Does Power Training Improve Mobility in Elders?

The maintenance of mobility is thought to be fundamental to active aging, allowing older adults to continue to lead dynamic and independent lives (World Health Organization [WHO], 2007). Aging in older adults leads to strength loss in muscles that we use for walking. In a recent study published in the Journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, scientists examined whether a 10-week power training program would increase strength during isolated contractions of the muscle as well as during walking. The study demonstrated that power training leads to strength gains in the muscle as well as the strength of the muscles used in walking.

SimpleTakeaway™
Power training leads to increased strength in muscles used during functional
walking speeds. These findings have implications for gait training and fall
prevention in the older adult population.

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Commentary by Jeff Chiappa PT, DPT, MS

Jeff Chiappa PT, DPT, MS has been the Director of Therapy Programs for 3 years at Simple Therapy. Jeff has been an outpatient orthopedic physical therapist for 20 years. Jeff specializes in outpatient orthopedics and sports medicine and is also the owner of Synergy Sports & Orthopedic Physical Therapy in Pennsylvania.