The impact of sensorimotor training in elderly men on maximal and explosive force production capacity

The aging neuromuscular system is affected by structural and functional changes which lead to a general slowing down of neuromuscular performance. As a consequence, the process of aging results in a reduced ability to develop maximal and explosive force. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to examine the impact of sensorimotor training on maximal bilateral isometric leg extension force (MVC) and maximum rate of force development in elderly men. 40 healthy, elderly males between the ages of 60 and 80 years participated in this study. The 40 subjects were randomly assigned to the sensorimotor training group (SG) and the control group (KOG). Subjects of the SG conducted 13-week training on wobble boards, sissles, soft mats, and uneven surfaces. All subjects (SG and KOG) were pre- and post-tested for their MVC and their RFD on a leg-press. After the 13-week training period, sensorimotor training led to significant increases in MVC, RFD, and EMG values of the leg extensors. The investigated parameters demonstrate that sensorimotor training has an impact on MVC and RFD in the elderly. The gains in MVC and RFD are accompanied by considerable increases in maximal voluntary neural activation of leg extensor muscles. With regard to the prevention of falls, it is of great functional interest that MVC and especially RFD remain trainable in older subjects.