Ep 176: Do We Really Lose Muscle As We Get Older?

Are you confused by all the social media messaging about muscle mass and strength training? Join us for this beefy episode all about muscle! Biomechanist Katy Bowman and biologist Jeannette Loram discuss the clinical term sarcopenia– age-related muscle decline–and distinguish it from muscle atrophy due to disuse and sedentary lifestyles. Katy and Jeannette tease apart the different elements of muscle decline; mass, strength and function. They debate how each of these can be measured and their importance. Their discussion centers on a listener's question seeking to understand what we should be doing physically to prevent muscle loss. Also in this episode, Katy has a conversation with Tyler Benner of Venn Design, a company creating dynamic seating for homes and offices. Tyler explains how his background in physics and sport have contributed to his creativity in product design. Tyler highlights his solar and sports series of Air Chairs and explains how he has created designs that look exactly like a planet or a basketball! He also introduces his latest venture; Strong Feet Athletics, creator of the first barefoot cycling shoe.  Enhanced Show Notes & Full Transcript Chapters: 00:05:00 - The Dynamic Collective  00:08:00 - Muscle, Sarcopenia, Atrophy - Definitions 00:16:45 - Muscle Mass Overview 00:27:00 - Glycogen/Glucose, BMI, and more 00:30:35 - Dynamic Aging 00:40:50 - Listener Question Recap brought to you by Wildling 00:48:25 - Interview with Tyler Benner of Venn Design Books Mentioned:Dynamic Aging by Katy Bowman Connect, Move & Learn:Join Our Newsletter: Movement Colored GlassesTry Katy's Virtual Studio Free for 7 days!Made Possible by Our Dynamic Collective of Wonderful Sponsors: Wildling, minimal footwear for toddlers, kids and adults made from natural materialsCorrect Toes, soft silicone toe spacers that can be worn barefoot or in shoesSmart Playrooms, design and products to keep you and your kids engaged and active at homeVenn Design, beautiful floor cushions and ball seats that keep you moving at home or at the officePeluva, Five-toe minimalist sports shoes ideal for higher impact activitiesMovemate, dynamic active standing boards that invite movement and play into your workday, without disrupting your workflow. Thoughts/questions email us at [email protected] Voice on the Podcast: Read The Credits  October Retreats 2026