now retired, at 66, I have resumed daily alternating cardio and weight training, followed by stretching in a whirlpool. I feel like I have been transported back 20 years. I am grateful to now have the time and resources. Two new age related rules: Don't try to work thru any pain. Don't be stupid.
I have always used a 20 minute rule. If I don't feel like exercising on a particular day I will at least give it 20 minutes. Almost always by then I will feel better and want to continue. The fascinating recent NYT article (The Mysterious Interior World of Exercise) about hematologic vesicles communicating among organ systems finally explained for me why this was the case.
17
Pseudoscience. Where are the controls? Obviously people who have been able to retain physical activity into their older years are going to be healthier.
6
@MDMD
So are you suggesting that the group that doesn't exercise in their older years consists of people who are not "able to"? A very odd assumption. This study, like most, can be critiqued in some fashion but it is yet another piece of evidence supporting the hypothesis that vigorous exercise has VERY significant health benefits.
1
Amen.
Being of a “certain age” where where many of the pleasures of youth are contraindicated, the one thing left that still thrills is a post xc-ski endorphin rush. There is no high as good as a hard workout.
6
MENS SANA IN CORPORE SANO: A Healthy Mind in a Healthy Body.
The Roman poet Juvenal is the person who introduced the famous maxim Mens Sana in Corpore Sano, but it’s only part of a longer satirical-poem about living well.
He mocks the idea that exercising the body is an end-in-itself, instead he recommends physical exercise as just one of the 4 means to a virtuous life.
To a Roman like Juvenal physical exercise fulfills only one of the 4 virtues: Fortitude. There remains the fulfillment of the others: Justice, prudence & temperance. Once these are accomplished then “a man has achieved a tranquil and virtuous life”, “Semita certe tranquillae per virtutem patet unica vitae”.
Juvenal’s “preventive-medicine” is very impressive! And he didn’t use microscopic studies of T cells, muscle tissues, or hormones!
5
Mens Sana in Corpore Sano: A Healthy Mind in a Healthy Body.
The Roman poet Juvenal is the person who introduced the famous maxim Mens Sana in Corpore Sano, but it’s only part of a longer satirical-poem about living well.
He mocks the idea that exercising the body is an end-in-itself, instead he recommends physical exercise as just one of the 4 means to a virtuous life.
To a Roman like Juvenal physical exercise fulfills only one of the 4 virtues: Fortitude. There remains the fulfillment of the others: Justice, prudence & temperance. Once these are accomplished then “a man has achieved a tranquil and virtuous life”, “Semita certe tranquillae per virtutem patet unica vitae”.
Juvenal’s “preventive-medicine” is very impressive! And he didn’t use microscopic studies of T cells, muscle tissues, or hormones!
1
These guys pictured, with there fancy togs and shoes and very costly state-of-the-art bikes, are hardly your average retired joe.
1
That's a stock photo. Labeled as such. Generic average retired joe's - i.e. illustrative rather than precise.
2
Bikes depreciate very quickly. A very good used bike goes for only a small fraction of the new price. All the fancy gear and shoes are not that necessary. So lay away the excuses, retired joe...
3
Errrrr, no mention of socioeconomics and the role they play in health? Really? Cycling skews older white wealthy male. Ride a Century anywhere in the country and you’ll see what I mean. The first time I did I was astounded at the sheer number of fit, rich, old dudes around me. I joked with my girlfriends that I had discovered a secret trove of wealthy, healthy, and stable men. These guys already have major advantages when it comes to health due in large part to socioeconomics. Cycling is not for the economically challenged. The bikes alone run in the thousands of dollars, and anyone who has time to ride 400 miles a month is not struggling to put food on the table, in fact, they probably aren’t struggling much at all. Of course cycling helps, but they are already the 1% in health and likely everything else.
167
The title of the article is "exercise," not "cycling." Show me a disadvantaged community or demographic where walking and running for cardio is an impossibility. The gist of your argument is that privilege equals health; but if that is the case, what of certain communities in Africa and Latin America who generally live very long? Those communities all walk--a lot--and perform other exercise on top. I'm sure your argument is well-intentioned, but your principles blind you to the effect therein; that non-privileged people looking for an excuse to not exercise will seize upon what you are saying and conclude "well, right, it won't work for me so I won't bother."
12
While your point about failure to address socio-economic factors is valid (and correlation does not equal causation - healthy individuals may gravitate toward cycling), you don't need to be rich to ride a bike. Sure you can spend thousand on a high-end bike, but you can ride and get plenty of exercise on a much more modest bike, and you can save a lot of money by using one for transportation instead of owning a car. And if cycling is build in to your normal routine, you don't need to carve out time for exercise.
22
While there is some truth to what you are saying and indeed this may also be said to apply to a lot of the choices that might have brought them to their current position, it can be a lifestyle choice and/or that they are just following their passions. I many friends that cycling, they choose to so because they enjoy doing it. Some have even forgone car ownership in favor of better cycling kit.
Indeed, most of the people that I know that workout regularly have done so most of their lives (I am sixty) and like myself, we choose to do so because we actually enjoy moving about (I am a runner and indoor/erg rower)and find that it relaxes us. Been doing so, since my early twenties. Never did it because it would keep young and whenever I stopped doing it, for whatever reasons, I missed it so and would pick it up again. I am not by any means a 1 percenter.
5
Last week for my 75th birthday, I rode 75 miles. On Saturday I rode the the Pan Florida Challenge and completed 107 miles. Cycling has kept me fit and happy. Life is good. Never stop moving.
57
Awesome! Congratulations!
2
The problem with this study is possible selection bias. Those people may have taken up cycling because they were more healthy to begin with. It would be great to get some auxiliary evidence by putting older people randomly in the two treatments for a year or so....
16
Except that most of us are healthy to begin with at some point and do not take up cycling. More and more it is becoming clear that the greatest threats to health are poor eating habits, obesity, lack of proper sleep and inactivity.
8
Sure, most begin without much manifest illness, but some carry genes that predispose to a variety of diseases that can undermine one’s ability to exercise. The one on my mind lately is osteoarthritis. So, again, a randomized control group would be very helpful.
1
You overlook one point tthat the article does mention...the individuals studied were evidently long-time, if not life-long exercisers. Duration is critical. All the more important to get young people away from their electronic gadgets, outdoors, and moving.
2
Near 50, after 30 years of cycling, running, lifting, swimming, basketball, etc, I am pulling far ahead of my age-group peers in almost every category. Mentally as well.
If I dye my still attached gray hair I can pass for late 30s (or so I am told.)
I got lucky with genetics but I assure you exercise (and diet) are the deciding factors.
I am not bragging here, I am testifying! Preaching!
At this age the few times I "let it go" -- like when my son was born -- the wheels come right off the cart.
Soon the fat gathers in the middle and for weakness to set in.
You know what also goes with fitness? Less pain! Carrying one extra pound puts 4 pounds of extra stress on joints. There is "sitting sickness". Being overweight causes all kinds of discomfort. And there's diabetes, heart disease, etc. and all of the medications required... pain is a given!
8 months ago I was worn out from work and had let my diet and cycling slip. Probably 10 lbs overweight. I was not looking nor feeling well at all.
I decided to get back in shape. I attacked the bike, started going to the gym and lifting weights 2x weekly and stopped eating so many burgers and pizza.
Now I am back in shape, benching 225, recently beat my PR for 25 mile road ride over the Golden Gate -- avg 13.5 mph with major hills.
I flipped the narrative about getting older in my head. Now I do parkour with my son at the park and banging out 10+ pull-ups while other parents huddle in winter coats.
Get out and move!
13
A very moving personal narrative, John. Also, don't forget the numerous protest marches down Market Street as a source of slow-movement exercise. There's one for everyone.
3
Wouldn't one reasonable hypothesis be that health factors that allowed this group to cycle regularly "for decades" also be responsible for the health profile they found?
8
Not only does exercise make me feel better--it gets me out of the house and among people, especially when I take classes.
I don't always feel like going to the gym, but I'm always glad I went afterwards. I'm lucky to belong to a gym with a friendly, inclusive atmosphere and lively instructors, and sitting around in the hot tub afterwards is extra time for socializing.
I take my mother as a negative example. She was always extremely exercise averse, the type of person who will drive around the parking lot for twenty minutes rather than park 100 feet from the door--and this was when she was in her forties. I tried to get her to walk, but it was always too cold, too hot, too sunny, too cloudy, too something. Swimming and cycling, neither of which she had ever learned how to do, were out of the question.
As a result, she was older and less physically capable than I am now when she was ten years younger than my current age.
14
Once you’re over forty, all injuries are permanent so... keep moving but be reasonable and don’t get injured.
5
Thats not true...what an odd assertion.
2
I began exercising at 61 and am now 70. In addition to a full range of stretching strength, agility, and balance on a regular basis, I run most days of the week, and walk constantly. Despite a setback from an unrelated injury from which I am still recovering I am still at the healthiest and fitest level I've been in my adult life. My point is that even starting after 60 I believe I have been able to achieve outstanding health and fitness benefits.
21
BIKING IS A great for of exercise for keeping people youthful and healthy. But it holds no monopoly. For those of us who are more comfortable with other forms of exercise, walking, jogging, swimming and aerobic dancing, along with others such as cross country skiing, will all produce similar results.
11
Started exercising at 40 for the precise reason of not wanting to grow older without a fight.
Happy to hear 20 years of almost daily gym time has been worth it.
Great checkups make me a happy camper!
10
In another month I will be 74. I work out 3 times a week with floor exercises(push ups, planks, crunches) and weight training. My weight has remained stable for 50 years and I have low to moderate blood pressure without meds. My resting pulse runs in the 60's.
I was a recreational runner for over 30 years, but had to stop due to joint wear. I now walk in the warmer weather for 8-12 miles a week. I live in a mountain community and nothing is flat.
I can attest to the fact that exercise has helped me remain healthy and active. I will only cease my activities when I am forced to do so by eventual infirmities.
7
Cycling is particularly good exercise. You can pick your pace, plus it's good for the environment, it's an escape, an adventure and akin to flying. Follow good safe cycling practices and the chances of injury from cycling roads with cars is far less than injury from sedentary lifestyle!
7
I average about 2,500 to 3000 miles a year, and yes I get mistaken for someone as much as 20 years younger.
I chose cycling because it's great aerobic exercise, it's fun, it's social (although I start out 80% of my riding alone, I run into and group up with other cyclists, it's a great way to meet people), the changing scenery is visually stimulating, the road conditions keeps your mind alert, and because going to a gym felt too rote, corporate and militaristic to me.
5
I belong to a group of about 30 women who have been taking gymnastics class for 40+ years. We did not know how unique we are or how dedicated, until the gym we were going to suddenly went bankrupt. Some of us have all signed up for an adult gymnastics class once a week at a very nice place, but we want our old instructors back, there were 3, and to be in our old neighborhood. Our new instructor thinks we are rockstars. One person is starting a new gym which will be available to us in mid-April. If you could hear these woman in their 60s, 70s, 80s worrying about how they are going to fall apart, and how much they miss moving you'd think they were in their 20s. Another great motivator is that we like each other so much. Unbelievably compatible group.
8
As one of the older active cyclists, 76 years old, I am very healthy despite having survived radiation treatment for prostate cancer. And I am happiest when out on the road cycling for 39 or 40 miles per day. Thanks for a great article.
8
I used to bike all the time in my 20s, and loved it; but gave it up mostly because the position on a drop handle bike killed my neck. But I've been a regular jogger for many decades now, and hope I can keep it up as long as possible. I feel great and the difference between me,and my friends the same age keeps getting more obvious. I'm certainly a believer in exercise for keeping you healthy and youthful.
48
I agree! I am much older then all my co-workers except one ( by 2 1/2 years). I am much stronger, get fewer colds, and handle physical and mental stress better! My older co-worker is getting frail. I am 63
4
There are so many great cycling options to get you “out of the drops”. If you’ve not tried cycling for years consider looking at more relaxed bikes with wider, tubeless tires and even road suspensions. Professional fittings are well worth considering as well. Enjoy, your running and walking, but if your looking for less impact, cycling might be worth reconsidering.
7
Out of curiosity, do you find that jogging leads to achy joints? As I have gotten older, high-impact exercises—running especially—feel hard on my skeletal system. So I am in awe of (and envious) people who can sustain running despite age!
6
As someone who started triathlons in my 30s and is still bicycling in my mid-60s, I concur that bicycling is one of the best exercises for an older adult. The running just beat up my knees and back, and swimming is difficult if you do not live near an indoor lap pool (or natatorium as they call it !). Bicycling is both great exercise and a good way to see the countryside, up close and personal. Bike on, bubba!!!
41
Still skiing at 64... I have thighs of steel ( no wait make that titanium) LOL Just bought my season pass at Pebble Creek for next year!!!
13
1) The data from these studies seem almost too good to be true. After one of the deadliest flu seasons in decades, there appears to be definite patient actions that can reduce their chances of contracting the flu besides vaccination and hygiene measures. Per the two studies, perhaps the more passive action of relying on a flu vaccination can now be complemented by robust cycling activities that increase muscle tone; and, healthier muscle tissue produces more hormones that promote a healthy thymus gland. And, a healthy thymus gland can produce more T cells which are vital to the immune system's function of fighting infections. Thus, this active maintenance of the immune system may hold promise for a large proportion of the 90% of the population past the age of 65 who do not work out regularly.
2) Past NY Times coverage of the development of new cancer therapies also rely on mimicking aspects of patients' immune systems for their effectiveness. And, it is by studying and copying the differences and mutations in the DNA blueprints of individuals' tissues and their interactions with their immune systems that such "individualized" therapies rely; and also it is this individualization that makes them so costly.
[JJL Wed, Mar 14, 2018 3:02pm Greenville NC]
4
Relatively few people wish to engage in any physical fitness regimen. To them, physical exertion is not appealing.
Everyone has the right to do, or not to do, what makes them happy, but no one has the right to demand that others accommodate the fallout from their poor decisions.
There are hundreds of Youtube videos showing people having wheelchairs strapped to their bodies performing pullups, people missing arms or legs—or both—working out in gyms, people grievously wounded in battle participating in organized sports. Some problems with injury or illness as described here, minor in comparison, may not preclude the writers' swimming, doing pullups, chinups, crunches, pushups or a whole host of muscle strengthening, body transforming, self-empowering physical activity.
One revealing response from inactive people in my experience is the scoffing “What are you trying to do, live forever?” as if they perceive no value in extending one’s healthy years, mobility, strength, energy, stamina and sex life.
Indeed the physical manifestations of destructive choices we observe in our older friends and relatives—smoking, drinking, pain pill popping, obesity, their disinterest in rehabilitating fixable injuries—provide an example to the rest of us that our chosen path of pursuing physical fitness is without doubt the more rewarding one.
32
Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Are they healthier because they exercise or do they exercise because they're healthy.
64
Well, as someone who has always had health problems , I can assure you it is the first :) healthier because they exercise . However , it is easier to start when you are in good health.
3
Exactly this! I exercised my entire life until I was struck with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue in my early 40s. Now I struggle to exercise at all and feel so envious of those who do. (I am 49). I still don't lack motivation at all - just have no energy. I feel quite despondent when I read stuff like this!
4
The answer, of course, is the chicken and egg came at the same time!
The same response is appropriate for exercise and health!
I am shocked to read only 10% of middle aged to those over 65 exercise regularly? My personal trainer did say the market is still not saturated with trainers in my town. Perhaps so - most of those working out are the under 30 crowd. The over 40 crowd tells me they are too busy, tired, etc. And those who say this generally eat poorly and are overweight and have health issues. From 35 I decided to start exercising regularly and continue to this day decades later. When I look at my peers they are not in great shape and are overmedicated and yes, they drive everywhere. Yes some golf, once a week. That is not enough and people who say they play sports so no need to go to the gym are fooling themselves. It is what you do everyday, walk, work out, eat in moderation - all things that are apparently not part of the American way.
25
Living in a walkable/bikable area is crucial.
I would never choose to live somewhere where driving everywhere was the only choice.
7
I thought that sentence was weird too -- but because it was a statistic that didn't back up the claim that exercise for middle aged people is rare. It says that only 10% of people 65 and older exercise -- but that's not middle age -- I would be curious as to what the rates are for those of us in our 40s who are actually in the middle. I expect it would be a lot higher than 10% based on who I see each morning on my daily runs. I admit I am a runner who sees biking as a bit gear heavy for my taste but if I eventually wear out my knees I will be ready to consider the change. Might be easier in retirement when I can exercise past 6:30 am and thus feel more comfortable biking long distances in hours when it's not pitch dark.
1
I could use a nap first.
14
Maybe no one told them they were “old.”
24
Funny how a lot of these health stories can be boiled down thusly:
1) Everything in moderation.
2) Use it or lose it.
121
I’m a member of a cycling club (mostly recreational). I started in my mid 40s and now in my early 60s. A lot of my cycling buddies are older than me. Funny thing, I’m faster and stronger now than when I started. Hope to keep this up for many more years.
32
None of this surprises me. Up until age 70, I felt young and strong. I trekked in the Himalayas, could jump in the air and kick over my head with the other foot (from thai chi), kayaked, swam, hiked strenuously 4 to 7 days a week. I loved life.
Then five years ago, I finally gave in to my doctors' insistence that I take a statin drug. Seven months later, I couldn't walk more than half a mile. I had and still have cramps throughout my whole body. These cramps started within just a few weeks after the statin, but no one had warned me about cramps. The doctors only mentioned potential weakening of the muscles--almost impossible to detect (until too late) if one is working out hard.
I am now an old man. I still look fit, but photographs show (statinvictims.com) what happened. And in the health club I now go to in order to drift around in the therapy pool, I've met two other extremely athletic old guys, now also with some kind of neuromuscular disease and unable to exercise any more.
The NY Times has run several articles warning that statins take away the benefit of exercise. Also an article asking whether statins are of value to those over 75. (Answer: we don't know. Observation: about half of people over 75 are on statins now...even though we don't know if there's any benefit.)
Whenever I'm in a group of older people and see how many are using canes or walkers, I want to shout out, "Who here takes a statin drug?" It's an easy study, and I'll bet that there's a correlation.
262
Healthy people with no history of heart disease should not be taking statins. The benefits are exaggerated and the side effects understated. Many of the studies on statins have not released the raw data . Therefore no independent unbiased analysis has taken place. This is not acceptable when so many people are being prescribed these drugs.
8
My mother and my brother in law both lost their ability to walk because of
statins. My husband (83) keeps being told by his GP that he will be
'healthier' on a statin .. thankfully, he resists. He has seen what statins
have done to family members. He bicycles about 3x a week (7 miles)
and takes woodsy walks with out pooch.
6
Statins almost left my husband with irreversible kidney damage.Thankfully I recognized the extremely
Painful muscle spasms as he was writhing in pain for days as an adverse reaction.
My advice is: unless you are convinced the statins risk vs.benefit be very wary. The symptoms began with mental confusion in the first month, he described as a foggy mental state and progressed to muscle aches then onto increasingly excruciating intense muscle pain. Calls to the prescribing physician resulted in a muscle relaxant. Very frightening given his panel were borderline, common in Italian ancestry. Needless to say that statin pushing general practitioners was fired by one very angry wife!
Statins will upset your homeostasis of cholesterol
3
My parents, both now in their early eighties, have exercised all their lives, but have never been members of a gym. Golf, tennis, sailing, hill walking, daily walks, gardening and latterly cycling. They cannot go for any longer than three of four day without being out on their bikes for a fairly long 30 to 40k cycle. They now travel on frequently cycling holidays. Neither look their age, good genes, which fingers crossed my brothers and I have inherited, have probably played their part. They also eat well and have a fantastic attitude to and interest in life and the world. They are also both involved in the local community, my mum does some work with a charity for older people which always tickles me and my dad with children and older people with disability. Their everyday exercise and sport has meant that they have good health in their later years and enjoying their time and freedom. For us, their children and grandchildren they are a great example, and more importantly we have their wonderful company and our family life.
149
I have worked out since my early 20s and still do in my 60s. I am an excellent physical condition. Yet I cannot find a job due to age discrimination. I am self-employed and, since losing a long-time job three years ago, have been able to build a small business, one that has given me a good deal of satisfaction, Yet businesses take decades to build, and my small business cannot replace the income from a steady job.
All the T cells in the world will not protect me against the terrible impact of age prejudice. I know there are millions like me, because they post on the New York Times and other websites, pleading that attention be paid to the plight of older Americans – people in their 60s and 70s – who have remained physically fit and mentally alert but are being decimated economically by age prejudice.
I want a job. I want a salary. I am willing to give up my business to get one. I want to know when a movement similar to #metoo will begin for older workers, and when the media will begin to see us.
513
Social Security retirement age for people in my age cohort is 67. That means we are expected to work that long. But I look around where I work now and there is no one past late 50s. If you work in anything STEM related, working until 67 is a joke. Save hard.
8
Several years ago, I decided to try a mid-life change of career and returned to school for a nursing degree. Despite graduating summa cum laude, having excellent recommendations, a sterling employment record, being in good shape and never having taken more than one or two sick days each year, being a decorated military veteran and being a volunteer firefighter and EMT, I got only a handful of job interviews and no offers.
While I was not able to find employment as an RN, I have maintained my license over the years and volunteer as a primary care nurse. I've recently decided to try the nursing job market again and engaged a recruiter to review my resume. She quickly determined the likely culprit in my lack of success: My resume showed not only the dates my degrees were awarded but also of my military service and my substantial employment history.
She maintained that most HR departments operate under an unofficial Y2K scheme and that resumes with any dates prior to 2000 will generally not make it past the first review. Her advice was to remove references to employment prior to the year 2000 as well as the dates of my degrees.
My experience and that of many of my peers like RCT sure seems to provide evidence - admittedly anecdotal - that despite being nominally illegal, age discrimination is alive and well in the American workplace.
32
@RCT - Condolences for having to deal with ageism, but perhaps, just maybe, you should have abandoned being someone’s employee years ago and struck out in your own. Perhaps it is too late, but regardless, keep trying.
This is my counsel to those closing on their mid-to-late forties: if you build your skills and knowledge now, the money will come for so long as your mind works. Keep pushing and never, ever lose your edge, because that is what will make you old.
2
"The Trick' . . . Don't tell your body how old it is !
Now at 65, I exercise nearly daily, from cardio to weight training, and my body "behaves and performs" at a much lower age.
It hasn't always been this way -
There's "some" heart disease which has been "remedied" as well as over 50 pound weight swings - several times over a lifetime.
There were also several periods of a completely sedentary life style combined with far too many fast-food-meals -
The Result - Heart Blockages at 60 - entry level Type 2 Diabetes - High Blood Pressure - 50 pounds over-weight - and the Great Luck of living near a fantastic heart hospital.
Not wanting to "check out" - and being truly scared - a new chapter began.
Great Nutrition and a Sensible Work-Out Regiment has completely turned my life around.
In way better shape than I was 40 - and I proved to my doctors, and mostly myself - "You can completely transform yourself if you make the commitment to do so"
Reynolds points out many benefits, and testing like this have been happening for some time now -
No, I do not pretend to be 40, I just choose not to tell my body how old it is !
The bottom line is the old cliche - "Use it or Lose it" . . .
And I would add;
If you lost it - Go Get it Back - You Can !
This entire process of getting your body healthier and stronger is also the best tonic for the mind and spirit I ever found.
76
See, your story, a single data point as it is, makes the ostensible point of the column better than the study itself does, because exercise improved your body.
I exercise because it makes me feel good. I believe that it helps prevent many of the pitfalls of aging by maintaining balance and reflexes. It would be wonderful if it also stimulates our memories and immune systems. Aging is not for sissies. Degenerative changes and injuries can limit or restrict some activities (tennis, running, etc.) and cause one to gravitate to others (swimming, cycling, etc. ) less traumatic and perhaps less social. I believe that one has to listen to his/her body daily regarding how vigorously to proceed. Longevity is a wild card. No one can explain or prevent the sudden development of cancer, arrhythmias, neurodegenerative disease, etc., that can dramatically alter or end our existence, but I think that exercise generally does improve the quality of the time we are allotted.
20
I have been an avid exerciser since age 29. Now, at 67, I continue to exercise 4X weekly, combining aerobics and weights. Results: slim, fit body that garners compliments from men and women alike, no medical conditions requiring medication and agility and functioning level of a person decades younger than myself. I intend to continue with this regimen for the long haul. I want to live to attend the weddings of my grandchildren and dance the night away.
26
Physical activity is good at all ages. What stops folks, both old and young, from physical activity is pain and or injury.
So if you are one of those folks that are not blocked by pain of injury, you will do your body good to exercise; mild to extreme as you like without injuring yourself.
I think the key is to exercise is not how hard you exercise, it is that you do it regularly; make it a part of your lifestyle and never stop.
20
This advice from a doctor friend was very helpful. I was very fatigued and it's hard to get started exercising when you feel that way. He said when we first start exercising (such as walking down the block) it is anaerobic. The aerobic doesn't kick in until after a block or two. So if you feel fatigued and miserable when you first start, keep going. The second or third block will be much better. I've managed to walk regularly for a year, now. And I am out the door now--bye :)
58
The first 20 minutes of just about any cardio workout is killer, right? You have to have faith that your muscles will stop screaming, because they will.
1
It’s kind of depressing to those of us who would love to walk but cannot due to neuromuscular conditions. Since we can’t “simply walk or take the stairs,” I suppose we may as well eat worms and die. Everywhere we get the message that we are going to die if we don’t exercise. Perhaps so, but I am 70 and haven’t been able to walk for about a decade and I’m not dead yet. Even Stephen Hawking lived a long life without walking or taking the stairs. Yes, yes, I’m sure we would live longer and better if we would simply walk and take the stairs but we can’t so I for one will enjoy my remaining shortened years ears deafened to the constant barrage of exhortations to exercise.
42
First of all no extreme exercise is needed at all, just walk up to an hour at least five days a week. On the aging front, I am very healthy, 68 yr old woman and work as a physical therapist. Sorry to be the bearer of the truth but once you hit a certain age, you are actually very slowly dying and your body and health will reflect this truth no matter what you do and I am sick of older people denying that they are getting old and the body just breaks down, everyone dies. So stop lying to yourself, eat well, exercise, try to live a stressless life style, spend time with loved ones, etc etc etc
205
I agree wholeheartedly as this is my lifestyle to a tee. Good on you! Wish you lived nearby - I can't find any woman who is willing to walk anywhere farther than the car in the driveway.
2
Remind me not to go to you for PT!
But I take your point. I work out in group fitness with women mostly in their late 50’s to early 70’s and sometimes one of us strains something. I was commenting to a colleague of around the same age (mid-60’s) that it takes longer to come back from an injury as we age and she was all, oh don’t say that, don’t bring up aging. Well, sorry, it’s true. I remember reading in an AARP article while waiting for a PT session for a hip that was eventually replaced, that in older people, tendonitis becomes tendinosis and is much harder to overcome. That was 7 years ago and lo and behold, I have been witnessing this in myself repeatedly—strain a wrist with too heavy a weight or bad form and it’s going to take a long time to recover. But exercise is only extreme when you push yourself so hard, you can’t recover from it. It seems obvious, but for those used to lots of exercise, it’s not meant to do you more harm than good!
3
Holy frazzled telomeres, stat man! We're all gonna croak. Whodathunkit?
My old man's 92 and chuggin' along just fine. AND, he exercised consistently ever since he took early retirement at 55. Maybe he's been "slowly dying" this whole time, but you would never know it to look at him or talk to him.
Me, I'm 72. Don't plan to start dying for a while. But, thank for the uplifting advice.
6
I’m a daily exerciser at the age of 62. I was an inconsistent exerciser during the years we were raising our kids, but once they had left home (I was then 50), I became a regular doing cardio and weights at the gym. I eventually learned Iyengar yoga, and now mat Pilates. Also for many years, my husband and I have been “urban hikers,” getting around our local area about 20 miles per week. We are planning a move by summer to the Denver area, where we can once again ride bikes given all the bike paths there. In any given week, I attempt to mix it up to create muscle confusion as well as to hit all muscle groups and various brain functions. I have some aches (not exercise injuries), so I just adapt the exercise (usually less intensity). My long-time motto has been Don’t Stop Moving!
71
My Dad had a similar long-time motto..."keep moving," which he did. He passed away at age 94.
1
I admit to being a couch potato until I turned 60. Then I joined a gym and walked the treadmill, then rowed, then cycled on a weekly basis. Nothing strenuous. No big athletic goals. No hard-and-fast "30 min of hard activity that makes me groan".
After a while, it wasn't enough, so I began to work with a personal trainer once a week. Again....not running a marathon, but I was interested in becoming stronger, more flexible, better range-of-motion, better balance, etc.....all those things that benefit older people. At the same time, I also kept up the running/cycling/rowing on my own once a week.
Then.....it still wasn't enough, so I upped the personal training to twice a week, and also increased the number of times I did the cardio work on my own.
I'm not "in training" for anything. I'm not driven to "beat yesterday". But as it happens, I've benefited from the work-outs that were not designed for "sweat" but for eventual long-term benefit. The gradual increase in activity and frequency, and the gentle increase in the intensity of activity have ensured that I completely enjoy the work-outs and can't imagine my life without them.
103
Maybe this is what is meant by "rage against the dying of the light"? Not "rage" as we commonly think of it, but rage as a passion for life.
I suspect that our internalized ageism plays a role in our behavior as we age. We expect certain decreases in ability and respond in ways that reinforce those expectations. I would be interested in a cross-cultural study that looked at people raised in societies that are youth obsessed (ours), societies where the elderly are venerated (fading fast from the world), and indigenous societies where aging is part of the natural process, neither glorified nor demonized. I would also like to see a study that included measures of social support. Are the cyclists lone riders or do they ride with others routinely?
Ageism is waiting for us all. It is the still acceptable stigma. Oppression for whatever reason is not healthy for those who experience it, and that eventually means everyone. Time to reexamine it. It may be killing us earlier or at least contributing to an earlier decline.
14
Hi nora m,
"Are the cyclists lone riders or do they ride with others routinely?"
I think I read on the BBC that these cyclists were members of clubs.
Thanks
1
No argument that exercise prolongs our shelf life, especially when we get off the shelf. BUT an 80 year old in good shape looks like - an 80 year old in good shape for his/her age. And the difficulty of building - or rebuilding - muscle strength as you get older is a major challenge. Now that 60 looks kind of young to me, I really would like research on how to go about this.
Adding to other oldies' comments - - certain things get tougher as you age, joints rebel, injuries recur and take more time to relinquish their hold on the body - - or simply become chronic companions. And whenever someone experiences an illness or surgery - a toll is taken on the body that may leave a person a step behind where they were prior to the illness.
Some of what we thought was inevitable in aging still seems inevitable - - it doesn't have to be an abrupt drop in fitness, but it will appear if you live long enough.
11
As a regular exerciser all my life who is struggling to maintain activity as I get older, (mid 50s) (more aches and pains, and even the mental effort seems harder) could this be backwards? Could it be that the people who are better able to maintain activity remain more active?
140
The bottom line is you must want to do it Mike. People come up with all types of excuses like rationalization, intellectualzation etc. etc.
Some people have it easy, ie it physically and mentally comes easy but bottom line whether you are "gifted" like these people or it is tough for you to do it, both groups really want to do it.
10
@Mike — What kind of activity do you do? If you’re bored or or otherwise not into it, you won’t want to do it. If you can’t do what you once did, get with a sports medicine doctor or trainer and come up with a new plan.
2
I run, swim and lift weights. It's not the "showing up" part - I've done it all my life, and I have pretty good habits. It's the actual working out part. It's just harder to get a good workout/push myself. And on top of that I want to be really careful not to get injured or further aggravate existing injuries. And especially with lifting I find it's a lot harder to get a good workout than it used to be - not sure exactly why.
3
they could have skipped the studies and asked the great Eddy Merckx, who would have said, "Exercise lots."
18
Eddy Merckx was not great. Eddy Merckx was a doper.
I used to swim until my shoulder told me enough already, then the treadmill until the feet start to show wear and tear and now it is the bicycle, in the gym in winter and outside in good weather. I logged 3,500 fair weater miles in 2016/2017. My motivation was reinforced when a doctor at age 65 felt my pulse in my foot, where they check for congestive heart failure, and he said you have the pulse rate of a 25 year old. Even though I take blood pressure medicine, my numbers are better when I exercise. It works for me.
42
Thank you. The book "Younger Next Year", by Crowley and Lodge (a patient and his physician) motivated me to exercise regularly. I had been fairly active before but it motivated me to exercise 5 to 6 days a week. I feel much better physically and mentally.
37
That's my bible too! Every man (there's a female version too) should read it when they turn 40 so they're prepared for 50 and beyond. So much good sane advice in that book about how to stay "young".
2
Heartening, but one needs to be cautious. As is often repeated in these columns, the people that before the study could exercise in their 50's, 60's and 70's are self-selected. They might already have been healthier, to begin with, and their health not the result of exercise, although I would believe that fitness is a large part of why they are healthier.
123
The same theory is being peddled by Dr. Henry "Harry" Lodge, and his star patient, the 73-year-old Chris Crowley, in their book, "Younger Next Year". It's not only for those already 'over the hill'. It's for everybody.
Think about Ebenezer Scrooge and remember, it's never too late to reform.
17
Moderation gang, moderation.
You don't want to be a couch potato and put on 50 lbs when you age.
You also don't want to be running marathons and climbing Mt. Everest when you are aged 65+
Both extremes will give you all sort of trouble, and/or, all sorts of back, knee, feet and every other part of the body and turn you into a de facto or real cripple.
Yes, yes, lets hear from the couch potatoes and senior marathon runners who disagree with me.
You guys are the extreme exceptions to the rule.
24
Okay, you asked for it. Not 65 yet, but, yes, I do plan on running marathons as I age, taking inspiration from all the over-65s that I see at every race. No need to make us endurance athletes sound like freaks. Seems like you haven't watched many marathons.
9
ok Paul I disagree. to sum it up i'll quote one of my favorite axioms: "anything worth doing is worth doing to excess."
i'll throw another one in as a bonus: "ignore your body."
:)
4
Why don’t you want to be running marathons? I am 70, trail run daily, ski, mountain bike, and do physically demanding outdoor photography. Polar bears in the Arctic in late November, white Spirit Bears on the British Columbia coast, Bengal tigers in India, all in the last year, for example.
Distance running is a great way to stay in shape. My splits may be getting slower, but, so far, I can keep up with the 20 and 30 year olds on tough trails schlepping heavy photography gear.
Just get out there and do it: marathons or biking!
7