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Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

12-1-2024

Abstract

Background: Progressive resistance training (PRT) is a frontline therapy for sarcopenia. Currently, there is limited discussion on gender differences on the effectiveness of PRT training for elderly individuals with sarcopenia.

Objectives: To compare the effects of PRT between different genders in elderly individuals with sarcopenia, focusing on parameters such as skeletal muscle mass index (SMI), gait speed (GS), grip strength (HS), performance in the five-times-sit-to-stand test (FTSST), and performance in the timed up-and-go test (TUG). The aim of this study was to provide rehabilitation and exercise guidance for elderly individuals with sarcopenia based on gender differences.

Methods: Retrieve literature on progressive resistance training for elderly sarcopenia from eight databases, using the "meta" package in R for meta-analysis.

Results: This study systematically reviewed and meta-analyzed 14 RCTs involving 603 participants. The meta-analysis revealed that PRT effectively improved HS, GS, SMI, FTSST performance, and TUG performance in elderly individuals with sarcopenia. Subgroup analyses showed: (1) a significant gender difference in SMI (p < 0.01), with a greater effect size in males (SMD=1.78, 95% CI [1.26, 2.29], I2=15%) compared to females (SMD=0.26, 95% CI [-0.34, 0.85], I2=57%), and the smallest effect size in both genders (SMD=0.2, 95% CI [-0.49, 0.88]). (2) No significant gender differences were found in HS and GS after PRT in elderly individuals with sarcopenia (p > 0.05). However, for HS, the effect size was greater in males (SMD=0.98, 95% CI [0.32, 1.64]). For GS, the effect size was greater in females (SMD=0.61, 95% CI [0.13, 1.09]). (3) Subgroup analysis revealed a significant gender difference in FTSST performance (p < 0.01), with a greater effect size in females (SMD=-1.4, 95% CI [-1.9, -0.89]) followed by both genders (SMD=-3.42, 95% CI [-4.31, -2.53]). (4) Gender had a significant impact on TUG performance (p < 0.05), with both genders having the largest effect size (SMD=-0.22, 95% CI [-0.71, 0.26]), followed by females (SMD=-0.66, 95% CI [-1.12, -0.2]), and the smallest effect size in males (SMD=-1.59, 95% CI [-2.42, -0.75]).

Conclusion/Discussion: PRT demonstrates significant positive effects on HS, GS, SMI, performance in the FTSST, and TUG in elderly individuals with sarcopenia, like most meta-analyses of resistance training. Although gender differences indicated a more significant impact on SMI in males and a more noticeable improvement in the FTSST for females, the limited sample sizes may compromise the representativeness of the study. This study suggests that future research should comprehensively consider gender factors.

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