Why It’s Important to “Save Muscle” After 30
The human body possesses over 600 muscles, which, in conjunction with bones and joints, enable us to stand and move. Muscles serve as the wellspring of strength, fortifying and safeguarding bones and joints from harm. Nevertheless, muscle mass and strength are not fixed within our bodies. Occasionally, we encounter the adage, “After reaching the age of 30, accumulating wealth is inferior to ‘building muscle’.” What precisely does this signify? Let us initially delve into the realm of muscles.
The human musculature is a marvel
Muscles consist of both sizable and minuscule muscle cells, with a smattering of fascia, blood vessels, and nerves interspersed among them. The muscle tissue within the human body is categorized as skeletal muscle, smooth muscle, and cardiac muscle. Skeletal muscles, the ones frequently referenced in athletics, predominate. The human body houses in excess of 600 muscles, most of which exist in pairs. Among these, approximately 75 pairs of muscles are commonly employed during physical exertion.
The composition of muscle within the human body indeed exhibits “gender disparities.” Generally speaking, muscle accounts for 40% of body weight in males and 35% in females. Owing to hormonal influences, women possess a higher body fat percentage and encounter greater difficulty in acquiring high-quality musculature compared to men.
The primary role of muscles involves contracting to maneuver bones, thereby effectuating various actions. In addition, muscles shield human tissues such as bones, blood vessels, nerves, and internal organs from external forces. Moreover, muscles partake in metabolic regulation and other physiological activities, rendering them truly versatile entities.
Muscles constitute vital locomotive organs of the human physique. Each muscle assumes the form of an “organ,” comprising muscle bellies, tendons, fascia, blood vessels, and nerves. Muscles attach to bones via tendons and exert force upon them, engendering movement. Most muscles manifest as elongated, spindle-shaped entities. A plump muscle belly, situated centrally, arises from numerous muscle fibers (muscle cells) ensconced in connective tissue. Initially, these muscle fibers form small bundles (muscle bundles), which subsequently coalesce to form muscles. In this manner, energy expenditure is minimized. For instance, lifting a teacup to drink tea and lifting a 2-kilogram dumbbell both necessitate the involvement of biceps curls. However, the former activity requires fewer muscle fibers to partake in the motion, merely employing a few small bundles of muscle fibers.
Muscles possess several distinguishing traits: tension variability, elasticity, extensibility, and viscosity. Consequently, when an individual engages in physical exercise, muscles contract and relax harmoniously, executing movements without aberrations. Though each muscle appears autonomous, in reality, they excel in collaboration. Under normal circumstances, when each muscle assumes a designated role and fulfills its duties, the human body exhibits commendable athletic performance. Conversely, if muscles compete and clash with one another, anomalous movements arise. Every action we undertake in daily life emerges as instructions from the brain, with nerves transmitting task signals to pertinent muscles. Through orderly contraction and relaxation, muscles cooperate to accomplish the instructed actions.
Why “Accumulate Muscles”?
Comparable to human bone mass, muscle mass and strength undergo augmentation during late adolescence and early adulthood. However, commencing from the age of 50, a marked decline sets in. Muscle atrophy and diminished quality ensue, accompanied by a reduction in muscle strength and function.
The encouraging news is that cultivating robust musculature during youth, amassing a reserve of muscles within your “muscle mine,” and adhering to strength training can appreciably decelerate the rate of muscle atrophy, fostering a healthier existence in the future. When force stimulates the musculature, muscle fibers activate to contract. By remaining steadfast in strength training, muscle fibers thicken and undergo hypertrophy, while the number of muscle fibers coalescing within the same motor unit augments. Should you aspire to enhance muscle girth, increasing the weight load serves as a viable approach. Conversely, to maintain muscle endurance, opt for exercises with lighter weights and multiple repetitions.
Given that muscles can be pre-acquired, what advantages does “muscle accumulation” furnish?
Primarily, possessing well-developed musculature translates into enhanced comfort and reduced reliance on daily assistance. As one ages, bodily functions and motor abilities remain intact. Tasks such as cooking, bathing, socializing, engaging in physical activities, and pursuing personal interests can be undertaken autonomously, devoid of dependence on others. Gradually, waning musculature hampers energy levels, impeding activities like dancing or traversing long distances. Consequently, individuals necessitate assistance to navigate their daily routines, with many aspects requiring external aid.
Secondly, “muscle accumulation” can yield substantial savings on medical expenses. Muscles represent the largest endocrine organ within the human body. During exercise, muscles contract and secrete various exercise factors that promote physical wellbeing and metabolic health. Regular physical activity and muscle accumulation have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. By investing in muscle accumulation through strength training and exercise, individuals can potentially mitigate the risk of developing these costly and debilitating conditions, thus saving on medical expenses in the long run.
Moreover, muscle accumulation contributes to an improved body composition. While body weight is often used as a measure of health, body composition, which considers the proportion of muscle, fat, and other tissues, provides a more comprehensive assessment. Higher muscle mass and lower body fat levels are associated with better metabolic health, improved insulin sensitivity, and a reduced risk of obesity. By focusing on muscle accumulation, individuals can strive for a healthier body composition, which not only enhances physical appearance but also supports overall well-being.
In summary, the concept of “accumulating muscles” emphasizes the importance of investing in muscle mass and strength through regular exercise and strength training. By doing so, individuals can enjoy the benefits of enhanced physical function, reduced reliance on assistance, cost savings on medical expenses, improved metabolic health, and a favorable body composition. Engaging in activities that promote muscle accumulation is a valuable endeavor for individuals of all ages, as it contributes to a healthier and more active life.
