Training & movement
B · Reasonable confidenceEccentric versus traditional strength training in older adults
Subject: The effects of eccentric versus traditional resistance training on muscle strength, power, hypertrophy, and functional performance in older adults: A systematic review with multilevel meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
What this means
Eccentric training, which emphasises lowering the weight, gave slightly greater strength gains than traditional training (SMD 0.27). Function, power and muscle growth did not differ.
Chaabene H, Müller P, Dhahbi W, Königstein K, Taubert M, Markov A, Lehmann N · 2026 · Ageing Research Reviews
What does this rating mean?
A solid systematic review with caveats, or consistent indications with a limited scope.
Findings
Eccentric resistance training produced greater strength and power adaptations than traditional RT in older adults. Hypertrophy differences were less clear, while functional performance improvements favoured eccentric training.
Who this applies to
Healthy older adults.
What to keep in mind
The strength advantage was small. Both forms improved strength and function, but neither produced clear muscle growth or gains in power.
Practical conclusion for REZA
For older clients wanting an extra edge from their programme: eccentric-emphasis training produced greater strength, power and functional gains than traditional resistance training.
View method and source
Methodology
Meta-analysis
Population
Older adults; RCTs comparing eccentric vs traditional RT
Intervention
Eccentric RT vs traditional concentric/eccentric RT
Outcome measures
Muscle strength, power, hypertrophy, functional performance
Limitations
Heterogeneity in eccentric protocols; limited studies; varying age ranges.
Original source
DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2025.102933 · PMID: 41192799
View on PubMed →This information is general education about scientific research. It is not personal medical advice and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a doctor or other healthcare professional. If you have symptoms, a medical condition or take medication, consult your GP or treating professional before changing your training or nutrition.