Effects of different physical activity programs for elderly women

Abstract

There is strong evidence of the benefits of physical activity (PA) for elderly. However, there is still no consensus as to whether one modality is superior to the others. The objective of this study was to compare three different PA programs for elderly women. The study included 107 participants between 60 and 75 years old that practiced PA in three different programs, which were: Strength Training Group (STG), Aerobic Training Group (ATG) and Adapted Sports Group (ASG). To evaluate body composition, we used the Body Mass Index (BMI) and the Total Muscle Mass Index (TMSI), and for the functional tests we used the Sit-to-Stand Test (SST) and the Timed Up Go Test (TUGT). All participants of the three groups presented good physical performance, as the STG presented the best result in the SST, while in the TUGT the ASG was better. The study reinforces the need to stimulate the practice of PA for elderly, and that intrinsic motivation should be considered to offer something that is pleasurable and maintains their adherence to the program.