Ever wondered when your body is actually at its strongest? According to a major long-term study, most people reach their physical peak earlier than expected.
Peak Fitness Comes Sooner Than You Think
Researchers in Sweden tracked more than 400 people over 47 years, following them from their teens into their early 60s. The results showed that overall physical capacity, including strength and endurance, tends to peak between the late twenties and mid-30s. On average, participants were at their physical best around age 35.
What Happens After Your Mid-30s
After reaching peak performance, physical ability begins to decline gradually. Between ages 35 and 63, overall fitness dropped by roughly 30 to 48 per cent. This included losses in muscle strength and aerobic capacity, even among people who stayed active.
The Good News for Australians
While ageing is unavoidable, lifestyle still matters. People who exercised regularly from a young age maintained better strength and endurance later in life. Even those who started exercising as adults saw improvements of up to 10 per cent in physical performance.
The takeaway is simple. Your physical peak may come earlier than expected, but staying active at any age can help you stay stronger, healthier and more capable for longer.
