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Jessica Meir, known to her almost 350K Instagram fans as \u201cAstro Jessica,\u201d<\/a> is a NASA astronaut and scientist, but she could also be called a \u201cGuardian of the Gains\u201d as she builds her bone density in some truly out of this world content.<\/p>\n Meir is currently on her second mission at the International Space Station, and living on the largest construction ever built by humans in space requires her to get comfortable with heights of 250 miles (400 km), but while Planet Fitness is literally on another planet, \u201cAstro Jessica\u201d can still hit the gym, thanks to an amazing piece of kit that is offered aboard the ISS.<\/p>\n Meir explained that she works out daily in a recent Instagram post, \u201cto make sure that we can maintain our bone density, and our muscle mass.\u201d No doubt this incredible content had fitness influencers feeling more than a little one-upped, but when it comes to working out amongst the stars, your regular squat rack just won\u2019t cut it. \u201cThe ARED (Advanced Resistance Exercise Device)<\/a> is how we lift weights in space,\u201d confirmed Meir. Indeed, this specialist machine was designed by NASA to support intense workouts while in zero gravity, and uses a vacuum tubes and flywheels to replicate free weight exercises. \u201cYou can set up various configurations on ARED,\u201d explained Meir, while readying herself under the barbell. \u201cTo pretty much accomplish any standard weight-lifting exercise.\u201d<\/p>\n Experts say that astronauts can lose approximately 15% overall muscle mass<\/a> on long space missions, especially in the lower-body where 30% reductions in mass are observed. Studies also show that astronauts can lose 1.7 to 2.5% of their bone density per month<\/a>, meaning a six-month ISS mission could lead to 15% bone density degradation.<\/p>\n \u201cSquats, deadlifts, bench press, you name it, you can do it here on the ARED,\u201d explained Meir, who told her followers that squats are some of the most important exercises that astronauts can do for their lower bodies. \u201c\u2026to ensure that we maintain our bone density and our muscle mass.\u201d With the theory now out of the way, the trailblazer got to work with the practical demonstration and made a wide stance to rep out some sumo squats.<\/p>\n And, while the rest of us are forced to grab our gym bags and hit the road after a workout, Astro Jessica is able to get her breath back by peering out of the space station for an unbelievable view of the Earth. \u201cSo, I think I\u2019ll float over and take a look at all the city lights and stars,\u201d she concluded. M&F<\/em> thanks you for your incredible service, Jessica!<\/p>\n To follow Astro Jessica on Instagram, click here.<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\nHow Do Astronauts Exercise in Space Without Gravity?<\/h2>\n
Why Strength Training Is Critical for Astronauts<\/h2>\n
Jessica Meir\u2019s Space Workout Routine for Full-Body Strength<\/h2>\n