Investigation of Relationships and Differences between Daily Step Count, Aerobic Endurance, and Leg Strength in Older Adults

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between leg strength, aerobic endurance and daily step count and the differences between the age groups among the retired and community-dwelling older adults. Material and Methods: Thirty healthy older adults (aged ≥65, range 65-83 yrs) were included in the study. Step counts were measured with a pedometer for seven days. Leg strength was measured with the 30 s chair stand test, aerobic endurance was determined with the six-minute walk test. Results: There were no significant relationships between daily step counts and leg strength (r=0.155, p=0.212) or aerobic endurance (r=0.129, p=0.252), (p>0.05), and neither between age and aerobic endurance (r=0.104, p=0.296), leg strength (r=-0.137, p=0.240), and daily step counts (r=-0.271, p=0.078). Between age groups, there were no significant differences in leg strength, aerobic endurance, daily step count, height and body weight, and body mass index (p>0.05). A significant relationship existed between daily step count and BMI (r=-0.340, p=0.036). Conclusion: The older adults in this study had good leg strength, poor aerobic endurance. Daily step counts were not sufficient in older adults. Leg strength and aerobic endurance were not determining factors for low daily step counts. Checking themselves with a pedometer can help seniors improve their daily activity levels.

Keywords

• aging
• physical endurance
• muscle strength
• body mass index
• walking