Longevity Doctors Back 6 Strength Moves for Healthy Aging as Study Links Them to 13% Lower Mortality
Updated
Updated · Marie Claire UK · Jul 17
Longevity Doctors Back 6 Strength Moves for Healthy Aging as Study Links Them to 13% Lower Mortality
3 articles · Updated · Marie Claire UK · Jul 17
Summary
Six exercises—squats, Romanian deadlifts, lunges, push-ups, farmer’s carries and step-ups—were singled out by longevity doctors as the most useful strength moves for healthy aging.
A 2026 British Journal of Sports Medicine study tied resistance training to a 13% lower risk of all-cause mortality, while other research linked muscle strength in women to longer life even without meeting overall activity targets.
Doctors said the moves matter because they mirror daily tasks such as standing up, climbing stairs, carrying bags and getting off the floor, helping preserve balance, mobility and independence.
From age 40, muscle loss and bone-density decline become more pronounced, making strength work especially important for older adults and women approaching or after menopause.
Experts said training works best alongside enough protein, sleep, recovery, regular walking or cardio, flexibility work and a balanced diet.