Home-based stepping exercise with weights improves functional ability in older women

What is it about?

We know that stepping exercise can improve aerobic fitness in middle-aged and older adults, but we wanted to know if muscular strength could also be improved. We looked at the effects of stepping while wearing a weighted vest to see if this type of training could improve strength, power and functional abilities in older women.

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Why is it important?

We found that that training did improve functional fitness - particularly power, which tends to decline quickly in older adults. We recommend home-based weighted stepping as an exercise prescription for those at risk of falls, frailty and loss of independence. This approach can also help older women meet physical activity guidelines for muscular strength and fitness.