Newsletter Issue #10
In this issue. We learn that some of us really can age like a fine wine, discover the value of muscle power, and receive an 'unusual' training tip from a 98-year-old press-up master.
Research Shows Some of Us Really Do Improve with Age
It was my birthday this week. I’ve somehow reached the age of 66—though I now prefer to use a dating system borrowed from Jesus, of all people.
There are the years BC (Before Cardiac, prior to my 2022 heart attack) and my ‘new life’ after. By that logic, I’m 4 years in, which sounds much better.
So, while the UK sweltered in a record-breaking heatwave, I did some digging and uncovered a nugget that cheered me up no end. A long-term Yale study challenges the myth that turning 65 means a one-way ticket to constant decline.
It turns out we can still get sharper and stronger. But... there’s a catch.
Yale study finds nearly half of older adults improved with age
By Colin Poitras, Yale School of Public Health
“Drawing on more than a decade of data from a large, nationally representative study of older Americans, researchers discovered that nearly half of adults age 65 and older experienced measurable improvements in cognitive function, physical function, or both.”
Power: The Missing Ingredient in Healthy Ageing
Muscle mass is having a moment. Everywhere you look, we’re being told to fight Sarcopenia, lift weights and make resistance training a priority if we want to age well. It’s all good advice. But there’s another side to muscle that’s received far less attention—and it may be even more important. It’s called ‘Powerpenia’ and it could have a bigger influence on how well we age than muscle size alone.
Fighting powerpenia: how to keep your explosive strength as you age
By Brett & Kate McKay , Art of Manliness
“Powerpenia may be the new age-related muscle concern on the block, but it seems to be the most influential factor in the maintenance of our physical vitality. In fact, a recent study found that power — not strength — is the best predictor of whether older people are able to successfully navigate the activities of daily living.”
The Best Fitness Motivation I’ve Seen All Week
Apparently, Bill does 20 press-ups (or push-ups for our American friends) every morning and another 20 in the evening. At the age of 98! These aren’t your easy, knees-on-the-floor variety either. He’s in a full plank, knocking out 20 proper reps each time.
I love seeing someone who simply doesn’t give a toss about the number on their birthday cake. He just gets on and does it, every day. I will admit, though, I’m not entirely convinced by his rather... unconventional visualisation technique for achieving a ‘firm buttock’ (his words, not mine). 🙈
‘I’m 98 but I still do my 40 press-ups every day’
By George King, BBC
“Only in my later years have I realised that I’ve got this ability, and so I do it because I’m able to and, as they say, ‘use it or lose it’, and I don’t want to lose it.”
From the Blog 📚
Can You Out-Squat Your Kettle?
The "Asian squat" isn't Asian at all. It's a natural human movement that many of us lose over the years—and getting it back could make everyday life a whole lot easier.
One Last Thing
Small choice, big impact: You don’t need to go overboard to stay healthy. Just choose the stairs at least once today when the opportunity presents itself. Healthspan is built through tiny, repeated habits that compound over time.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. The needs of every reader are unique; please consult your GP or a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, exercise routine, or medication. Never ignore professional medical advice because of something you read online.