The Influence of Short-term Strength Training on Health-related Quality of Life and Executive Cognitive Function

Abstract

Strength training has been reported as a potentially useful exercise to improve psychological aspects in the elderly, but its effects remain controversial. This study investigated the effectiveness of strength training conducted twice a week for 12 weeks for improving health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and executive cognitive function. The study was a single-blind randomized controlled trial with assessments before and after intervention. HRQOL and executive function were assessed using the SF-36 Health Status Survey and a computerized neuro-cognitive assessment using task-switch reaction time trials, respectively. Subjects comprised 119 participants Ն65 years old, randomized to either strength training (nϭ65) or health education classes (controls, nϭ54). The strength training program was designed to strengthen the large muscle groups most important for functional activities and to improve balance. The effects of the intervention on the eight dimensions of the SF-36 in the control and training groups were analyzed. Only the mental health scale of the SF-36 was significantly improved for the training group compared with controls after 12 weeks. Task-switch reaction time and correct response rate remained unchanged. Short-term strength training might have modest positive effects on HRQOL, although this training period may not be sufficient to affect executive function in relatively healthy older people.

Effect of Resistance-Exercise Training on Cognitive Function in Healthy Older Adults: A Review

“…However, Kimura et al (2010) failed to find positive effects of strength training on executive function measured by the task switch. They randomly assigned participants to either a strength-training (combination of conditioning, strengthening, and functional training phases) or health-education course/control group.…”

“…Ten studies that examined the effects of resistance training on different aspects of cognition were identified: Three studies examined resistance exercise versus nonexercise (Kimura et al, 2010;Liu-Ambrose et al, 2008;Perrig-Chiello, Perrig, Ehrsam, Staehelin, & Krings, 1998; see Table 1), four studies compared multiple exercise modalities (Brown, Liu-Ambrose, Tate, & Lord, 2009;Cancela Carral & Ayan Perez, 2007;Komulainen et al, 2010;Ozkaya et al, 2005;see Table 2), and three studies examined dose-response relationships (Cassilhas et al, 2007;Liu-Ambrose et al, 2010;Tsutsumi, Don, Zaichkowsky, & Delizonna, 1997; see Table 3). Perrig-Chiello et al (1998) evaluated the effects of an 8-week resistance-training program on performance involving multiple cognitive tasks.…”

Supervised dance intervention based on video game choreography increases quadriceps cross sectional area and peak of torque in community dwelling older women

“…In addition, supervised exercise can improve adherence to exercise and safety for individuals 25 . Moreover, the social network must be considered as an important factor that can increase adherence when the training sessions are performed in group as reported by other authors 47 .…”

Aerobic or Resistance Exercise Training to Improve Cognitive Function? Short Review

“…Even though literature suggests that resistance training improves cognitive function by enhancing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), epinephrine, and norepinephrine, as well as the speed, reaction time, occupied recall duration, reaction inhibition, memory, precision, and learning competence, other studies showed no benefits on cognitive function following resistance training (Kimura et al, 2010;Komulainen et al, 2010).…”