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INTRODUCTION
In humans, muscle strength, which can be defined as the force generation capacity of an individual, reaches its peak in the second and third decades of life, shows an imperceptible progressive decline until approximately 50 years of age, and then begins to decline thereafter at a rate between 1.4% to 2.5% per year, with more rapid losses after the age of 65 years1, 2).
Low levels of lower limb strength are associated with functional limitations in daily living3). In addition, muscle weakness is associated with an increased risk of falls4), hip fractures5), and adverse physiological changes such as osteoporosis6).
Strength training is now widely recommended for older adults to increase muscle mass, strength, and ultimately, independence in activities of daily living7). Strength training can be accomplished in a number of different ways, depending on the physiological, functional or performance goals.
Although some researchers have demonstrated that older adults are capable of significant improvements in lower extremity force measures with strength training, the effect of this type of training on balance measures has been rarely reported8, 9). Postural sway increases with aging10). Cross-sectional studies have used force platforms, which record the center of pressure, to estimate body sway11). Older people have slightly higher measures of sway in double stance than younger persons. Increased postural sway increases the risk of falls according to studies of community-dwelling elderly12).
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a vigorous resistance program on lower limb strength and balance of older persons.