High Velocity Resistance Training in Older Men and Women

We are exploring a unique weight-training program for men and women 65 years or older that emphasizes high speed training. We believe that the speed at which muscles move may be more important to the performance of functional tasks than how strong the muscles are. We are comparing velocity training with traditional strength training to determine which method has the greatest effects on muscle strength, speed of movement, functional performance and physical disability. We believe that higher speed training will improve these measures to a greater extent than simply training for increased muscle strength. Aging also results in loss of bone mass, which increases the risk for falls and fractures. Strength training also has been shown to maintain bone mass in the elderly, but no studies have examined high velocity resistance training and maintenance of bone mass. We believe it is important to examine this aspect of velocity training before recommendations can be made.