Resistance Exercise for Muscle Fatigue in Aging
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how aging affects muscle endurance and oxygen use during resistance exercises. It compares younger and older adults performing knee extensions with varying weights, both with and without a leg cuff that restricts blood flow (known as blood flow restriction). Participants will engage in 12 exercise sessions to determine the number of repetitions they can complete. Individuals who are healthy, active, and have not recently used tobacco or certain medications may be suitable for this trial.
As an unphased study, this trial provides a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding the effects of aging on muscle performance.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
If you are taking blood-thinning medication or drugs that affect muscle metabolism, like Metformin or Benzodiazepines, you cannot participate in the trial. Otherwise, the protocol does not specify if you need to stop other medications.
What prior data suggests that this exercise protocol is safe for participants?
Research has shown that resistance exercises with blood flow restriction (BFR) are generally safe for most people. Studies have found that this method can strengthen and enlarge muscles without serious side effects. For instance, a review found that BFR training enhances muscle strength without increasing the risk of blood clots.
Conversely, resistance exercises without blood flow restriction are already common and well-tolerated by both young and older adults. This type of exercise has long been used to safely improve muscle strength and endurance.
In summary, both exercise methods have been tested and are considered safe, with no major negative effects reported in the studies.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about exploring resistance exercise with and without blood flow restriction as a way to combat muscle fatigue in aging. Unlike traditional exercise routines, blood flow restriction involves using bands or cuffs to limit blood flow to muscles during exercise, potentially enhancing muscle strength and endurance at lower intensities. This method could offer a safer, less strenuous alternative for older adults who might struggle with conventional high-intensity workouts. By testing these techniques in both older and younger adults, researchers aim to uncover whether these benefits are consistent across different age groups, ultimately providing a more accessible approach to maintaining muscle health as we age.
What evidence suggests that resistance exercise with and without blood flow restriction could be effective for muscle fatigue in aging?
This trial will compare resistance exercises with and without blood flow restriction (BFR) in both young and older adults. Research has shown that resistance exercises with BFR can improve muscle strength and size, particularly in older adults. Studies indicate that this method enhances muscle health by increasing strength and endurance more effectively than traditional resistance training alone. For instance, one study found that BFR training led to greater improvements in strength and endurance compared to high-load resistance training without BFR.
Regular resistance exercise without BFR can still build muscle strength and size, but it may not be as effective as when combined with BFR. Evidence suggests that while both methods can improve muscle function, BFR is more effective at enhancing muscle growth and strength, especially in older adults. Overall, BFR appears to be a promising way to reduce muscle fatigue and improve muscle performance as people age.23467Who Is on the Research Team?
Cameron J Mitchell, PhD (Kinesiology)
Principal Investigator
University of British Columbia
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking adults who are either 19-35 years old or 65 and older. They must be able to safely perform exercises, as confirmed by a questionnaire or doctor's approval.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Exercise Sessions
Participants perform knee extension exercises at varying intensities with and without blood flow occlusion
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after exercise sessions
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Resistance Exercise With Blood Flow Restriction
- Resistance Exercise Without Blood Flow Restriction
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of British Columbia
Lead Sponsor