Biological Age
We know through a large body of evidence that muscular strength is a predictor of longevity and that weakness is a powerful barometer of disease and mortality. Muscular weakness measured by grip strength is an indicator that weaker individuals have a biological age that exceeds their chronological age. Biological age accounts for the variable effects of time on individuals. It combines genetics, lifestyle factors, demographics, diet, exercise, the environment and health related behaviors. Greater strength can be thought of as an important protection against biological acceleration.
The grip strength dynamometer is a proven gauge of overall strength capacity. The use of this tool as an accurate measuring device does not mean that one should focus on training the hands, but the goal is to make muscular gains and muscular retention an integral part of one’s lifestyle.
“Methylation is a chemical reaction in the body, in which a small molecule called a methyl group gets added to DNA, proteins or other molecules.” DNAm, that is DNA methylation is highly implicated in the rate of biological aging. These methyl groups can affect how particular molecules act within one’s system.
In a 2022 study in the Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia, Muscle, “Grip strength is inversely associated with DNA methylation age acceleration.”, researchers found evidence of age acceleration among men and women with lower normalized grip strength and loss of strength over time.
Muscle is the largest organ in our bodies and is responsible for contractions, breathing, posture, movement, the application of force and, as importantly, the secretion of proteins. Now with the latest findings - having the ability to affect one’s biological age through muscular development means neglecting training becomes a serious earthly decision.
Start strength training while young and never stop. The only negative is that slowing one's aging process means you may need more money in your 401(k).
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Training on the Pendulum 3-Way Row