Running, Aging, and Weight Gain

Here's some research on how running relates to aging and weight gain.  The research shows that even in those runners doing high mileages, (50+ miles per week), there is still an increase in weight and waistline over time.

Strangely, the author of this study recommends that people must do more running to stave off this weight gain.  The author states that running distance must increase annually by 1.4 miles per week to stop weight gain. 

Instead of just running more and more miles, there are better methods to halt age-related weight gain.  I've posted before about masters sprinters, and how they are remarkably lean throughout the life cycle.  To me, this seems like a much better route than logging hundreds of miles.   

Comments

[DAvid]

I think you are right. This conclusion seems flawed, especially if you consider the time commitment for someone logging 50+ miles per week. Shorter, more intense workouts instead of longer drawn out physically punishing workouts. DMF

[will]

Also, it would be interesting to include a paleo-eating group in these kinds of studies. They might tend do have a greater muscle/fat ratio than other eating groups even without exercise.

[Mike]

Yeah, bizarre isn't it?

The graphs show that running more miles doesn't prevent the weight gain ... so do MORE of it????