Effect of cognitive-walking training with blood flow restriction on muscle quality and bone density in elderly women

Dual-task training is recommended for the elderly people; while this kind of training have a low metabolic load on the skeletal muscle structure. This study was aimed to evaluate the effects of an eight-week cognitive-walking training with blood flow restriction (BFR) on muscle quality (MQ) and bone density in elderly women.

Twenty-eight eligible elder women (63.1±2.90 yrs.) were randomly assigned into three groups (n=10) including cognitive-aerobic (CAG), cognitive-aerobic with occlusion (CAOG), and control (CG). The subjects in experimental groups trained three times a week for eight weeks; 20-min cognitive-walking training on treadmill at 45% of maximal heart rate reserve. Two pairs of cuffs were tied to the upper part of both thighs in the occlusion group. The cuff pressure was 50% of the calculated arterial occlusion and increased by 10% in every two weeks. Cognitive tasks included counting backward, remembering objects, and making worlds. Before and post performing protocol, MQ of the upper and lower body, cognitive test, and physical function tests were measured. Analysis of covariance was used to analyze the data at the significance level of p<0.05.

Significant improvements in lower body MQ (p=0.001), leg strength (p=0.001), functional test (p=0.001), fat mass (p=0.001), and body fat percentage (p=0.001) were observed in CAOG as compared to other groups. In addition, significant increase were observed in body mass (p=0.001), body mass index (p=0.001), and the cognitive test (p=0.001) in two experimental groups. However, there was no differences in bone mineral density (p=0.08), lean body mass (p=0.19) and arm MQ (p=0.09) between the groups.

The blood flow restriction can increases muscle strength and MQ. Cognitive activity during walking is also associated with improved cognitive function in the brain. Hence, the elderly people are advised to use cognitive activities and BFR during walking for more benefits.