Exceptional exercise capacity in a late bloomer octogenarian triathlete.
Abstract
Maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O<inf>2max</inf>) gradually declines across the lifespan. However, little is known about the octogenarians. This is a knowledge gap given that individuals living >80 years old is the fastest expanding age-group world-wide. The increase in the elderly population has generated greater awareness in healthy ageing including psychosocial, physical, and cognitive domains, all of which benefit from engagement in physical activity or sport. In the present article are reported characteristics of an octogenarian man (GM), starting training for triathlon when he was 75 years old. GM performed an incremental Cardiopulmonary Treadmill-Running Exercise Test (CPX). A competitive 5-day consecutive triathlon event (sprint distance on days 1, 3, 4, 5 and Olympic distance on day 2) was monitored using an advanced smartwatch. Between 2021 and 2022, he trained for 10-to-12 hours/week, and participated in 59 and 39 competitions, respectively. The CPX showed a V̇O<inf>2max</inf> of 39.8 mL·min
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Research summary
The paper discusses the exercise capacity of an octogenarian triathlete, highlighting the importance of physical activity in the aging population. While it provides insights into the capabilities of older individuals and the potential benefits of exercise for healthy aging, it does not address the root causes of aging or propose mechanisms for lifespan extension. Therefore, it contributes to the understanding of aging but has limited impact on the broader field of longevity research.
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