Power exercises with elastic bands combined with endurance training improve pulse pressure, systolic blood pressure, and functional parameters in older adults

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to investigate the effects of power training (PT) using elastic bands combined with endurance training (ET) on pulse pressure (PP), systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressures (DBP), autonomic response (AR), and functional parameters in older adults. Methods Thirty participants were randomly assigned to the control group (n = 15) and the intervention group (IG) (n = 15). IG participants performed PT with elastic bands combined with ET twice weekly for 8 weeks. PP, SBP, DBP, AR, and functional parameters were assessed before and after 8 weeks. Results PP, SBP, and functional parameters significantly improved after 8 weeks in the IG (P < 0.05). The study also found a clinically significant reduction in the SBP (Δ = −16.5 mmHg; η 2 p = 0.36) and DBP (Δ = −4.3 mmHg; η 2 p = 0.26), and a clinical reduction in the 5-Repetition Sit-To-Stand test (η 2 p = 0.63) and the elbow flexion test (η 2 p = 0.51). Conclusion Our findings indicate that PT with elastic bands combined with ET improves PP, SBP, and functional parameters in older adults. Hence, our combined training protocol can be an easily accessible, low-cost, nonpharmacological strategy for strength, and conditioning professionals to prescribe as an exercise intervention to older adults.