Investigating how different focus strategies during strength training affect gait in older adults
Official title: Strength Training for Gait Rehabilitation in Older Adults: Insights From Neuroscience
Run by Egas Moniz - Cooperativa de Ensino Superior, CRL · NCT06538766 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing how different ways of focusing during strength training can improve walking and movement in healthy older adults.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 45 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Egas Moniz - Cooperativa de Ensino Superior, CRL Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Monte de Caparica, Almada) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 1, 2024 |
| Main results expected | April 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | April 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | September 18, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06538766 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are healthy older adults who can walk unassisted and do not have significant medical conditions affecting their mobility.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases, neurological disorders, or those who have experienced falls in the past year may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to explore the impact of various focus of attention strategies during strength training on plantar flexor force and gait parameters in healthy older adults. Researchers will compare the effects of internal focus versus two types of external focus (proprioceptive and visual) to determine their influence on non-linear force variability and the underlying neurophysiological mechanisms. The study will assess both acute and training effects, particularly how these focus strategies may enhance gait variability and overall mobility in older adults. Participants will engage in strength training sessions while their performance and physiological responses are monitored.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved strength training protocols that enhance mobility and reduce fall risk in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus of this study may be novel, previous research has shown that different attentional strategies can influence motor performance and learning, suggesting potential for success.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: \- Signed informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Severe cardiovascular or pulmonary disease * Oncological disease * Lower limb disabilities * Neurological disorders * Inability to walk unassisted for 12 continuous minutes * Cognitive impairment * Falls in the prior 12 months * Orthopedic concerns, which might limit force production * Metal implants * Medicine that can trigger side effects with TMS
Where it's running
-
Egas Moniz School of Health & Science
Monte de Caparica, Almada, Portugal Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Philipp Bauer, MSc
- Email: 117473@alunos.egasmoniz.edu.pt
- Phone: 1722831739
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.