Magazine | New Zapiens Awards 2024 – celebrating the top longevity brands

New Zapiens Awards 2024 – celebrating the top longevity brands

Written by Volker Blasek 21 min read
New Zapiens Awards 2024 – celebrating the top longevity brands

The New Zapiens Awards 2024 shine a spotlight on the most trusted and effective brands in the longevity and wellness space. These annual awards are significant because they’re entirely driven by the community’s voice – winners are determined based on verified customer reviews and ratings, ensuring an authentic reflection of quality and trust. In other words, real users decide who comes out on top. All brands must meet high standards to win in a category. This rigorous selection process means only genuinely loved brands earn the “Winner 2024” title, and the top ten in each category receive a “Best of 2024” honor. 

What makes these awards special is their fair and transparent approach. New Zapiens excludes any biased reviews (for example, from a brand’s founders or influencers) to keep things honest. The result? An awards list that highlights brands making a real difference in people’s health and longevity journeys. Below, we break down the winners by category – from supplements and wearables to gadgets – and list the “best of” runners-up. Each section introduces the category, announces the 2024 Winner, and then lists ranks 2–10 under a “Best of 2024” subheading with a brief intro for each brand. Whether you’re a biohacker, a wellness enthusiast, or a curious skeptic, this roundup offers an evidence-based yet enthusiastic look at the longevity brands that stood out in 2024.  

Best Longevity Supplement Brand 2024: Sunday Natural

Sunday Natural has long been a standout in the premium supplements market. They’re deeply committed to purity, scientifically verified ingredients, and holistic health. Based in Berlin, Sunday Natural sources raw materials from select regions around the world—prioritizing organic and fair-trade practices wherever possible—and performs extensive lab tests to ensure that each product meets stringent quality standards. Their lineup ranges from nutrient-dense powders (like matcha and acai) to specialized formulations of vitamins, minerals, and herbs, all designed to support vitality and well-being.

A hallmark of Sunday Natural is their transparent approach: each product page details origin, processing, and any third-party certifications. This blend of conscientious sourcing, rigorous testing, and evidence-based formulations has earned Sunday Natural an enthusiastic 4.7 average rating from the New Zapiens community—securing the top spot among supplement companies in the 2024 awards.

Best of 2024 – Supplements Top Companies

In addition to Sunday Natural, the supplements category was packed with standout brands. Here are the other top longevity supplement brands of 2024 that earned “Best of 2024” honors based on community reviews:

  • ESN: Standing for “Elite Sports Nutrition,” ESN bridges the gap between sports performance and longevity. This German brand (founded 2020) offers premium protein powders, amino acids, and performance supplements “Made in Germany”. With 23 reviews and a 4.7 ★ score, ESN became a community favorite for those looking to build muscle and recover faster without compromising long-term health.
  • Bulk: A leading UK-origin sports nutrition brand (formerly “Bulk Powders”) that made the list with a 4.4 ★ average. While Bulk is geared toward fitness (proteins, BCAAs, etc.), many in our community use its third-party tested whey, collagen, and creatine as part of a longevity diet. With 16 reviews, Bulk stood out for its combination of value and product breadth – useful for those looking to “bulk up” healthspan as well as muscle.
  • Edubily: A niche brand that combines cutting-edge biochemistry research with nutrition. Edubily’s founders built the brand on a blog educating people about mitochondria, hormones, and longevity. Their products (like intelligently formulated multivitamins) focus on filling biochemical gaps. Edubily earned a 4.7 ★ average from the New Zapiens community, who appreciate the brand’s educational, no-BS approach to supplements.
  • NORSAN: A specialist in marine omega-3 supplements, Norway-based NORSAN wowed users with its high-purity fish oils and algae omega-3 products. It has a stellar 4.9 ★ rating (with slightly fewer reviews) and a mission to improve Omega-3 intake through education and superior products. For longevity enthusiasts, NORSAN’s focus on reducing inflammation and supporting heart and brain health via Omega-3s hit the mark.
  • Evo Sports Fuel: Evo Sports Fuel operates at the intersection of sports performance and holistic health. Its product line spans classic proteins and amino acids to more specialized formulations for endurance and recovery. Users appreciate the brand’s commitment to clean ingredients and targeted nutrient profiles that fit into broader longevity strategies.
  • Sportnahrung Wehle: A staple in the German sports nutrition scene, Sportnahrung Wehle provides an extensive range of protein supplements, pre-workouts, and vitamins designed to support both muscle development and day-to-day energy needs. Its approach highlights solid quality control, making it a trusted option for those combining fitness goals with long-term health considerations.
  • MOLEQLAR: MOLEQLAR takes the crown in the supplements category as the Best of 2024, and for good reason. This Munich-founded brand has quickly become a favorite for those seeking science-backed longevity supplements. MOLEQLAR’s background is rooted in medical research – their team includes medical doctors and scientists dedicated to formulating compounds that target aging at the cellular level. They offer a range of advanced supplements and even at-home lab tests aimed at enhancing longevity, performance, and overall well-being. From NAD+ boosters like NR and NMN to cutting-edge molecules like CaAKG and spermidine, MOLEQLAR’s product lineup reads like a who’s who of promising longevity ingredients. In fact, their flagship formula “ONE” Daily Longevity Complex combines 13 evidence-based bioactive compounds to support cellular health and energy metabolism. More information: How NAD supplements may support healthy aging — and how MOLEQLAR fits in.
  • Artgerecht: Built around the concept of “species-appropriate” nutrition, Artgerecht prioritizes natural, minimally processed ingredients in its product lineup. Whether offering omega-3s or adaptogenic blends, the brand holds ancestral wisdom in high regard—striving to provide modern formulations inspired by traditional dietary principles.
  • Avea: Avea focuses on holistic well-being by combining science-backed ingredients into user-friendly daily supplements. The brand’s portfolio includes targeted formulas for stress management, cognitive support, and metabolic health, making it particularly popular with those who want a balanced approach to extending both lifespan and “healthspan.” More information: Can a healthy gut improve immunity and mood? Avea Biomind says yes

Best Wearable & Tracker 2024 – Winner: Apple Watch

In the wearables category – which covers smartwatches, fitness trackers, and health monitoring devices – the Apple Watch clinched the Winner 2024 spot. Apple’s popular smartwatch hardly needs an introduction, but it’s worth noting how it has evolved into a serious health and longevity tool. The latest Apple Watch models offer features like continuous heart rate monitoring, ECG readings for heart rhythm, blood oxygen saturation, fall detection, and even cycle tracking – all on your wrist. With a seamless user experience and over 34 customer reviews averaging 4.5 ★, Apple Watch proved to be the community’s favorite wearable for promoting healthier habits.

Why did Apple Watch win? Users rave about its holistic approach to health: it nudges you to stand and move if you’ve been sedentary, tracks your workouts and VO₂ max for cardio fitness, analyzes your sleep stages, and can alert you to irregular heart rhythms. Several reviewers mentioned that these gentle reminders and metrics have helped them be more proactive in daily life, aligning well with longevity goals of consistent activity and preventive monitoring. Additionally, Apple’s integration of health data into the iPhone Health app and even medical research initiatives (like heart studies) adds credibility. While the Apple Watch isn’t a dedicated “longevity device” per se, our community found that it meaningfully supports healthier routines and early detection of issues, which is key for aging well. It’s also polished and easy to use, meaning people actually keep wearing it (the best health tracker is the one you’ll use!). 

Best of 2024 – Longevity Wearables & Trackers

The wearables arena had fierce competition. From advanced fitness rings to medical-grade monitors, here are the other top contenders that made the Best of 2024 list in this category:

  • Garmin: Garmin’s line of fitness watches (like the Fenix and Forerunner series) secured a 4.5 ★ average rating. Known for rugged, advanced tracking, Garmin devices offer multi-day battery life and deep metrics (GPS, HRV, stress scores). Reviewers loved Garmin’s accuracy and the #BeatYesterday ethos that encourages daily improvement. For longevity fans, Garmin’s emphasis on endurance sports and outdoor activity struck a chord.
  • WHOOP: WHOOP is a screenless recovery band popular with athletes and biohackers. It earned a 4.2 ★ rating from our community, many of whom praised its focus on sleep and recovery analytics. The WHOOP strap provides a strain score for your day and a recovery score each morning based on heart rate variability and sleep quality. This data-driven approach – telling you when to push and when to rest – aligns well with longevity practices that emphasize recovery.
  • Oura: The Oura Ring, a sleek smart ring from Finland, came in with a 4.2 ★ rating and a devoted fan base. Oura tracks sleep with remarkable detail and also monitors activity and readiness. Users appreciated its subtle form factor and actionable insights on improving sleep and recovery. Many longevity enthusiasts use Oura’s nightly temperature and respiration data as an early warning system for illness or overtraining.
  • FreeStyle Libre: This entry represents continuous glucose monitors (CGM), a key biohackers’ tool. FreeStyle Libre received a 4.3 ★ average. It’s a small sensor worn on the arm to get real-time blood glucose readings. Originally for diabetics, it’s increasingly used by health enthusiasts to monitor diet impacts. Reviewers found it transformative for understanding metabolic health, calling Libre’s system convenient for optimizing nutrition.
  • Polar: A legacy brand in heart rate monitoring, Polar still impresses with a 4.4 ★ rating. The Polar H10 chest strap and their Ignite watches are valued for lab-level accuracy in measuring heart rate and HRV. For those tracking cardiovascular fitness improvements or HRV trends for longevity, Polar is a gold standard.
  • Ultrahuman: Ultrahuman offers a new entrant to the wearable market, including the Ultrahuman Ring AIR (a smart ring) and a metabolic tracking platform. With a 4.7 ★ rating, Ultrahuman impressed users by providing actionable metabolic fitness insights – from sleep quality to glucose monitoring – in a sleek package.

Best Gadget & Equipment 2024 – Winner: BLACKROLL

The Gadgets & Equipment category encompasses a wide array of longevity tech – from recovery tools and red light devices to fitness equipment. BLACKROLL emerged as the Winner 2024 in this category, reflecting its status as a beloved recovery and mobility brand. BLACKROLL is famous for its foam rollers and fascia release tools, which might seem low-tech compared to flashy gadgets, but often the simplest tools are the most effective for longevity. With a superb 4.6 ★ rating over 35 reviews, BLACKROLL has clearly made a positive impact.

Founded in Germany, BLACKROLL has grown into a global health brand focused on improving mobility, reducing muscle tension, and aiding recovery. Their foam rollers, massage balls, and stretching bands are staples in physical therapy and athletic training. What does this have to do with longevity? A lot, actually. Maintaining muscle quality, flexibility, and pain-free movement is critical as we age. BLACKROLL’s tools help users perform self-myofascial release – essentially a deep tissue massage you give yourself – which can improve circulation and reduce inflammation after workouts.

The company hasn’t stopped at rollers, either: they’ve innovated with products like posture trainers, a vibrating “fascia gun” massage device, and even ergonomic pillows for better sleep. This blend of traditional tools and new tech shows BLACKROLL’s commitment to a 360º approach to recovery.

Reviewers on New Zapiens frequently mention how BLACKROLL products became a daily part of their routine, whether to counteract hours of sitting or to recover from tough training. By making recovery accessible and effective, BLACKROLL enables longevity enthusiasts to keep up healthy exercise habits without burnout or injury. It may not be as “sexy” as a high-tech wearable, but a foam roller session can do wonders for your long-term mobility – and our community recognized that. (Our take: sometimes, staying young is about taking care of your body’s basics – circulation, fascia, muscles – and BLACKROLL nails that. We love that it’s evidence-informed (athletes swear by it) yet grounded in something as simple as a foam cylinder.)

Best of 2024 – Longevity Gadgets & Equipment

This category had some of the coolest longevity tech innovations. Here are nine other gadgets and devices that the community ranked among the year’s best: 

  • Luminette: Luminette light therapy glasses (4.5 ★) shine gentle blue-enriched light into your eyes to mimic sunlight, intended to improve mood, align circadian rhythm, and combat seasonal depression. Many users use Luminette in the morning to help wake up and regulate sleep cycles in winter months. The community loves the convenience of glasses that allow you to move around (versus sitting by a light lamp). For those in northern climates or anyone who struggles with dark-day doldrums, this gadget can be a game-changer – leading to better sleep and energy, and by extension, healthier aging.
  • Nurosym: Nurosym is a vagus nerve stimulation device (4.2 ★) that provides a drug-free approach to stress and mood management. It sends gentle electrical pulses to your ear, stimulating the vagus nerve to help with conditions from anxiety to Long-COVID symptoms. The science of vagus nerve stimulation is still emerging, but early feedback is promising for those looking to reduce chronic stress – a known aging accelerator.
  • Hyperice: A direct competitor to Therabody, Hyperice also specializes in high-tech recovery tools (like the Hypervolt massage gun and Normatec compression boots). Hyperice scored 4.8 ★ with users praising its innovative compression therapy. Athletes and biohackers use Hyperice devices to reduce inflammation and speed up recovery, and our community agrees they deliver on those promises.
  • Peloton: Peloton, the at-home spin bike phenomenon, pedaled its way into the top gadget list with a 4.8 ★ average (from a few reviews). Peloton offers interactive classes that have gotten millions of people exercising regularly. Community members highlighted that consistency in cardio exercise is a major longevity factor, and Peloton’s engaging platform helps achieve that.
  • Lichtblock: A German-made red light lamp and blue-light blocking glasses system. With a 4.9 ★ rating, Lichtblock stood out for its build quality and focus on circadian health. Users are using Lichtblock lamps for skin health, mood, and sleep – essentially hacking their light environment for longevity.

Longevity at Home Tests & Kits – Top Companies

In this category, no single brand reached the minimum review threshold to become a 2024 Winner. However, these nine companies still earned solid ratings and community praise for helping users monitor key health and longevity markers from home.

  • TruDiagnostic: Specializing in epigenetic age testing, TruDiagnostic analyzes DNA methylation patterns to provide insight into a person’s biological age. Their kits also offer personalized recommendations on lifestyle changes that may help improve long-term health and wellness.
  • epiAge: epiAge’s main focus is evaluating biomarkers tied to the aging process. Their at-home test kits allow individuals to gather a snapshot of how their lifestyle might be influencing their cellular health. User-friendly reports often include practical suggestions—ranging from dietary tweaks to stress management.
  • Cerascreen: Well-known throughout Europe, Cerascreen provides a wide variety of do-it-yourself testing solutions, from vitamin D levels and food intolerances to hormone profiles. Customers appreciate the convenience of collecting samples at home and receiving professional lab analyses.
  • Mein Direktlabor: Mein Direktlabor takes a direct approach by offering lab tests without a doctor’s referral. Their packages typically focus on common blood markers, granting individuals deeper insights into their health status.
  • Biostarks: Primarily geared toward athletes and active individuals, Biostarks positions itself as a performance-oriented testing service that also touches on longevity markers. By analyzing indicators like inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, or muscle recovery levels, Biostarks equips users with data to guide training and nutrition choices.
  • myDNAge: Another epigenetic testing option focusing on DNA methylation to gauge biological age. The brand underscores the importance of early intervention and suggests lifestyle modifications based on test outcomes.
  • Viome: Viome’s tests revolve around the gut microbiome, assessing how gut health impacts overall well-being and aging. Their proprietary AI-driven analysis offers personalized dietary recommendations aimed at balancing microbial communities.
  • Lykon: A German company offering comprehensive blood and saliva tests, Lykon measures vitamin levels, hormone balance, and food sensitivities. Their reports highlight areas for improvement, encouraging users to adopt smart changes in diet or supplementation.
  • MyRemi: MyRemi provides a streamlined approach to at-home health testing, focusing on convenience and easy-to-understand results. Their product lineup often emphasizes early detection and prevention.

Longevity Experts & Clinics – Top Companies

Although none of these experts or clinics reached the minimum criteria to become a “Winner 2024,” they still garnered positive feedback and highlight the importance of personalized guidance when it comes to living longer, healthier lives.

  • Aware: A digital platform and clinic service that merges telehealth appointments with individualized, data-driven health insights. Aware’s mission is to empower people with practical, science-based steps—spanning nutrition, mental well-being, and preventive health.
  • PreventicsOne: Specializes in proactive health planning through comprehensive testing and personalized coaching sessions. Their programs focus on lifestyle interventions aimed at reducing future risks.
  • Neotes: Offers both in-person and virtual consultations, focusing on mapping personal health data (like biomarkers and epigenetic tests) to create tailored longevity roadmaps.
  • Peter Attia MD: Dr. Peter Attia is widely recognized for his medical practice dedicated to extending not just lifespan but “healthspan.” By leveraging insights from metabolic research, exercise physiology, and nutritional science, his clinic guides patients toward evidence-based interventions.
  • VitalityClub: Centered around the concept of holistic vitality, VitalityClub supports clients through fitness programs, psychological support, and dietary guidance—combining traditional medicine with complementary therapies.
  • YEARS: Dedicated to “adding life to years,” YEARS employs a multi-disciplinary approach integrating genetic screenings, lifestyle audits, and coaching to address early health risks. More informations: Personalized longevity: how YEARS is shaping the future of preventive medicine
  • Dr. Kirkamm: Known for deep diagnostic evaluations, focusing on early intervention strategies. With an emphasis on hormonal balance, stress management, and precision supplementation, this clinic tailors each plan to the individual.
  • Superpower: True to its name, Superpower emphasizes peak performance and longevity. By incorporating biohacking concepts (nootropics, high-intensity exercise protocols, etc.), specialists craft routines aimed at boosting energy and cognitive clarity.
  • Renessence: Combines cutting-edge regenerative treatments with holistic body treatments. From IV therapies to pioneering tech-treatments, Renessence caters to those seeking state-of-the-art technologies alongside wellness benefits.

Longevity Foods & Beverages – Top Companies

Although none of these brands met the threshold for a 2024 Winner, they each received praise for offering convenient, health-forward foods and beverages that support a long, vibrant life.

  • Huel: Specializes in nutritionally complete meal replacements that provide balanced macros and micronutrients. With protein, carbs, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, Huel appeals to busy individuals who want quick nutrition without sacrificing quality or taste.
  • Blueprint:  Brings the Blueprint Protocol to life with superfoods and supplements rigorously guided by clinical research. Their offerings—like polyphenol-rich oils and targeted capsule mixes—undergo extensive third-party testing, reflecting Blueprint’s core mission to “rebel against aging” through precise, data-driven nutrition.
  • KoRo: A Berlin-based brand delivering staples like nuts, dried fruits, and pantry basics in bulk, eco-friendly packaging. KoRo emphasizes transparency and sustainably sourced goods, appealing to those seeking to incorporate wholesome, unprocessed ingredients into daily meals.
  • David: Offers functional foods and beverages that integrate modern nutritional science with traditional dietary principles. From protein-packed snacks to immunity-supporting drinks, David’s range enriches everyday diets.
  • Kruut: Crafts wild herb tonics and fermented beverages sourced from regional, organic ingredients. Kruut’s small-batch products capture diverse flavors and potential health benefits of foraged plants—modern twists on old-world herbalism.
  • Medicine Magic: Explores the realm of adaptogens and functional mushrooms, providing mixes designed to bolster resilience against stress. By drawing on traditions that celebrate plant synergy, the brand delivers convenient ways to integrate botanicals.
  • OLV Limits: Specializing solely in high-quality extra virgin olive oil, OLV Limits prioritizes freshness, purity, and verified antioxidant content. Each batch is harvested from a single region—no blends—and undergoes lab testing to confirm it meets rigorous standards. The result is an olive oil that’s rich in health-boosting polyphenols, making it a standout choice for both cooking and finishing dishes.

Longevity Apps – Top Companies

Although no app in this category achieved the required review count to become a 2024 Winner, these platforms stood out for helping users integrate wellness, mindfulness, or fitness into daily life—key factors in a holistic longevity strategy.

  • Headspace: Renowned for its simple yet effective mindfulness approach, with guided meditations, sleep aids, and stress-relief exercises. Beginner-friendly and science-backed, Headspace tackles an often-overlooked but crucial factor in healthy aging: mental clarity.
  • Athlytic: Interprets wearable data (heart rate variability, sleep patterns) to deliver personalized activity and recovery recommendations. By optimizing workouts and lifestyle choices, Athlytic aligns everyday fitness with long-term well-being.
  • Calm: A “wellness sanctuary in your pocket,” Calm offers relaxing soundscapes, sleep stories, and guided breathing exercises. Its broad meditation library aims to reduce stress and support mental resilience over time.
  • Strava: Often called the social network for athletes, Strava tracks running, cycling, and other activities—rewarding consistency and progress. Community features boost motivation, encouraging regular exercise for graceful aging.
  • MyFitnessPal: Focuses on nutrition and caloric balance, letting users log meals, track macros, and monitor weight. This large food database and user-friendly interface support a core strategy for weight management and longevity.
  • Longevital: Zeroes in on well-rounded health metrics, from daily steps to essential vitamins. The app provides tips on improving diet, sleep, and activity, nudging users to form consistent routines for long-term vitality.
  • Runna: Built around structured running programs, Runna creates weekly plans customized to each user’s fitness level and goals, supporting a proactive approach to cardiovascular health.
  • Gymondo: Stands out for versatile workout videos—from yoga and HIIT to dance and strength training. Users can customize routines based on goals and schedules, making it easier to maintain consistent exercise regimens.

Longevity Gyms & Workouts – Top Companies

With fewer reviews than required for a “Winner 2024,” these three fitness-focused brands still generated solid buzz among the New Zapiens community—proving that structured workouts and engaging programs remain pivotal for staying active and extending one’s healthspan.

  • HYROX: A global fitness race concept combining functional exercises with endurance challenges, creating a standardized format accessible to everyone—from amateurs to seasoned pros. HYROX emphasizes measurable progress, appealing to those who want all-around strength and cardiovascular resilience. More informations: Founder interview: Moritz Fürste, co-founder and CEO of HYROX
  • Barry’s: Recognized for intense workout sessions blending interval treadmill runs and strength circuits. Barry’s studios worldwide draw those who crave a communal, motivational environment. This fusion of cardio and resistance training forms a comprehensive approach to fitness and longevity.
  • Vaha: Brings personal training into the home via an interactive fitness mirror streaming live and on-demand workouts. By employing AI-driven feedback to refine technique, Vaha offers the convenience of a virtual gym without sacrificing personalized guidance. Its user-friendly format and varied training options help build and maintain overall health.

Conclusion

The New Zapiens Awards 2024 offer several key takeaways. First, longevity isn’t a one-size-fits-all endeavor – it spans nutrition, physical fitness, mental health, and recovery. The winners and best-of brands reflect that holistic approach: a longevity lifestyle might include targeted supplements, consistent exercise (tracked by wearables), proper recovery with tools like foam rollers or red light, and proactive health monitoring through smart devices. Second, community trust and verified results are crucial. The brands celebrated here earned acclaim not through hype, but through real-world effectiveness and customer satisfaction. It’s telling that many top brands focus on transparency, scientific validation, and quality – exactly what a savvy, health-conscious community demands.

Lastly, these awards underscore an empowering message: we have more tools than ever to influence our healthspan. From an app on your wrist nudging you to move, to a capsule of NMN supporting your cells’ energy, to a simple foam roller keeping you limber – the convergence of technology and wellness is opening exciting possibilities. Of course, no pill or product is a magic bullet. Longevity still comes down to good habits sustained over time. But the right brands and tools can make those habits easier and more effective. As our award winners show, when innovation meets integrity, great things happen for consumers.

Ready to take your own longevity journey to the next level? Explore these brands and more on New Zapiens’ Longevity Brand Directory. Whether you’re looking to optimize your sleep, upgrade your supplement stack, or find a community-vetted gadget for your home gym, New Zapiens has compiled the wisdom of the crowd to guide you. Here’s to a healthier, longer, and happier life – powered by the best of what 2024 has to offer!


Published: March 4th, 2025 · Updated: March 11th, 2025

Author: Volker Blasek

Volker Blasek is a technical editor with a background in horticulture, fueled by a volunteer year on an organic farm. His passion for nature and conservation, paired with his expertise in psychology and science, shapes his engaging and thoroughly researched content. As a medical editor, he has authored over 3,000 articles on topics such as nutrition, diseases, symptoms, naturalopathy, and home remedies, delivering insightful and accessible reporting for a wide range of audiences.

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From Fragile to Functional: Why Midlife Women Need a New Strength Paradigm

I never thought my next company would start with a bone scan.But here we are.At 41, I’m building again. ​​Not because I had a big tech idea or saw a market gap, but because I got scared. And then angry.Scared when a DEXA scan revealed early signs of bone loss. Angry when I realized how little support exists for women in midlife—especially around invisible health risks like bone density and muscle decline.Let me back up.I’ve always been active: triathlons, yoga, snowboarding, you name it. But no one told me that after 30, women start quietly losing 1–2% of bone mass per year. Or that half of all women over 50 will suffer an osteoporosis-related fracture. And that we begin losing muscle, which can impact everything from energy to mobility to metabolic health.I looked fit. I felt strong. But the scan made one thing clear: this wasn’t about vanity. It was about vitality.So I went deep. (It helps that my husband is a longevity nerd.) I read the research, talked to experts, lifted heavier. But what surprised me most was something ancient:Walking with weight.Also known as rucking.Rediscovering Movement with MeaningRucking (derived from the term rucksack) originated in military training as a way to build strength and stamina for combat. Today, it’s quietly becoming one of the most accessible tools in functional fitness and longevity circles.Think of it as resistance training meets low-impact cardio. You walk with added weight, activating your entire body without the joint stress of running. While it won’t build muscle mass like strength training, rucking supports muscle maintenance, metabolic function, and reinforces one of the most important physical foundations as we age: bone density.Here are a few science-backed benefits worth knowing:1. Supports Bone HealthBone Health: Weight-bearing + impact = stronger bones.Studies show that walking with added weight can slow or even reverse age-related bone loss by 1–2% per year, especially in the spine and hips. That’s significant, considering most women lose that much annually after 30.2. Burns CaloriesAdding weight increases calorie burn compared to regular walking. That makes rucking a more efficient, lower-impact way to increase daily energy expenditure - especially for women managing hormonal changes that impact metabolism.According to David Looney, an exercise physiologist who studied weighted vests for the U.S. Army:Wearing one that’s 10% of your body weight can burn 8.5% more calories.At 20%, it jumps to 19.7%.3. Supports Muscle StrengthRucking turns a simple walk into a full-body functional workout. It engages:GlutesHamstringsCalvesCorePostural muscles in your upper back and shouldersWhile it won’t replace lifting heavy, it targets slow-twitch muscle fibers, improving endurance, balance, and joint stability over time.4. Improves PostureCarrying a well-fitted vest activates the deep stabilizers in your back and core. You naturally adopt a tall, upright posture while rucking. This is especially important for counteracting the rounding and slouching that accelerates with age.5. Boosts Energy + MoodA 30-minute ruck can do more for your mood than a double espresso. Movement combined with load stimulates blood circulation, increases oxygen flow to the brain, and releases feel-good endorphins. Many women describe feeling clear-headed, focused, and energized - especially if you walk outside in nature.Why This Matters More in MidlifeRucking doesn’t require a gym, a subscription, or a schedule overhaul. It’s simple, powerful, and sustainable. For women navigating midlife (where strength, hormone shifts, bone protection, and nervous system regulation are all in play) rucking is uniquely supportive.I know because it worked for me. And I’ve watched it work for dozens of other women who’ve joined me, week after week, for 3 mile rucks in Miami, virtually, or just around their neighborhoods.It’s not about being hardcore. It’s about having a steady rhythm. One that builds strength, slowly and deeply. One that helps you feel your body in a new way.For too long, strength in women has been framed as aesthetic or performative. But what about the quiet, sustaining kind? The strength to carry families, calm your nervous system, or simply feel good in your skin?If You Feel the Shift TooIf you’re less focused on shrinking and more interested in building real, lasting strength—you’re not the only one.There’s a growing community of us rethinking how we move, eat, recover, and show up in midlife. If rucking feels like a fit, I’ve put together a free Rucking 101 Guide to help you get started: www.yvotywarrior.comAnd if you’ve found other rituals or tools that support your strength in this season, I’d love to hear what’s working for you. Let’s swap notes. We’re all experimenting—walking, lifting, breathing, evolving. It’s not about doing it perfectly; it’s about doing it together.

Too Many Tools, Not Enough Focus: Why Preventive Health Needs Consolidation and Personalization
Personalized Medicine

6 min read

Too Many Tools, Not Enough Focus: Why Preventive Health Needs Consolidation and Personalization

My journey with health started through sport and performance.First through 15 years of first division field hockey, and then more recently, when I caught the endurance bug and started training for triathlons. That’s when I began taking my health even more seriously.I got my first comprehensive blood panel outside the standard check-up. I invested in a wearable. I started tracking my sleep, HRV, and other metrics. Not out of fear, but out of curiosity and a desire to take ownership of my health, to optimize my daily performance, feel better, and live longer.And honestly, it felt good. Tangible. Empowering.But somewhere along the way, it started to feel... exhausting.If you've ever bounced between three apps, a Substack newsletter, and a new supplement routine, all before your morning coffee, you know what I mean.The world of longevity and preventive health has exploded. From testosterone to toxins, from senescence to saunas, from red light therapy to NAD drips, everything is a variable. And everything feels urgent, yet not everything is tested, nor will it have the same impact for everyone, depending on their body and their goals.Podcasts tell you what’s essential. Instagram shows you what you’re missing. Your group chat shares the latest test you "have to try."And yet, here’s the paradox: with more information, more protocols, and more tools than ever... acting on it all has never felt more confusing.The Longevity Paradox: We Know More, But Do LessWe’re witnessing a surge in interest around data-driven health.From wearables to lab panels, glucose monitors to sleep scores, individuals today have unprecedented access to their own health data. It’s a major leap forward. But it’s also created a new kind of complexity.Many people I speak to are navigating a similar pattern. They’re eager to take control of their health. They test more often, read more, try more, but end up stuck in a loop of questions.Which protocol is most relevant for me?Which insight should I act on first?Is this backed by science, or just trending on social media?With a growing stack of tools, apps, recommendations, and biomarkers, the experience becomes fragmented. People jump from fasting to fueling, sauna routines to nervous system hacks, blood tests to sleep tracking. Each new insight raises more questions than it resolves, and it becomes harder to know what’s truly impactful, or just a gimmick.And this often leads to:A sense of FOMO: “What am I missing?”A sense of overwhelm: “How do I make sense of all this?”And sometimes even paralysis: “Where do I start?”More access doesn’t always lead to more action.Without structure, context, and curation, even the best tools can become noise. The challenge is no longer about collecting data, but about transforming it into clarity, confidence, and sustainable habits.The very tools designed to bring us closer to ourselves can sometimes create more distance.What Comes Next: From Chaos to ConsolidationThis isn’t a bug in the system. It’s the natural pattern of emerging markets.The health optimization space is going through a fragmentation phase, where a thousand tools bloom, but nothing quite fits together yet.This is normal. But it won’t last.What’s missing today is an integrated layer. A system that’s not just another dashboard or tracker, but a guide. One that understands your goals, filters your data, and translates it into something you can actually act on.That’s why I believe we’ll soon see the rise of health super apps. Digital systems that:Aggregate data from wearables, lab results, and lifestyle habitsPrioritize what matters most, based on personal context and goalsCurate credible, science-backed protocolsSupport action through automation, coaching, and communityThis won’t just be a UX revolution, it will be a trust revolution.Because the real challenge is no longer generating data. It’s knowing what to do with it, and having the confidence to follow through. Trust is the missing nutrient in modern health.And yes, these tools will need to feel human, not clinical. If they become cold, robotic, or overwhelming, they’ll fail. Because longevity is not just about cellular optimization. It’s about behavioral health. About how we live, day to day. And that includes motivation, emotional resilience, and social connection.The best tools will feel like a guide, not a drill sergeant. They’ll support us in seasons of discipline and softness. And they’ll adapt to each person’s way of living. Because sustainable health isn’t rigid. It’s relational.Until Then: How to Navigate the NoiseWe don’t need to wait for the perfect app or ideal system to start making smarter health choices. Sometimes, the best tech is still a pen and a quiet moment.Here are four principles to help navigate the noise and bring focus back into the process:Be at peace with imperfectionYou won’t land on the perfect protocol on day one, or day one hundred. That’s not a failure, that’s the process. Longevity isn’t a sprint toward some flawless routine. It’s a long-term relationship with your body, built over time.Test with intention, then reflectNot all testing is equal. Instead of chasing the latest trend, invest in meaningful assessments, like blood panels or biomarker screenings, to understand your baseline. Start with objective data, not hype. This helps you prioritize what really matters for you, not what’s currently popular on YouTube. Then observe, adjust, and let go of what doesn’t serve you.Centralize your chaosDon’t let your health strategy live in ten different apps and tabs. Use a single space, a Notion dashboard, a notebook, or your calendar, to track habits, symptoms, test results, and progress.And if you’re tech-savvy: tools like MCPs, connected trackers, and digital habit systems can help you build a lightweight operating system for your health. You don’t need perfection, you need a place to make sense of it all.Question the sourceEvery protocol has a backstory. Every recommendation comes from someone, with their own physiology, goals, and biases. So before adopting it, ask: Who is this for? What evidence supports it? Does it fit my reality, or just their narrative?In health, the best advice isn’t always the loudest. It’s the most grounded, personalized, and adaptable.Longevity should feel like a liberation, not a burden.Let’s build systems and mindsets that bring us back to clarity, instead of deeper into complexity.Because health isn’t just about living longer.It’s about knowing how  and why to live well, now.