Exploring how strength training can reduce muscle fatigue in older adults

Fatigability of Limb Muscle in Older Adults: Protective Effects of Exercise

Not applicable Interventional Marquette University · NCT03888040

This study tests if a special strength training program can help older adults feel less tired during exercise and improve their muscle strength.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment120 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 100 Years
SexAll
SponsorMarquette University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
Trial IDNCT03888040 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the reasons behind increased muscle fatigue in older adults during exercise and evaluates the effectiveness of high-velocity resistance training combined with blood flow restriction. It compares younger adults to older adults to understand the mechanisms of age-related fatigability, focusing on muscle bioenergetics and vascular function. The study employs advanced techniques such as 31P-MRS and near-infrared spectroscopy to assess muscle performance and health. The goal is to determine if targeted exercise can improve muscle power and reduce fatigue in older individuals.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are men and women aged 18-40 years and those over 60 years who meet the inclusion criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with significant health issues such as uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes, or severe arthritis may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved exercise strategies that enhance muscle function and quality of life for older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with resistance training in older adults, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* men and women aged 18-40 years and \>60 years

Exclusion Criteria:

* body mass index ≥40 kg/m2;
* type 1 or type 2 diabetes;
* uncontrolled hypertension;
* active cancer, cancer in remission, or having received treatment for any form of cancer in the previous five years;
* coronary artery disease;
* cardiovascular disease (e.g., PAD, PVD);
* abnormal and untreated thyroid function;
* chronic and/or regular nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) consumption,
* tobacco use (includes smoking);
* any condition that presents a limitation to exercise (e.g., severe arthritis, COPD, neuromuscular disorder, moderate or severe cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's Disease, severe untreated sleep apnea).
* women who are pregnant or likely to be pregnant.
* Subjects will be excluded if they have joint pain in the exercising leg or arm. Medication use. Medications currently taken or in the previous year and known to influence muscle mass (e.g., glucocorticoids, testosterone) and cortical and neuromuscular excitability will be exclusionary, while medications that may be prevalent among older adults (e.g., statins) will be accounted for with a covariate statistical model.

Where this trial is running

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions AgingFatigueResistance trainingSkeletal MuscleKnee extensor muscleslimb power
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.