The Effects of Force-Velocity Profile-Based Load Prescription on Muscle Power and Functional Performance in Velocity-Deficient Older Adults.
Jolien Deboutte, Christophe Delecluse, Martine Thomis et al.
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In 30 seconds
This 12-week randomized controlled trial compared force–velocity profile-guided resistance-training loads in adults aged 65 years or older with a velocity deficit. Of 59 eligible participants, 57 initiated training, assigned to loads matched or deliberately not matched to their deficit. Maximal force increased more with non-individualized loading, while maximal velocity increased more with individualized loading. However, changes in maximal power and functional performance did not differ between groups (all p ≥ 0.065). Thus, the two loading strategies produced distinct force–velocity adaptations without evidence of different power or functional outcomes over the intervention.
Key findings
- Maximal force increased more in the non-individualized group than the individualized group from baseline to 12 weeks (p = 0.040).
- Maximal velocity increased more in the individualized group than the non-individualized group (p = 0.009).
- Changes in maximal power and functional performance did not differ between groups (all p ≥ 0.065).
Why it matters
The findings distinguish changes in force–velocity profile components from changes in outcomes more directly relevant to function. In this population, tailoring loads to a measured velocity deficit altered the velocity response but did not produce greater gains in maximal power or functional performance than the comparison strategy during the 12-week intervention.
What to keep in mind
The intervention included only older adults with a velocity deficit; force-deficit participants were not studied because force deficits were rare. The abstract reports outcomes only through 12 weeks.