Podcst
The workout that builds muscle, boosts your brain and slows down aging | Dr. Andy Galpin  by ZOE

The workout that builds muscle, boosts your brain and slows down aging | Dr. Andy Galpin

from ZOE Science & Nutrition

by ZOE

Published: Thu Apr 03 2025

Show Notes

Strength training is often associated with bodybuilding, but its benefits go far beyond muscle growth. Research shows that strength training supports cardiovascular health, enhances brain function, and is a strong predictor of longevity. In this episode, Professor Andy Galpin joins us to break down the science behind strength training and show how anyone can incorporate it into their daily routine—without spending hours in the gym.


We begin by exploring why strength matters, not just for physical appearance but for overall health and longevity. Andy revisits key insights from his last appearance on the podcast, demonstrating how grip strength is linked to life expectancy.


Next, we tackle one of the biggest barriers to strength training: time and access. Jonathan steps in as the test subject while Andy walks him through an efficient, full-body workout that can be done at home with minimal equipment. Listeners will learn essential techniques, from proper form to breathing and injury prevention.


Finally, we discuss what happens in the body post-workout and the importance of building a sustainable routine. Andy shares practical advice on nutrition, recovery, and how to create a strength training habit that delivers long-term results.


🥑 Make smarter food choices. Become a member at zoe.com - 10% off with code PODCAST

🌱 Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30+


Follow ZOE on Instagram.


Timecodes

Can you you live longer with strength training?

Quickfire questions

Why bother with strength training?

New science: strength and longevity

How many workouts until I get benefits?

Workout THIS many days per week

Fast twitch vs slow twitch muscles

Designing the perfect home workout

Equipment you need at home

What is resistance exercise?

Understanding reps and sets

Do you need protein supplements?

Building muscle working from a desk


📚Books by our ZOE Scientists

The Food For Life Cookbook

Every Body Should Know This by Dr Federica Amati

Food For Life by Prof. Tim Spector


Free resources from ZOE

Live Healthier: Top 10 Tips From ZOE Science & Nutrition

Gut Guide - For a Healthier Microbiome in Weeks


Mentioned in today's episode

Grip Strength: An Indispensable Biomarker For Older Adults, 2019,published in Clinical Interventions in Aging

Heavyresistance training at retirement age induces 4-year lasting beneficial effects in muscle strength: a long-term follow-up of an RCT, 2024,published in British Medical Journal

NoTime to Lift? Designing Time-Efficient Training Programs for Strength and Hypertrophy: A Narrative Review, 2021,published in Sports Medicine

IsResistance Training to Muscular Failure Necessary?, 2016,published in Frontiers in Physiology


Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here.

Episode transcripts are available here.