Effect of Low-Intensity High-Repetition Versus High-Intensity Low-Repetition Elastic Band Resistance Training on Functional Physical Fitness and Myokine Levels in Older Adults

This study investigates the effects of low-intensity high-repetition (LI-HR) and high-intensity low-repetition (HI-LR) resistance training (RT) on functional fitness and myokines in older adults. A total of 30 participants (mean age ~76 years) were randomized into control (n = 10), LI-HR (n = 10), o...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Moon Jin Lee, Jun-Young Sung, Jiyoun Kim
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-01-01
Series:Applied Sciences
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/15/2/757
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Summary:This study investigates the effects of low-intensity high-repetition (LI-HR) and high-intensity low-repetition (HI-LR) resistance training (RT) on functional fitness and myokines in older adults. A total of 30 participants (mean age ~76 years) were randomized into control (n = 10), LI-HR (n = 10), or HI-LR (n = 10) groups. Participants in LI-HR and HI-LR groups performed elastic band-based RT three times per week for 12 weeks. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included functional fitness (relative grip strength, sit-to-stand, 4 m walk, timed up-and-go (TUG)), ankle muscle strength, lower extremity power, and myokine levels (IL-6, IGF-1, SPARC, BDNF). Both experimental groups showed significant IL-6 reduction (LI-HR: <i>p</i> = 0.033; HI-LR: <i>p</i> = 0.015) and IGF-1 increase (LI-HR: <i>p</i> = 0.003; HI-LR: <i>p</i> < 0.001). SPARC increased significantly only in the HI-LR group (<i>p</i> = 0.021). Functional improvements were noted in TUG for both groups, while the 4 m walk improved significantly in the HI-LR group (<i>p</i> < 0.001). Body fat percentage increased in both LI-HR (<i>p</i> = 0.003) and HI-LR (<i>p</i> = 0.047). In conclusion, both LI-HR and HI-LR RT effectively enhance functional fitness and key myokines, with LI-HR emerging as a promising, accessible option for older adults.
ISSN:2076-3417