Research article - (2020)19, 721 - 726 |
Muscle Size and Strength of the Lower Body in Supervised and in Combined Supervised and Unsupervised Low-Load Resistance Training |
Hayao Ozaki1,2, Shuji Sawada3, Takuya Osawa4, Toshiharu Natsume3, Toshinori Yoshihara2, Pengyu Deng2, Shuichi Machida2,3,, Hisashi Naito2,3 |
ABSTRACT |
This study aimed to clarify whether low-load resistance training at a low frequency (twice a week) using body weight and elastic band improves muscle size, muscle strength, and physical functions and to compare the training effects between supervised training and a combination of supervised and unsupervised training in untrained older adults. Fifty-one older adults (ages: 57-75 years) selected to either a supervised (S) training group (n = 34) or a combined supervised and unsupervised (SU) group (n = 17). Both groups performed low-load resistance training composed of nine exercises for 12 weeks. The S group participated in supervised exercise sessions twice a week, and the SU group performed a supervised exercise session once a week and an unsupervised exercise session at home also once a week. For muscle thicknesses in the anterior aspects of the forearm, upper arm, and thigh and the posterior aspect of the thigh, group × time interactions were observed (p < 0.05). The hypertrophic effects were higher in the S group. Isometric knee extension strength and physical functions increased similarly in both groups. Low-load resistance training using body weight and elastic band twice a week for 12 weeks induces muscle hypertrophy and increases muscle strength and physical functions in older adults. Although the muscle hypertrophic effects are greater in the S group than in the SU group, the other effects were similar between the groups. |
Key words: Aged, strength training, body weight, elastic band, muscle adaptations |
Key Points |
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