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Performance

B · Reasonable confidence

Strength training and thigh muscle growth in adults over 65

Subject: Leg muscle growth in older adults after strength training

What this means

Strength training led to more hypertrophy (muscle growth) of the thigh muscles, measured in the whole muscle and in the muscle fibres. Lean leg mass did not change measurably.

de Santana DA, Scolfaro PG, Marzetti E, Cavaglieri CR · 2024 · Experimental Gerontology 198:112639

What does this rating mean?

A solid systematic review with caveats, or consistent indications with a limited scope.

Findings

The extent to which older adults' leg muscles respond to strength training, and which factors influence that.

Who this applies to

Adults aged 65 and older doing supervised strength training.

What to keep in mind

Weekly sets and age made no measurable difference. Measurements of lean leg mass may not have picked up the muscle growth.

Practical conclusion for REZA

Supports the point that age is not a reason to keep load low. Leg strength remains trainable.

View method and source

Methodology

Systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression of RCTs

Original source

DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2024.112639 · PMID: 39579806

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.