Strength and muscle mass changes in elderly men following maximal isokinetic training

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a maximal isokinetic training program on strength and muscle mass in a group of untrained men 73 +/- 7.3 (range 68-82) years of age. Testing and training were conducted on an isokinetic dynamometer. Training consisted of one set of six maximal knee flexion and extension movements at 60 deg*s(-1) performed three times per week for 12 weeks. The subjects trained the right leg only, the left leg serving as a within-subject control. Trained leg peak torque increased by 18.1% for knee extension (from 107.2 +/- 42.9 to 126.6 +/- 44.6 Nm; p < 0.05) and by 18.2% for knee flexion (from 85.1 +/- 21.1 to 100.4 + or - 25.5 Nm; p < 0.05). Urinary creatinine levels increased by 24.3% (NS). We conclude that maximal isokinetic training at 60 deg*s(-1) increases strength and a urinary index of muscle mass in a group of aged untrained men.