Ergometer-cycling with strict versus minimal contact supervision among the oldest adults: A cluster-randomised controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the feasibility and short- and long-term effects of two 10-wk structured ergometer-cycling programs among elderly in assisted-living residences.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: Eight assisted-living residences (N=95; age=81.2±5.9years) were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: 1) ergometer-cycling with strict coach-supervision (STRICT, N=3; n=35); 2) ergometer-cycling with autonomy-supportive minimal contact coach-supervision (AUT; N=3; n=36); or 3) control condition (CON; N=2, n=24).

INTERVENTION: Three-weekly progressive ergometer-cycling sessions for 10 weeks.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Feasibility, physical activity (PA), muscular strength, functional performance and quality of life (baseline, post-intervention (10weeks) and 6-month follow-up).

RESULTS: 83 participants were analyzed post-intervention, 75 at follow-up. Adherence was higher in STRICT than AUT during the intervention (p=0.001), but not during follow-up. Compared with CON, both programs showed positive short- and long-term effects on moderate-intensity PA (p=0.034). With regard to strength, functional performance and well-being, no time-by-group interaction effects were found. When comparing high-adherers (adherence≥80%) to low-adherers, a greater increase in functional performance and in well-being and a trend towards a lower decrease in strength were found in the short-term (p=0.047, p<0.001 and p=0.054, respectively).

CONCLUSION: Both interventions were feasible and equally effective to increase long-term engagement in PA, irrespective of the type of supervision. When adherence is high, positive effects on strength, performance and well-being can be expected.