Training for longevity – the future of fitness
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Share Member goals are changing: A focus on looking good is giving way to a focus on improving health, wellbeing, and quality of life.
Younger people are investing in their long-term health, while Active Agers are counteracting muscle loss to stay mobile and healthy for as long as possible. One thing is clear: people are prioritizing their health more than ever. Longevity is the term that defines this lifestyle shift.
EGYM’s mission is to shift societal health behavior from treatment to prevention. We designed the entire EGYM operating system to help users work out in a targeted, data-driven way, providing the perfect foundation to meet the demands of today’s members.
The science behind longevity training
A current study by the Weizmann Institute of Science shows that about 45–50% of life expectancy can be influenced by non-genetic factors, such as diet, exercise, and habits. This impact on both the duration and, more importantly, the quality of our lives should not be underestimated. Our long-term health span is supported by the continuous maintenance of various biological systems, with consistent, balanced training being a decisive factor. This is exactly where the fitness industry can step in.
The best longevity results are achieved when strength and endurance training are combined in a ratio of about 40:60. (Liu et al., 2023; Attia & Gifford, 2023, Gorzelitz et al., 2022)
Strength training holds immense potential to improve life expectancy. And yet, the focus of most workouts is still often placed solely on cardio.
Strength Training
Regular strength training is primary in delaying age-related muscle loss, with a general recommendation of two moderate strength sessions per week for a total of at least 75 minutes. (WHO, 2020)
Cardio
Cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) is one of the strongest indicators of lower overall mortality and long-term health. (Lang et al., 2024; Salier Eriksson et al., 2021; Gonzales et al., 2021; Kokkinos et al., 2022)
To start cardio training, two hours per week in Zone 2 is recommended. With an adjusted incline, 150–300 minutes per week should be performed at a moderate intensity. (WHO, 2020)
Longevity training with EGYM
Through innovation, we have simplified access to longevity and translated these scientific findings into user-friendly workouts:
Members and trainers can use EGYM Genius AI to develop holistic training plans with a 'Longevity’ goal. This promotes long-term performance and mobility by combining strength and cardio training with integrated mobility exercises—such as those on Smart Flex machines.
The EGYM+ 'Longevity' training program offers longevity-focused training—on the EGYM Circuit, for example—independent of EGYM Genius AI. It focuses on stabilizing metabolism and maintaining physical functionality. Selecting the program on Smart Strength or Smart Cardio machines sets the specific stimuli needed for both strength and cardio, improving your members' overall health values and performance.
Longevity as a training incentive for studio operators
Studio spaces, member support, and workout offerings should evolve to meet the needs of your target groups and satisfy them in the long term. This is exactly where EGYM comes in. The synergy of strength, cardio, and mobility—combined with BioAge progress tracking and targeted support from EGYM Genius AI—takes training progress to a new level. Longevity training becomes understandable, actionable, and measurable.
Available on EGYM machines and in Genius AI starting in July.