Abstract
Resistance training is recommended as a strategy to counteract sarcopenia and enhance muscle strength in older adults. However, it remains unclear if sex alters the response to this mode of exercise. PURPOSE To examine the effects of a progressive resistance exercise regimen on upper and lower body muscle strength, whole body lean tissue mass (WBLM), upper limb LM (ULLM), and lower limb LM (LLLM) in older men and women. METHODS Ten men and 6 women aged 65–78 yr underwent 20 weeks of resistance training, 2 days per week, performing 3 sets at an 8 repetitions maximum (8-RM) intensity for 7 upper and lower body exercises. Dynamic muscle strength was assessed by 1-RM and isometric knee extensor strength by isokinetic dynamometry. Bone mineral-free lean tissue mass was assessed by dual-energy Xray absorptiometry (Hologic Discovery W). RESULTS Men and women similarly increased (2-way ANOVA, time effect; p = 0.001) upper (women, 28.9±11.7%; men, 32.0±11.1%; mean ± SD) and lower (women, 38.4±14.7%; men 30.3±11.7%) body strength as well as isometric knee extensor torque. WBLM (women, 856.1±837.7 g; men, 705.5±700.0 g), ULLM (women, 214.7±167.2 g; men, 256.6±131.4 g) and LLLM (women, 383.9±422.0 g; men, 271.5±411.0 g) increased in both men and women (time effect, p = 0.001). However, there were no interaction effects (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Older men and women experienced similar gains in muscle strength and whole body and regional lean tissue mass indicating comparable neuromuscular and anabolic responses following resistance training.
Published Version
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