: Relative to the standard exercise programs of the general population, exercise programs for female caregivers should be more focused on preventing back pain by developing the endurance strength of the trunk extensors. A supervised exercise program including the interaction between caregiver and health professional could also help to minimize the psychosocial components that affect the health-related quality of life.

No abstract

No abstract

Infl uence of a circuit-training programme on health-related fi tness and quality of life in sedentary women of over 70 years Objectives. The aims of this study were: i) to determine the infl uence of a circuit training programme on health-related fi tness and quality of life; and ii) to determine the relationship between health-related fi tness and quality of life. Methodology. A total of 23 women (72.6+5.4 years) who formed part of a circuit-training programme of two 60-minute sessions per week for 16 weeks participated in the study. Health-related fi tness was assessed before and after the programme by means of an modifi ed version of the AFISAL-INEFC battery and quality of life using the SF-36 questionnaire. Results. Signifi cant improvements were found in lower limb strength and upper limb fl exibility. With regard to quality of life, improvements were seen in general health and mental health. We show that a relationship exists between health-related fi tness and quality of life variables, in particular in agility and physical role. Conclusion. A twice-weekly circuit-training programme improved to some extent health-related fi tness and quality of life. A clear relationship between health-related fi tness and quality of life it existed in practically all dimensions.

No abstract