Methodology
Muscle Mass and Healthy Ageing
Francesco Zen, founder of ZTraining · Last updated 20 June 2026
What lean mass actually protects
- Metabolism. Stays more optimal with more lean mass to support it.
- Injury prevention. A functional, strong physique handles everyday physical demands with far more margin.
- Recovery. Better lean mass supports faster, more complete recovery from both training and daily life.
Why this matters more with age
The decline most people associate with simply getting older is, in large part, a decline in lean mass and what it was protecting. Maintaining muscle mass isn't a vanity goal at this stage, it's one of the most direct levers against age-related decline.
Related: One leg stand test · Strength training for longevity · Body composition vs weight for health · Strength training for women over 50 · Am I too old to get fit at 50? · Keep your muscle on weight loss jabs
He built Mr Z, an AI coach trained on his methodology to bring the same approach to a wider audience.