Effects of a power training program in the functional capacity, on body balance and lower limb muscle strength of elderly with type 2 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND: The effects of interventions with muscle power training on balance and functionality in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are still poorly investigated. We evaluated the efficacy of a twelve-week power training program in the functional capacity, balance and lower limb muscle power and strength of elderly with T2DM. METHODS: Twenty-one subjects (14 women and seven men) were allocated into two groups. One of the groups (PTG) performed a power training program twice a week (N.=11; age 70.5 +/- 7.8 years old), and the other was an active control group (CG) that performed a weekly stretching session (N.=10; age 66 +/- 3.2 years old). Outcomes of interest were assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks, these included functional capacity, balance, muscle strength and power. RESULTS: The PTG participants improved their dynamic balance (P=0.027) and decrease in the time to perform the gait speed test (P<0.001), evaluated by the short physical performance battery (SPPB). Also showed a statically significant change muscle power (P=0.034) and maximal dynamic knee extension strength (P=0.023), with increments of 24% and 34%, respectively, in comparison to the CG. Both groups showed significant changes in the performance of the five-times-sit-to-stand test (P<0.001) and the SPPB score (P=0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The power training program was able to promote improvements in some functional parameters as on the body balance and functional capacity and muscle strength of the elderly with T2DM. The training method was effective and safe, with no adverse effects during sessions.