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Published on: August 22, 2014
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Compared Block Periodized and Non-Periodized Physical Activity Programs in Older Adults
Alejandro Moreno-Mateos1, Fausto José Barbero Iglesias2, Antonio Sánchez Muñoz3
1Department of Sports, Salamanca City Council, 37003 Salamanca, Spain.
Sports (Basel, Switzerland)
|May 24, 2024
Summary
Periodized exercise programs for older adults did not significantly improve functional capacity compared to non-periodized programs. This study explored the impact of block periodization on seniors
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
Background:
- Periodization is a common training strategy in sports to optimize performance.
- Exercise programs for older adults infrequently incorporate periodization.
- This study investigates the application of sports periodization in older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of block periodization in enhancing physical function in older adults.
- To compare the outcomes of a periodized exercise program versus a non-periodized program in seniors.
Main Methods:
- 137 older adults (≥60 years) participated in an 8-month exercise intervention.
- The experimental group (EG, n=66) underwent block periodization focused on strength.
- The control group (CG, n=71) followed a multi-component non-periodized program.
Main Results:
- The EG showed significant improvements in Timed Up & Go (TUG) test, weight, and Body Mass Index (BMI).
- The CG demonstrated significant gains in fat weight, BMI, and the 2-minute stair test.
- No significant changes were observed in the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) for either group.
Conclusions:
- Block periodization did not yield superior functional capacity improvements in older adults compared to non-periodized training.
- The findings suggest that periodization may not be a critical factor for enhancing functional capacity in this demographic.
- Further research is needed to explore optimal exercise programming for aging populations.
