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Date Permissions Signed

7-2014

Date of Award

2014

Document Type

Masters Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Health and Human Development

First Advisor

Brilla, Lorraine R., 1955-

Second Advisor

Suprak, David N. (David Nathan)

Third Advisor

San Juan, Jun G.

Abstract

The process of aging includes changes in muscle and connective tissue architecture and function, increased stiffness, loss of strength and functionality. Nonetheless, older adults are able to maintain eccentric (ECC) strength levels in a greater proportion, when compared to maintaining isometric (ISO) strength and concentric (CON) strength. The purpose of this study was to compare CON, ECC and ISO leg extension torque between trained (T) and untrained (U) older adults. Twenty older adults (60 years and older) who had no knee pathologies were recruited. A Biodex dynamometer was used to measure leg extensor torque for ISO, CON and ECC, in T and U subjects. Torque values relative to body weight (relative torques) were determined for each subject and compared between groups. The ratio of ECC: ISO was calculated and compared across groups. The T group were significantly stronger for ISO (p = 0.009). No significant differences were found for CON (p = 0.088) and ECC (p = 0.220). In addition, the U group registered a significantly higher ratio of ECC: ISO (p = 0.029), when compared to the T group. The findings in this study demonstrate older adults are able to maintain ECC, regardless of training status.

Type

Text

DOI

https://doi.org/10.25710/anpt-jg24

Publisher

Western Washington University

OCLC Number

889111686

Subject – LCSH

Physical fitness for older people; Leg exercises--Physiological aspects; Aging--Physiological aspects; Muscle strength--Testing; Motor ability--Testing

Format

application/pdf

Genre/Form

masters theses

Language

English

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this thesis for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author's written permission.

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