These researchers have discovered that at the core of the fountain of youth is the body's hormonal system, and as we approach middle age, weakening glands cause our hormone levels to shift. The resulting disturbance in metabolism (the body's engine) is what primarily causing aging to occur.

There are two major actions or directions of metabolism. When we are young and growing our metabolism is in a highly anabolic state, with high energy and the ability of the body to repair, rebuild and restore itself at cellular level quickly and efficiently. As we get older we become less active which causes tissues to deteriorate.

Many of the health problems blamed on aging are actually symptoms of deteriorating fitness and waning strength caused by idleness, apathy and laziness. The brain then receives signals of a weakening, faltering system and goes into a gradual "shut down" mode. It assumes that it is time to start the process of clearing this spent human being from the planet to make way for stronger and more useful replacements.

This is where the shift occurs with the metabolism changing to catabolic or "breakdown" mode. The current life expectancy is 77 years and ignorance is the only reason that this is the average lifespan. It could be much higher - even well more than 100 but too many people let their bodies deteriorate and phase out due to lack of knowledge that this process is largely preventable.

We now know we can manipulate the hormones that are responsible for the change in metabolism to enjoy an extended youth. Now it is possible to improve almost every aspect of your body ? muscle strength, bone mass, long and short-term memory, healing time, organ function and regain a youthful appearance ? all by changing metabolism and body chemistry.

Studies have shown that the single most common factor in long-lived people is the retention of their lean muscle mass which means their metabolism is more anabolic as well as that their lifestyle is highly active.

By simply performing a proper exercise program that contains at least 60% strength training exercise will stimulate the release of the hormones necessary to activate stem cells to replace damaged ones and changes the metabolism to repair tissues, organs and systems.

Instead of a degenerating, flabby shell targeted to be phased out, a healthy body signals the brain to restore and/or maintain muscle strength and tone, vigor, immunity, organ function and to keep the "life force" going.

This rejuvenation occurs when the metabolism is realigned for maximum longevity and youthfulness. As a result there is a chance of a better, healthier and longer life. Better hormonal secretions from healthy glands improve the signals to the brain so it does not go into the "shut-down" mode, or stops this process if it is already underway.

This is all possible with the right exercise program that contains at least 60% strength training exercise. Don't expect these sorts of results from low intensity activities such as walking or cycling etc. These are great to add on to an active lifestyle but can never replace a proper exercise program to prolong youthfulness.

Make sure you get the right help from a fitness professional to ensure your program is set up correctly and you are taught the correct strength training exercise technique, intensity, duration and frequency. This will ensure you receive the maximum results in the shortest possible time.

This new way of aging is about supporting and enhancing optimal health and energy, preventing premature and preventable disease and so you look good for your age.

Only when you take a proactive approach rather than just letting aging happen to you will you find the true and only "fountain of youth".