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Exercise to improve gait velocity in older persons
J O Judge1, M Underwood, T Gennosa
1Travelers Center on Aging, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington 06030.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|April 1, 1993
Summary
This study found that 12 weeks of resistance and balance training significantly improved muscle strength and gait velocity in older adults. The exercise group showed notable gains, while the control group did not.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Exercise Physiology
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Aging is associated with declines in muscle strength and gait performance, increasing fall risk.
- Maintaining physical function is crucial for independence and quality of life in older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a 12-week resistance and balance training program on strength and gait in elderly individuals.
- To compare the effects of a structured exercise intervention against a control group receiving flexibility exercises.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 31 older adults (mean age 82.1 years) from life-care communities.
- The exercise group (E) performed resistance and postural control exercises three times weekly.
- The control group (C) participated in weekly seated flexibility exercises.
Main Results:
- The exercise group demonstrated significant improvements in muscle strength (e.g., knee extension 1RM increased by 32%) and gait velocity (usual gait speed increased by 8%).
- Isokinetic knee extension torque increased by 25% in the exercise group.
- No significant changes in strength or gait measures were observed in the control group.
Conclusions:
- A short-term exercise program combining resistance and balance training can lead to clinically significant improvements in gait velocity in older persons.
- This type of intervention is effective in enhancing physical function and potentially reducing fall risk in the elderly population.