Trainability and reversibility in physical fitness among elderly persons taking part in an intervention program

Abstract

Objective To assess the trainability and reversibility of variables of physical fitness in elderly participants in Active Living Functional Gymnastics. Method This ex post facto study was composed of 115 elderly women from six functional fitness groups in the Active Living Program in Florianopolis. The Rikli and Jones battery of tests (Chair Stand Test, Arm Curl Test, Chair Sit and Reach Test, Back Scratch Test, 8-Foot Up and Go Test, 6 Minute Walk Test) was used. The intervention period lasted for eight months, and the detraining period took three months. Descriptive and inferential statistics with paired Student t-test and Scheffé post hoc was used. Results The performance of the age groups differed in agility and aerobic capacity; Trainability was identified in the strength and resistance variables of the lower and upper limbs, and the flexibility of the lower limbs; Detraining was perceived in the strength and resistance of upper limbs, and aerobic capacity. Conclusion A Functional Gymnastics program produces positive effects on the strength and resistance of the lower and upper limbs, and flexibility of the lower limbs in elderly women. An interruption period lasting three months results in detraining in strength and resistance of the lower limbs and aerobic capacity.