Authors
Mitchel A. Magrini, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs
J. Jay Dawes, University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Craig Elder, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs
Mary Ann Kluge, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs
International Journal of Exercise Science 9(3): 327-335, 2016.
DOI: 10.70252/THSE6105
Abstract
Muscular power is a key component of functional performance (FP) and fall risk reduction. The present study investigated the effect that power training with medicine balls had on body composition and FP in middle-age females. 10 women were divided into a control group (n=4, age=59.8+3.6) and an intervention group (n=6, age=59.5+3.6) in this 6-week study. The intervention group completed a medicine ball training program two times a week. Body composition and FP tests were administered prepost. Data was analyzed using a series of Wilcoxon Signed Ranks test and Cohen’s d test for effect size. The 6-week training program increased functional performance. The intervention group exhibited increases in the Up and Go test (p<.05) (Cohen’s d=1.76), as well as maximum (p<.05) (Cohen’s d=-1.52) and average (p<.05) (Cohen’s d=-1.32) distance thrown on the seated medicine ball throw. Middle-aged females can experience significant improvements in functional abilities after 6 weeks of participation in a medicine ball training program that includes both resistance and power training.
Recommended Citation
Magrini, Mitchel A.; Dawes, J. Jay; Elder, Craig; and Kluge, Mary Ann (2016) “Power Training and Functional Performance in Middle Aged Women: A Pilot Study,” International Journal of Exercise Science: Vol. 9 : Iss. 3, Pages 327 – 335.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.70252/THSE6105