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Ann Appl Sport Sci 2026, 14(1): 0-0 |
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Harati J, Daneshmandi H. Effects of High- vs. Low-Velocity Dual-Task Resistance Training on Functional Performance in Older Adults. Ann Appl Sport Sci 2026; 14 (1)
URL: http://aassjournal.com/article-1-1688-en.html
URL: http://aassjournal.com/article-1-1688-en.html
1- Department of Sports Injury and Corrective Exercises, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran , jharati2000@msc.guilan.ac.ir
2- Department of Sports Injury and Corrective Exercises, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
2- Department of Sports Injury and Corrective Exercises, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
Abstract: (69 Views)
Background. Recent evidence suggests that multi-component exercises, especially those involving a dual-task of both motor and cognitive elements, are superior to single-task methods by concurrently stimulating both skill sets. However, the optimal movement velocity within these dual-task programs remains unclear.
Objectives. This research aimed to compare the effect of high-velocity dual-task resistance training (HVDRT) and low-velocity dual-task resistance training (LVDRT) on the functional fitness of older adults.
Methods. Forty-five participants were randomly assigned to HVDRT, LVDRT, or a Control (Con) group (n=15 each). Functional fitness was assessed using the 30-second Chair Stand Test, Arm Curl Test, 6-Minute Walk Test, Chair Sit-and-Reach Test, Back Scratch Test, and 8-Foot Up-and-Go Test. The 8-week training program for HVDRT and LVDRT comprised 24 sessions, each lasting 60–70 minutes.
Results. Mixed-model ANOVA revealed that both HVDRT and LVDRT had a significant effect compared to the control group on upper body strength, aerobic endurance, and balance and agility (p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in lower body strength, lower body flexibility, and upper body flexibility between groups (p > 0.05). Furthermore, HVDRT demonstrated a significantly greater effect on upper body strength compared to LVDRT (p=0.038), but no other significant differences were found between the two training velocities.
Conclusion. Both HVDRT and LVDRT significantly improve specific factors of functional fitness in older adults compared to a control group. While HVDRT led to greater increases in upper body strength, there is no substantial difference between the two training velocities for most functional outcomes. Therefore, trainers can utilize either method to enhance functional fitness in this population, though high-velocity movements may provide additional benefits for specific strength parameters.
Objectives. This research aimed to compare the effect of high-velocity dual-task resistance training (HVDRT) and low-velocity dual-task resistance training (LVDRT) on the functional fitness of older adults.
Methods. Forty-five participants were randomly assigned to HVDRT, LVDRT, or a Control (Con) group (n=15 each). Functional fitness was assessed using the 30-second Chair Stand Test, Arm Curl Test, 6-Minute Walk Test, Chair Sit-and-Reach Test, Back Scratch Test, and 8-Foot Up-and-Go Test. The 8-week training program for HVDRT and LVDRT comprised 24 sessions, each lasting 60–70 minutes.
Results. Mixed-model ANOVA revealed that both HVDRT and LVDRT had a significant effect compared to the control group on upper body strength, aerobic endurance, and balance and agility (p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in lower body strength, lower body flexibility, and upper body flexibility between groups (p > 0.05). Furthermore, HVDRT demonstrated a significantly greater effect on upper body strength compared to LVDRT (p=0.038), but no other significant differences were found between the two training velocities.
Conclusion. Both HVDRT and LVDRT significantly improve specific factors of functional fitness in older adults compared to a control group. While HVDRT led to greater increases in upper body strength, there is no substantial difference between the two training velocities for most functional outcomes. Therefore, trainers can utilize either method to enhance functional fitness in this population, though high-velocity movements may provide additional benefits for specific strength parameters.
Keywords: Dual Task Training, High Velocity Resistance Training, Older Adults, Strength Training, Slow Velocity Resistance Training
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APPLICABLE REMARKS
APPLICABLE REMARKS
- Velocity-Specific Programming: Coaches and clinicians should consider high-velocity dual-task resistance training (HVDRT) as a potentially more effective modality for specifically targeting upper-body strength compared to traditional slow-velocity methods in older adults.
- Time-Efficient Multimodal Benefits: Both high- and low-velocity dual-task resistance training can be effectively used to improve aerobic capacity and dynamic balance. This allows practitioners to design time-efficient programs that address cardiovascular health and fall prevention simultaneously without needing separate aerobic sessions.
- Fall Risk Mitigation: Integrating dual-task elements (combining cognitive challenges with resistance exercise) is highly recommended for improving performance in mobility tasks such as the 8-Foot Up-and-Go test. This is a critical practical consideration for therapists focused on enhancing spatiotemporal awareness and reducing fall risk in the elderly population.
- Prescription for Power: To address the age-related decline in Type II muscle fibers and lower extremity power, trainers should emphasize the fastest possible concentric phase during dual-task resistance exercises. Even when statistical significance is not reached, this approach may offer meaningful clinical advantages for essential activities of daily living, such as rising from a chair.
- Need for Supplemental Flexibility: As dual-task resistance training at varying velocities did not significantly improve upper or lower body flexibility, it is essential to prescribe targeted stretching protocols alongside these programs to ensure a comprehensive improvement in overall functional fitness.
- Clinical Implementation: Healthcare providers can utilize dual-task resistance training as a "distraction technique" to potentially lower perceived exertion and fear of movement in older adults, thereby increasing adherence to high-intensity strength protocols (70-75% 1RM).
Type of Study: Original Article |
Subject:
Kinesiology and Sport Injuries
Received: 2025/12/27 | Accepted: 2026/02/14
Received: 2025/12/27 | Accepted: 2026/02/14
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