A recent study uncovered that endurance training – swimming, biking, or high intensity interval training (HIIT) – is the best type of workout in order to slow down the aging process.
The researchers compared the effects of endurance training (running or walking), HIIT, and weightlifting among 124 adults, aged 30 to 60. One group continued their normal lives of not working out while three other groups completed 45-minute sessions three times a week over the course of 26 weeks.
Participants who took part in endurance training and HIIT had increased telomere lengths and a higher concentration of telomerase, which was not seen in the weightlifting group.
Telomeres are critical for healthy cell function, cellular aging, and regeneration. Overtime, telomeres become shorter, which is why we age. This can lead to wrinkles, grey hair, and other common signs of aging. Studies have shown managing stress, eating a plant-based diet, and partaking in HIIT or endurance exercises can help the shortening of telomeres and even help lengthen them.
The co-authors suggest that to compliment endurance and HIIT exercises, resistance workouts are also necessary for other health benefits.
If you’re unsure how to begin an anti-aging workout, consider beginning with a trainer that can develop a plan best suited to your needs to incorporate endurance training and HIIT workouts.
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