Forearm Muscle Activity and Handgrip Profile Between Physically Active and Sedentary Older Women

Abstract

Background: The aging process promotes changes in skeletal muscles that influence muscle strength and fatigue, however physical exercise has a direct effect on the aging process. Objective: The aim of this study was investigated the strength and strength fatigability and the muscle activities of the forearm of elderly women’s handgrip according physical level. Method: The patterns of rapid muscle strength, maximum strength and fatigability of 32 elderly women during handgrip task were evaluated in this cross-sectional study. Both hands were evaluated and the muscle activity of the carpal flexors and extensors was monitored with an electromyography simultaneously. Volunteers were grouped into two groups based on their level of physical activity: physically active and sedentary. Results were compared by group and time factors. Results: Rapid muscle strength and maximum isometric strength were substantially higher in the physically active. Loss of strength was verified in physically active while the fatigue by muscle activity was identified in sedentary group. Discussion: The volunteers' physical activity pattern was able to change their muscle contraction strategies. The active group mainly practices strength training or combined training that includes strength training with at least 3 sessions per week. This volume was also enough to promote gains in the strength and rapid strength. Conclusion: The physical activity profile of the elderly women in this study have influenced strength, fatigability, and muscle activity during handgrip strength.