A follow-up study on the effects of training on the fitness and habitual activity patterns of 60- to 70-year-old women.

Abstract

This study investigated the aerobic fitness, body composition, spirometric variables, Human Activity Profile, and level of adherence to physical activity subsequent to completion of a progressive walking program of six month's duration (T1). Sixty-six women previously randomized to training (TG) and control (CG) groups were reassessed six months after finishing the six month walking program (T2). During the follow-up period, 77.8% of the TG subjects continued with exercise and maintained lower (p < 0.005) exercise heart rates compared to the CG. A Mann-Whitney U test on the difference scores (T2-T1) revealed no difference (p > 0.05) between the TG and CG for changes in Maximum Current Activity and Normative Impairment Index, which are both components of the Human Activity Profile, with the earlier increases (p < 0.05) in these parameters by the TG having been maintained. Participation in a previous low frequency training regimen therefore resulted in elderly women adopting and sustaining a higher level of habitual physical activity. This is important because a favorable modification of lifestyle factors is likely to be indicative of an enhanced outlook for independence.