Do you lift weights at the gym? How fast do you lift them? According to a new study, the speed at which you lift weights is an indication of how long you will live.
This might seem like an odd correlation, but researchers have found a link between weightlifting speed and longevity. In this article, we’ll explore the study and what it means for your health.
The Study
The study was conducted by researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). They followed 3,000 adults over the age of 50 for an average of 8 years. The participants were asked to lift weights for 2-3 sessions per week.
The researchers measured the speed at which they lifted the weights and tracked their health outcomes.
The Findings
The researchers found that the people who lifted weights the fastest had the longest lifespans. Specifically, people who lifted weights at a faster rate were 62% less likely to die prematurely than those who lifted weights more slowly.
The researchers believe that the speed at which people lift weights is an indication of their overall health.
Why the Speed of Weightlifting Matters
There are a few different reasons why the speed of weightlifting might be an important factor in longevity. One theory is that lifting weights quickly requires more cardiovascular effort.
By exercising your heart and lungs, you may be strengthening your body’s respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Another theory is that lifting weights quickly may put more stress on your muscles, which can help to stimulate muscle growth and strength.
What This Means for Your Workout
If you want to incorporate weightlifting into your workout routine, it might be worth considering the speed at which you lift the weights.
Of course, it’s important to make sure that you are lifting weights safely and with proper form, regardless of the speed at which you lift them. However, if you are comfortable with the technique and form, you might try increasing the speed of your lifts.
Other Factors to Consider
It’s important to note that weightlifting speed is just one factor that contributes to overall health and longevity. There are many other lifestyle and environmental factors that can impact your health.
For example, diet, stress, sleep, and physical activity all play a role in your overall health and longevity.
Conclusion
The speed at which you lift weights might seem like a minor detail, but according to this study, it can be a significant factor in your overall health and longevity.
If weightlifting is part of your workout routine, consider increasing the speed at which you lift the weights. And, of course, don’t forget to prioritize other health factors like diet, sleep, and stress management.