High and Low-speed Resistance Training Induce Similar Physical and Functional Responses in Older Women

This study aimed to compare the effects of high-speed resistance training (HSRT) and low-speed resistance training (LSRT) in physical fitness, and functional performance in untrained older women. Twenty-four women (62.2 ± 2.7 years old) were allocated to the HSRT or LSRT groups. The HSRT and LSRT groups underwent a similar training program [3 sets of 8 to 12 repetitions at 90% of 10 maximum repetitions] for 14 weeks, twice a week. The LSRT group performed the exercises with 3 seconds in the concentric and eccentric phases, while the HSRT group performed with the concentric phase as quickly as possible and 3 seconds in the eccentric phase. Participants completed pre-and post-training testing to assess strength, flexibility, muscle endurance, power, walking speed, functional balance, and aerobic endurance. Two-way mixed-model ANOVA with repeated measures was applied for each variable, and the Bonferroni post hoc was used when necessary. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. No significant group*time interactions were found for any variable. Time main-effect suggested significant improvements for the 10 RM bench press (F = 46.1; p < 0.001), 10 RM leg press (F = 49.8; p < 0.001), sit-to-stand test (F = 10.4; p = 0.004), sit and reach (F = 10.5; p = 0.004), Timed Up-and-Go (F = 29.8; p < 0.001) and 6-min walking test (F = 41.6; p < 0.001). Thus, the configurations of RT tested here were similarly efficient to improve the functional performance of untrained older women. In addition, both groups showed significant gains in muscle strength, but not in muscle power and gait speed.