Functional training in comparison to traditional training on physical fitness and quality of movement in older women

Background The functional training (FT) is based on the application of exercises with free weights in patterns of movements that resemble the daily activities of the individual. On the other hand, traditional training (TT) seeks to improve muscular fitness, through exercises predominantly performed in conventional machines. Lately, there has been a lack of research comparing these two methods to understand their real effects on functionality. Aim The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of functional and traditional strength training on physical fitness and movement quality in sedentary older women. Methods Thirty-two elderly women were randomly divided into (1) functional training (FT n = 13; 64.8 ± 4.6 years) and (2) traditional training (TT n = 12; 66.0 ± 5.5 years). To verify the physical fitness for daily activities, the Senior Fitness battery was applied and, in a complementary way, a maximum isometric strength test and quality of movement patterns. Results At the end of 8 weeks, when compared to TT, the FT promoted significant increases in the variables: balance/agility ( p = 0.03, + 8.5%), lower limb strength ( p = 0.03; + 19%), upper limbs strength ( p = 0.02, + 15.6%), cardiorespiratory capacity ( p = 0.02, + 8.5%) and isometric strength ( p = 0.04, + 16.5%). At the end of 12 weeks, the FT showed significant differences in the variables: balance/agility ( p = 0.00, + 10.5%), lower limb strength ( p = 0.03, + 17.9%), cardiorespiratory capacity ( p = 0.01; + 6.7%) and in the quality of movement ( p = 0.02; + 16.6%) when compared to TT. Conclusions The functional training proven more effective than traditional in physical fitness for daily activities and quality of movement patterns in sedentary older women.