The Importance of Healthspan, Walking Speed, and Coping with Winter

Dr. Gabrielle Lyon coined the term musclespan to define the “length of time that you live with healthy skeletal muscle”. Basically, defining muscle in a functional capacity, not simply aesthetically. It’s the functional capacity of muscle, leading to improved movement, and thus a better aging experience —especially as athletes.

Why is muscle critical to aging happily and continually getting out further? I believe, for most of us it’s obvious—mobility. If, like myself, you’re in your fifties, you are undoubtedly experiencing a decrease in mobility, and possibly strength, as compared to your 30-year-old or 40-year-old self. The more muscle we can maintain, or the more muscle we can still build, leads to durability, translating to  maximal enjoyment so we can go out further and longer.

Healthspan vs. lifespan—the number of years you thrive, not just survive.

Aside from functional mobility, healthy muscle impacts metabolic health, storing glucose needed for those trail runs and gravel rides, but also helping stave off type 2 diabetes. As well, the releasing of Myokines through muscle use improves aging making you more resilient to disease.

Takeaways → At 56, I’m feeling the impact of decades of running and riding. I feel stronger when I focus on riding the bike, and tend to lose musclespan when I prioritize running. My goal is to maintain a balance with multiple outdoor activities while continuing to explore strength work options that I can develop into habit.

(Read further → Self)

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Heather Jackson: Always Pursuing the Next Adventure Here’s a profile on 41-year-old Heather Jackson, retired Ironman Professional Triathlete, crushing it on the gravel and ultrarunning scene.

The Top 10 Longest Mountain Ski Runs
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Why Walking and Walking Speed Matters

Walking speed is more than just a number—it’s an important indicator of mobility, independence, and overall health. Slower walking speeds have been linked to increased risk of falls, reduced physical activity, and even cognitive decline.

The Best Gear for Recreating Your Favorite Gym’s Recovery Room at Home

What Nordic People do to Cope with Winter Blues
Spoiler → Keep a positive attitude, maintain good sleep patterns, and try light therapy.

Smart Ring company, Oura, released some interested annual stats. Women sleep longer, with higher quality scores, than men. But, they also tend to have higher daily stress levels.