Abstract

To assess age and gender differences in muscle strength and functional performance, maximal voluntary contraction (trunk extension/flexion, handgrip), Physical Performance Test (PPT), dynamic balance, dynamic muscle strength, body composition have been performed by 13 healthy and physically active elderly (6 women and 7 men) aged 69-78 years. Correlation analysis revealed significant (p<0.05) relation of all muscle strength data with Free Fat Mass (FFM) and Total Body Water (TBW). Correlation between balance and PPT score, walking speed and age was also found. Differently from other studies no further correlation was found between PPT score and other variables. A Student's impaired t-test was used to evaluate if the differences between two groups was significant. PPT score was high both in men (22.1) and women (23.5), according with their independent lifestyle. Body composition was significant different (p<0.05) between gender. TBW percentage was normally in men (54.3%) but slightly lower in women (46.3%). As regards absolute strength men was more powerful (p<0.05) than women in all tests, but relative strength (N/kg of FFM) was similar for both groups showing that women were as fit as men. From this study it appears clear how an active lifestyle matched with a physical activity program can maintain or improve a fitness level in elderly people. This enables old people to live independently and improve their quality of life postponing and slowing several diseases or injuries due to the aging process. Verf.-Referat