Neuromuscular effects of three training methods in ageing women

The present study aimed to compare the effects of 3 strength development methods on muscular mass and muscular strength in healthy ageing women.

Thirty-two healthy women, 62 to 75 years old were randomised into 3 groups. The 3 groups performed 4 sessions a week of strength development for 6 weeks. The 1(st) group (SC) climbed up and down 300 stairs per session. The 2(nd) group (ES) followed an electrostimulation programme on the quadriceps muscles. The 3(rd) group (SC+ES) combined stair climbing with electrostimulation. Before and after the 3 programmes, the muscular mass of the leg was assessed using a biphotonic absorptiometry machine. Isometric (angle 20 degrees and 100 degrees ) and isokinetic (60 degrees /s and 240 degrees /s) knee extension torque was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer.

None of the programmes changed the muscular mass. All 3 groups increased isometric (angle 20 degrees, p<0.001; angle 100 degrees, p<0.003) and isokinetic (60 degrees /s, p<0.0001; 240 degrees /s, p<0.0001) knee extension torque. None of the programmes appeared more efficient than the others for muscular mass or muscular strength.

Six weeks of activity (SC, ES or SC+ES) improved the isometric and dynamic muscular strength in ageing healthy women. However, this period was too short to change the muscular mass. None of the activities presented a real advantage over the others in ageing women.