Anabolic responses to resistance training in older men and women: a brief review

J Aging Phys Act. 2005 Jul;13(3):343-58. doi: 10.1123/japa.13.3.343.

Abstract

Resistance training has been shown to be the most effective exercise mode to induce anabolic adaptations in older men and women. Advances in imaging techniques and histochemistry have increased the ability to detect such changes, confirming the high level of adaptability that remains in aging skeletal muscle. This brief review presents a summary of the resistance-training studies that directly compare chronic anabolic responses to training in older (>60 years) men and women. Sixteen studies are summarized, most of which indicate similar relative anabolic responses between older men and women after resistance training. Relatively small sample sizes in most of the interventions limited their ability to detect significant sex differences and should be considered when interpreting these studies. Future research should incorporate larger sample sizes with multiple measurement time points for anabolic responses.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Physiological / physiology
  • Aging / physiology*
  • Body Composition / physiology
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiology*
  • Physical Education and Training*
  • Weight Lifting*