Longevity vs. Healthy Aging: What the Science Really Says About Exercise and Lifespan

What’s the difference between living long and living well? In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson dives into the critical distinction between longevity and healthy aging—and how strength training plays a foundational role in both.

Luke breaks down what the latest research says about the lifestyle factors that actually impact healthspan, including resistance training, cardiorespiratory fitness, and nutrition. He also challenges some of today’s most popular longevity trends—from extreme Zone 2 cardio to endless bloodwork—to refocus the conversation on what’s evidence-based, practical, and proven to work.

You’ll learn:

• Why VO2 max and muscle mass are two of the strongest predictors of mortality

• The overlooked power of resistance training in aging well

• How to align your fitness goals with actual health outcomes—not fads

• Why Discover Strength’s training model supports both performance and long-term health

If you’re chasing longevity, this episode will help you cut through the noise and build a strategy that lasts.