The influence of resistance training on neuromuscular function in middle-aged and older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.

JAMES, Emily, NICHOLS, Simon, GOODALL, Stuart, HICKS, Kirsty M. and O'DOHERTY, Alasdair F. (2021). The influence of resistance training on neuromuscular function in middle-aged and older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Experimental Gerontology, 149, p. 111320.

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Open Access URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/... (Published version)
Link to published version:: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.exger.2021.111320

Abstract

Background Deterioration of neuromuscular function is a major mechanism of age-related strength loss. Resistance training (RT) improves muscle strength and mass. However, the effects of RT on neuromuscular adaptations in middle-aged and older adults are unclear. Methods Randomised controlled RT interventions (≥2 weeks) involving adults aged ≥50 years were identified. Primary outcome measures were voluntary activation (VA), electromyographic (EMG) activity during maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), and antagonist coactivation. Data were pooled using a weighted random-effect model. Sub-analyses were conducted by muscle or muscle group and health status of participants. Sensitivity analysis was based on study quality. P < 0.05 indicated statistical significance. Results Twenty-seven studies were included. An effect was found for VA (standardised mean difference [SMD] 0.54, 0.01 to 1.07, P = 0.04), This result remained significant following sensitivity analysis involving only studies that were low risk of bias. Subgroup analyses showed an effect for plantar flexor VA (SMD 1.13, 0.20 to 2.06, P = 0.02) and VA in healthy participants (SMD 1.04, 0.32 to 1.76, P = 0.004). There was no effect for EMG activity or antagonist coactivation of any muscle group (P > 0.05). Discussion Resistance training did not alter EMG activity or antagonist coactivation in older adults. Sensitivity analysis resulted in the effect for VA remaining significant, indicating that this finding was not dependent on study quality. Studies predominantly involved healthy older adults (78%), limiting the generalisability of these findings to clinical cohorts. Future research should determine the effects of RT on neuromuscular function in people with sarcopenia and age-related syndromes.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: Gerontology; 11 Medical and Health Sciences
Identification Number: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.exger.2021.111320
Page Range: p. 111320
SWORD Depositor: Symplectic Elements
Depositing User: Symplectic Elements
Date Deposited: 19 Mar 2021 11:07
Last Modified: 13 Apr 2021 10:45
URI: https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/28416

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