High-intensity Training for Improving Physical Performance of Aged Women

Effects of High-intensity Interval Circuit Training (HIICT) on the Cardiovascular and Functional Parameters of Aged Women

This study evaluates the adaptations on the functional capacity and cardiovascular in elderly after a physical activity program circuit training. The participants were divided into three groups: Circuit training based on high-intensity interval training group (HIICT), Circuit training at moderate intensity group (MICT) and Control group (CG).

Three groups of participants (circuit training based on high-intensity interval training, circuit training at moderate intensity and not training group) will enter the study. The intervention will consist of a physical exercise program in day centers.

Intensity progression will be encouraged according to the rate of perceived exertion. Progression of exertion will be "very hard", "extremely hard" and "maximal exertion" for HIT group, and "light", "somewhat hard" and "hard" for group. Assessment will be undertaken at two-time points: baseline and after 16 weeks of exercise training.

Assessment will include VO2 peak, functional capacity, health-related quality of life, cognitive state and daily physical activity.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Having 50 - 90 years old.
2. Not suffering chronic heart, respiratory or joint disease, taking medication or having a deteriorated level of mental health that could interfere in carrying out exercise programs.
3. Having 0 or 1 responses positive in the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (ParQ). Only item 6, related to mild vascular diseases.
4. Being physically independent according to the scales Lawton and Brody, and Katz.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Having uncontrolled arterial hypertension.
2. Having practiced during the previous 3 months or practicing at present a similar exercise to the one proposed in the study.
3. Attending sessions less than 80%.