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Andy Galpin@drandygalpinX

Strength training for life; >85 y! Training study published last week found that 85+ yr old adults responded to 12 wk of training

what it claims

Strength training performed 3 times per week for 12 weeks allows individuals over 85 years old to improve their muscle mass, strength, and functional capabilities in a manner similar to individuals aged 65 to 75 years old.

holds up

This assertion is based on a recent randomized controlled trial (RCT) published in the 'Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle', which confirms that muscle plasticity persists…

noli's read

This assertion is based on a recent randomized controlled trial (RCT) published in the 'Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle', which confirms that muscle plasticity persists at a very advanced age. Current science widely supports the idea that aging does not neutralize the body's ability to adapt to a resistance stimulus, thereby counteracting sarcopenia. It is well established in the scientific literature, notably via meta-analyses on aging, that strength training is the most effective intervention for maintaining autonomy in seniors. The creator remains faithful to the results of the cited study without extrapolating beyond the observed adaptive capacities. This type of evidence is robust because it demonstrates that chronological age should not be a barrier to intense physical activity, provided there is appropriate progression. There is no exaggeration here, as the study highlights a comparable positive response between the two age groups.

the sources

  1. 1Wu Y, Wang W, Liu T, Zhang D 2017
  2. 2Li R, Xia J, Zhang X, et al. 2018

Claimed by Andy Galpin. Noli grades the claim, never the person.

Decoded by Noli · July 18, 2026 · the original post

What the graded evidence says

Evidence
B

Linked to, not proven to cause.

Effect
all-cause mortality by muscle strength (grip) and by muscle mass vs strength — grip strength: HR 1.16 (95% CI 1.12-1.20) per 5-kg lower grip, 42 cohorts, ~3M people; low muscle strength independently ~2x mortality odds regardless of muscle mass
Measured on
community-dwelling and older adults

What’s uncertain

This is an association from observational studies, not proof that adding muscle causes longer life. Strength is a stronger predictor of survival than muscle mass by itself.

Andy Galpin in the Register50 claims graded · solidity 96/100See their record →

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