The Effects of HighVersus Low-Intensity Power Training on Muscle Power Outcomes in Healthy, Older Adults: A Systematic Review.

Power training (PT) improves muscle power in older adults, however, intensity recommendations are less clear. A narrative approach was used to compare high- versus low-intensity PT on muscle power (and function) in healthy, older adults. Searches were performed using Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, Ageline, and Scopus. Interventions in which older subjects (60+ years) were instructed to perform the concentric phase 'as fast as possible' were included. After searches were performed, a 3rd category of PT (moderate intensity) was included. Evidence from 27 studies (32 PT groups) showed changes in muscle power that averaged 26.8%, 33.4%, and 21.5%, respectively for high-, moderate-, and low-intensity PT, with greater changes with longer training duration and in mildly mobility-limited older adults. Function improved similarly across categories. In conclusion, both low- and high- intensity PT led to clinically significant changes in power, and are viable options for improving power and function in older adults.