title: Effects of a low-volume, vigorous intensity step exercise program on functional mobility in middle-aged adults.
abstract: Aging-related decline in functional mobility is associated with loss of independence. This decline may be mitigated through programs of physical activity. Despite reports of aging-related mobility impairment in middle-aged adults, this age group has been largely overlooked in terms of exercise programs that target functional mobility and the preservation of independence in older age. A method to quantitatively assess changes in functional mobility could direct rehabilitation in a proactive rather than reactive manner. Thirty-three healthy but sedentary middle-aged adults participated in a four week low-volume, vigorous intensity stepping exercise program. Two baseline testing sessions and one post-training testing session were conducted. Functional mobility was assessed using the timed up and go (TUG) test, with its constituent sit-to-walk and walk-to-sit phases examined using a novel inertial sensor-based method. Additionally, semi-tandem balance and knee extensor muscle isometric torque were assessed. Trunk acceleration during walk-to-sit reduced significantly post-training, suggesting altered movement control due to the exercise program. No significant training-induced changes in sit-to-walk acceleration, TUG time, balance or torque were observed. The novel method of functional mobility assessment presented provides a reliable means to quantify subtle changes in mobility during postural transitions. Over time, this exercise program may improve functional mobility.
authors.affiliation: Technology Research for Independent Living (TRIL) Centre, Dublin, Ireland. emerdoheny@gmail.com
authors.forename: Emer P
authors.initials: EP
authors.lastname: Doheny
authors.forename: Denise
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: McGrath
authors.forename: Massimiliano
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ditroilo
authors.forename: Jacqueline L
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Mair
authors.forename: Barry R
authors.initials: BR
authors.lastname: Greene
authors.forename: Brian
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Caulfield
authors.forename: Giuseppe
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: De Vito
authors.forename: Madeleine M
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: Lowery
mesh_terms: D000222:Adaptation, Physiological / Q000502:physiology*; D000368:Aged; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D005082:Physical Exertion / Q000502:physiology*; D010809:Physical Fitness / Q000502:physiology*; D004856:Postural Balance / Q000502:physiology*; D011187:Posture / Q000502:physiology*; D011597:Psychomotor Performance / Q000502:physiology; D016138:Walking / Q000502:physiology*