Effects of Functional Task Training on Muscle Health and Function in Older Adults With Sarcopenia

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

Functional Task Training in Power Zones: Participants will perform a 12-week Functional Task Training (FTT) program (2 sessions/week, 60 min/session). The circuit includes 4 specific functional tasks designed to simulate daily life demands: 1) Sit-to-stand from a chair, 2) Walking with changes of direction, 3) Lifting and carrying objects, and 4) Pulling/pushing movements. All exercises will be executed using a Functional Electromechanical Dynamometer (DEMF). This device provides constant electronic resistance and allows for the determination of the individual load that elicits peak power output. Training intensity will be strictly monitored to ensure participants perform each repetition within their optimal muscle power zone. Loads will be adjusted progressively (5-10% weekly) based on the velocity and power data provided by the device. Each session includes a warm-up, 3 sets of 10-12 repetitions per task, and a cool-down.

Standard Functional Task Training: Participants will perform a 12-week Functional Task Training (FTT) program (2 sessions/week, 60 min/session). The circuit includes 4 specific functional tasks: 1) Sit-to-stand from a chair, 2) Walking with changes of direction, 3) Lifting and carrying objects, and 4) Pulling/pushing movements. All exercises will be executed using the Functional Electromechanical Dynamometer (DEMF). Training follows standard progressive resistance protocols (5-10% weekly load increase) based on individual tolerance, without specifically targeting or monitoring the optimal muscle power zones.

Traditional Resistance Training: Participants will complete a 12-week traditional resistance training program (2 sessions/week, 60 min/session). The protocol targets major muscle groups through 4 conventional analytical exercises (e.g., leg press, chest press, row, and leg extension). These exercises will be performed using the DEMF device to control and monitor the training loads. This group does not perform functional task simulations or power-zone specific training, following a standard hypertrophy and strength progression.

Study summary

Sarcopenia is a condition associated with aging that causes a loss of muscle mass, strength, and physical function. This decline limits the ability to perform basic daily activities and increases the risk of falls and dependency.

The purpose of this clinical study is to determine the effects of a 12-week Functional Task Training (FTT) program on functional, structural, and physiological biomarkers in older adults with sarcopenia. FTT involves practicing everyday movements, such as standing up from a chair, climbing stairs, walking, and carrying objects.

The study aims to answer the following question: Does Functional Task Training performed specifically in optimal muscle power zones offer greater improvements in aging biomarkers compared to standard Functional Task Training or traditional resistance training?

The researchers hypothesize that while all exercise interventions will be beneficial, the FTT program focused on power zones will generate the greatest improvements in functional, physiological, and structural biomarkers in older adults with sarcopenia.

To test this, 30 older adults (aged 60 and older) will be randomly assigned to one of three active groups for a 12-week period (2 days per week): an FTT group training in power zones, a standard FTT group, or a traditional resistance training group. All exercise groups will use a Functional Electromechanical Dynamometer (DEMF) to precisely measure and control the training loads.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Muscle Thickness of the Rectus Femoris — Baseline and 12 weeks
  Muscle thickness will be measured in centimeters (cm) using B-mode ultrasound. The assessment will be performed at the midpoint between the anterior superior iliac spine and the superior border of the patella. This measurement serves as a structural biomarker to evaluate changes in muscle mass. Higher values indicate an increase in muscle volume
• Muscle Thickness of the Rectus Femoris (via Ultrasound) — Baseline and 12 weeks
  Evaluation of muscle structural changes using B-mode ultrasound. The thickness (measured in centimeters) of the rectus femoris muscle will be assessed at the midpoint between the anterior superior iliac spine and the superior border of the patella. This measurement serves as a structural biomarker for muscle mass. Higher values indicate an increase in muscle volume and a reduction in sarcopenia-related atrophy.

Trial sites (1)

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