Speed Matters: How Power Training Helps You Stay Independent Longer

While strength training is vital for maintaining muscle and bone health, new evidence points to muscle power—the ability to move quickly and forcefully—as the key to preventing falls and preserving independence in older age.
A large-scale study found that muscle power is a better predictor of longevity than strength alone. Quick, explosive movements help you react to sudden challenges, such as tripping or needing to move fast in daily life.
Power declines more rapidly than strength, so it’s important to include exercises that build speed and explosiveness, not just raw strength. This can be as simple as doing your regular exercises faster or adding plyometric moves like jumps and sprints.
Incorporate power training by focusing on the speed of movement during resistance exercises, using moderate weights and plenty of rest between sets to maximize explosiveness.
With consistent power training, you can boost your balance, agility, and confidence, helping you stay active and independent as you age.