Runners live longer. But strength athletes have fewer heart attacks. Here's why...
Resistance training improves arterial elasticity and reduces LDL cholesterol at rates competitive with cardiovascular exercise. When combined — strength plus cardio — cardiac outcomes are optimal. But resistance training carries an additional benefit: bone density and muscle mass are the primary protective factors against falls after 65, and the biggest cause of cardiac events in older adults is the impact and stress from a fracture.
Runners live longer.
True.
But strength athletes have fewer heart attacks.
Also true.
Why? Resistance training improves arterial elasticity.
Reduces LDL.
These are cardiovascular adaptations, not just aesthetic ones.
Combine it with cardio and cardiac outcomes are optimal.
But here's the longevity angle most people miss: muscle and bone density prevent falls.
The biggest cause of cardiac events in adults over 65 isn't clogged arteries — it's the systemic shock from a fracture.
Two strength sessions a week.
Your heart, your bones, your decades..
Add two strength sessions per week. Your heart, bones, and longevity metrics will all improve simultaneously.
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