These are the quadriceps of a 74 year old man who is not active vs the quads of a 70 year old triathlete, respectively.
The athlete presents with very little amounts of adipose tissue, or body fat, around his quads while the sedentary man has smaller bones, weakened muscle and a far greater quantity of body fat. Muscle mass is known to burn fat – five pounds of muscle can burn up to twenty-six pounds of fat a year; while fat burns nothing. Having more lean muscle mass is proven to aid in preventing heart disease, atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, diabetes, and hypertension.
A sixty-five year old should have the same endurance as a nineteen year old running long distance with the proper diet, exercise plan, work ethic, information regarding long term health, and spiritual outlook on life. Longevity is obtainable for all humans.