Exercise interventions significantly improved maximal/peak oxygen uptake (SMD 0.51; 95% CI 0.38-0.65; p<0.001) compared to control groups in healthy adults aged 60 years and over.
Meta-Analysis (n=3,152)
Does aerobic, resistance, or combined exercise training improve cardiorespiratory fitness in healthy people aged 60 years and over?
Structured exercise interventions, including aerobic, resistance, and combined training, significantly improve cardiorespiratory fitness in healthy adults aged 60 and older.
Effect estimate: SMD 0.51 (95% CI 0.38 to 0.65)
p-value: p=<0.001
Objective: To evaluate the effects of aerobic, resistance, and combined training on cardiorespiratory fitness in healthy older adults, with a focus on improvements in maximal/peak oxygen uptake (VO 2 max/peak) and the 6-min walk distance (6-MWD). Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted through July 2024, searching six databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus. Analyses were performed using Review Manager 5.3. Results: Fifty-one studies involving 3152 participants met the inclusion criteria. Exercise interventions significantly improved VO 2 max/peak (standardized mean difference (SMD): 0.51; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.38 to 0.65; p 24 weeks) interventions, and in both male and female participants. Conclusion: Structured exercise interventions, regardless of type, are effective for improving cardiorespiratory fitness in older adults. The consistency of these effects across modalities, durations, and sexes underscores the adaptability and value of exercise as a central component of healthy aging strategies. Future research should aim to standardize intervention protocols and extend follow-up periods to clarify long-term outcomes and inform clinical guidelines.
Azimkhani et al. (Wed,) conducted a meta-analysis in Healthy older adults (n=3,152). Aerobic, resistance, and combined exercise training vs. Control was evaluated on Maximal/peak oxygen uptake (VO2 max/peak) (SMD 0.51, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.65, p=<0.001). Exercise interventions significantly improved maximal/peak oxygen uptake (SMD 0.51; 95% CI 0.38-0.65; p<0.001) compared to control groups in healthy adults aged 60 years and over.