Here’s Why Our Walking Gets Slower as We Age
Nautilus | Science • • health
Key Points:
- New research from Flinders University reveals that aging adults exhibit increased "co-contraction" of ankle muscles, which stiffens the joint to improve balance but reduces push-off power, resulting in slower walking speeds and shorter strides.
- This muscle co-contraction reflects a nervous system strategy prioritizing stability over performance as people age, which can lead to increased fatigue and difficulty walking longer distances.
- The study highlights that these changes contribute to a higher risk of falls among older adults due to reduced ability to recover from trips or slips.
- Importantly, the research suggests that targeted exercises focusing on balance, coordination, and muscle cooperation may help mitigate the stiffened gait associated with aging.