Previous research also stated that aerobic exercise can improve the dermis, which is the layer of skin beneath the epidermis, as conveyed by Satoshi Fujita, PhD, a sports scientist from Ritsumeikan University in Kyoto, Japan. The impact of weightlifting exercise on the benefits of preventing premature aging has also been revealed in an article on Health.com (28/02).

The research results show that cycling and weightlifting can improve skin elasticity, which is the ability of the skin to return to its original shape after being stretched. In addition, both types of exercise can also increase the activity of genes responsible for collagen production. It was also found that both activities have a positive impact on the extracellular matrix of the dermis, which is the collagen and elastic fiber tissue that tends to decrease due to aging and environmental factors such as sun exposure.

However, there is one significant difference between the two groups. Women who do weightlifting exercises will experience thickening of their skin layers, while those who cycle do not. Fujita explains that thicker skin layers can reduce wrinkles, have fewer pigmented spots, and overall make the skin appear younger.

"Currently, we do not have certainty whether changes in the dermis will create visible benefits on the skin," said Rajani Katta, MD, a professor at Baylor College of Medicine who was not involved in this study, to Health. According to Fujita, it takes longer to see the impact of weightlifting on the appearance of the outer skin. Katta added that it is unclear whether these benefits will disappear after weightlifting routines are stopped. He stated that these benefits are likely temporary."

"Although being active in exercising, one should not neglect factors that can damage the skin such as smoking and exposure to sunlight. Recent research shows that endurance training or weightlifting plays a role in delaying skin aging. Previous findings indicate that aerobic exercise also helps improve skin condition, but strength training provides additional significant benefits. Experts emphasize the importance of adding endurance and cardiovascular exercises to the exercise routine to obtain maximum benefits."