What is the deal with ‘old man strength’ and why does Dr. Armstrong find it somewhat offensive?
The concept of “old man strength” suggests that as men age, some may develop strength beyond what would be expected based solely on their muscle mass or apparent physical condition. In this episode, Dr. Armstrong and Corbin Bruton discuss “old men strength”, why some men (and we don’t ignore the women) possess it, and why it is important for… aging well.
Check out the article in Men’s Health titled “What’s the deal with ‘old man strength’?" In addition, here are some interesting studies:
Allen, M. D., Dalton, B. H., Gilmore, K. J., McNeil, C. J., Doherty, T. J., Rice, C. L., & Power, G. A. (2021). Neuroprotective effects of exercise on the aging human neuromuscular system. Experimental Gerontology, 152, 111465.
Häkkinen, K., Newton, R. U., Gordon, S. E., McCormick, M., Volek, J. S., Nindl, B. C., ... & Kraemer, W. J. (1998). Changes in muscle morphology, electromyographic activity, and force production characteristics during progressive strength training in young and older men. The Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, 53(6), B415-B423.
Porter, M. M., Vandervoort, A. A., & Lexell, J. (1995). Aging of human muscle: structure, function and adaptability. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 5(3), 129–142.
Power, G. A., Dalton, B. H., & Rice, C. L. (2013). Human neuromuscular structure and function in old age: A brief review. Journal of Sport and Health Science, 2(4), 215–226.
Roth, S. M., Martel, G. F., Ivey, F. M., Lemmer, J. T., Tracy, B. L., Metter, E. J., ... & Rogers, M. A. (2001). Skeletal muscle satellite cell characteristics in young and older men and women after heavy resistance strength training. The Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, 56(6), B240-B247.
Trappe, S., Williamson, D., & Godard, M. (2002). Maintenance of whole muscle strength and size following resistance training in older men. The Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, 57(4), B138-B143.
Vandervoort, A.A. (2002), Aging of the human neuromuscular system. Muscle Nerve, 25: 17-25.
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