Effects of a 12-Week Low-Intensity Resistance Training Program on Force-Matching Task and Balance in Young Men

Abstract

Background: The effects of low-intensity resistance training on health and muscular performance have been widely reported, but its effects on motor skills such as balance and force matching have been overlooked. Hence, the purpose of this study was to determine the effects of low-intensity resistance training on a force-matching task and balance. Methods: The subjects from the intervention group (EXP; n = 20) participated in a 12-week low-intensity resistance training program. The measurements of balance and force-matching ability were conducted before and after the intervention. To determine the accuracy and steadiness (variability) in the force matching task, we calculated the values of three errors: (1) absolute error (AE), (2) constant error (CE), and (3) variable error (VE). Results: In the force-matching task performed after the training, the values of two errors decreased: (1) AE (right leg, p = 0.0008; left leg, p = 0.0008), and (2) CE (right leg, p = 0.0064; left leg, p = 0.0440). Resistance training did not significantly affect VE and the parameters characterizing COP sway in the balance test. Conclusions: The 12-week low-intensity resistance training improved the accuracy of the force-matching task but did not change postural stability or postural strategies.