Can you achieve the best shape of your life in your 50s?

Studies show active 75- to 80-year-olds can have more muscle than inactive 20-year-olds.

“And since many 20-year-olds don’t currently achieve even close to the recommended amount of physical activity, and certainly aren’t lifting weights or doing other high-intensity activities that can build muscle mass and strength, then it’s certain that a 50-year-old who does those things can get a stronger, fitter, and better-looking body than many 20-year-olds,” Blazevich says.

And though abs may be made in the kitchen, he adds: “No matter how you eat, you can’t get into that shape without a specific and strict training regiment.”

It’s all relative to what we’ve done in the past and what we’re willing to do from now on. For his part, Jackman turned up, did his deadlifts and ate his boring meals, including days of just fish and beans before filming. In a body-building hack aimed at improving vascularity and looking more ripped, he also didn’t drink water the night before shooting certain scenes.

It was an Olympic-worthy preparation and speaking of Olympians, for those who performed at an elite level in their youth, their peak has definitely passed.

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“There’s a good reason why masters’ events exist – if you are an Olympic athlete, you’re unlikely to be at your physical peak in your 50s,” Bishop says.

Though biology wins, if we’ve had good habits in the past and maintain them as we age, the decline is slower and starts from a much higher level.

Also, Blazevich adds, biology has memory. “If you’ve been strong, muscular and fit before, then it’s easier (and quicker) to get it back after a period away from the game.”

Regardless of where we are now and how much Jackman may put us (and the 20-year-olds) to shame, there is hope.

“No matter what your age, you can significantly impact your body type and your health and fitness by doing the right things,” Blazevich says. “It’s never too late, even in very old age.”

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