Getting in shape (or getting bigger): the science of staying in shape

Mr.Getting motivated to exercise is the hardest part of the challenge, but the results of a new study may just provide a dose of inspiration for those who struggle to get off the couch. In a fascinating “life swap” trial conducted at the University of Aberdeen and published in the journal Nature Communications, researchers persuaded 39 middle-aged men training for running, triathlon and cycling team to abandon their demanding sports program while benefiting from a group of athletes. 44 sedentary middle-aged recruits with early-stage type 2 diabetes (most had had it for less than a year) to exercise for the first time.

As expected, those who temporarily stopped exercising saw a sharp drop in their health. However, in just eight weeks after cycling regularly