Effects of aerobic training combined with strength training with elastic resistance on functional capacity of older adults: a controlled randomized clinical trial

Background The combination of aerobic (AT) and strength (ST) training, i.e., Combined Training (CT) is a strategy used to combat the deleterious effects of aging. However, ST requires specialized equipment and environments that hinder the practice of the elderly population; thus, elastic devices can help in the practice of ST because they are easy to apply. Objective To evaluate the effects of CT on the functional capacity (FC) of older adults after 8 weeks of intervention. Methods Participants were randomly allocated to the combined training group (CTG) or control group (CG). The CTG performed, with 3 weekly sessions, a TA (70–85% of the heart rate reserve) followed by ST with elastic tubes (6 exercises; 2 × 15 repetitions) with load progression through the perception of effort scale, color, and elastic extension. Before and after the intervention, six FC tests and a maximum isometric strength test of the knee extensors were evaluated. Two-way ANOVA was applied, with Bonferroni post hoc, adopting a p