Vol 12, Issue 3

Effects of Low-Volume Resistance Training on Muscle Strength and Functionality of People with Parkinson’s Disease

April 1, 2019 - By 

Authors

Matheus Barbalho, Federal University of Goiás
Elren Passos Monteiro, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul
Rochelle Rocha Costa, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul
Rodolfo Raiol, Centro Universitário do Estado do Pará
International Journal of Exercise Science 12(3): 567-580, 2019. 
DOI:10.70252/IJTI8994

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive, neurodegenerative disorder of the central nervous system that affects the elderly and results in a decrease of functional capacity, motor control, and muscle strength. Resistance training (RT) has been shown to be a non-drug alternative in both elderly and parkinsonian patients in increasing functional capacity and muscle strength. The present study aimed to verify the effects of low-volume RT in people with PD in relation to muscular strength, body composition, anthropometry and functional capacity. Fifteen elderly patients with idiopathic PD were divided into two groups: 7 in the resistance-training group (RTG): RT twice a week for 12 weeks, and 8 in the control group (CG): No exercise. Before the training period, the subjects performed maximum strength (1-RM), body composition (Bioimpedance), anthropometry, and functional capacity (GDLAM protocol) tests. The endpoints were analyzed by the Generalized Estimates (GEE) with post hoc Bonferroni, being adopted for the analyses α < 0.05. The results showed that the RTG had muscle strength gains: Bench Press 113.33%, Lat Pull Down 71.83% and Leg press 45º 94.48%, (p < 0.001), functional capacity (IG: -10.47%), and lean mass: 11.98%, (p < 0.001), while the GC presented significant changes before and after functional capacity only (GI: -1.61%) (p < 0.001). In addition, the RTG obtained reductions in the percentage of body fat (-2.30%) and in the waist-hip ratio (-2.22) without changes indicated in the CG. RT was efficient in improving muscle strength, functional capacity, body composition and anthropometric health indicators in individuals with PD.

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