Effects of Explosive vs. Strength Resistance Training on Plantar Flexor Neuromuscular and Functional Capacities in Institutionalized Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
2024

Explosive vs. Strength Resistance Training in Older Adults

Sample size: 40 publication 10 minutes Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Magtouf Elmoetez, Peyrot Nicolas, Cherni Yosra, Chortane Oussema Gaied, Jolibois Jonathan, Rahmani Abderrahmane, Maktouf Wael, Raya-González Javier, Martínez Aranda Luis Manuel

Primary Institution: Higher Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Ksar Saîd, University of “La Manouba”, Tunis; Le Mans University, France; University of Montréal, Canada.

Hypothesis

Explosive resistance training results in greater improvements in PF neuromuscular and functional parameters compared to strength resistance training.

Conclusion

Explosive resistance training is particularly effective in improving the ability to rapidly generate force, which is essential for daily activities requiring quick responses.

Supporting Evidence

  • Both explosive and strength training improved gait speed significantly.
  • Explosive training led to greater improvements in rapid force development.
  • Strength training resulted in more significant increases in maximal force.
  • Walking speed improvements were more strongly correlated with rapid force development than with maximal force.

Takeaway

This study shows that older adults can get better at moving quickly by doing explosive exercises instead of just lifting heavy weights.

Methodology

40 participants were randomly assigned to either explosive or strength resistance training groups, both undergoing a 12-week training program with assessments before and after.

Limitations

The study focused only on plantar flexors and did not assess other muscle groups; body composition was estimated using bioelectrical impedance, which may not be universally applicable.

Participant Demographics

Participants were institutionalized older adults aged 65 years or older, able to walk independently.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3390/jfmk9040261

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