Abstract
The Exercise Boom of the 1970’s resulted in the adoption of habitual
exercise in a significant portion of the population. Many of these individuals
are defying the cultural norms by remaining physically active and competing at a
high level in their later years. The juxtaposition between masters athletes and
non-exercisers demonstrate the importance of remaining physically active
throughout the lifespan on physiological systems related to healthspan (years of
healthy living). This includes ~50% improved maximal aerobic
capacity (VO2max) and enhanced skeletal muscle health (size,
function, as well as metabolic and communicative properties) compared to
non-exercisers at a similar age. By taking a reductionist approach to
VO2max and skeletal muscle health, we can gain insight into how
aging and habitual exercise affects the aging process. Collectively, this review
provides a physiological basis for the elite performances seen in masters
athletes, as well as the health implications of lifelong exercise with a focus
on VO2max, skeletal muscle metabolic fitness, whole muscle size and
function, single muscle fiber physiology, and communicative properties of
skeletal muscle. This review has significant public health implications due to
the potent health benefits of habitual exercise across the lifespan.
Key words
aging - maximal oxygen consumption - metabolic health - lifelong exercise - single
muscle fiber - sarcopenia
