Effects of StrongPeople Strong Bodies on Functional Fitness: A Community-Based Randomized Trial

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose Despite the established benefits of strength training among older adults, access to strength training facilities in rural communities is limited. Local community educator–led classes using affordable equipment that can be easily stored and moved (e.g., handheld weights) offer a feasible approach for improving strength training access among older rural adults; however, very few studies have examined the effects of these types of community-based classes led by nonexercise specialists. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a community-based progressive strength training program led by Cooperative Extension county educators on functional fitness and physical activity among older rural adults. Methods Adults 50 yr and older recruited from rural Montana counties were randomized to a 12-wk, 1-h, twice-weekly, progressive strength training program, or a delayed intervention control group. Data were collected at baseline and postintervention via accelerometry, functional fitness tests, and questionnaires about physical activity, social support, and exercise attitudes. Linear mixed models and general additive models, adjusted for sex and age, were used to assess pre–post changes in outcomes between groups. Results Intervention participants (n = 83) experienced significantly greater improvements in aerobic endurance, upper body strength, lower body strength, exercise-related social support from friends, and attitudes toward exercise (all P < 0.01) compared with control participants (n = 84); improvements were both statistically significant and functionally meaningful. Conclusions The present study provides strong evidence in support of strength training for older adults in community settings, led by nonexercise professionals, to improve cardiorespiratory fitness, strength, social support for physical activity, and attitudes toward exercise. Trial Registration The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: [NCT04203563]).