British researchers have demonstrated that consistent physical activity throughout adulthood preserves a youthful, healthy body. In this rigorous study, they examined older adults who exercised regularly to assess its impact on aging. Participants included 125 amateur cyclists aged 55 to 79—84 men and 41 women. Men qualified by cycling 100 km in under 6.5 hours; women completed 60 km in less than 5.5 hours. Smokers, heavy drinkers, and those with high blood pressure or other conditions were excluded. Subjects underwent extensive lab testing and were compared to 75 healthy, inactive adults aged 57 to 80, plus 55 young adults aged 20 to 36.
Results revealed no age-related muscle mass or strength loss among exercisers. Body fat and cholesterol stayed stable, men's testosterone levels remained high—potentially avoiding andropause—and their immune systems functioned like those of the young. Exercise benefits clearly extended beyond muscles.
The thymus gland, which produces T cells vital for immunity, typically shrinks after age 20, reducing output. Yet the cyclists' thymuses generated T cells at levels matching younger adults.
