Short-term resistance training in older adults improves muscle quality: A randomized control trial

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether dumbbell resistance training (DBRT) and elastic band resistance training (EBRT) are equally beneficial in the older adult. Sixty-five healthy participants (mean +/- SD; age=66.5 +/- 7.09 years; height=165.2 +/- 10.6 cm; body mass=74.5 +/- 14.6 kg) volunteered for this study. Participants underwent a total body dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan for segmental and total body muscle and fat estimation. Functional tests included the short physical performance battery, timed up-and-go, and heel-to-toe walk. Strength was measured on dominant handgrip strength, maximal bench press, and leg press. Participants were block randomized into one of three groups: elastic band resistance training (EBRT), dumbbell resistance training (DBRT), or control (CON). EBRT and DBRT were asked to visit the laboratory twice weekly over 6-weeks while CON maintained their daily routine. Data were analyzed using a two-way repeated measures ANOVA and an alpha set at 0.05. Results indicated there was a two-way interaction for bench press, leg press, upper- and lower-body muscle quality and total arm lean mass (p<0.05). Specifically, the EBRT and DBRT improved from pre to post for total arm lean mass (p<0.021, p<0.004, respectively). Additionally, for bench press and leg press, all groups improved pre to post training (p<0.05) with DBRT superior to CON. These data suggest that EBRT provides an effective, portable, and cost-effective means to enhance lower-body function and muscle quality in an aging population, yet DBRT may be more impactful for total-body improvements.