Longevity

This past Saturday we hosted our first ever SBF Games. The event was an opportunity to gather together and share in community, as well as a chance for people to test varying markers of their fitness and ability levels.

These tests were not random selections. Each had a purpose behind it that goes deeper than their surface appearance.

For example, one of the tests we had the participants perform was a bar dead hang. At the surface, it’s a simple test of grip strength. But some things about grip strength you may not realize - weak grip strength has been linked to higher risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline.

A 2015 Lancet study found that grip strength is a better predictor of all-cause mortality than systolic blood pressure. 

Yes, you read that right…

The study showed that each 5 kg decrease in grip strength was associated with:

• 16% increased risk of all-cause mortality
  
  

• 17% increased risk of cardiovascular death
  
  

• 7% increased risk of heart attack
  
  

• 9% increased risk of stroke

Eye opening stuff. 

Another test we did was the 40 yard dash. A common test of speed for athletes. So why would we include that in a test for the general public?

Sprinting requires fast-twitch muscle fibers, reaction time, motor coordination, and joint health — all of which decline with age.

Maintaining the ability to sprint (or at least move quickly) is associated with neuromuscular function, which is a predictor of lower mortality risk.

Studies have shown that walking speed (especially fast walking) and leg power are highly correlated with survival in older adults.

• A 2011 JAMA meta-analysis found that each 0.1 m/s increase in gait (walking) speed was associated with a 12% reduction in mortality.
• Sprinting is essentially high-intensity gait, and likely even more predictive.

These tests - and the others performed - were a measuring stick. A chance to see where your bar is currently at, and where improvements might need to be made. 

But more than the tests, there was another element of the event present that promotes longevity - community. Maintaining strong, supportive relationships delivers a longevity dividend on par with quitting smoking or staying physically active. Community isn’t just “nice to have”—it's vital to living life, and living it to the fullest.

And that was the heart of the event - and the heart of what we do here at Smitty Built Fitness.

We aren’t just a gym focused on physical fitness. We’re a place building community, increasing longevity, and empowering people. 

That’s our mission. And we’re honored by everyone who chooses to be a part of it.

Ryan