This study sought to determine whether reduced insulin sensitivity, mitochondrial dysfunction, or other age-related alterations were consequences of aging or of physical inactivity. Subjects of the study were divided into 4 groups: 1-young sedentary (n=11), 2-young trained (n=11), 3-older sedentary (n=10), and 4-older trained (n=10) individuals. Results of the study revealed that reduced insulin sensitivity was likely related to changes in adiposity and to the absence of physical activity rather than aging itself. Regular endurance exercise was also largely associated with a normalization of age-related mitochondrial dysfunction, although certain mitochondrial markers remain depressed with increased age despite endurance exercise. Finally, the authors proposed that endurance exercise may have similar effects (e.g., the promotion of longevity) to those demonstrated with caloric restriction.
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