Does lifting weights help you live longer? episode artwork

EPISODE · Jul 2, 2026 · 8 MIN

Does lifting weights help you live longer?

from What in the World · host BBC World Service

Not to sound like a gym bro…but the science is clear: more of us should start lifting. Strength training is when you lift weights or use your own body weight to build muscle — and it’s not just about toning up or getting ripped. A new study found it can actually help you live longer. So why is it so good for your health - and how can you start doing more of it?Health correspondent Melissa Hogenboom joins us to unpack the latest studies on strength training and why we’re seeing a rise in its popularity. Personal trainer and nutritionist Luke Hanna explains the science behind the long-term health benefits of lifting weights. And we hear from some of you about why you’re getting into weightlifting.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Chelsea Coates and Emily Horler Video producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Jul 2, 2026

Embed this episode

NOW PLAYING

Does lifting weights help you live longer?

0:00 8:56

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

No similar episodes found.

No similar podcasts found.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of What in the World?

This episode is 8 minutes long.

When was this What in the World episode published?

This episode was published on July 2, 2026.

Can I download this What in the World episode?

Yes. Use the download control on the episode player to save the publisher-provided media file.
URL copied to clipboard!