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Exercise and physical activity Archive

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Building better muscle

Men tend to lose as much as 3% to 5% of their muscle mass per decade after age 30, and the muscle-building hormone testosterone gradually declines after age 40. This makes it harder for men to build and maintain muscle as they age. One solution is a well-designed weight training program. Workouts should focus on all major muscles, but men should pay extra attention to leg muscles, which they rely on more for everyday movements as they age.

Navigating a doctor shortage

A 2026 study indicates a precipitous decline in the number of primary care providers in the United States accepting new patients. Without a primary care doctor, people are more vulnerable to serious medical problems and may have trouble getting regular tests and prescriptions.

Do multivitamins make you healthier?

Taking a multivitamin does not reduce the chance of heart disease or mental decline, but it does reduce the risk of being diagnosed with cancer or developing cataracts.

Treating Achilles tendon trouble

Achilles tendons can be injured in several ways. Overuse can irritate and inflame the tendon (tendinitis). Abrupt movements that stretch the tendon in the wrong way can tear the tendon (rupture). Nonsurgical treatment often is effective. Some cases may require surgery.

Video: Incorporating Meditation Into Your Life

Meditation can be a natural part of everyday life, similar to maintaining a healthy diet or exercise routine. In this video, learn how meditation can be simple, flexible, and can be practiced almost anywhere.

What is considered a healthy body fat percentage as you age?

While there is no agreed-upon normal range for body fat, most men ages 60 to 79 should aim for 13% to 24% body fat. Measuring waist and hip size can provide an estimate of how much dangerous belly fat a person carries.

After ablation, exercise may lower atrial fibrillation recurrence

After an ablation procedure for atrial fibrillation, getting at least 90 minutes of moderate exercise per week may reduce a person’s risk of an afib recurrence, according to a 2026 study.

What causes painful, itchy bumps on the skin after sweating?

Painful, itchy bumps that appear on the chest or back with sweating may signal a heat-related skin reaction that often improves with simple care.

Navigating your online patient portal: Best practices

Online patient portals enable people to see their medical records, communicate with their doctors, and more. This improved access has advantages along some with potential pitfalls, which can be avoided.

Virtual cardiac rehab: Heal your heart from home

Virtual cardiac rehabilitation offers heart-related education and supervised exercise classes that people can access at home using a computer, tablet, or smartphone. This growing trend may help make cardiac rehab more convenient and accessible.

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