Effects of multicomponent exercise program with progressive phases on functional capacity, fitness, quality of life, dual-task and physiological variables in older adults: Randomized controlled trial protocol.

INTRODUCTION: The multicomponent exercise program must be carried out in phases, due to the low tolerance of the old adults to prolonged efforts, since their functional reserve is reduced. The aim of study is investigate the effects of Multicomponent on Progressive Phases Program on functional capacity, fitness, quality of life, dual-task and physiological variables in the elderly.

METHODS: This is a randomized controlled trial protocol with blind examiners. The protocol was registered at clinictrials.gov (protocol number: NCT04118478). The experimental group will participate in a progressive multi-component program of 27 weeks divided into 3 phases of 9 weeks each of them. Primary outcomes will be determined by evaluating functional capacity using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), gait speed, and Time up and Go test. Fitness will be determined by the handgrip, 2-min step test, chair sit and reach test, and back scratch test. Quality of life will appear with the SF-36 questionnaire and dual-task with the walking-while-talking test. The physiological variables evaluated will be heart rate and blood pressure at rest, autonomic balance and forced spirometry. Secondary outcomes are determined by measuring the level of physical activity, motivation for exercise, and anthropometric variables.

DISCUSSION: The results derived from this research will increase the knowledge about the effects of a program of this type. The possible discoveries could serve as a guide to encourage future researchers to develop similar protocols. The purpose of the program is to serve as a practical and viable tool for the benefit of older people. Clinical trial registry protocol: NCT04118478.