Abstract
Purpose:To determine if the strengthening effects gained from 16 sessions of either whole-body vibration (WBV) or resistance (RES) training persisted for seniors after a 4 week retention period. Participants: 46 community dwelling seniors (mean age = 73.13 years; 27 males, 19 females). Procedures: Baseline measures (T1) were taken after the completion of the training protocol. Measures included fitness testing, a physical abilities questionnaire, and an interview. Retention testing (T2) took place after a 4 week interval where participants engaged in normal daily activities. Statistical analyses: 2 (condition: WBV vs. RES) x 2 (activity level: high vs. low) x 2 (time: T1 vs. T2) mixed factorial ANOVAs were performed on each dependent measure. Results: Performance on the chair stand test was better for participants who engaged in RES training, and for those who were highly active. No significant findings were revealed in the remaining fitness testing measures. The questionnaire indicated that participants perceived walking half a mile less difficult at T2 than at T1. Nearly all self-reported physical ability measures were perceived to be less difficult for highly active participants. Conclusion: Strengthening effects acquired through WBV or RES training were maintained in seniors after 4 weeks of normal daily activities, with little effect of condition or activity level. However, activity level influenced the perception of one's physical abilities.Acknowledgments: Ontario Graduate Scholarship