Improving strength training for older adults
Optimizing Strength Training in Older Adults
This study is testing if older adults can get stronger and improve their physical abilities by lifting lighter weights until they're tired, compared to using heavier weights in a regular strength training program.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 68 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Queens College, The City University of New York Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Flushing, New York) |
| Trial ID | NCT06812143 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to determine if lifting lighter weights close to failure can enhance strength training outcomes and physical function in older adults. Participants aged 65 and above will engage in a supervised strength training program twice a week for 20 weeks, comparing a light-load, high-repetition regimen to a standard strength training approach. The study will assess the effects of these training methods on muscle mass, power, and overall physical function.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are males and females aged 65 years and older who lead an inactive lifestyle and are not currently participating in structured strength training.
Not a fit: Patients with severe cardiac or lung diseases, serious neurological disorders, or other significant health issues may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved strength and physical function in older adults, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with similar approaches to strength training in older adults, indicating potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Males and females aged 65 years and above * Inactive lifestyle (\< 150 min per week of moderate intensity physical activity) and not regularly participating in a structured strength training program * Planning to reside in the area for the duration of the study Exclusion Criteria: * Severe cardiac disease, including Class III or IV congestive heart failure, clinically significant aortic stenosis, history of cardiac arrest, use of a cardiac defibrillator, or uncontrolled angina * Lung disease requiring either oral or injected steroids, or the use of supplemental oxygen * Short, portable mental status questionnaire with 3 or more errors * Severe arthritis (either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis) * Cancer requiring treatment in the past 1 year (melanomas excluded) * Development of chest pain or severe shortness of breath during the 6 min self-paced walk test * Parkinson's disease or other serious neurological disorders * Renal disease requiring dialysis * Current diagnosis of schizophrenia, other psychotic disorders, or bipolar disorder * Current consumption of more than 14 alcoholic drinks per week * Severe lower back or shoulder pain that may worsen with weightlifting exercises * Undergoing physical therapy involving the lower extremities * Living in nursing homes, assisted living facilities or other similar institutions * Currently enrolled in another randomized trial involving a pharmaceutical or lifestyle intervention * Weight change (intentional or not) over the last 6 months of \> 5% of body weight, or plan to lose or gain weight during the study * Any other cardiovascular, pulmonary, orthopedic, neurologic, or other conditions that would preclude participation and successful completion of the protocol Temporary Exclusion Criteria A person meeting any of the following temporary exclusion criteria at the time of screening will not be enrolled but may be re-screened later. * Severe hypertension, e.g., SBP \> 200 mm Hg, DBP \> 110 mm Hg * Major surgery or fracture or hip/knee replacement within the last 6 months * Hospitalization within the last 6 months (excluding ER visits)
Where this trial is running
Flushing, New York
- Exercise & Aging Lab, Queens College — Flushing, New York, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Anoop T Balachandran, PhD
- Email: athozhuthungalba@qc.cuny.edu
- Phone: 718-997-2729
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.