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What Makes a 97-Year-Old Man Cycle 5,000 km a Year?
Gerontology. 2016 Jan 19. Epub 2016 Jan 19. PMID: 26780108
Sulin Cheng
BACKGROUND: The nature versus nurture debate is one of the oldest issues in the study of longevity, health and successful aging.
OBJECTIVE: We present a 97-year-old man (I.K.) as an example of the effects of habitual exercise on the aging process.
METHODS: Extensive assessments included medical examinations, interviews, musculoskeletal structure, performance characteristics, cognitive function and gut microbiota composition.
RESULTS: I.K. suffers from iatrogenic hypogonadism, prostate cancer, hypothyroidism and a history of deep popliteal thrombosis. Notwithstanding, he cycles up to 5,000 km a year and participates in competitive sports. His musculoskeletal properties, athletic performance, cognitive function and gut microbiota are outstanding. Some traits even exceed those seen in middle-aged men.
CONCLUSIONS: His long-term physically and intellectually active lifestyles combined with extensive social interactions have most likely contributed to his exercise capacity, despite his medical history.
