Changes in Lung Function and Anthropometric Parameters Post Training in Older Women

• Main Authors: Katarzyna Kaczmarczyk, Ida Wiszomirska, Andrzej Magiera, Lidia Ilnicka, Michalina Błażkiewicz
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taiwan Society of Geriatric Emergency and Critical Medicine (TSGECM) 2015-06-01
• Series: International Journal of Gerontology
• Subjects: aging; exercise therapy; respiratory function
• Online Access: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1873959815000423

We investigated the impact of two consecutive training sessions on spirometric and anthropometric parameters in 23 older healthy women. Spirometric and anthropometric measurements were taken before the program, after a short high-intensity training program, and again after 12-week regular mild-intensity exercises. We found significant differences between vital capacity (VC)% at baseline versus after 2 weeks. The 12-week values were better than at baseline, but lower than those that had been achieved after the intensive training. There were no changes in other respiratory parameters. However, chest expansion was significantly improved after 12 weeks. Intensive physical exercise training was confirmed to be beneficial for older women, possibly slowing down the deterioration of some spirometric parameters [VC%, forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1)%, obstruction] sustaining improved quality of life.