Muscle power training (or high-velocity resistance training) has been advocated as a potentially superior form of resistance-based training to enhance physical performance, muscle power, and reduce the risk of falls in older adults [173,174]. Muscle power, which represents the product of force and velocity, is characterized by rapid concentric movements performed at moderateto- high loads. In a meta-analysis designed to compare different types and intensities of PRT on muscle and functional outcomes in older adults, Steib et al. reported that power training was more effective for improving muscle power and physical performance (chair rising time and stair climbing ability) than traditional PRT
[175]. It is hypothesized that this form of training may also provide an enhanced osteogenic effect due to the
higher strain rates compared to traditional PRT. In the only study conducted to date, Stengel et al. compared
the skeletal response in 53 postmenopausal osteopenic women who participated in either a twice weekly power
training or traditional PRT program for 2 years [176, 177]. The training programs were identical except that
those women undertaking traditional PRT took 4 seconds for the concentric phase of the movement whereas
the power-trained group performed this phase in a rapid explosive fashion. In addition, all women performed
gymnastics and home training. Following 12 months of training, total hip and lumbar spine BMD was maintained
in the power training group, but decreased in the PRT group [177]. After 2 years, the beneficial effects
of power training persisted at the lumbar spine, with a trend for maintenance at the hip [176]. It is important to
note that the women in this study had previously participated in a 3-year exercise trial, and thus the response to
the exercise training may have been attenuated based on the principle of diminished returns. Nevertheless, these
findings provide preliminary evidence that power training might be an effective modality to enhance both bone
health and muscle function in older adults.