This study aims to evlauate the effect os a 32-week multicomponent training (MT) program on muscle architecture and muscle quality (assessed by ultrasound) in womer over 60 years. The study will also analyze concurrent changes in muscle strength, physical performance, and body composition. The hypothesis is that the training will induce positive architectural adaptations, such as reduced echogenicity and increased thickness in the rectus femoris and rectus abdominis muscles, correlating with improved functional independence.
Population aging emphasizes the need for "healthy aging", where muscle quality (MQ) is a vital metric. However, there is a lack of robust longitudinal protocols integrating ultrasound-assessed MQ with functional performance in older women. This randomized controlled trial involves community-dwelling women aged 60+ from the Geriatric Revitalization Program in Salamanca. Participants will be randomized (1:1) into an experimental group (multicomponent training) or a control group. The intervention is a 32-week supervised program (3 sessions/week, 50 min/session) combining aerobic, strength, balance, and coordination exercises. Primary outcomes focus on muscle architecture (echo intensity and thickness) in the rectus femoris and rectus abdominis muscles. Secondary outcomes include functional capacity (SPPB, TUG, 5-time sit-to-stand), handgrip strength, and body composition.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
40
The exercise battery includes lower body work (squats, deadlifts, front and sagittal plane lunges, hip abduction/extension, and plantar flexion) and upper body work (wall flexion-extensions, shoulder raises, and elbow flexion-extensions). In addition to the strength exercises mentioned above, balance exercises such as walking in tandem, standing on one leg, side steps, and weight transfer will also be performed. Aerobic capacity will be worked on by walking at a moderate intensity, and flexibility will be improved through stretching the main muscle groups.
University of Salamanca
Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
Echo intensity
Echo intensity (gray scale analysis), using ImageJ software, proposed by the SARCUS consensus and Nutritional Ultrasound ®.
Time frame: Baseline and 32 weeks
Muscle thickness (mm)
Linear measurement of the distance between the superficial and deep aponeuroses of a target muscle belly.
Time frame: Baseline and 32 weeks
Cross-sectional area
The total area of the muscle (measured in cm\^2) in a plane perpendicular to its longitudinal axis
Time frame: Baseline and 32 weeks
Subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness
Measurement of the distance between the dermis and the superficial muscle fascia. This variable quantifies the thickness of the fat layer located directly beneath the skin.
Time frame: Baseline and 32 weeks
Handgrip strength (kg)
Handgrip strength will be assessed using dynamometry due to its association with various outcomes of aging, being a key component in sarcopenia and frailty. Measurements will be taken using the Hydraulic Jamar device with the subject standing and the elbow flexed at 90º.
Time frame: Baseline and 32 weeks
Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB)
The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) will be used, a quick and objective three-part physical function test with excellent test-retest reliability, predictive validity, and clinical applicability, mainly used for fall risk stratification.
Time frame: Baseline and 32 weeks
Timed Up and Go (TUG)
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
The Timed Up and Go (TUG) test will be used as it is a valid tool for detecting balance deficits, which are associated with an increased risk of falls in older adults.
Time frame: Baseline and 32 weeks
5-time sit-to-stand (5STS)
The 5-time sit-to-stand (5STS) test will be used, a functional test serves to assess lower limb strength.
Time frame: Baseline and 32 weeks
Body Mass Index (BMI)
alculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters (kg/m²). It is used to assess changes in body mass relative to height.
Time frame: Baseline and 32 weeks
Body Fat Percentage
Total body fat percentage measured through electrical bioimpedance (BIA) using the TANITA BC-418 device (%).
Time frame: Baseline and 32 weeks
Abdominal Circumference
Measured at the midpoint between the lower margin of the last palpable rib and the top of the iliac crest using a flexible tape measure.
Time frame: Baseline and 32 weeks
Waist-to-Hip Ratio
Calculated by dividing the waist circumference by the hip circumference. Used as an indicator of abdominal fat distribution.
Time frame: Baseline and 32 weeks.