Research and News
Thera-Band exercises can improve fitness and function in older women
As women age, the transition to menopause often results in an increase in body fat and a reduction in muscle mass. This change in body composition is also associated with a decline in function and an increase in physical disability. German researchers evaluated the effectiveness of an exercise program for community-dwelling older females they developed called “Senior Fitness and Prevention Study.” Their results were published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
246 women (average age 69 years old) were randomly assigned to either a well-rounded, multi-component exercise program or a sedentary control group. The exercise group participated in an 18-month program consisting of 2 supervised sessions (60 minutes) and 2 home sessions (20 minutes) per week. Exercises included aerobic dance, stretching, balance exercises, and strengthening exercises with body weight and resistance bands. Intensity was increased throughout the program.
The attendance of the group exercise program was relatively high at 76%. Compared to the control group, the exercise group significantly improved in body composition, reducing fat and increasing muscle mass. In conclusion, the authors noted that the exercise program’s “minimal technological equipment ensured its successful implementation.” Older women can benefit from a well-rounded exercise program including Thera-Band® resistance bands to improve body composition, strength, and function.
REFERENCE : Kemmler W, von Stengel S, Engelke K, Häberle L, Mayhew JL, Kalender WA. Exercise, body composition, and functional ability: a randomized controlled trial. Am J Prev Med. 2010 Mar;38(3):279-87.
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| Print article | This entry was posted by Dr. Phil Page on January 26, 2011 at 9:11 am, and is filed under Research Updates, Thera-Band Elastic Resistance. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
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