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Accelerometer-Determined Physical Activity and Sarcopenic Obesity Risk in Older European Men and Women.
Andreas Nilsson1, Hadil Limem2, Aurelia Santoro3,4
1School of Health Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden.
Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle
|December 4, 2025
Summary
Engaging in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) significantly lowers sarcopenic obesity risk in older adults. Light physical activity (LPA) also reduces risk, particularly for sedentary individuals.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Exercise Physiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Sarcopenic obesity (SO) combines obesity and sarcopenia, increasing disability risk in older adults.
- The relationship between light physical activity (LPA), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and SO risk is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the association between MVPA adherence and SO risk in older adults.
- To investigate if LPA is independently associated with SO risk, considering MVPA levels.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 862 European older adults (65-79 years).
- Accelerometer-measured MVPA categorized (inactive to highly active); LPA in tertiles.
- SO risk assessed via lean mass, waist circumference, grip strength, and sit-to-stand test.
Main Results:
- Higher MVPA levels significantly reduced SO risk (up to 80% reduction in highly active group).
- Light physical activity (LPA) was associated with lower SO risk only in those with low MVPA.
- LPA did not impact SO risk in individuals meeting MVPA recommendations.
Conclusions:
- MVPA is a key factor in reducing SO risk in older adults, independent of inflammation and protein intake.
- Promoting physical activity of any intensity is beneficial for mitigating SO risk, especially in sedentary populations.
