A review of the effects of different resistance training prescriptions on cognitive function in older adults

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The effects of resistance training on brain structure and cognitive functioninolder adults have now received widespread attention, but the effectiveness of the interventionandthe related mechanisms of influence require an exercise prescription dose relationship perspectivein order to make a comprehensive judgement on its benefits and many controversies. METHODS: A literature review was used to explore the effects of different resistancetrainingmethods on the brain and cognitive function of older adults, with the help of PubMed, Springerand Web of Science (Core Collection) databases to collect and collate resistance trainingrelatedliterature, search keywords include: resistance training prescription; cognitive function;prescription dosage; functional resistance training; older adults. RESULTS: High total training volume and medium to high intensity resistance trainingmaybemore effective in enhancing executive function; different resistance training modes, especiallyunstable plane resistance training and high-speed resistance training, are effective inenhancingcognitive function in middle-aged and elderly populations; complex and challengingresistancetraining or cognitive work-intervention resistance training are more positive for cognitiveimprovement in older adults. CONCLUSION: Training at least twice a week, as well as complex, challenging trainingwithtraditional or modified modalities, may contribute to cognitive function; there is no consensusonthe optimal total amount of resistance training, rest periods, and training modalities for differentpopulations, and further in-depth discussion is needed in the future.

Keywords

• resistance training prescription
• cognitive function
• prescription dosage
• functional resistance training
• older adults