Sprinters are Lean at Any Age

Here's a nice study I found that looks at sprinters from age 18 all the way to age 84.  The study shows that the older sprinters had less fast-twitch muscle fibers and were able to generate less force.  This is to be expected: senior citizens shouldn't be outrunning Michael Johnson.

However, the older sprinters were able to retain most of their power and also stay in great shape.  The sprinters in the 70-84 years old age group averaged 15 percent bodyfat.  That is sensational compared to the general population and especially to others in that age bracket.

The real value of this study is that it shows the importance of anaerobic, sprint-type activities and how it can stave off the aging process.