strength training is typically performed on machines, and is inferior to training with free weights. Nevertheless, the prevailing wisdom is that this kind of training will improve the muscle strength of older adults, and as a result maintain/improve health and reduce functional decline. Muscle power has received a lot of attention from researchers as of late as a predictor of function and disability in older adults. Muscle power differs from muscle strength, as muscle power is the product of force x velocity. Sorry for the physics reference, but it is a bit necessary for this discussion. The distinction is important; muscle strength refers to the ability of the muscle to produce force, muscle power refers to the ability to produce force quickly. Recent research indicates that strength training that incorporates high-speed training may be more beneficial to older adults than traditional slow-speed strength training. The new data supports the logic that high-speed strength training is more appropriate for seniors because real-world activities occur quickly and require balance and stability, a nimble nervous system. This high-speed training has positive effects on the nervous system – more of an effect than provided by traditional means of strength training – and can help older men and women function more efficiently and effectively. While lower-speed strength training methods still should be a part of every training regimen, there is definitely reason to compliment this traditional form of strength training with high-speed power training.
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on Diets Suck
on Diets Suck
Very interesting I have an elliptical that I use to train fro hockey. I was using high resistance intervals but question wether I should be doing lower resistance speed training.
I am 49 years old