Velocity-Based Training Effects On Functional Performance And Power Across Multiple Time Points In Parkinson’s Disease

Velocity-based training (VBT) is a unique new resistance-training method used by high-level athletes, which utilizes velocity rather than load to dictate progressions. No study has examined the effects of VBT on changes in functional performance and power across multiple time points in persons with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). PURPOSE: Changes in performance on functional- and power-based tests were assessed during a 10-week VBT study using 10% and 30% velocity thresholds in persons with PD. METHODS: Data collected before and after training included 1RM, peak velocity (LPPV) and peak power (LPPP) at 40 - 80% 1RM on the HUR pneumatic leg press (HUR USA, Park Ridge, IL). Functional tests included the five time sit-to-stand (5XSTS), and the 6-meter walk test at habitual (6MWT-H) and maximal gait speeds (6MWT-M). All assessments were repeated every 3 weeks. RESULTS: Repeated measures ANOVAs were conducted from 16 subjects’ data collected for the analysis at 4 time points (week 1 (wk1), week 4 (wk4), week 7 (wk7), week 10 (wk10)). A significant time effect was observed for the 5XSTS at wk1-wk7 and wk1-wk10. Pairwise comparisons revealed a decrease from wk1-wk7 (Mdiff ± SE = -.751 ± .192; -1.162, -.339, p = .002) and wk1-wk10 (Mdiff ± SE = -1.503 ± .447; -2.462, .543, P = .005). For 6MWT-M, a significant time effect was shown for wk1-wk7, wk1-wk10, wk4-wk7, and wk7-wk10. Pairwise comparisons revealed decreases in time from wk1-wk7 (Mdiff ± SE = -.262 ± .082; -.438, -.086, p = .007), wk1-wk10 (Mdiff ± SE = -421 ± .075; -.583, -.259, p < 001), wk4-wk7 (Mdiff ± SE = -.190 ± .055; -.308, -.072, p = .004), and wk7-wk10 (Mdiff ± SE = -.159 ± .062; -.291, -.027, p = .022). For LPPP there were significant time effects from wk4-wk7 and wk1-wk10. Pairwise comparisons revealed increases in power from wk4-wk7 (Mdiff ± SE = 46.979 ± 15.860; 12.423, 81.535, p = .012), and wk1-wk10 (Mdiff ± SE = 43.644 ± 13.155; 14.983, 72.305, p = .006). CONCLUSIONS: Results indicate that VBT is an effective training modality for improving functional measures and LPPP. Although significant improvements were not reached before wk7, they continued throughout the training period. This suggests that approximately 7 weeks of VBT may be necessary to induce functional and power-related improvements in a PD-affected population, but improvements may continue after 10 training weeks.