How astronauts fight the physical toll of living in microgravity

Space · Published 7 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Life aboard the International Space Station is a constant battle against biology. Without the pull of Earth's gravity, the human body begins to lose muscle and bone mass. To stay healthy, astronauts must follow rigorous daily routines to counter these physiological effects and ensure they are ready for their return home.

Maintaining health in orbit requires more than just discipline; it requires specialized technology. On long-duration missions, crew members must dedicate approximately two hours every day to physical training. This regimen is essential to combat musculoskeletal deconditioning, a side effect of the microgravity environment that can significantly impact an astronaut's physical integrity.

To achieve this, NASA utilizes advanced equipment designed for the weightless environment. One key tool is the Advanced Resistive Exercise Device (ARED), which provides resistance to help prevent the loss of muscle and bone mass. For variety and motivation, astronauts also use the Cycle Ergometer with Vibration Isolation and Stabilization (CEVIS), which can incorporate virtual reality goggles to create an immersive exercise experience.

Beyond physical maintenance, the station serves as a complex laboratory and educational hub. For example, during an educational event on June 30, Expedition 48 Commander Jeff Williams discussed life and research on the orbital laboratory with students in Illinois. Such outreach efforts bridge the gap between orbital science and the public, demonstrating the diverse roles—from cargo handling to high-temperature materials research—required to keep the station operational.

The complexity of these tasks is immense. While some crew members focus on microgravity research in facilities like the Material Science Laboratory, others manage logistics, such as configuring cargo stowage within SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft or managing specialized software for life sciences gloveboxes. Every day on the station is a delicate balance of scientific discovery and intense physical upkeep.

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