Only one workout helped older adults lose fat and keep muscle
A study from the University of the Sunshine Coast indicates that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is uniquely effective for older adults in reducing body fat while preserving lean muscle mass. The research compared HIIT against moderate and low-intensity exercise over a six-month period.
Why it matters
Maintaining muscle mass is vital for healthy aging, and this research provides actionable exercise guidance for the elderly population.
Losing body fat is one thing. Losing fat while keeping the muscle that helps you stay strong and active is another, especially as you get older. Research suggests that one particular type of exercise may have an advantage when it comes to achieving both goals.
High-intensity interval training (HIIT), which involves alternating short bursts of demanding exercise with easier recovery periods, may be especially helpful for older adults who want to reduce fat without sacrificing lean muscle.
In a study published in Maturitas , researchers from the University of the Sunshine Coast compared three different exercise intensities. Although participants across the groups experienced modest fat loss, HIIT stood out for its ability to reduce fat while maintaining lean tissue.
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