The energy cost of walking and gait speed in older adults: A review of training methods

Abstract

Introduction A reduction in gait speed has been associated with many health-related problems in older adults. Importantly, aging is often characterized by a series of biomechanical and neuromuscular alterations, which could increase the energy cost of walking (ECW) and explain, at least partly, the observed reductions in gait speed. However, most of the investigations highlighting the role of the ECW as a key factor for gait speed in older adults were observational. While some training methods could reduce the ECW in older adults, the consequences of these effects on gait speed are still inconclusive. Material and methods Through a review of the available literature, this talk will focus on the comparison between different interventions to reduce the ECW and improve gait speed in older adults. Results Recent studies suggest that training methods with a focus on gross motor skills development, aerobic capacity and lower-body muscle strength could be implemented to enhance the ECW in older adults. However, the association between improvements in ECW and gait speed is much less obvious. Discussion Although different training methods seem promising to reduce the ECW, the best intervention protocol still needs to be established, especially considering that the effects on gait speed might vary based on the participant's condition at the beginning of the intervention. Conclusion The ECW is a key factor associated with gait speed in older adults. More intervention studies are necessary to confirm that improvements in ECW could lead to clinically significant improvements in gait speed.