Turkish Journal of
GERIATRICS

Akdeniz Üniversitesi Beden Eğitimi ve Spor Yüksekokulu, Antalya
Süleyman Demirel Üniversitesi, Tıp Fakültesi, Spor Hekimliği AD, Isparta Physical inactivity and obesity are associated with the same health outcomes, such as higher mortality, cardiovascular disease, stroke, colon cancer, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dislipidemia. An inverse relationship between physical activity and adiposity is evident. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of a 9 week long endurance and strength exercise programme on the body composition of elderly adults. A case-control study has been designed involving 21 subjects (17 men and 4 women) and 21 control subjects (16 men and 5 women). Individuals with cognitive and physical appropriateness have been included to this study. Anthropometric measures have been taken from all subjects before and after the exercise programme. The exercise programme consisted of endurance and strength training. Training pulse has been set by Karvonen Formula. The training frequency was 3 times a week, the intensity was 50-80 % of maximum heart rate , the duration 20-30 minutes and all the exercise were performed in walking mode. For the strength training 10 different exercises, 3 times a week, with 1-3 sets and 8 repetitions per set, with a intensity of body weight to 60-80% of I-RM had to be completed. Postexercise body weight of the subjects has declined significantly (t=-2.5, p<0.05). Body mass index has decreased in both groups significantly (t=2.9, p<0.05 vs z=-2.7, p<0.05). Percentage fat has decreased in subjects significantly (t=4.5, p<0.05). Waist circumference has decreased significantly in the subjects (t=2.2, p<0.05). A combined endurance and strength exercise programme has caused a significant change in the body composition of the elderly subjects. Evidence has been found on decrease of body fat with exercise. Putting older people into the long-term physical activity, will save them from health related risk factors. Keywords : Physical activity, senility , obesity , body fat, endurance, strength