High Intensity Resistance Training Improves Respiratory, Peripheral, Quality of Life and Emotional Response in Elderly with Parkinson Disease

Parkinson disease (PD) results in impairment of neural stimulus and transmission to the respiratory muscles, may leading to upper airway obstruction, which can be aggravated by postural alterations in PD patients. Resistance training (RT) is recommended specially to elderly individuals, due to its beneficial effects on muscle strength and quality of life. However, the effects of high intensity RT on pulmonary response of PD population is unknown. Thus, the effects of a high intensity (85% maximal work load) RT program (16 weeks, 2x/week, 3 sets of 8 reps, composed by seated bench press, seated row, deadlift, standing calf and abdominal) in 32 elders (64,9±2.32 years old; body max index 26,89±1.41), which were randomized in Control and Exercised groups were evaluated. Peak flow, maximal inspiratory (MIP) and expiratory pressure (MEP), hand grip strength, quality of life (PQD-39 questionnaire), functional capacity (performance-oriented mobility assessment, 6 minutes walking test, maximum gait speed, rising from the chair and walking), flexibility, anxiety and depression and exercise specific strength were measured before and after completing the 16 weeks of exercise. RT resulted in improvements in peak flow rate (p<0.05) MIP (p<0.05), MEP (p<0.05), hand grip strength (p<0.05), quality of life (p<0.05), functional capacity (p<0.05), flexibility (p<0.05), anxiety (p<0.05), depression (p<0.05), beyond to improve muscular strength for all muscular groups evaluated and trained (p<0.05). Therefore, we conclude that high intensity RT present respiratory, physical, functional and emotional benefits to PD patients.