Beneficial effects of walking-based home program for improving cardio-respiratory performance and physical activity in sarcopenic older people: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia is an age-related loss of muscle mass, decline in physical performance, and/or loss of muscle strength. Improving physical activity (PA) is associated with a reduced risk of sarcopenia. Additionally, the World Health Organization 2020 guidelines recommend 150 minutes/week of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes/week of vigorous PA plus resistance exercise twice a week. An increase in walking steps/day also enhances PAPA. AIM: The study explored the benefits of a pedometer-based walking program plus a resistance exercise program in older adults with sarcopenia. DESIGN: A randomized control trial. SETTING: In community dwelling. POPULATION: Older individuals with sarcopenia. METHODS: Screening for sarcopenia was defined according to the Asian Working Group of Sarcopenia criteria in 2019, which is composed of the skeletal muscle mass index (SMI), muscle strength, and physical performance. Bioimpedance analysis, handgrip strength, and gait speed were measured for the SMI, muscle strength, and physical performance, respectively. to explore the effectiveness of a pedometer-based walking program plus TheraBand resistance exercise over 12 weeks. The intervention group was required to wear a pedometer and walk 7 500 steps/day for 5 days/week and perform the TheraBand resistance exercise twice a week, while the control group continued their routine daily activities. Respiratory muscle strength, functional capacity (i.e., 6-minute walk test), and PA were assessed before and after the 12-week program. To evaluate the benefits of the home-based walking program plus resistance exercise, two-way mixed ANOVAs were performed. RESULTS: Sixty older individuals with sarcopenia aged >= 60 years were enrolled; however, a total of 57 older adults (28 in the invention group and 29 in the control group) completed the study. Inspiratory muscle strength, functional capacity, and PA increased between and within groups after the 12-week program (all P<0.05). Furthermore, muscle strength and physical performance improved in the intervention group after the 12-week program but not in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: A pedometer-based intervention program with TheraBand resistance exercise could improve cardio-respiratory performance and PA among older Thai individuals with sarcopenia. Further study needs to consider type of exercise and dietary supplements. CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT: Increasing the number of steps walked per day may reduce the risk of developing sarcopenia in older people.

Automated summary

This study explored the benefits of a pedometer-based walking program plus a resistance exercise program in older adults with sarcopenia. The results showed that this intervention program could improve cardio-respiratory performance and physical activity among older individuals with sarcopenia, thereby reducing the risk of developing the condition.