Discover the secret of Matt Kaeberlein, a renowned healthy aging scientist, for living longer and better
In an era saturated with quick-fix promises for longevity – from purported miracle supplements to grueling workouts and restrictive diets – a different approach is gaining traction. Matt Kaeberlein, a leading voice in the science of healthy aging, challenges the notion that achieving a longer, healthier life requires extreme measures.
At 54, Kaeberlein has built a successful career dedicated to understanding the biological mechanisms of aging. He is the founder and former director of the Healthy Aging and Longevity Research Institute at the University of Washington, and has published hundreds of scientific papers on the topic.
His research centers on a fundamental question: how do we age, and what can we do to extend our healthspan – the period of life spent in excellent health? Kaeberlein advocates for consistent, low-intensity physical activity as a cornerstone of healthy aging. This approach is particularly relevant as people seek sustainable strategies for maintaining well-being throughout their lives.
Kaeberlein’s journey into the science of aging began in 1998, although pursuing his graduate studies in biology at MIT. A lecture on genetics and longevity sparked his interest in the field. “I was a little over twenty years classic and aging wasn’t yet a personal issue for me, but I was deeply impressed by the complexity of the biology. It seemed like an essential problem,” he recalled.
Over time, the scientific understanding of longevity has evolved, shifting the focus from simply living longer to living well for longer. This led to the concept of “healthy longevity,” defined as the time a person lives without diseases or conditions that diminish quality of life, such as chronic pain or dementia.
Consistent physical activity is key to longevity
In an interview with CNBC, Kaeberlein emphasized that physical activity is central to any longevity strategy, but it must be approached intelligently, with variety and repetition. He likewise highlighted the importance of intensity. “You need a variety of movements,” he explained, advocating for consistent, low-intensity activities that moderately and sustainably elevate heart rate. He typically spends about 30 minutes each morning on a stationary bike or elliptical machine, but prefers walking with his wife when the weather permits.
However, Kaeberlein stresses that low intensity isn’t the only important factor, as strength training is also essential, particularly after the age of 40. “Most people don’t realize how important it is to develop and maintain muscle mass after 40,” he stated, adding that he strength trains four times a week, focusing on a different muscle group each session.
He also suggests incorporating exercise into daily routines, both at home and in the neighborhood. One of his favorite practices is climbing a 135-step staircase near his home, which he and his wife ascend and descend 10 to 15 times each week, rain or shine.
A longer, healthier life doesn’t depend on a perfect week, but rather on a body in constant motion, at an intensity you can consistently sustain.
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