Is strength training associated with mortality benefits? A 15 year cohort study of US older adults

Kraschnewski JL, Sciamanna CN, Poger JM, Rovniak LS, Lehman EB, Cooper AB, Ballentine NH, Ciccolo JT (2017) Preventive Medicine
Title and abstract of Is strength training associated with mortality benefits? A 15 year cohort study of US older adults

Key Takeaway

15-year study found older adults who did strength training had 46% lower mortality risk compared to non-strength trainers, independent of aerobic exercise.

Summary

Large cohort study examining strength training and mortality in older adults.

Methods

  • Prospective cohort study
  • 30,000+ adults aged 65+
  • 15-year follow-up
  • Self-reported strength training
  • All-cause mortality outcome

Key Results

  • 46% lower all-cause mortality
  • Benefits independent of aerobic exercise
  • Meeting guidelines reduced risk further
  • Effect stronger than many medications
  • Dose-response relationship observed

Limitations

  • Observational design
  • Self-reported exercise
  • Healthy user bias possible
  • Cannot prove causation

Related Interventions

Related Studies

Source

View on PubMed →

DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2016.02.038