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Wed Jan 02, 2008 7:18 pm

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The full text of this article is available free at the following link:

http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/565535

Mechanical Muscle Function, Morphology, and Fiber Type in Lifelong Trained Elderly

Per Aagaard; Peter S. Magnusson; Benny Larsson; Michael Kjær; Peter Krustrup
Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2007;39(11):1989-1996. ©2007 American College of Sports Medicine

Abstract

Purpose: Maximal muscle contraction force and muscle mass are both reduced during the natural aging process. Long-term training may be used to attenuate this age-related loss in muscle function and muscle size.
Methods: Maximum isometric quadriceps strength (MVC), rate of force development (RFD), and muscle fiber composition and size (CSA) were studied in elderly individuals (68-78 yr) chronically exposed (> 50 yr) to either endurance (E) or strength (S) training, and in age-matched, untrained (U) elderly group.
Results: E and S showed greater MVC than did U. Contractile RFD was elevated in S compared with U, and S also demonstrated greater type II fiber CSA than did U and E. The proportion of type I fibers was greater in E compared with U and S.
Conclusions: Muscle fiber size and mechanical muscle performance, particularly RFD, were consistently elevated in aged individuals exposed to chronic (i.e., lifelong) strength training. This relative preservation in muscle morphology and function may provide an important physical reserve capacity to retain muscle mass and function above the critical threshold for independent living at old age.



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Wed Jan 02, 2008 9:22 pm

 
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Joined: Mon May 14, 2007 10:03 pm
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Location: Eugene, Oregon

Cool! Thanks for sharing that. Now if only my joints will hold up.

_________________
M45 PRs: 100: 12.04, 400: 54.83, 800: 2:23.5, 5K: 19:27



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Thu Jan 03, 2008 7:51 am

 
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Senior Masters Athlete
Joined: Sun Oct 01, 2006 11:13 am
Posts: 13
Location: Huntsville, Al

Now that I know it's good for me I don't know if it'll be as much fun.



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