Efectos de un programa de entrenamiento concurrente sobre la fuerza muscular, flexibilidad y autonomía funcional de mujeres mayores

Abstract

The present study describes the effects of resistance training (RT) and functional training (FT) on muscle strength, flexibility and functional autonomy of elderly women. 14 elderly women aged 59.8 ± 6.4 years participated in a 24 week intervention program. The RT had linear increases in intensity with 45% to 55% of 1RM in 12 weeks. In addition, the FT was also performed in 12 weeks, following the “pyramid principle” with progressive difficulty of the exercises in stability, endurance and strength. The functional autonomy, muscle strength and flexibility were evaluated. ANOVA showed that strength training of the lower limbs showed improvement (p <0.05) in knee extension Δ% = 48.5% and leg press 45° with Δ = 26.9% % after training program. The strength of the upper limbs also increased (p <0.05): biceps (Δ% = 21.7%); latissimus dorsal (Δ% = 27.5%); and low oar (p <0.01) with Δ% = 42.5% after training program. Flexibility (Δ% = 59.8%) and functional autonomy (GDLAM index Δ% = 4.8%) also showed improvement (p <0.05). The concurrent RT and FT program with 24 week intervention was effective for upper and lower extremity strength, flexibility and functional autonomy.