Effect of a 12-Week Isokinetic Training Program with Different Intensities on Stability in Elderly Men

Age–related decline in muscle power may be an early sign of stability deficit and fall risk, even in nonfrail adults. This study examined the dose–depended effect of power training on stability performance in healthy elderly men. Eighty community– dwelling healthy elderly men (≥ 60 years) were randomized into 12 weeks of power training at 20% (LOW), 50% (MED), 80% (HIGH) of maximal strength, and a nontraining control (CON) group. Participants trained twice weekly using pneumatic resistance machines. Balance, muscle performance (power, strength, endurance, and contraction velocity) were measured. Power training significantly improved stability performance in participants who underwent power training compared to controls. Low intensity power training produced the greatest improvement in stability performance (Eta coefficient = 0.38). Power training improves stability, particularly using a low load, high velocity regimen, in elderlymen with an initial low muscle power and slower contraction. Further studies are warranted to define the mechanisms underlying this adaptation, as well as the optimum power training intensity for a range of physiological and clinical outcomes in elderly men with different levels of health status and functional independence.