Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 17, 2025

Improving Strength, Power, Muscle Aerobic Capacity, and Glucose Tolerance through Short-term Progressive Strength Training Among Elderly People
Published on: July 5, 2017
"If they can do it, I can do it": experiences of older women who engage in powerlifting training
Jillian M Foyster1, Amanda Rebar1, Joshua H Guy1
1School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQUniversity, Rockhampton, Australia.
Abstract:
Older adults' participation in resistance training is low. Recent research suggests social aspects are important determinants of exercise engagement. In this study, 13 older women (50 years and older) were interviewed to examine their experiences of powerlifting training. Data were thematically analyzed revealing two main themes: Challenging Beliefs and Positive Social Influences. Peer advocates were essential for uptake, with social interactions in group resistance training, and having a skilled trainer, identified as important adherence factors. Strategies to improve resistance training uptake in older women could leverage off the experience of others and powerlifting training culture and practices.
Related Concept Videos
Exercise and Muscle Performance
Endurance exercises
Endurance exercises involve running, swimming, or cycling, which require repetitive movements with low force output. When a person engages in endurance exercise, a few noticeable changes occur in their skeletal muscles. For instance, the number of capillaries...
Menopause
Changes in the Appendicular Skeleton with Age
Initially, the limb buds consist of a core of mesenchyme covered by a layer of ectoderm. The ectoderm at the end of the limb bud thickens to form a narrow crest called the apical ectodermal ridge. This ridge stimulates the underlying...

