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Improving Strength, Power, Muscle Aerobic Capacity, and Glucose Tolerance through Short-term Progressive Strength Training Among Elderly People
Published on: July 5, 2017
Responses to Maximal Strength Training in Different Age and Gender Groups
Hans Torvild Kittilsen1, Sannija Goleva-Fjellet2, Baard Ingegerdsson Freberg1,3,4
1Department of Sport and Outdoor Life Studies, University of South-Eastern Norway, Bø, Norway.
Maximal strength training (MST) improves leg-press strength in all adults, irrespective of age or gender. The PPARGC1A gene variant influences baseline strength and training response.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Human Genetics
- Sports Science
Background:
- Maximal strength training (MST) is crucial for maintaining physical function.
- Individual responses to training can vary based on genetics, age, and gender.
- Understanding these factors can optimize training protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine how age, gender, baseline strength, and specific gene polymorphisms affect adaptations to maximal strength training.
- To identify genetic factors influencing maximal strength and its improvement through training.
Main Methods:
- 49 adults (20-76 years) underwent an 8-week MST program (leg-press, 3x/week).
- One-repetition maximum (1RM) was measured pre- and post-intervention.
- Genotyping was performed for ACE I/D, ACTN3 R577X, and PPARGC1A Gly482Ser polymorphisms.
Main Results:
- All participants improved leg-press 1RM by an average of 24.2% (p < 0.01), with no significant differences across age groups or genders.
- No non-responders were identified, and baseline strength did not predict improvement.
- Carriers of the PPARGC1A rs8192678 T allele had higher baseline 1RM. C allele carriers showed 34.2% greater 1RM improvement compared to TT homozygotes (p < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- MST enhances leg-press strength across all adult age groups, genders, and baseline strength levels.
- The PPARGC1A rs8192678 polymorphism is associated with baseline maximal strength and training-induced strength gains.
- MST is a beneficial intervention for the health and performance of healthy individuals.
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