Effect of Resistance Training Programs With Equated Power on Older Adults' Functionality and Strength: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

[Abstract]: This study aimed to compare the effect of 2 training programs of equated power but differing in load intensity on older adults' functionality, strength, performance, and body composition. Forty-four active (23 female) older adults (66.3 ± 4.5 years) were randomly assigned to low-load high-velocity (LL-HV), high-load low-velocity (HL-LV), and control (CON) groups. Low-load high-velocity and HL-LV performed, twice weekly for 5 weeks, a resistance training program at 95% of their individual peak power (PP) but with different load intensities for 3 exercises: chest press (CHP), leg press (LP), and seated row (SR). Before and after the intervention, body composition, functional performance, maximal voluntary isokinetic force (MVF), PP, and a relative load-power profile (L-PP) were evaluated for every exercise. PP similarly improved in the experimental groups for SR and LP (p < 0.05). Both groups increased their MVF for the 3 exercises (p < 0.05). Positive effects on L-PP were observed in LL-HV for SR (p = 0.009) and HL-LV for LP (p < 0.001). CON decreased its global power performance in SR (p = 0.009) and CHP (p = 0.031) compared with the baseline. Both experimental groups improved Timed Up and Go performance (p < 0.05), but only HL-LV increased 6-minute walking performance (pre: 514.3 ± 89.0 m, post: 552.6 ± 65.4 m; p < 0.05). In conclusion, adding short-term power training (i.e., 10 sessions throughout 5 weeks) with loads slightly above the optimal load to nonsupervised multicomponent training might improve active older adults' functional performance and cardiovascular endurance.