EFFECTS OF STRENGTH TRAINING ON AFRICAN AMERICAN FEMALES AGE 44 TO 68 YEARS

1953 Strength training (ST) is beneficial in a number of health-related areas such as preservation of lean tissue, increasing bone mineral content, increasing the ability to perform activities of daily living, and enhancing quality of life. Despite the known benefits of ST, there is a lack of research on the effects of ST on the health and fitness of African American females (AAF). This study investigated the effects of eight weeks of periodized, high intensity ST on the muscle strength and endurance of sedentary AAF 44 to 68 years of age. 19 AAF were randomly assigned to a ST group (n=12, 50.7±7.0yrs, 82.8±13.1kg, 162.2±5.4cm, %bodyfat=41.7±5.4) or a control group (n=7, 52.0±8.0yrs, 90.0±4.8kg, 160.8±7.2cm, %bodyfat=44.9±3.6). Maximal strength (1RM squat press and bench press), and endurance (repetitions to failure at 70% 1RM squat press and 50% 1RM bench press) tests established baseline values. Lower and upper body ST started at 60% 1RM, progressing to 80% 1RM by week 3. Weeks 3-8, resistance was increased individually to maintain 8RM per set. Results demonstrate significant (p<0.001) muscle strength and endurance gains in the ST group (1RM: squat press = +93%, bench press = +33%; repetitions to failure: squat press = +205%, bench press = 105%). Results indicate that significant changes in muscle strength and endurance can occur from short-term, high intensity ST in older AAF. Supported by ROW grant, University of Louisville