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    What makes a 97-year-old man cycle 5,000 km a year?

    Cheng, S, Degens, H ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7399-4841, Evans, M, Cheng, SM, Selänne, H, Rittweger, J, Heinonen, A, Suominen, H, Strandberg, T, Alen, M and Korhonen, MT (2016) What makes a 97-year-old man cycle 5,000 km a year? Gerontology: international journal of experimental, clinical, behavioral, regenerative and technical gerontology, 62 (5). pp. 508-512. ISSN 0304-324X

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    Abstract

    Background: The nature versus nurture debate is one of the oldest issues in the study of longevity, health and successful aging. Objective: We present a 97-year-old man (I.K.) as an example of the effects of habitual exercise on the aging process. Methods: Extensive assessments included medical examinations, interviews, musculoskeletal structure, performance characteristics, cognitive function and gut microbiota composition. Results: I.K. suffers from iatrogenic hypogonadism, prostate cancer, hypothyroidism and a history of deep popliteal thrombosis. Notwithstanding, he cycles up to 5,000 km a year and participates in competitive sports. His musculoskeletal properties, athletic performance, cognitive function and gut microbiota are outstanding. Some traits even exceed those seen in middle-aged men. Conclusions: His long-term physically and intellectually active lifestyles combined with extensive social interactions have most likely contributed to his exercise capacity, despite his medical history.

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