Scientists find the strength training “sweet spot” for a longer life
A new study involving nearly 150,000 health professionals over 30 years found that 90-120 minutes of strength training per week significantly lowers the risk of dying from any cause, particularly cardiovascular disease and neurological conditions. The greatest reduction in mortality risk (around 45%) was observed when this amount of strength training was combined with regular aerobic exercise.
Why it matters
This research provides clear, actionable guidance on the optimal amount of strength training for longevity, highlighting its importance beyond muscle building and emphasizing the synergistic benefits of combining it with aerobic exercise for overall health.
Strength training has long been seen as something you mainly do to build muscle or look good. But a new study adds to a growing body of evidence that shows lifting weights does far more than change how we look. It may help us live longer - even if you don't spend hours each day in the gym.
The study drew on three long-running US studies that followed nearly 150,000 nurses and other health professionals for up to 30 years. Every couple of years, participants reported how much time they spent on strength training and aerobic exercise such as walking, cycling and swimming. Over the three decades almost 36,000 of them died, which let the researchers track how muscle-strengthening activity related to the risk of dying early.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in