How Old Are You Really?

 

I am about to break down your 4 age types: Functional, Physiological, Biological, and Chronological Age and how to test them. Before we break down the four age types let’s begin with understanding WHY this is important first. Why does aging well matter to you? Remember, Your Why is Your Compass Your why gives you a sense of direction—it shows you where you’re meant to go. Testing your biological, physiological, and functional age gives you a clear picture of where you are right now. And your daily habits and behaviors? They’re the vehicle that will carry you toward your purpose—one choice, one step at a time. Now lets dive in… #1 Biological Age: Your Cellular Clock Biological age reflects how old your body really is on the inside—based on the condition of your cells, tissues, and organs. It’s shaped by genetics, lifestyle, and environment, and may be younger or older than your calendar age. Example: A 45-year-old who exercises, eats well, and avoids smoking might have a biological age closer to 38. How it’s measured: Epigenetic testing (e.g., DNA methylation clocks) Telomere length Blood biomarkers (inflammation, oxidative stress, etc.) #2 Physiological Age: How Your Body Systems Are Functioning This age tells you how well your internal systems—like your heart, lungs, and metabolism—are performing compared to typical standards for your age. Key indicators include: VO₂ Max (aerobic fitness) Blood pressure and heart rate variability (HRV) Blood sugar and lipid levels How to test it: Use wearables like Whoop, Oura Ring, or Apple Watch to track HRV and estimate VO₂ Max. EKG features in devices (e.g., Apple Watch) can assess heart rhythm. Blood tests (via a lab or at-home kits) are needed to measure glucose and lipid profiles. #3 Functional Age: What You’re Capable of Doing Functional age is all about how well you move, think, and perform daily activities. It shows how independent, mobile, and mentally sharp you are. A 70-year-old yoga instructor might function more like someone in their 50s. How to measure it: Movement & Strength Tests: Balance and Mobility: Take our 11-point mobility, balance, and strength test here. Grip Strength: Use a hand dynamometer — standards by age/gender here. Leg Strength: Test with squats — age/gender standards here.  Or try single-leg squats in our assessment (see link under balance and mobility) Cognitive Tests: Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) #4 Chronological Age: The Number on Your ID This is simply how many birthdays you’ve had. But as you’ve seen, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Two people with the same chronological age can be on very different health journeys depending on how they live. Bringing it back to what’s most important- WHY THIS MATTERS! Understanding all four types of age gives you a full picture of your health—and more importantly, empowers you to change it. You can’t change your chronological age, but you can improve your biological, physiological, and functional age through intentional lifestyle choices. The key is to measure where you are now, then take the right steps forward. Knowing your why gives you direction—it helps you understand where you’re going. Testing shows you where you are right now. And the healthy behavior changes you choose to embrace? They’re the bridge that will take you from where you are to where you want to be. If you enjoyed this, please share with your family, network, or friends:  https://us3.forward-to-friend.com/forward?u=86edccdafe3d668490ec04501&id=044bf4fac6&e=b0093ada21 Remember, self-care is not a luxury.  It is a leadership strategy. Your well-being matters, Dr. T Founding President Movement Rx SDVOSB  |  WOSB theresa.larson@movement-rx.com