Pumping iron the answer for elderly

Fairfax Media

PUMP THAT IRON: A new study suggests that for elderly people, weight training is more beneficial than aerobic exercise.

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Walking might be the exercise of choice for older Australians but a new study suggests that the elderly may be better off pumping iron than pounding the pavement.

University of Queensland researchers have completed studies showing resistance training is the most effective method of strengthening weakening muscles in people aged over 65.

Dr Tim Henwood said his findings challenge the widely-held view that the gym, and lifting weights in particular, is unsuitable for older people.

"It's really not seen as the done thing for older adults to pump iron, but the field is now so loaded with positive information which says they must lift weights," Dr Henwood said.

"Walking is the exercise of choice for older people but what's the use of having that ability to walk to the shop if you can't even lift yourself out of the chair?"

Dr Henwood tested out the benefits of resistance training in his recently completed PhD research.

Participants did a basic twice-weekly, machine-based resistance training program that targeted the major muscles of the upper and lower body.

"We saw some very significant increases, up to a 50 percent in muscle strength and power," he said.

"However, the really important increases were those we saw in the participant's functional ability."

There was a perception that dumb bells and bar bells were for "bulking up". For older people, however, the focus is on challenging the muscles enough to protect what they have and try to maintain it.

With Australia's ageing population, there will be greater stress placed on the healthcare system and any preventative measures taken would have long-term positive effects, Dr Henwood said.

"Aerobic exercises like walking and swimming are obviously great for health but weight work is just as important, if not more important, in the prevention of functional decline," he said.

- AAP