Real Simple | 4 Simple Challenges That Reveal How Well Your Body Is Really Aging

In a recent article published by Real Simple, our CEO Dr. Matt Kaeberlein was consulted regarding what happens to our body as we age. This complimented the dialogue from longevity expert Bill Hanks, founder and CEO of Huemn. Key points from the article are as follows:

1. Age-related decline in motor functions is typical—but modifiable
As we grow older, many people notice that tasks they once found easy, like walking long distances, reacting quickly, keeping balance, become harder. This is because multiple systems degrade over time: muscles lose strength, joints stiffen, sensory feedback (from vision, balance, proprioception) becomes less precise, and nerve signalling slows. But experts emphasize that the rate of decline isn’t fixed; with consistent challenge and practice, many aspects of aging, especially motor and coordination decline, can be slowed.

2. Grip strength is a strong indicator of overall “body age”
One of the simple tests recommended is a grip strength test. Using something like a jar lid, see how quickly and easily you can twist it off, or try carrying groceries to judge grip capability. Why? Strong grip correlates with general vitality, independence, and longevity. Weak grip often reflects broader weaknesses in muscle mass or neuromuscular health.

3. Balance and coordination matter (especially under challenge)
Balance decline is a major predictor of fall risk as people age. The article suggests testing balance by standing on one leg (for at least one minute) and adding a "twist" like putting on a shoe while balancing or doing something with your other limbs. Such perturbations mimic real-world demands and reveal how resilient your coordination is. Being able to balance under dual tasks suggests better preserved neuromotor systems.

4. Strength, and how brain and body work together, tell a lot about health
Two more tests are proposed:

• Strength test: Lifting light weights (even just 1-pound weights), progressing as strength increases, to see how your body composition (muscle vs fat) is holding up. Reduced strength can signal loss of muscle mass and metabolic or mobility limitations.

• Dual-task walking test: Walk while also performing a mental task (counting backwards, naming animals, talking, etc.). If walking speed drops significantly or the mental task suffers, that may indicate declines in how well brain and body coordinate, an early warning sign of cognitive or motor aging.