The effects of a seven week weight training program on leg strength in the elderly

Abstract

There seems to be many parameters that account for all falls associated with the elderly. In the first part of the elderly falls study, a significant difference in leg strength was found between subjects who had a history of falls and those who had no history of falls. Among the various correlates associated with falling, lack of strength has been identified as a strong predictor of falling. Therefore, the purpose of the present investigation was to assess whether a group of elderly subjects could significantly increase leg strength after engaging in a seven week strength training study. A total of seven (n=7) subjects between the ages 60 to 71 (z = 64.8) years of age were recruited for this study. A Cybex isokinetic leg press machine was used to assess pre and post-test strength values. Once pretesting was completed, the training intensity was based on 15% of each subjects lean body weight. Each training session required subjects to perform four sets of 15 repetitions on a Universal Leg Extension machine three times weekly. The statistical analysis indicated a significant (P<.05) increase in leg strength. Thus the young, middleaged, and elderly, barring any health problems, can improve and possibly retard fall potential.