Effects of two strength training periodization models on gait kinematic variables in the elderly

Abstract

The relationship between strength training and gait quality in older adults has been well documented in the literature. This study compares the effects of two strength training periodization models on gait kinematic variables in older adults. Thirty-six older adults (age 68.9 ± 5.8 years, mass 71.7 ± 7.51 kg, height 155.2 ± 4.7 cm), randomized into a reverse wave periodization group (GPIO n=20) and a linear periodization group (GPL; n=16), participated in a 20-week training program with a training frequency of three days (two for muscular training and the third for locomotor training), with the training load being the same for both groups. Reverse periodization began with high intensity and low volume loads and, as training progressed, decreased intensity and increased volume. The second periodization was progressive training. Two pretest and posttest evaluations were performed. To assess the spatiotemporal variables of gait, participants walked a distance of 7 m. Five attempts were made at the preferred speed and another five at maximum speed, with the central stride being analyzed. To acquire the spatiotemporal gait variables, a GAITRite ® electronic carpet was used, and step length (SL) and stride length (STL), step and stride time, percentage of simple and double support, step speed and stride were analyzed. A MANOVA was performed as statistical analysis. For preferred speed, a main effect of the group is indicated for sl p=0.05, stl p=0.04, sv p=0.05 and for stv p=0.03. For maximum speed, the result indicates significant interactions for the speed variables cp (p=0.02) and vp (p=0.01). The results indicate a positive effect of strength training on gait in physically healthy elderly, as has been demonstrated in other studies. They also highlight the importance of combining strength training with locomotion training, indicating that transfer of training could increase the utilization of neuromuscular gains in the control of motor tasks, such as gait. In conclusion, reverse periodization appears to be more effective in maintaining gait parameters in physically active older people.