A new research perspective published in Aging by Takuji Kawamura from Tohoku University highlights the role of exercise in influencing and potentially reversing epigenetic aging.
Epigenetic aging refers to changes in DNA, specifically DNA methylation patterns, that indicate biological age rather than chronological age.
These changes are measured using epigenetic clocks and are influenced by lifestyle factors, including physical activity.
The study found that while general physical activity is beneficial, structured exercise routines—those that are planned, repetitive, and goal-oriented—are more effective in slowing epigenetic aging. High cardiorespiratory fitness is also strongly associated with reduced epigenetic aging.
Animal and human studies support these findings. In mice, endurance and resistance training reduced age-related molecular changes in muscle. In humans, multi-week exercise programs lowered biological age markers in blood and skeletal muscle.
For instance, sedentary middle-aged women saw a two-year reduction in epigenetic age after eight weeks of aerobic and strength training. Similarly, older men with high oxygen uptake exhibited slower epigenetic aging.
These benefits extend beyond muscle to include the heart, liver, fat tissue, and gut. Olympic athletes have even been shown to age more slowly epigenetically compared to non-athletes.
The researchers advocate for more studies to understand variability in exercise response and to refine personalized training programs. Their findings bolster the view that regular physical fitness is a powerful tool to enhance healthspan and delay the body’s internal aging process.
If you care about health information, please see recent studies about common exercises that could protect against cognitive decline, and results showing this MIND diet may protect your cognitive function, prevent dementia.
For more health information, please see recent studies about new way to halt excessive inflammation, and results showing foods that could cause inflammation.
The study is published in Aging.
Copyright © 2025 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
