The effect of sequence order of combined training (resistance and endurance) on strength, aerobic capacity and body composition in older women: a randomized clinical trial

Combined training has been recommended as an effective rehabilitation intervention to improve physical functional in elderly. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of sequence order of combined training (resistance and endurance) on strength, aerobic capacity and body composition in older women.

In this randomized clinical trial, 40 retired elderly women of education were selected and randomly divided into four groups, endurance + strength (E+S) (n=9), strength + endurance (S+E) (n=10), circulation concurrent (CI) (n=12) and control (n=9) groups. Training program was performed for eight week, 3 times per week. Differences were analyzed by paired samples t-test Within-group and differences were analyzed between groups by one-way ANOVA.

The results showed that there were significant differences between effect of training with different sequence order in lower body strength (P=0.001) and VO2 max (P=0.029). Sequence order caused to different effect on weight (P=0.017), BMI (P=0.023) and waist circumference (P=0.006). Also, a significant increase were observed in upper body strength only in CI and E+S groups and lower body strength in all groups of combined training (P<0.05).

According these results, combination of strength and endurance training with different order are recommended to improve strength, aerobic capacity and body composition in old women. Independent of the training sequence, the current training program caused positive changes in body composition and physical fitness.