Strength training does far more than just enhance your physique or support bone density. According to cardiothoracic surgeon Dr Jeremy London, focusing on building and preserving muscle mass may be the key to a longer and healthier life. In a recent video shared on Instagram, Dr London described muscle as the “organ of longevity,” emphasizing its vital role in both physical function and long-term health.
As people age, they naturally begin to lose muscle mass, which can contribute to frailty, reduced mobility, and a higher risk of injury from falls. Dr London explained that maintaining muscle helps individuals perform everyday tasks with greater ease and stability — such as getting up from the floor, stepping out of a car, or walking up and down stairs without losing balance.
Beyond mobility, muscle mass has a direct impact on internal health. “Muscle acts as a glucose sink,” he said. This means that healthy muscle helps the body regulate blood sugar levels. Chronically high glucose levels are linked to insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, both of which are major contributors to cardiovascular disease. Strength training can reduce these risks and has been linked to lower all-cause mortality, making it a powerful tool in preventive health.
So how can you start reaping these benefits? Dr London advises beginning with adequate protein intake tailored to your body’s needs and combining it with a structured resistance training program. Importantly, he emphasized choosing an exercise routine that you enjoy and can stick to consistently. Avoiding injury and staying committed are key elements to seeing long-term gains and improving not just the span but the quality of life.
In short, the pathway to a stronger body is also a pathway to a longer life — and it starts with building and maintaining muscle.
