Exercise for Sarcopenia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to explore how exercise affects muscle mass and overall function, with a focus on developing cycling power. Researchers are particularly interested in the impact of physical activity on lipid metabolism, or how the body processes fats, in participants. The trial suits relatively healthy men and women aged 60 to 80 who are willing to engage in a structured exercise routine. Participants will either vary their daily steps or undergo six months of power training to observe changes in their muscles and physical abilities. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the opportunity to contribute to valuable research on exercise and aging.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that exercise is safe for older adults?
Research has shown that exercise is generally safe for older adults and can help strengthen muscles. Studies have found that people who stay active or become more active have a lower risk of weak muscles and poor physical performance. This suggests that exercise could effectively manage sarcopenia, the loss of muscle mass and strength.
Exercise programs, especially those including balance training along with strength exercises, have proven effective. Moderate confidence exists that these exercises improve muscle strength and function without causing serious harm.
In summary, exercise is a well-tolerated way to improve muscle health in older adults. It is usually safe and can help reduce the risk of muscle loss and weakness.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about using exercise to treat sarcopenia because it targets muscle strength and mass in a natural and non-invasive way. Unlike typical treatments that might involve medication or supplements, such as hormone therapy or protein supplements, power training directly stimulates muscle fibers through physical activity. This approach not only enhances muscle function but also improves overall physical health, which is a holistic benefit that medications alone can't provide. By focusing on a six-month power training regimen, the treatment aims to deliver sustainable improvements in muscle strength and quality of life for those affected by sarcopenia.
What evidence suggests that exercise might be an effective treatment for sarcopenia?
Research has shown that exercise improves muscle strength and physical performance in people with sarcopenia, a condition that causes muscle loss with age. This trial will focus on six months of power training as the experimental treatment. Studies have found that resistance training, which involves exercises where muscles work against a weight or force, significantly increases muscle mass and strength. Reviews of multiple studies confirm that physical activity, including resistance exercises, benefits older adults by boosting their muscle strength and overall physical function. Different types of training have also improved specific abilities, like walking speed and grip strength, in older people with sarcopenia. Overall, exercise is a proven way to combat the effects of sarcopenia.13678
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for relatively healthy men and women aged between 60-80 years who are interested in participating in an exercise program to combat muscle loss (sarcopenia) and improve heart health. Those considered relatively unhealthy cannot participate.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Activity Monitoring
Participants' daily step counts are monitored to determine the range needed to prevent impairment of fat metabolism
Exercise Training
Participants perform a 24-week exercise program focused on developing maximal cycling power to counteract sarcopenia
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the exercise training
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Exercise
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Texas at Austin
Lead Sponsor