Which Variables Are Associated with the Magnitude of the Physical Fitness Response in Older Adults? An Analysis of Their Development and Influence

Abstract

Regular physical exercise has proven to be an effective strategy for enhancing the health and well-being of older adults. However, there are still gaps in our understanding of the impacts of exercise on older adults with different health conditions, as well as in the customization of training programs according to individual capabilities. This study aimed to analyze the variables that influence the response of physical capabilities in older adults, considering their development over the aging process, with the goal of assisting professionals in creating personalized training programs. To achieve this, we conducted a cohort study involving 562 previously inactive adults and older adults who underwent anthropometric assessments, blood pressure measurements, and comprehensive physical tests. These assessments were conducted before and after a 14-week training program. Results indicated no significant variations in variables such as waist circumference (p = 0.0455, effect size = 0.10), body mass index (p = 0.0215, effect size = 0.15), systolic (p < 0.0001, effect size = 0.35) and diastolic blood pressure (p < 0.0001, effect size = 0.25) pre- and post-intervention. Strength tests, agility, the 6 min walk test (6MWT), and the back scratch test (BS) showed significant improvements post-intervention, with p-values all below 0.0001 and effect sizes ranging from 0.30 to 0.50. Multiple linear regression analyses revealed that lower initial values in physical capabilities were associated with more significant improvements during training (R2 = 0.73, p < 0.001). These results underscore that individualized guidance in training can lead to clinically meaningful improvements in physical performance and health among older adults, with effect sizes indicating moderate-to-large benefits (effect size range = 0.30 to 0.50). Therefore, personalized training programs are essential to maximize health benefits in this population.