Does Weightlifting Exercise Extend Lifespan?
Image source, Getty Images
New research reveals that practicing weightlifting exercises for 90 minutes to two hours each week significantly decreases the risk of premature death.
Data gathered from decades of studies shows that regular resistance training to build body strength lowers the likelihood of death from heart disease and stroke.
It is also suggested that such exercise may reduce fatalities related to neurological diseases.
Experts emphasize emerging evidence supporting these strength-building exercises for protecting health, offering relief to overburdened healthcare providers.
Increased Self-Esteem and Belief in Living Longer
Kate Hogarth, only 28 years old, has already started preparing for a healthy second half of life. She enjoys weightlifting and believes it has boosted her confidence, knowing it offers long-term benefits.
“I want to remain independent in the later stages of life. Numerous studies have shown that this kind of exercise benefits your cardiovascular health, muscles, bones, and mental well-being.”
She has ambitions to travel the world at ages 70, 80, and 90, and enjoys playing and carrying her grandchildren without depending on anyone, which is important to her.
Image source, BBC/Lesley Hitchen
Many are aware of the benefits of aerobic exercises like light running, cycling, and swimming.
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) notes that regular aerobic exercise reduces the risk of heart and vascular diseases, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, while also decreasing stress and boosting self-esteem.
However, the role of strength-building exercises in lowering mortality risk was previously unclear but is now changing.
What the New Study Revealed
Researchers publishing in the British Journal of Sports Medicine analyzed data from 147,374 people collected over more than 30 years.
Those engaging in weightlifting exercises for 90 minutes to two hours weekly exhibited a 13 percent reduced risk of premature death.
Deaths due to cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack or stroke were 19 percent lower.
Fatalities related to neurological illnesses like dementia were cut by an even higher 27 percent.
Low risk was noted among those performing both high levels of aerobic exercise and resistance training.
In the most active group doing several hours of aerobic activity weekly, premature death was reduced by 58 percent.
However, exceeding two hours per week of weightlifting exercises showed no additional benefit.
What Benefits Are Observed?
Image source, BBC/Lesley Hitchen
Bev Wilson works as a personal trainer in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. She highlights many advantages of weightlifting workouts.
“When I train my clients, especially women, I notice they often suffer from joint pain, low energy, or metabolic issues. Weight training helps alleviate these problems, regulates blood sugar, strengthens bones, and reduces joint pain.”
She adds, “They start feeling stronger, more active, and energized.”
According to her, it also positively impacts brain health. “Not only does it help them feel energetic and healthy, but cognitive abilities improve. They can focus better at work and have enhanced memory.”
Tom Burton, Head of Health and Fitness Policy at Sports England, states physical activity is crucial for health, well-being, and happiness.
“Strength-based physical exercise is a powerful tool, especially for healthy aging. It helps delay or manage poor health conditions, supports mobility and independence, and eases pressures on currently strained health and care services.”
Our YouTube channel also offers news videos. To watch and subscribe, click here. You can also find our content on Facebook, , Instagram and Twitter . The BBC Nepali Service broadcasts weekday programs Monday to Friday at 8:45 PM on radio.