Weight training is most commonly associated with body builders or elite athletes, yet research by Charles Sturt University suggests that it may also be of benefit for older people, by slowing muscle deterioration, which in turn may improve mobility and independence. 

CSU PhD student Jack Cannon hopes to shine new light on the effect of resistance training in muscle strength among older women.

Mr Cannon said muscular strength amongst older people is often below the level needed to perform everyday routine tasks, leading to increased frailty with age. 

“Maintaining or improving muscle strength is important for older adults because they need adequate strength to perform the many activities in their daily life,” he said.

“Previous research into men aged 50 to 60 suggests that a suitable weight training program may be highly effective in preventing the reduction in muscular strength, which leads to the loss of independence.”

Mr Cannon is seeking female participants aged between 60 and 80 for his latest study, which is part of his doctoral studies at CSU, to determine if older women can also increase their strength and improve nervous system function with a suitable training program. 

Women aged over 60 who are interested in taking part in the study should contact Jack Cannon at CSU’s Bathurst Campus on telephone (02) 6338 4334.