Activity Levels and Muscle Strength in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Roe Lauren, Strotmeyer Elsa, Glynn Nancy, Cawthon Peggy, Ma Yan, Hetherington-Rauth Megan, Kritchevsky Stephen, Cauley Jane
Primary Institution: University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health
Hypothesis
Higher levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) are associated with better muscle power and strength in older adults.
Conclusion
Displacing sedentary or light physical activity with moderate-to-vigorous physical activity can improve muscle power in older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Higher proportions of MVPA were associated with higher leg press power in both men and women.
- Higher proportions of LPA were associated with lower leg press power in both men and women.
- The most effective time-use substitution to improve muscle power may be through displacing SED or LPA with MVPA.
Takeaway
If older people move more and sit less, they can be stronger and have more power in their muscles.
Methodology
The study used accelerometry to measure 24-hour movement behaviors and multiple linear regression to evaluate associations with muscle power and strength.
Limitations
No significant associations were found for strength, and the study focused only on community-dwelling older adults.
Participant Demographics
714 community-dwelling older adults, 58% women, average age 76±5 years.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 19.9, 115.1 for men and 95% CI: 8.1, 50.2 for women regarding leg press power.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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