Why Do We Lose Muscle As We Age?

Well, there are actually several physiological and lifestyle reasons why we tend to lose muscle as we age. First there are hormonal changes, our bodies start to produce less growth hormone and less testosterone, both of which are quite important for building and maintaining muscle mass. The muscle tissue itself goes though changes as well. We generally lose some fast twitch fibers which produce speed, power and reaction ability. There is also a general reduction in the size and number of muscle fibers. Another physiological reason for reduced strength with age is our bodies don’t synthesize protein as well, making it more challenging creating muscle tissue.

As for lifestyle contributing factors, there may be several. Generally speaking, we are not as active as we age. Our bodies generally do a pretty good job at adapting to the environment we put them in. If we challenge muscles for example with structured exercises or physical stress then will grow stronger. Often times as we age we stop or at least slow down at recreational sports and structured exercises. Our bodies will adapt to a more sedentary lifestyle by growing weaker. Nutrition can be another factor. Our dietary needs tend to change with age and not adapting our intake of protein, calories etc. can impede muscle growth.

So while it may be more challenging to gain muscle with age it is far from impossible. We must adapt to our bodies changing needs in order to achieve our maximal health benefit. That means making sure we get plenty of structured exercise, stay consistent with a diet that meets all of our needs, and ensure any underling health issues, orthopedic or otherwise, are dealt with. Remember, our bodies do a pretty good job adapting to the environment we put them in, so make sure it is the right environment.

Dave Bearss D.P.T., C.S.C.S., is a physical therapist with MyMichigan Rehabilitation Services located at the Campus Ridge Building in Midland. Dave is a certified strength conditioning specialist and has a special interest in orthopedics, sports medicine, video gait analysis and running.