Advertisement

How much muscle mass do we lose every year after age 35?

Dr. Michael Roizen, MD
Internal Medicine
We lose an average of 5 percent of our muscle mass every 10 years after the age of 35—if we don't do anything about it. Historically, hunters, gatherers, and carriers of children needed their muscular strength until they were about 35 when kids were able to walk and younger tribesmen could hunt. But after they turned 35, their bodies didn't give two tubers about whether they had any muscle, so their bodies adapted and allowed for that gradual loss.

Today, we see drastic effects when we lose muscle: We gain weight. If you don't intentionally rebuild muscle through exercise, you'll need to eat 150 to 450 fewer calories every day every 10 years to maintain your current weight.

So if you're at a stable weight at age 35 and didn't do any kind of resistance training, while still eating the same amount of food, you'll gain weight.
YOU: On A Diet Revised Edition: The Owner's Manual for Waist Management

More About this Book

YOU: On A Diet Revised Edition: The Owner's Manual for Waist Management

For the first time in our history, scientists are uncovering astounding medical evidence about dieting -- and why so many of us struggle with our weight and the size of our waists. Now researchers...
Loss of muscle mass, also known as Sarcopenia occurs as a result of aging. After age 35 you will lose between .5-1. Percent of your muscle mass annually unless you engage in regular physical activity to prevent it.  By engaging in regular resistance training and following a sound diet that includes adequate amounts of protein, you can prevent most of the muscle loss associated with age. Health experts recommend that you engage in some of the resistance training that focuses on all major muscle groups a minimum of 2 times per week and up to 5 times per week depending upon your goals. 

Continue Learning about Types Of Exercise Programs

3 Squat Variations for Toned Legs
3 Squat Variations for Toned Legs
If you have time for only one lower-body exercise, squats should be it. They strengthen your quadriceps (thighs), hamstrings, and glutes (butt), givin...
Read More
3 Ways Exercise Can Improve Your Cholesterol
3 Ways Exercise Can Improve Your Cholesterol
Your healthcare provider (HCP) may have coached you on the importance of a healthy diet to manage your cholesterol. But physical activity is another i...
Read More
What are the different types of exercise?
What are the different types of exercise? Stretching, strengthening exercises and aerobic activities...
More Answers
Why You Should Exercise Outside and 5 Outdoor Workouts to Try Today in Hawaii
Why You Should Exercise Outside and 5 Outdoor Workouts to Try Today in HawaiiWhy You Should Exercise Outside and 5 Outdoor Workouts to Try Today in HawaiiWhy You Should Exercise Outside and 5 Outdoor Workouts to Try Today in HawaiiWhy You Should Exercise Outside and 5 Outdoor Workouts to Try Today in Hawaii
Hawaii’s year-round sunshine makes it the perfect climate to play in the sun while burning calories. One of the benefits to living in the tropics is ...
Start Slideshow

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.