Newsletter Issue #4
In this issue, we learn 'hotspanning' is now a 'thing', look at the value of a little intensity in our walks and I do controversial things to an egg.
A Journalist comes clean and reveals the ‘real’ reason he still works out at 62
Not content with getting to grips with ‘healthspan and ‘peakspan’ we’re now told that the latest goal of the ambitious, fit, older male, is maximum ‘hotspan.’ I’m all for making sure we scrub up well, but the thought of all that effort at our age just to look ‘hot and sexy’ is veering into ‘medallion man’ territory for me. Have a listen and decide for yourself.
‘Hotspanning’: How older men are maintaining their ‘hotness’
By Phil Hilton, via BBC 5 Live
“I do not want to spend thousands on lifts, injections and hair transplants. I don’t condemn those who do, but my goal is to look the best version of the real me rather than try to change the raw material.”
Article in The Times (registration required)
The healthspan upgrade hidden inside your daily walk
You probably already know that regular movement matters for health. In the UK, the recommendation is at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week. But that’s only part of the picture. Intensity matters too — those short bursts where you push beyond your usual pace. As we get older, these moments can help improve fitness and reduce the risk of frailty. This study offers a useful insight into the benefits of ‘giving it some welly’ occasionally.
Walk faster, age slower: The 14-step boost that builds strength
By University of Chicago Medical Center
“A new study led by researchers at the University of Chicago Medicine found that walking slightly faster - 14 steps per minute more than a person’s usual pace - led to meaningful improvements in physical function among older adults who were frail or at risk of becoming frail.”
The surprising link between the arts and slower ageing
Social connection, learning new skills and maintaining a sense of purpose are all strongly linked to healthier ageing and a longer healthspan. And this study, published in Innovation in Aging, suggests the benefits of engaging with the arts may be surprisingly powerful. Researchers found the difference in biological ageing between people with high and low arts engagement was comparable to the gap seen between smokers and people who had given up smoking. Maybe it’s time to check out the ‘Rock Choir’ where you are…
Arts and cultural engagement ‘linked to slower pace of biological ageing’
By Denis Campbell, The Guardian
“Research from UCL suggests visiting art galleries or museums, singing and painting can help improve health outcomes.”
From the Blog 📚
I didn’t have high hopes for this one. I was wrong.
I’ve had a mixed response to this one. Everything from “Just use a pan, you lazy so-and-so” to a slightly reluctant admission that it actually tastes “decent.” I had it for breakfast three times last week, so I’ll be adding this one to my ‘minimal cooking’ recipe box.
We all have gremlins. Do you know yours?
If you’re interested in improving healthspan you’re probably drowning in workout regimes, eating plans, and ‘optimisation protocols’. None are going to sort out the bit you need to resolve before you start any difficult journey — planning what to do when you hit bandit country and the wheels fall off.
One Last Thing
Remember, it’s better to wear out than to rust away. You may start off feeling a bit stiff and creaky, but the important thing is to start. Keep it small, keep it consistent and build gradually over time. Your body will adapt, and you’ll probably be surprised by how much better you feel, physically and mentally.
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.