Strength Training Adaptations, Age and Genes

Study Overview
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Brief Summary
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The study investigates the effect of maximal strength training on muscular strength and power in different age groups from 20 to 80 year old. It also relates the training adaptations to different known genes such as angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) and Alpha-actinin-3 (ACTN3). Participants will complete an eight weeks, three times per week training intervention of maximal strength training with a pre-post design. In addition, blood samples will be collected for the analyses of genetic variances.

Detailed Description
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Aim: The study aims to investigate the effect of age and genes on training adaptations to a maximal strength training intervention. Methods: Participants will be recruited through invitations at work places and other community arenas. The investigators aim to recruit 10-15 subjects in each of the following age groups: 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69 and 70-80 years of age. Both genders will be included. All age groups will be matched for age-related baseline maximal strength and distribution between the two genders. All participants will be checked via a health registration scheme, and excluded if contra indications for hard physical training or testing should appear. When in doubt, the projects physician will decide on inclusion or exclusion due to a thorough examination. Subjects will give a blood sample to be analyzed for known genes such as ACE and ACTN3. The intervention has a pre- post design. Tests of maximal strength and power will be conducted in a leg-press machine, using the protocol assessing one repetition maximum (1RM) previously described. Force and Power will be measured by the Muscle Lab system from Ergotest Tech. (Langesund, Norway). The intervention is an eight week, three times per week protocol, each training session consisting of a standardized warm-up, and 4 repetitions x 4 sets with an intensity of 4 repetition maximum (4RM) performed in the leg press machine.There will be a three minutes pause between sets. Participants will be given instructions and supervision. Hypothesis: Maximal strength training adaptations will be affected by age and baseline maximal strength but not by gender or genetic variations.

Official Title
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Effect of Maximal Strength Training in Relation to Age and Genes

Conditions
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Healthy

Intervention / Treatment
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* Behavioral: Strength training


Participation Criteria
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Eligibility Criteria
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Inclusion Criteria: Healthy adults 20 to 90 years old Exclusion Criteria: Contraindications to maximum strength training and testing

Ages Eligible for Study
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Minimum Age: 20 Years
Maximum Age: 90 Years

Sexes Eligible for Study
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All

Accepts Healthy Volunteers
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Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Study Plan
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How is the study designed?
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Design Details

Primary Purpose: Screening
Intervention Model: Single Group Assignment
Masking: None (Open Label)


Arms and Interventions

| Participant Group/Arm | Intervention/Treatment |
| --- | --- |
| Experimental: Strength training<br>Strength training, 4 rep of 4RM x 4 sets in leg press. | Behavioral: Strength training<br>* see arm description<br>|

What is the study measuring?
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Primary Outcome Measures

| Outcome Measure | Measure Description | Time Frame |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Maximal muscle strength measured by 1 RM leg press in leg press machine |  | 8 weeks | 

Secondary Outcome Measures

| Outcome Measure | Measure Description | Time Frame |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Blood sample will be collected to assess gene types Alpha Actinin 3, Angiotensin Converting Enzyme, Angiotensinogen |  | 8 weeks | 
| rate of force development in leg press measured by MuscleLab (Ergotest Tech., Langesund Norway) |  | 8 weeks | 
| agility will be measured by counter movement jump using the MuscleLab system by Ergotest Tech. (Langesund, Norway) |  | 8 weeks | 

 Terms related to the study
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Keywords Provided by Centre Hospitalier Valida
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health, muscle strength, exercise genomics