For many people, lifting weights is seen as a way to improve their physical fitness and appearance. But recent research has suggested that the speed at which you lift weights could also be a predictor of your lifespan.

What is Resistance Training?

Resistance training, also known as strength training or weightlifting, is a type of exercise that focuses on building muscle and strength through the use of weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises.

It has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including improved bone density, better balance and coordination, and a lower risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.

The Study

The study, published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, looked at over 8,000 adults aged 65 or older over a 15-year period.

Participants were asked about their exercise habits, including how frequently they performed resistance training and how quickly they lifted weights.

The researchers found that those participants who lifted weights more quickly had a significantly lower risk of premature death than those who lifted weights more slowly.

In fact, for every one-meter-per-second increase in lifting speed, there was a 22% decrease in the risk of mortality.

Why Does Lifting Speed Matter?

There are several theories as to why lifting speed could be a predictor of lifespan.

One possible explanation is that lifting weights quickly requires a greater amount of muscle activation and overall effort, which could lead to greater gains in muscle mass and strength.

Another theory is that lifting weights quickly produces more force, which in turn creates a greater stimulus for bone growth and development.

This could help to prevent or slow down the progression of conditions such as osteoporosis, which is more common in older adults.

Implications for Exercise Recommendations

The findings of this study suggest that lifting speed should be taken into account when designing exercise programs and recommendations, particularly for older adults.

While it’s important to perform resistance training regularly, the speed at which the weights are lifted could have a significant impact on overall health and longevity.

However, it’s worth noting that this study only looked at adults aged 65 or older, so it’s unclear whether the same findings would apply to younger individuals.

Conclusion

The speed at which you lift weights could be a predictor of your lifespan, according to recent research. Lifting weights more quickly was associated with a lower risk of premature death over a 15-year period in adults aged 65 or older.

While the exact mechanisms behind this association are unclear, the findings suggest that lifting speed should be considered when designing exercise programs and recommendations for older adults.