The comparison of the effect of strength training, strength training-forward walking/running and strength training-backward walking/running on body composition and functional fitness of middle age men

The effects of concurrent training (CT) on physical fitness (CRF) are well known in different populations. However, less is known about the difference between forwarding (FW) and backward walking (BW) in part of aerobic training. So, the aim of the present study was the comparison of strength training (ST) with CT (FW vs BW) on body composition and physical fitness of middle age men.

For this purpose, 48 middle age men were randomly divided into four groups: ST, concurrent training with forwarding walking (CFW) concurrent training with backward walking (CBW), and control (Con). The subjects did exercise training for eight weeks, three sessions per week. After the last training session the body composition, upper and lower body strength, agility, balance, and aerobic endurance were assessed.

The results showed that there were no significant differences between groups in weight, fat-free mass, and fat mass (P>0.05). Upper and lower body muscle strength, agility and balance, and aerobic endurance were increased in all training groups compared to before and after training with no difference between the groups.Discussion and

It can be said that eight weeks of ST and CT (FW vs BW) has a significant and beneficial effect on the functional performance of middle age men, and there is no concern about the interference effects of these exercises. So, because of the effectiveness of BW on other performance parameters and in order to diversify to CT, BW can be used by trainers as a part of aerobic exercises.