The Effect of Different Focus of Attention Instructions on Resistance Training and Its Transfer to Gait Parameters in Older Adults

Strength Training for Gait Rehabilitation in Older Adults: Insights From Neuroscience

The goal of this clinical trial is to investigate the effects of strength training with different focus of attention strategies on plantar flexor force and how this affects gait in apparently healthy older adults. The main questions it aims to answer are:

• Is there an acute effect of focus of attention on non-linear force variability and the subjacent neurophysiological mechanisms in apparently healthy young and older adults?
• Is there a training effect of focus of attention on non-linear force variability and does it transfer to non-linear gait variability as well as the respective subjacent neurophysiological mechanisms in apparently healthy older adults?

Researchers will compare two different external focus strategies with an internal focus to see if non-linear variability increases and subjacent neurophysiological mechanisms are more automized with an external focus of attention compared to an internal focus. In the acute study young adults are assessed as the differences between focus conditions are thought to be in the same direction as for older adults but attenuated.

Participants will carry out training and strength assessments of the calf muscles and walking on a treadmill.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Signed informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe cardiovascular or pulmonary disease
• Oncological disease
• Lower limb disabilities
• Neurological disorders
• Inability to walk unassisted for 12 continuous minutes
• Cognitive impairment
• Falls in the prior 12 months
• Orthopedic concerns, which might limit force production
• Metal implants
• Medicine that can trigger side effects with TMS