Mobility Outcomes From Resistance Training Delivered via Flash Drive to Overweight/obese Patients In A Clinical Setting

Abstract

Elastic and isotonic resistance training can improve health and fitness. Little is known about the impact of a home-based, structured program delivered via flash drive videos to weight management patients in a clinical setting. PURPOSE: To measure functional fitness/mobility after 12 weeks of a home-based, video led resistance-training program (Mini BIRST) designed as short interval workouts using dumbbells or Theraband CLX elastic resistance bands. METHOD: Overweight/obese participants (n=21, 51.5 yrs, BMI 33.2 kg•m-2) enrolled in the Health Management Resources (HMR) weight management program, self-selected to join the study and were assessed for baseline health and mobility. They were randomized into 2 groups: 3 weeks of isotonic resistance followed by 3 weeks of elastic resistance (10-20 min/day, 2-3 days/wk, 6 wks) using a cross-over design. Participants then performed full body CLX-only circuit exercises (20 min/day, 2-3 days/wk, 6 wks). Both home-based programs were delivered via written handouts and flash drive videos. Functional fitness/mobility was assessed using standardized tests. Repeated measures ANOVA were conducted and a p-value of <0.05 was used to indicate significant changes. An opinion survey was conducted to determine attitudes about the program and delivery. RESULTS: Participants exercised 3 days/wk for 12 weeks with 83% compliance. Mobility improved for chair stand (26%), arm curl (35%), aerobic endurance (25%), and flexibility in both legs (4% right, 2% left). Participants showed no changes for weight or BMI, but successfully maintained “weight neutral” during the 12-week. Participants trended toward an increase in physical activity (9%), over baseline. ” Participant opinions revealed they “Liked” the program overall” (75%), said they “Felt good” (70%), was “Convenient to do” (85%), “Liked the flash drive delivery” (85%) and would “Continue the program” (85%). CONCLUSIONS: Participants complied to and enjoyed the home-based, dumbbell and CLX resistance band short-burst workouts delivered via flash drive videos and illustrated handouts, resulting in improved mobility and aerobic endurance. Further study is needed to determine long- term impact on adherence, weight and health. Support for this study provided by Performance Health, Akron, OH.