Re: Effects of Resistance Versus Multicomponent Training on Body Composition and Functional Fitness in Institutionalized Elderly Women

Abstract

To the Editor: We read with great interest the study by Sousa and Mendes,1 who reported that 12 weeks of training protocol was not enough to induce changes in the body composition of institutionalized elderly women. The results of that study are particularly important because body composition changes with aging even in weight-stable elderly men and women.2 Beyond these, we would like to comment on some points. Body composition measurement in the study was made using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). For body composition analysis in elderly adults, accuracy of BIA is under discussion.3 The theory of BIA measurement relies on the capacity of hydrated tissues to conduct electrical energy, which allows estimation of total body water (TBW). Calculation of lipid and fat-free mass with BIA was made using equations on TBW,4 so changes in TBW may easily affect BIA results, and pretest preparation is mandatory to minimize the effect of the confounders. The pretest protocol was not reported. Moreover, a recent study showed that a 12-week training program had a significant effect on changes in body fat, total lean mass, and total fat mass in an elderly population.5 In Sousa and Mendes's study, body composition was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, which is the recommended alternative to criterion standard methods. We believe that these problems may have affected the results. Conflict of Interest: The editor in chief has reviewed the conflict of interest checklist provided by the authors and has determined that the authors have no financial or any other kind of personal conflicts with this paper. Author Contributions: Umut Safer and Vildan Binay Safer discussed and prepared the manuscript. Sponsor's Role: None.