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Other Subject Area

Resistance Training

Abstract

Resistance training at fast velocities is suggested to be more effective for improving muscular strength and movement speed compared slow, heavy training. This study aimed to examine the effects of a fast-velocity (FVRT) compared to a slow-velocity (SVRT) resistance training program on maximal strength, maximal movement speed, and load-velocity characteristics in older adults. Nineteen community-dwelling older adults were randomly assigned to either the FVRT or SVRT group and completed a twice weekly, progressive resistance training protocol for 8-weeks. Both groups were instructed to move the weight “as fast as possible” and received movement velocity biofeedback. Absolute (1RMABS) and relative (1RMREL) strength, maximal movement speed (MMS), load velocity slope (LVSLOPE) and the area under the LVSLOPE (LVAREA) were measured during a 1RM assessment at baseline (PRE), after 4-weeks (MID), and after 8-weeks (POST) of training. No differences were observed in average total volume between groups (FVRT: 47490.3±10888.3 kg/session; SVRT: 44679.3±15250.9 kg/session, p=0.26, g=0.60). Both groups improved absolute and relative strength and maximal movement speed. There was no interaction effects or main effects of LVSLOPE for time. However, there was a main effect LVAREA for time. Both MID and POST LVAREA were larger than PRE (MID posterior meandiff: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.13–0.35; POST posterior meandiff: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.27–0.49). These findings suggest both FVRT and SVRT can lead to improvements in strength and movement speed in older adults. The lack of significant changes in LVSLOPE indicates that maximal strength and movement speed better reflect performance improvements in older adults.

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