High-speed Resistance Training Research Articles

Effects of a 16-week High-Speed Resistance Training program on body composition in community-dwelling independent older adults: A clinical trial

Background & AimsAging frequently causes changes in body composition, such as a loss of strength and muscular mass and an increase in fat mass. Exercise training programs have been suggested as effective strategies to mitigate or prevent age-related declines in body composition. Therefore, this study examined the effects of a sixteen-week High-Speed Resistance Training (HSRT) program on body composition parameters in community-dwelling independent older adults. MethodsThe present clinical trial included 79 older adults, who were divided into two groups: intervention group (IG, N=40, age, 68.50 ± 3.54 years; weight, 68.65 ± 11.36 kg) and control group (CG, N=39, age, 72.08 ± 5.89 years; weight, 67.04 ± 10.69 kg). IG performed the supervised HSRT for 16 weeks, with 3 sessions per week of 60–70min, each session of 5–6 exercises, 2–3 sets, and 6–10 reps/exercise while CG did not perform any exercise training program. Body composition parameters were assessed using a multifrequency tetrapolar bioelectrical impedance analyzer (InBody® S10). The level of physical activity and the dietary intake were evaluated by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF) and the Food Frequency Questionnaire, respectively. Statistical analyses were performed using the analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), and effect size (Cohen's dunbiased). ResultsThe analysis showed significant effects of the group factor for IG on phase angle (F(1)=14.39, p<0.001, η2p=0.159). Additionally, results from Δ changes (post- minus pre-values) revealed small and medium effects in favor to IG for body cell mass (t(77)=1.21, p=0.230, dunb=0.27 [-0.17, 0.71]) and phase angle (t(77)=2.82, p=0.006, dunb=0.63 [0.18, 1.08]), respectively. ConclusionsThe HSRT could effectively prevent the decline in cellular health and cell integrity in older adults, as evidenced by the significant improvements in the phase angle. RegistrationClinicaltrial.gov (ID: NCT05586087).

Multicomponent and power training with elastic bands improve metabolic and inflammatory parameters, body composition and anthropometry, and physical function in older women with metabolic syndrome: A 20-week randomized, controlled trial

PurposeThis study aimed to explore the effects of 20 weeks of multicomponent or power training with elastic bands (EBs) on metabolic and inflammatory blood parameters, body composition, anthropometry, and physical function in older women with metabolic syndrome (MS). MethodsNinety participants were randomly assigned to a multicomponent (MCG; n = 30), power (PG; n = 30), or a control group (CG; n = 30). The MCG performed balance, slow-speed strength, and aerobic training, twice per week. The PG completed a high-speed resistance training program twice per week, composed of three to four sets of ten repetitions of six overall body exercises at a perceived rating of effort for the first repetition of 3–4 on the OMNI-Resistance Exercise Scale EB. MS-related variables (glucose, triglycerides, and waist circumference) and cardiometabolic risk factors (high-density lipoprotein [HDL], glycosylated hemoglobin, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL], C-reactive protein, and anthropometric profile) were assessed. Physical function was evaluated through balance, strength, and mobility tests. ResultsAn analysis of variance revealed that both training groups similarly improved most glycemic and lipidic profile parameters (p ≤ 0.006; d ≥ 0.46), body composition and anthropometry (p < 0.001; d ≥ 0.41), and physical function (p ≤ 0.005; d ≥ 0.69). Opposed to the PG, the MCG improved balance (p < 0.001; d = 0.96) and decreased the inflammatory status by downregulating C-reactive protein (p = 0.003; d = 0.47). On the other hand, the PG exhibited improvements in handgrip strength (p = 0.006; d = 0.48), while the MCG did not. ConclusionTherefore, multicomponent and power training with EBs are plausible strategies for improving the cardiometabolic health status and physical function in older women with MS.

Strength training in elderly: An useful tool against sarcopenia.

The loss of muscle mass and strength in elderly population (especially after the age of 65–70) represents a public health problem. Due to the high prevalence of frailty in older adults, cardiovascular or low-intensity exercise is implemented as first choice option. Although beneficial these training schemes are not as effective as strength-based resistance training for increasing muscle strength and hypertrophy. In fact, when performed progressively and under professional supervision, strength-based training has been proposed as an important and valid methodology to reduce sarcopenia-related problems. In this mini-review, we not only summarize the benefits of weight resistance training but also highlight practical recommendations and other non-conventional methods (e.g., suspension training) as part of an integral anti-sarcopenia strategy. Future directions including cluster set configurations and high-speed resistance training are also outlined.

Acute and chronic effects of traditional and high-speed resistance training on blood pressure in older adults: A crossover study and systematic review and meta-analysis.

The present study included two related investigations that explored the acute and chronic effects of high-speed resistance training (HSRT) on blood pressure (BP) in older adults. The first study involved a randomized crossover study that compared the acute effects of traditional resistance exercise (TRT) and high-speed resistance training (HSRT) on hemodynamic parameters in frail older adults. Sixteen institutionalized frail older adults were recruited. BP was recorded before, over 1h, and 24h after the end of the experimental session. Participants performed 4 resistance exercises involving 4-8 sets with 4-10 repetitions at moderate intensity. The second study was a systematic review and meta-analysis of experimental studies that investigated the acute and chronic effects of HSRT on BP in older adults. Crossover, quasi-experimental, and randomized controlled trials that examined the effects of HSRT on BP in people aged 60+years as a primary or secondary outcome were included. Studies were retrieved from MEDLINE, SPORTDiscuss, CINAHL, SCOPUS and AgeLine databases from inception through December 31, 2021. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Newcastle - Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS). A pooled effect size was calculated based on standard mean differences (SMD). In study 1, we observed that both TRT and HSRT caused post-exercise hypotension (PEH). However, systolic BP (SBP) was significantly lowered for up to 60min after TRT, while it was only reduced 30 and 50min after HSRT. There was no difference in SBP between resistance exercise protocols. A reduction in mean arterial pressure was only observed after TRT. In study 2, 1114 articles were identified, and 8 were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled analyses indicated that HSRT did not cause significant PEH. However, a significant reduction in SBP was observed after HSRT programs in comparison to controls (SMD=0.61, P=0.009) and baseline values (SMD=2.03, P=0.04). In study one, we observed that both TRT and HSRT caused systolic PEH in comparison to baseline in frail older adults. However, specific patterns were observed according to each type of RT. Indeed, a longer PEH in comparison to baseline was observed after TRT, whereas HSRT had greater reductions in comparison to CS. In addition, TRT had exclusive reductions in MAP. These results were not supported by our meta-analysis, given that no significant effects of an acute session of HSRT on office and ambulatorial BP were observed. On the other hand, our findings suggest that HSRT might significantly reduce SBP in older adults.

The Effects of High-Speed Resistance Training on Health Outcomes in Independent Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Human ageing involves several physiological impairments—in particular, a decrease in sensorimotor function and changes in the nervous system reduce muscle strength, power, balance, and functional capacity performance. Preventive strategies are essential to ensure the quality of life of the elderly. High-speed resistance training (HSRT) may be an effective approach to muscle power development in this population, with significant short-term effects on neural adaptations and muscle power production. Therefore, the present study intends to analyze and systematize the studies focused on HSRT interventions and their effects on health outcomes in independent older adults. Four electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO, and Scielo) were used for the purposes of searching randomized controlled trials that measured at least one key outcome measure focusing on velocity-based training and health outcomes in older adults on 7 March 2022 and identified 1950 studies. At the end of the process, fourteen studies were included in this systematic review and ten studies were included in the quantitative analysis. The main results showed that HSRT interventions would improve health measures, mostly cognitive function (large effects, p = 0.001, SMD = 0.94), neuromuscular function (moderate effects, p = 0.003, SMD = 0.70), and physical function (moderate effects, p = 0.04, SMD = 0.55 and p = 0.009, SMD = −0.59). Additionally, the results suggested that interventions with ten weeks or more, performed three times a week, provide significant improvements in neuromuscular function. In this sense, HSRT is effective for improving overall health outcomes in older adults. Future studies should include proper follow-ups (e.g., minimum six months) to assess the durability of HSRT intervention effects on all health-related variables.

Is High-Speed Resistance Training an Efficient and Feasible Exercise Strategy for Frail Nursing Home Residents?

High-speed resistance training (HSRT) has been strongly recommended by experts in the field as a possible strategy to manage frailty in older adults; however, investigations to support this hypothesis are still lacking. Frailty is highly prevalent in nursing home residents and understanding if HSRT might contribute to frail patients' care is an urgent issue. Notably, frail older adults who live in long-term institutions commonly present reduced joint flexibility and cognitive resiliency. These characteristics might reduce the efficiency and feasibility of HSRT in frail nursing home residents. In the present, an evidence-based discussion about this topic is offered.

Effects of Low-Speed and High-Speed Resistance Training Programs on Frailty Status, Physical Performance, Cognitive Function, and Blood Pressure in Prefrail and Frail Older Adults.

Aim: The current study investigated the effects of low-speed resistance training (LSRT) and high-speed resistance training (HSRT) on frailty status, physical performance, cognitive function and blood pressure in pre-frail and frail older people.Material and Methods: Sixty older adults, 32 prefrail and 28 frail, were randomly allocated into LSRT, HSRT, and control group (CG). Before and after intervention periods frailty status, blood pressure, heart rate, and a set of physical performance capabilities and cognitive domains were assessed. Exercise interventions occurred over 16 weeks and included four resistance exercises with 4–8 sets of 4–10 repetitions at moderate intensity.Results: The prevalence of frailty criteria in prefrail and frail older adults were reduced after both LSRT and HSRT. In prefrail, LSRT significantly improved lower-limb muscle strength, while mobility was only improved after HSRT. Muscle power and dual-task performance were significantly increased in both LSRT and HSRT. In frail, LSRT and HSRT similarly improved lower-limb muscle strength and power. However, exclusive improvements in dual-task were observed after LSRT. Memory was significantly increased in prefrail and frail, regardless of the type of resistance training. No significant changes were observed in blood pressure and heart rate.Conclusion: Findings of the present study indicated that both LSRT and HSRT reversed frailty status and improved physical performance in prefrail and frail older adults. Notably, different patterns of improvement were observed among RT protocols. Regarding frailty status, LSRT seemed to be more effective in reverse prefrailty and frailty when compared to HSRT. Greater improvements in muscle strength and power were also observed after LSRT, while HSRT produced superior increases in mobility and dual-task performance. One-leg stand performance was significantly reduced in LSRT, but not HSRT and CG, after 16 weeks. In contrast, RT programs similarly improved verbal memory in prefrail. Finally, no changes in blood pressure and heart rate were observed, regardless of the type of RT.Trial Registration: The protocol was approved by the University of Campinas Human Research Ethics Committee (Protocol No. 20021919.7.0000.5404) and retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov Protocol Registration and Results System: NCT04868071.

Changes in Muscle Strength, Jump, and Sprint Performance in Young Elite Basketball Players: The Impact of Combined High-Speed Resistance Training and Plyometrics.

Yáñez-García, JM, Rodríguez-Rosell, D, Mora-Custodio, R, and González-Badillo, JJ. Changes in muscle strength, jump, and sprint performance in young elite basketball players: the impact of combined high-speed resistance training and plyometrics. J Strength Cond Res 36(2): 478-485, 2022-This study aimed to compare the effect of a combined resistance training (RT) and plyometrics on strength, sprint, and jump performance in basketball players of different ages. Thirty three elite basketball players from the same academy were categorized into 3 groups by chronological age: under-13 (U13, n = 11); under-15 (U15, n = 11); and under-17 (U17, n = 11). Players participated in a 6-week strength training program that included 2 sessions each week and consisted of full squats with low loads (45-60% 1 repetition maximum) and low volume (2-3 sets and 4-8 repetitions), jumps, and sprint exercises. All repetitions were performed at maximal intended velocity. In addition to strength training sessions, subjects performed 4 on court basketball training sessions plus 2 official matches per week. After training program, all 3 experimental groups resulted in significant improvements (p < 0.05-0.001) in maximal strength (Δ: 9.2-27.3%; effect size [ES]: 0.38-0.82), countermovement jump height (Δ: 6.6-11.6%; ES: 0.37-0.95), and sprint time in 10 and 20 m (Δ: -3.9 to -0.3%; ES: 0.09-0.69) for all experimental groups. Comparison between groups showed that training program was more effective in inducing improvements in most variables assessed for U13 compared with U15 (ES: 0.11-0.42) and U17 (ES: 0.20-0.43), whereas differences between U15 and U17 were relevant in jump and strength parameters (ES: 0.20-0.35). Therefore, these findings suggest that high-speed RT combined with plyometrics produces increments in several important variables, including strength, jump, and sprint, to yield high performance during a match in young basketball players. However, training program used seems to be generally less effective as the age of the basketball players increased.

Effect of a high-speed bodyweight resistance training on timed up and go and one leg stance in older women

High-speed resistance training programs aiming to increase muscle power have beneficial effects on balance. To compare the effect of high-speed bodyweight resistance training and normal-speed bodyweight resistance training on the static and dynamic balance in community-dwelling older women. Thirty-five non-disabled community-dwelling women aged 65 to 80 years were trained for 12 weeks using a high-speed bodyweight resistance training (HS-BT) or a normal-speed bodyweight resistance training (NS-BT). At baseline and after the intervention, One Leg Stance (OLS) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) tests were measured. Participants with an attendance to training sessions of less than 70% were excluded from the final analysis. Data from 26 participants were analyzed, 14 women aged 71 ± 4 years who received HS-BT and 12 women aged 73 ± 4 years who received NS-BT. After 12 weeks of training, a significant improvement in TUG was observed in women receiving HS-BT (ΔTUG -1.07 sec, p < 0.01), but without changes in the OLS test. No significant changes were observed in any of the tests in the NS-BT group. High-speed bodyweight resistance training for 12 weeks improved TUG in these women.

Effects of Resistance Training on Physical Performance in High-Level 800-Meter Athletes: A Comparison Between High-Speed Resistance Training and Circuit Training.

Bachero-Mena, B, Pareja-Blanco, F, and González-Badillo, JJ. Effects of resistance training on physical performance in high-level 800-meter athletes: a comparison between high-speed resistance training and circuit training. J Strength Cond Res 35(7): 1905-1915, 2021-This study compared the effects of 2 resistance training programs during 25 weeks on physical performance and hormonal response in high-level 800 m athletes. Thirteen male athletes (800-m personal best: 1:43-1:58 minutes:ss) were divided into 2 groups: high-speed resistance training group (RTG) (n = 6) and circuit training group (CTG) (n = 7). Three tests (T1, T2, and T3) including sprint and 800 m running, strength exercises, and blood hormones samples were performed. Both groups showed improvements in 800 m performance (RTG: likely positive, 80/20/0%; CTG: very likely positive, 98/2/0%); however, RTG showed an additional improvement in 200 m (likely positive, 85/15/0%), countermovement jump (CMJ) (very likely positive, 98/2/0%), and squat (likely positive, 91/9/0%), whereas CTG reached likely positive (88/11/1%) effects in CMJ and unclear/possibly negative effects in the rest of the strength variables analyzed. Concerning hormones, RTG resulted in a likely increase (83/15/3%) in testosterone from T1 to T3, and CTG showed a likely increase (79/17/4%) in cortisol from T2 to T3, remaining the rest of the hormones analyzed unclear. These results suggest that a resistance training characterized by high-speed and low-volume produced better improvements in both strength and running performance than a circuit training, accompanied by little changes in the hormonal response.

Safety and feasibility of high speed resistance training with and without balance exercises for knee osteoarthritis: A pilot randomised controlled trial

ObjectivesPeople with knee osteoarthritis (OA) have increased risk of falling with impaired ability to rapidly respond and generate lower limb muscle power to arrest a fall. We examined the feasibility and safety of a high speed resistance training program with and without balance exercises. DesignA randomised controlled pilot trial comparing pre and post 8 weeks intervention within 3 groups: control, high speed resistance training (HSRT), high speed resistance training plus balance exercises (HSRTB). SettingExercise rehabilitation clinic. ParticipantsTwenty-eight participants (67.8 ± 6.5 yr) with knee OA. Main outcome measuresFeasibility and safety - adherence, drop-out rate, adverse events, pain during and post-exercise. Secondary measures - strength, mobility, functional tests, pain, executive function, satisfaction. ResultsHigh adherence (99.3% HRST, 96.8% HRSTB), high satisfaction (92% HRST, 91% HRSTB), no drop-outs or serious adverse events, and reduced overall pain were reported. Almost 1 in 5 sessions resulted in substantial pain incidents, although these typically settled quickly. Significant improvements occurred in function, strength and mobility following the 8 weeks for intervention groups. ConclusionBoth exercise groups were feasible and safe and improved physical function and strength. Further study is required to examine the optimal combination of high speed resistance and balance exercises and its effect on falls in people with knee OA.

High-speed resistance training in elderly women: Effects of cluster training sets on functional performance and quality of life.

To compare the effects of 12 weeks of high-speed resistance training on functional performance and quality of life in elderly women when using either a traditional-set (TS) or a cluster-set (CS) configuration for inter-set rest. Three groups of subjects were formed by block-design randomization as follows: (i) control group (CG, n = 17; age, 66.5 ± 5.4 years); (ii) 12-week high-speed resistance training group under a CS configuration (CSG, n = 15; age, 67.6 ± 5.4 years); and (iii) 12-week high-speed resistance training group under a TS configuration (TSG, n = 20; age, 68.0 ± 5.3 years). Training was undertaken three times per week, including high-speed resistance training exercises. The main difference between the training groups was the recovery set structure. In the TSG, women rested for 150 s after each set of eight repetitions, whereas the CSG used an interest rest redistribution, such that after two consecutive repetitions, a 30-s rest was allowed. Group × test interactions were observed for a 10-m walking speed test, an 8-foot up-and-go test, a sit-to-stand test, and physical quality of life (p < 0.05; d = 0.12-0.81). The main results suggest that both training methods improve functional performance and quality of life, however, the CS configuration induced significantly greater improvements in functional performance and quality of life than the TS configuration. These results should be considered when designing appropriate and better resistance training programs for older adults.

High-Speed Resistance Training Modifies Load-Velocity and Load-Power Relationships in Parkinson's Disease.

Muscle power is a major neuromuscular factor affecting motor function and independence in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), and it is commonly targeted using high-speed exercise. This study examined the changes in velocities (Vpp) and percent loads (%1RMpp) at peak power and load-velocity (L-V) and load-power (L-P) relationships, resulting from resistance training because of exercise choice and loading in older patients with PD. Fourteen older adults with mild to moderate PD participated in a 12-week randomized controlled power training trial. Changes in L-V and L-P relationships for the biceps curl, chest press, leg press, hip abduction, and seated calf were assessed using pneumatic resistance machines at loads ranging from 30 through 90% of subjects' 1 repetition maximum for each exercise. Significant increases in Vpp were seen for biceps curl, leg press, hip abduction, and seated calf and decreases in %1RMpp were noted for biceps curl and hip abduction. Additionally, unique patterns of change were seen in these relationships across exercises, with biceps curl, chest press, and leg press showing the greatest shifts at the lower load end of the loading spectrum, and hip abduction and seated calf showing greatest responses at the higher end. The patterns of change in L-V and L-P relationships provide evidence for the unique responses of the specific muscle groups and joints to the exercises evaluated and offer a framework for more exacting exercise prescriptions in patients with PD.

High-speed resistance training and balance training for people with knee osteoarthritis to reduce falls risk: study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThe number of falls experienced by people with knee osteoarthritis (OA) is almost double the number experienced by people with no OA. The neuromuscular elements required to arrest a fall are more impaired in people with knee OA compared to their asymptomatic counterparts. Therefore, these elements may need to be incorporated into an exercise intervention to reduce the risk of falling. The aim of this study will be to examine the feasibility, safety and patient satisfaction of a high-speed resistance-training program, with and without balance exercises, in people with knee OA compared to a control group. The effect of these exercise programs on lower-limb muscle strength and physiological and functional risk factors for falls will also be examined.MethodsThis study will be a pilot randomized controlled trial with a pre- and post-intervention design (outcome assessments at baseline and 8 weeks after participation commencement) comparing three groups: a control group (no intervention), a high-speed resistance-training group and a high-speed resistance-training plus balance exercises group. Thirty people with knee osteoarthritis aged 60–90 years will be recruited and randomized to one of the three groups. Feasibility and safety will be assessed by examining adherence to the exercise program, dropout rate, pain level during and following exercise, number of exercises stopped due to pain, and any adverse event or any incident that prevents the participant from completing the prescribed exercise. Secondary measures of lower-limb strength, physical function, self-reported pain and function, fear of falls, and executive function and quality of life will also be assessed. To determine statistical trends of effectiveness and hence to inform sample size for a fully powered study, analyses of the secondary outcomes will be performed to assess the changes within and between groups over time (pre-post) using repeated measure ANOVA.DiscussionThe results of this study will improve understanding of what type of exercise is safe and beneficial for people with knee OA to reduce their risk of falling, and hence will inform the development of a future large research trial.Trial registrationAustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ID: ACTRN12616001382460. Registered on 6 October 2016.

The Effect of High-Speed Resistance Training on Movement Speed and Power of Older Women

The Effect of High-Speed Resistance Training on Movement Speed and Power of Older Women

Effects of different doses of high-speed resistance training on physical performance and quality of life in older women: a randomized controlled trial.

ObjectiveThis study aimed to compare the effects of two frequencies of high-speed resistance training (HSRT) on physical performance and quality of life of older women.MethodsA total of 24 older women participated in a 12-week HSRT program composed of either two or three sessions/week (equated for volume and intensity). Women were randomized into three arms: a control group (CG, n=8), a resistance training group performing two sessions/week (RT2, n=8), and a resistance training group performing three sessions/week (RT3, n=8). The training program for both experimental groups included exercises that required high-speed concentric muscle actions.ResultsNo baseline differences were observed among groups. Compared with the CG, both training groups showed similar small to moderate improvements (P<0.05) in muscle strength, power, functional performance, balance, and quality of life.ConclusionThese results suggest that equated for volume and intensity, two and three training sessions/week of HSRT are equally effective for improving physical performance and quality of life of older women.

High-Speed Resistance Training in Older Women: The Role of Supervision

Older women participated in a 12-week high-speed resistance training program under two supervisor-to-subject ratio methods (i.e., high versus low supervision) to assess its effects on muscle strength, power, functional performance, and quality of life assessed before (T1) and after (T2) intervention. Women were divided into either the control group (CG, n = 15), high supervision group (HSG, n = 30), or low supervision group (LSG, n = 28). The training program included exercises requiring high-speed concentric muscle actions. No differences were observed among groups at T1. Between T1 and T2, the HSG showed a higher (p < .05) improvement in muscle strength (ES = 0.36-1.26), power (ES = 0.5-0.88), functional performance (ES = 0.52-0.78), and quality of life (ES = 0.44-0.82) compared with LSG and CG. High-speed resistance training under closer supervision is more effective for improving muscle strength, power, functional performance, and quality of life in older women.

Effect of elastic band-based high-speed power training on cognitive function, physical performance and muscle strength in older women with mild cognitive impairment.

The effectiveness of resistance training in improving cognitive function in older adults is well demonstrated. In particular, unconventional high-speed resistance training can improve muscle power development. In the present study, the effectiveness of 12 weeks of elastic band-based high-speed power training (HSPT) was examined. Participants were randomly assigned into a HSPT group (n = 14, age 75.0 ± 0.9 years), a low-speed strength training (LSST) group (n = 9, age 76.0 ± 1.3 years) and a control group (CON; n = 7, age 78.0 ± 1.0 years). A 1-h exercise program was provided twice a week for 12 weeks for the HSPT and LSST groups, and balance and tone exercises were carried out by the CON group. Significant increases in levels of cognitive function, physical function, and muscle strength were observed in both the HSPT and LSST groups. In cognitive function, significant improvements in the Mini-Mental State Examination and Montreal Cognitive Assessment were seen in both the HSPT and LSST groups compared with the CON group. In physical functions, Short Physical Performance Battery scores were increased significantly in the HSPT and LSST groups compared with the CON group. In the 12 weeks of elastic band-based training, the HSPT group showed greater improvements in older women with mild cognitive impairment than the LSST group, although both regimens were effective in improving cognitive function, physical function and muscle strength. We conclude that elastic band-based HSPT, as compared with LSST, is more efficient in helping older women with mild cognitive impairment to improve cognitive function, physical performance and muscle strength. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 765-772.

Power training induced change in bradykinesia and muscle power in Parkinson's disease

Power-based resistance training (PWT), using low load and high velocity, can improve physical function and quality of life in older persons. Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), exhibiting muscular weakness and reduced movement speed, have been shown to be benefit from resistance training; however, little is known about the advantages of PWT for PD. PurposeTo evaluate the effects of PWT on bradykinesia and muscular performance in older patients with PD. MethodsTwenty-six patients with mild to moderate PD were randomly assigned to a PWT or control group (CON). The PWT program was three months, incorporating two sessions/wk of high-speed resistance training combined balance and agility drills. Outcome measures included: upper and lower limb bradykinesia scores, one repetition maximums (1RM) and peak powers on biceps curl, chest press, leg press, hip abduction and seated calf, and quality of life (PDQ-39). ResultsThe PWT group produced significant improvement in both upper and lower limbs bradykinesia scores, 1RM and muscle peak power (p < .05), which surpassed the CON group except for power during the seated calf exercise. No significant correlations between changes in clinical measure of bradykinesia and muscle peak power were observed after training. Significant improvements were seen in the PDQ-39 overall score, subsections for mobility, activities of daily living and social support for the PWT group. ConclusionThe 3-month PWT program significantly reduced bradykinesia and increased muscle strength and power in older patients with PD. Power training is an effective training modality to improve physical function and quality of life for PD.

Power Training Effects on Motor Function and Neuromuscular Performance in Older Adults with Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) compromises strength, power and motor function in older adults. The loss of mobility due to PD can be characterized by rigidity, bradykinesia, and gait disturbances; while reduced movement speed in PD is characterized by motor programming and execution deficits characterized by freezing and movement initiation problems. Physical exercise can reduce these neuromuscular performance and motor deficits; however, the benefits of high-speed resistance training, i.e., power training (PT), an intervention shown to increase power and physical performance in older persons, has yet to be examined in PD patients. PURPOSE: To quantify the effects of PT on UPDRS motor scores, muscular strength and power in PD patients. METHODS: Fourteen patients (9M/5F; H&Y stage: I-III; age: 71.6 ± 6.6 y; weight: 77.8 ± 18.8 kg; height: 1.73 ± .12 m; PD duration: 6.9 ± 4.4 y) enrolled in the program. The Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) motor score, 1 repetition maximum (1RM) as a measure of strength and peak power (PP) were tested before and after 3 months of PT. 1RM and PP were tested on 5 pneumatic machines (biceps curl, chest press, leg press, hip abduction and seated calf). PT used 8 wks of high-speed resistance training (twice/week) at established optimal power loads on 11 pneumatic machines (biceps curl, triceps push-down, chest press, seated row, lat pull-down, shoulder press, leg press, leg curl, hip abduction, hip adduction, seated calf) with two 2-wk transitional periods featuring balance and agility training on weeks 5 and 10. Loading was adjusted weekly based on the power plateaus. Subjects had no change in medication or activity levels across the 3-month training period. RESULTS: Significant improvement in UPDRS motor score was seen after training (Meandiff±SE= 11.0±1.1; p<.001). Significant increases (p<.05) in 1RM (kg) and peak power (W) were detected in biceps curl (Meandiff±SE: 1RM=2.31±0.35 kg; PP =14.62±5.70 W), hip abduction (10.66±2.33 kg; 26.38±9.18 W), chest press (3.36±0.61 kg; 45.19±14.23 W), leg press (14.38±3.55 kg; 207.18±39.47 W) and seated calf (31.79±4.79 kg; 51.50±20.65 W). CONCLUSION: A 3-month power training program can improve neuromuscular function and motor performance in older adults with PD and should be considered an important intervention for these patients.