Resistance Training Improves Hemodynamics Involving Autonomic and Immune Responses

Aging impairs cardiovascular, autonomic and immune responses. Whether the resistance training influences such responses is unknown. We tested the hypothesis that resistance training could attenuate such impairments in older adults. Sixty-eight older adults were randomized into a control group (n=38) and a training group (n=31). Resistance training sessions were conducted three times per week, 12-week period, at a moderate intensity (65%-80% of 1 RM). Cardiovascular hemodynamics were evaluated by impedance cardiography (PhysioFlow), electrocardiogram including autonomic imbalance, a 1 minute sit-to-stand test including partial oxygen saturation (SpO₂) monitoring, maximal expiratory pressure, maximal inspiratory pressure, whole blood analysis and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in plasma. After 12 weeks of resistance training, an improvement in stroke volume (p<0.0092), cardiac output (p<0.0235), systemic vascular resistance (p<0.0424), end diastolic volume (p<0.0053), early diastolic function (p<0.0398), pNN50 (p<0.0485), and the TRI (p<0.0029) was observed when comparing pre- versus post-intervention in the resistance training group. Resistance training also improved maximal expiratory pressure (p<0.0036) and maximal inspiratory pressure (p<0.0034). Functional capacity in the 1- minute sit-to-stand test (p<0.0004) and oxygen desaturation (p<0.0008) were improved in the resistance training group. In addition, resistance training decreased serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-6 (p<0.0001) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (p<0.043), and increased anti-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-10 (p<0.0003) and protein klotho (p<0.0001). Resistance training improves cardiovascular hemodynamics, autonomic imbalance and immune response in older adults, while the control group did not show any evolution.