The short answer is yes. Listen to the conversation with Dr. Alex Wetmore for more nuance and details.

In this episode, Ben Van Treese and Dr. Wetmore dive into the 2nd and 3rd Pillars of the Nine Pillars of Fitness: Speed and Power. They discuss the importance of these elements in maintaining overall fitness, particularly as we age. The conversation highlights why speed and power are critical for both athletic performance and longevity.

Key Points:

Importance of Speed and Power:

--> Speed and power are essential for performing athletic activities and having fun in dynamic environments.

Decline with Age: [2:24]

-->Strength decline starts in the 40s, but speed and power decline at four times the rate of strength.

Comprehensive Fitness: [5:09}

--> Athletes need a well-rounded fitness regimen that includes speed and power to prevent imbalances and improve overall functionality.

Training Recommendations: [8:34]

• For recreational athletes, training speed and power 2-4 times a week is beneficial.
• Start with three to five fast or bouncy exercises.
• Perform three to five reps and three to five sets without getting overly tired.
• Combine speed and power exercises for simplicity and effectiveness.

Quotes:

• "Speed and power are the basis of all athleticism. Anything you do that is athletic requires speed and power."
• "If you're going to start training speed and you're an adult that hasn't sprinted for a while, don't let it open up for at least eight weeks, you'll pull a hamstring."

Conclusion: [11:01]

• Incorporate speed and power into your training regimen to maintain athleticism and reduce injury risk, especially as you age.
• Consistency in training and a balanced approach are key to long-term fitness and health.

What’s Your Excuse?

At age 56, mountain biker and skier Jay Burke, “pain master” behind the Park City Point 2 Point MTB race, is sending harder than most 20-somethings

Listen to the podcast for a contagious dose of Jay Burke – it’ll get your ass into the gym or out harnessing gravity. Some highlights include:

• The origin story (00:00-02:04): Jay’s athletic beginnings, from hurdling sawhorses to team roping to motorcycling in rural Idaho.

• From the ad biz to Jackson, Wyoming (10:20): One summer turned into three years

• Balancing parenthood, racing, and play (12:31): “Competition is crack”

• The PMA Shit (20:15): Don’t underestimate a positive mental attitude.

• A blown ACL (22:09): “I'm not gonna let this define my future.”