“Strength gains in different age groups of overweight/obese adults: A pilot uncontrolled study”

Abstract

Controlled studies demonstrate that it is possible to improve muscle strength in people of all ages, including older populations. Clinically, it is relevant to establish whether a resistance training program (26 sessions of 60 minutes of aerobic workout plus 30 minutes of circuit training for muscular strength) leads to comparable strength gains in overweight/obese persons of different ages. The purpose of this study was to show the effects of a structured, supervised exercise intervention program on muscle strength, flexibility, and other health-related measures (anthropometrics, body composition, blood pressure and cardiometabolic risk) in 181 overweight/obese people ages 19–74 years old (young, 19–48 years; middle aged, 49–59 years; and older 60–74 years). We studied changes in muscular strength, anthropometric measures, body composition, basal blood pressure, and cardio metabolic risk. An increase in the dynamic muscular strength of the muscular groups evaluated (p < 0.001) was detected in all groups including the older group. Additionally, significant improvement in body composition, blood pressure, and cardiovascular risk was observed. These results reinforce the message that “it is never too late” to start physical activity and that an exercise program adapted and supervised by qualified personnel can lead to health improvements among the overweight/obese across all age groups, including older adults.

Keywords

• Exercise
• physical fitness
• strength
• public health