[ evaluation of dominant biceps brachialis strength training on countralateral peak force in elderly females]

ABSTRACT

Some studies indicated that training in elderly persons is very important for decrease of aging changes. Many investigations have reported the increase in muscular strength as a consequence of training performed on the contralateral limb. There are few clinical trials that quantify the effect of cross training in elderly adults .The aim of the study was to evaluate of unilateral biceps brachialis strength training on countralateral peak force in elderly persons. A total of 12 elderly females [age = 73.08] with no history of strength training and upper limb movement impairments enrolled in this study. Subjects performed unilateral elbow flexion exercises in dominant upper limb, using progressive resistance training three times a week for six weeks. After determining the maximal isometric force of elbow flexion, the subjects performed 3 sets of 10 repetitions of the 60-70% maximal force. The isometric force of elbow flexion were measured at the start and after 2 weeks by tensiometer. Paired t test was used to analysis the data. The results showed that progressive unilateral elbow flexion training led to an increase in maximal isometric force of biceps brachialis muscles at two sides [P<0.05]. The increased muscle strength observed during training indicates positive effect of training in old adult. The increased muscle strength in untrained limb suggests the capacity of neuromuscular adaptation in old adult that it can be used in cases of limb immobility