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RESEARCH PRODUCT

What Makes a 97-Year-Old Man Cycle 5,000 km a Year?

Shu Mei ChengJörn RittwegerMichael EvansHans DegensHarri SuominenMarko KorhonenMarkku AlenAri HeinonenSulin ChengTimo E. StrandbergHarri Selänne

subject

MaleGerontologylifestyleAgingHealth Statusmedia_common.quotation_subjectLongevityPhysical fitnessNature versus nurtureHabits03 medical and health sciencesInterpersonal relationshipCognitionLife Expectancy0302 clinical medicineHumansMedicineInterpersonal RelationsMedical historyhabitual exerciseExerciseGeriatric AssessmentLife Stylemedia_commonAged 80 and overSuccessful agingcyclebusiness.industryLongevityta3141Cognition030229 sport scienceshealthy agingPhysical FitnessLife expectancysportsGeriatrics and Gerontologybusiness030217 neurology & neurosurgery

description

<b><i>Background:</i></b> The nature versus nurture debate is one of the oldest issues in the study of longevity, health and successful aging. <b><i>Objective:</i></b> We present a 97-year-old man (I.K.) as an example of the effects of habitual exercise on the aging process. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> Extensive assessments included medical examinations, interviews, musculoskeletal structure, performance characteristics, cognitive function and gut microbiota composition. <b><i>Results:</i></b> I.K. suffers from iatrogenic hypogonadism, prostate cancer, hypothyroidism and a history of deep popliteal thrombosis. Notwithstanding, he cycles up to 5,000 km a year and participates in competitive sports. His musculoskeletal properties, athletic performance, cognitive function and gut microbiota are outstanding. Some traits even exceed those seen in middle-aged men. <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> His long-term physically and intellectually active lifestyles combined with extensive social interactions have most likely contributed to his exercise capacity, despite his medical history.

yearjournalcountryeditionlanguage
2016-01-01
10.1159/000443390https://e-space.mmu.ac.uk/601126/