Effects of Low-Speed and High-Speed Resistance Training Programs on Frailty Status (RTF)

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

The present study refers to a three-arm randomized controlled trial that investigated the effects of two types of RT on frailty status, physical performance, cognitive function, and blood pressure of prefrail and frail older adults.

Participants performed exercises 8 times (sets) with 3-5 repetitions at 70%-75% of the maximal strength.

Participants performed exercises 4 times (sets) with 8-10 repetitions at 70%-75% of the maximal strength.

Exercise interventions were carried out over a total of 16 weeks in the mornings (08:00 am-12:00 am) under the supervision of at least two fitness instructors. Participants performed four exercises for lower limbs (Figure 9): 1st) squat on the chair, 2nd) seated unilateral hip flexion, 3rd) seated unilateral knee extension, and 4th) bilateral calf raise with 12-15 submaximal repetitions avoiding fatigue (i.e., inability to complete a repetition in a full range of motion). The number of sets was increased linearly during the first month, such that one set was performed in the 1st week, two sets in the 2nd week, 3 sets in the 3rd week, and 4 sets in the 4th week. Subsequently, participants performed the main exercise period. After a brief warm-up, participants performed the same exercises that were performed during the familiarization period using an adjustable weight vest and ankle weights (DOMYOS®, Shangai, China).

Inclusion Criteria: a) aged 60 years or over; b) were prefrail or frail according to Fried's criteria; c) performed the sit-to-stand test alone, with a mobility aid, or researcher's help; d) possessed sufficient physical and cognitive abilities to perform exercise sessions; and e) had a physician authorization to participate. Exclusion Criteria: Exclusion criteria included having participated in a structured physical exercise training program in the past six months, prescription of hormone replacement therapy and/or psychotropic drugs, and any unstable cardiovascular event (e.g., myocardial infarction) or complication in the past 6 months.

Coelho-Junior HJ, Uchida MC. 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. Front Med (Lausanne). 2021 Jul 26;8:702436. doi: 10.3389/fmed.2021.702436. eCollection 2021.