by April Wilson

Created on: January 22, 2010

People have told you over and over again that your metabolism slows as you age, so you'll probably become overweight as time goes on, and there is very little you can do about it.  Well, that's complete crap.  Yes, your metabolism will slow a little bit as you age, however, it doesn't slow down that much.

Most people who gain weight in their forties when they hadn't gained it before gain it because they become more sedentary. They replace "activeness" with "busyness" which isn't the same thing. You can sit at a desk all day, be busy, and burn very few calories.  They may over-commit themselves to things, and be too busy to cook healthy meals and as a result eat a lot more fast food.  This is why you gain weight in your forties (or any other decade):  Sitting on your butt and eating too much.

I know, I know, you've been told your metabolism slows as you age... it's not your fault. Your metabolism slows by under 100 calories burned a day per decade.  And while technically you could gain about 10 pounds a year that way, do you know how easy it is to burn 100 calories?  We're talking about cutting out ONE soda a day from your current consumption, OR taking a 20 minute walk.

That's not exactly overachieving in the health and fitness department. So you still think it's not fair? Want to keep your metabolism from slowing down as you age?  Believe it or not, a metabolism slowdown is not inevitable.  The reason your metabolism slows down as you age is very simple, it's so simple you'll smack yourself in the forehead and go: "Doh!"  Muscle loss.  As you age, you lose a bit of muscle at a time, which changes your body composition unfavorably (more fat, less muscle), and slows your metabolism.

But muscle loss is largely due to not using it. It's not something that happens "just" because you get older. If you don't believe me check out some of the muscle-bound bodybuilders in their sixties and seventies. And before you claim steroids... there are many natural bodybuilders out there in all age groups.

If you want to keep your metabolism roaring like a well-oiled machine, then strength train. Maintain your muscle mass. And build a little bit if you can.

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