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Task-specific resistance training adaptations in older adults: comparing traditional and functional exercise
Jason I Pagan1, Bethany A Bradshaw1, Brisilda Bejte1
1Institute of Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Science, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States.
Frontiers in Aging
|May 15, 2024
Summary
Older adults experience muscle loss, but exercise type matters. Functional training improved daily activities, while traditional strength training boosted strength more significantly. Both methods offered some general muscle benefits.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomedical Science
Background:
- Muscle strength declines significantly in adults over 70, impacting daily living.
- Current resistance training guidelines for seniors often use inaccessible exercises lacking real-world application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test if resistance training adaptations in older adults are task-specific.
- To compare the effectiveness of traditional resistance training versus functional training with weighted vests.
Main Methods:
- Thirty older adults (mean age 71) underwent 6 weeks of supervised, high-intensity training.
- Groups performed either traditional free-weight/machine exercises or functional activities with a weighted vest.
- Outcomes included functional performance, strength (5-repetition maximum), isometric force, and muscle size.
Main Results:
- Functional training significantly improved gait speed and timed-up-and-go.
- Traditional training yielded 2-3 times greater strength gains in specific lifts.
- Both groups showed improvements in isometric strength and muscle size, indicating some generic adaptations.
Conclusions:
- Resistance training adaptations in older adults are highly task-specific.
- Functional training with weighted vests can effectively improve daily functional outcomes in seniors.
- Some training benefits, like muscle size and isometric strength, appear to be general.
