[Purpose] The aim of this study was to examine the effect of resistance exercise on
carotid intima-media thickness, luminal diameter, peak systolic flow velocity, end
diastolic flow velocity, and wall shear rate in healthy elderly men. [Subjects and
Methods] Thirty healthy elderly men (age ≥65 years) were randomly divided into a control
(n=15) and resistance exercise (n=15) groups. The 24-week exercise intervention consisted
of 3 days of resistance exercise per week using an elastic band per week. Body
composition, physical function, blood pressure, and carotid variables were measured at
baseline and after 24 weeks. [Results] Body fat percent, skeletal muscle mass, systolic
blood pressure, grip strength, arm curl, chair stand up, sit and reach, maximum walking
speed, time up and go, and two-minute step test showed significant interaction. Peak
systolic flow velocity, end diastolic flow velocity, and wall shear rate also showed
significant interaction. [Conclusion] A 24-week resistance exercise program, using elastic
bands, effectively improves carotid flow velocity and wall shear rate in healthy elderly
men.