Muscle Madness: Weight Training Reduces Risk of Cancer Up To 40%

Resveratrol isn't the only anti-cancer research focus in the world.

Reducing the risk of cancer is something that most people don't consciously think about. Those that do often stick to strict diets high in Vitamin C content along with a high energy fitness program.

Until now, most overlooked the need for weight training along with their aerobic exercise routines.  Researchers at Sweden's Karolinska Institute have completed studies that show men who weight train at least twice per week are up to 40% less likely to develop cancers.

The research also indicated men who were overweight or had above average BMI ratings, were less likely to develop cancers then those without strength training as part of a weekly routine.

Scientists tracked and documented 8,677 men between the ages of 20 and 82.  From 1980 to 2003, the men under went routine medical check-ups to track there lifestyles and strength levels.  The data revealed men who weight lifted regularly and had the most muscles enjoyed up to a 40% decreased likelihood of dieing from cancer.

Cancer Research UK spokesperson Jessica Harris said, “There’s no need to become a body builder. Just 30 minutes of moderate exercise five times a week that leaves you warm and slightly out of breath can have a positive effect.”

Researchers also pointed out it is important to maintain a healthy weight while adding strength training to your exercise routine.

The study was published in the scientific journal Cancer Epidemiology, Bio-markers and Prevention under the title, "Muscular Strength and Adiposity as Predictors of Adulthood Cancer Mortality in Men."

If you all ready have an exercise routine that does not include weight training you may want to add it now.  We can't rely 100% on supplements like resveratrol or fish oil to keeps us young and healthy forever.  You know you have 30 minutes to spare twice a day for pumping some iron!

Comments

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This is an interesting result and it will also prove interesting when future research reveals what the physiological mechanism for this is.

The study also seems to indicate that weight training is not only a factor, but a more important factor than many of the overweight variables:
'Further adjustment for BMI, percent body fat, waist circumference, or cardiorespiratory fitness had little effect on the association.'