Comparative effects of two physical activity programs on measured andperceived physical functioning and other health-related quality of lifeoutcomes in older adults

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Abstract
BACKGROUND: Although inactivity is an important contributor to impairedfunctioning and disability with age, little is known concerning howimprovements in physical functioning and well-being in older adults varywith the type of physical activity undertaken. METHODS: One hundred threeadults age 65 years and older, recruited via population- based methods,were randomized to 12 months of community-based, moderate-intensityendurance and strengthening exercises (Fit & Firm) or stretching andflexibility exercises (Stretch & Flex). A combination of class- andhome-based exercise formats was used. Measured and self- rated physicalperformance along with perceived functioning and well- being were assessedpre- and postintervention. RESULTS: Fit & Firm subjects showed greater12-month improvements in both measured and self- rated endurance andstrength compared to Stretch & Flex subjects. Stretch & Flexsubjects reported greater improvements in bodily pain, and Stretch &Flex men evidenced greater improvements in flexibility relative to Fit& Firm subjects. Although overall exercise adherence was high in bothexercise conditions (approximately 80%), subjects in both conditions showedbetter adherence to the home- versus class-based portions of their exerciseprescriptions. CONCLUSIONS: Community-based programs focusing onmoderate-intensity endurance and strengthening exercises or flexibilityexercises can be delivered through a combination of formats that result inimprovement in important functional and well-being outcomes. Thisrepresents one of the first studies to report significant improvements inan important quality of life outcome-bodily pain-with a regular regimen ofstretching and flexibility exercises in a community-based sample of olderadults.

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