Functional vs. Strength training in adults: specific needs define the best intervention.

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Gerontology
• Sports Science

Background:

• Previous studies on improving functional capacity yielded controversial results and focused on dependent individuals.
• This study addresses the gap by comparing training strategies in independent populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of traditional training versus functional training in healthy, independent middle-aged and elderly adults.
• To evaluate functional capacity improvements using quantitative and qualitative assessments.

Main Methods:

• 101 independent adults (40+ years) participated in 24 training sessions over two weekly meetings.
• Participants were divided into two groups: traditional training and functional training.
• Functional capacity was assessed using the Y-Balance Test and Functional Movement Screen™ pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in functional capacity improvement were observed between traditional and functional training protocols for the overall sample.
• Functional training was less effective for women compared to men within the same group and compared to women in the traditional training group.
• Effect sizes indicated a moderate difference in effectiveness for women under functional training.

Conclusions:

• Both traditional and functional training protocols are equally effective in improving functional capacity in independent adults.
• Individual baseline condition is crucial; some individuals may benefit from foundational training before specialized programs.
• Women in this study may have required basic physical improvements before engaging in functional training, indicating a need for personalized training approaches.