A follow-up study on the effects of strength training with older adults

This study was designed to evaluate changes in strength, and functional ability in older adults after completion of a 4-month strength training intervention. The follow-up sample consisted of 30 older adults (12 men and 18 women, 100% Caucasian; mean age = 71.8) who were evaluated an average of 15 months after completion of the training intervention. At the follow-up testing, 45% of the subjects reported that they continued strength training on their own after the conclusion of the strength training intervention. The data were evaluated for pre-, post-training, and follow-up differences via repeated measures ANOVA and Scheffé HSD tests. After the intervention, the subjects showed significant improvement in muscular strength and one of the functional tasks measuring coordination. From post- to the 15 month follow-up, the subjects declined in muscular strength and functional ability (mobility). However, at follow-up the subjects were stronger and had better coordination than before they entered the strength training intervention. These results suggest benefits were retained 15 months after the strength training intervention in a sample of relatively healthy older adults.