Human skeletal muscle ageing features irregular myofiber shapes, especially in type II fibres, leading to reduced muscle function and mass. Heavy resistance training can reverse these changes, improving muscle health in the elderly.
February 2024 – Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle
Key takeaways
- Irregular myofiber shapes are a hallmark of ageing muscles, particularly in type II fibres: As humans age, their skeletal muscles often develop misshapen myofibers, especially in type II fibres, which are responsible for quick, powerful movements. This irregularity in shape becomes more pronounced with age, indicating a deterioration in muscle quality
- These deformations are linked to reduced muscle function and mass: The irregular shapes of myofibers in ageing muscles are associated with significant declines in muscle function and mass. This means that as myofibers become more misshapen, muscle strength and overall muscle health deteriorate, impacting physical performance and mobility
- Heavy resistance training can reverse the irregular myofiber shapes in elderly individuals: Engaging in heavy resistance training exercises has been shown to restore the shape of myofibers, particularly type II fibers, in elderly individuals. This type of exercise involves lifting weights or using resistance bands to strengthen muscles, and it can help reshape the myofibers back to a healthier state
By reversing myofiber deformation and improving muscle function and mass, heavy resistance training can enhance overall muscle health in elderly individuals. This improvement in muscle quality can lead to increased strength, better mobility, and a higher quality of life, potentially contributing to greater longevity and a more active, independent lifestyle.
Read the article at: Soendenbroe, Casper, et al. “Marked Irregular Myofiber Shape is a Hallmark of Human Skeletal Muscle Ageing and is Reversed by Heavy Resistance Training.” Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle, vol. 15, 2024, pp. 306-318.