Adding weights to low intensity exercise increases isometric muscular strength and functional ability in healthy older adults

Abstract

One of the most pronounced changes associated with aging is the impairment of movement, related in part to decreased strength. This study evaluated the effect of using hand-held and ankle weights on isometric strength and functional ability with a group of healthy older adults participating in an 8-week Body Recall exercise programme. Body Recall consists of 60 minutes of group instruction using rhythmic movements in a manner feasible for older adults of all fitness levels. Thirty-two healthy subjects were randomly assigned to two experimental groups; Body Recall (BR) or Body Recall with weights (BR+W). Isometric strength was measured with a hand-held dynamometer for shoulder flexion, knee extension, hip flexion, ankle plantar flexion and grip strength. Subjects in the BR+W group underwent a functional ability test designed to simulate grocery shopping. This test consisted of standing from a sitting position, walking 15.2 m and returning 15.2 m carrying a self-selected weight simulating a bag of groceries. A decreased time or increased weight carried while performing this task was an indication of greater functional ability. A significant increase in isometric strength for BR+W in comparison to BR was found for ankle plantar flexion (53.2 +/- 16.9 to 69.6 +/- 12.2 Kg, p< 0.01) as well as hip flexion (34.2 ±13.9 to 46.0 ± 7.3 Kg, p< 0.05). There was no significant change (p > 0.05) in the time to complete the functional ability test, however, subjects significantly increased (p < 0.05) the weight carried during this assessment. Adding weights to low intensity body movements increased lower extremity isometric strength as well as the capacity to carry weight during a functional task.