KENNERLEY, Clare (2023). Maximal-Intentional Velocity Resistance Training Interventions for Older Adults: design and implementation. Doctoral, Sheffield Hallam University. [Thesis]
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Kennerley_2024_PhD_Maximal-IntentionalVelocity.pdf - Accepted Version
Restricted to Repository staff only until 9 April 2025.
Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial No Derivatives.
Kennerley_2024_PhD_Maximal-IntentionalVelocity.pdf - Accepted Version
Restricted to Repository staff only until 9 April 2025.
Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial No Derivatives.
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Abstract
Older age is associated with significant declines in muscle mass and function which affect the
ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), independence, quality of life (QoL), risk of
mortality, and healthcare costs, implicating these changes in muscle as a major health issue
for individuals and society (Lanza et al., 2003; Maden-Wilkinson et al., 2015; Beaudart et al.,
2017; Kim et al., 2018). It has been strongly suggested that maximal-intentional velocity
resistance training (MIV-RT), otherwise known as power training, explosive, high-speed or
high-velocity resistance training (RT) (de Vos et al., 2005, Richardson et al., 2019, Sayers and
Gibson, 2010, Pearson et al., 2022) is an optimal method for improvements in functional
ability, improves muscle mass and function and thus, should be prioritised for older adults
(OAs) (Cadore et al., 2018; Orssatto et al., 2019).
However, despite existing evidence to support MIV-RT as an effective method to improve
muscle mass and function in OAs (Blazevich et al., 2020a; Rodriguez-Lopez et al., 2022;
Morrison et al., 2023), methodological issues in research studies preclude the ability to draw
definitive conclusions about the efficacy and safety of MIV-RT. This includes heterogeneity in
study designs, inconsistencies in terminology and programme design and the use of
suboptimal methods to understand the risks associated with this training type.
Therefore, this thesis has taken a critical lens to understand and advance MIV-RT
interventions for OAs. By examining and clarifying the terminology and methods used to
describe and measure the ability to produce force rapidly, chapter 3 aims to improve
understanding and consistency in the application of terminology and outcome
measurements, facilitating effective communication of research findings, and the
development of effective RT interventions. A systematic review of MIV-RT interventions for
OAs (Chapter 4) highlights gaps in intervention design and reporting practices, hindering the
literature and our understanding of MIV-RT for OAs. Chapter 5 explores in detail the
implementation of MIV-RT in real-world settings, comparing practitioner insights with
research evidence, and highlighting disparities between research and applied practice,
including the utilisation of different equipment and exercises. Moreover, practitioners’
reasons for not prescribing MIV-RT for OAs are identified, including a perceived lack of safety
or risk of injury and fear from OAs, providing recommendations for future research studies
tailored to the needs of all stakeholders. Indeed, this thesis highlights that the safety of MIVRT
for OAs remains uncertain (Chapter 2) and that identification of practical and sensitive
measurement tools is necessary to better assess the safety of MIV-RT for OAs. Therefore,
Chapter 6 investigates the validity and reliability of novel measurement tools to measure
postural stability, a potential indicator of the safety of MIV-RT, demonstrating that pressure
insoles may provide a valid and reliable tool.
Overall, this thesis advances our understanding of MIV-RT for OAs and offers specific and
practical recommendations for future MIV-RT interventions. By addressing critical
underpinning factors and providing evidence-based insights, this work aims to promote the
design of interventions that target the desired and most relevant physiological adaptations,
reduce barriers to real-world implementation and effectively communicate findings through
accurate and thorough reporting.
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