Classification(s): Exercise Training; Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Introduction: Single-set resistance training (SSRT) programs have been shown to increase strength in young adults in a relatively short period of time (eg, 6-12 weeks). However, in older adults such programs tend to require a greater period of time to increase strength and improve functional fitness (FF).

Purpose: To compare strength and FF outcomes between two SSRT studies, rapid intensity progression (RP) and delayed intensity progression (DP), among elderly pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) patients.

Design: The design of the current study is a systematic comparison of two randomized controlled trials.

Methods: Twenty PR patients participating in an identical hospital-based PR program that met twice a week for 8 weeks, were randomly assigned to similar SSRT programs, which differed in intensity progression (RP: n = 10, mean age = 71.0 +/- 3.7 years; DP: n = 10, mean age = 65.4 +/- 7.8 years). The SSRT consisted of one set of 8-15 repetitions of 5 exercises (incline chest press, seated leg press, latissimus pulldown, triceps pushdown, and biceps curl). Initial training loads were identical for both studies. Load increases for each exercise in the RP study consisted of 5% to 10% immediately following a session where 10 repetitions were completed. In contrast, load increases for the DP study consisted of 3-5 lbs following two consecutive sessions wherein 12 repetitions were completed.

Results: RP resulted in significantly greater increases in upper body strength (chest press, P = .021) and FF (Arm Curl Test, P = .001; Lift and Reach Test, P = .003) than DP.

Conclusions: In this comparison study rapid progression of training intensity in a SSRT involving elderly PR patients was superior to delayed intensity progression. This difference may reflect a threshold effect for SSRT intensity.