The Fountain of Youth? Plyometrics and Longevity

Story at-a-glance Plyometric training, which includes jumping and hopping exercises, helps older adults improve muscle strength and balance, as well as bone density, reducing their risk of falls and fractures Older adults who engage in supervised plyometric exercises experience significant improvements in lower-body power, making everyday movements like standing up and walking safer and easier Even short-term plyometric training — lasting as little as four weeks — results in measurable gains in strength, agility and balance, with the most significant results seen in those who start with lower baseline strength Upping the intensity of exercise stimulates bone growth by triggering your body's natural bone-building processes, making plyometric training an effective way to combat osteoporosis and maintain skeletal health When combined with resistance training, plyometric exercises provide the best overall benefits for muscle function and fall prevention, helping older adults maintain independence and mobility as they age