Authors

1. Pessoa, Maira Florentino MSc
2. Brandao, Daniella Cunha PhD
3. de Sa, Rafaela Barros MSc
4. Aguiar, Maria Ines R. PhD
5. de Souza, Helga Cecilia Muniz MSc
6. de Melo Barcelar, Jacqueline PhD
7. Reinaux, Cyda Maria Albuquerque PhD
8. de Andrade, Armele Dornelas PhD

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) on ergospirometric variables in the elderly.

Methods: A total of 31 elderly people were randomly assigned to 1 of the 3 groups-resistance, WBV, WBV + resistance-training twice per week, 3 months, evaluating ventilatory thresholds by ergospirometry and peripheral strength.

Results: WBV groups increased

O₂ after training when compared to the resistance group (25.2 +/- 1.6 in WBV with P < .001 and 25.2 +/- 3.2 in WBV + resistance with P < .001), as the percentage heart rate reserve (resistance = 27%; WBV = 48.4%; and WBV + resistance = 49.9%).

Conclusions: In the elderly, WBV increased strength and

O_2max, combining into a single program both aerobic and resistance workouts.