The Impact Of Cluster Vs Traditional Power Training On Cognition In Healthy Older Adults

Cluster style (CS) resistance training is an innovative exercise strategy that uses intra-set rest periods to minimize fatigue and power decrements during training. Lower body muscular power (MP) is considered a strong predictor of cognitive function in older adults. PURPOSE: To compare the effects of CS vs traditional power training on changes in executive function (EF) or Verbal Memory following a 12-week intervention. METHODS: This was a secondary analysis of a study that assessed functional and neuromuscular performance following a 12-week training period. Twenty-six participants were recruited from a university population and individuals residing in surrounding neighborhoods. Data collected pertaining to cognition included the NIH Cognitive Toolbox (NCT), Trail Making Assessment Parts A and B (TM-A & TM-B), and the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test (HVLT). RESULTS: For all tests, separate 2 x 2 repeated measures ANOVAs were conducted with pairwise comparisons reported as mean differences ± standard errors; p-value. Time effects were seen for the NCT Dimensional Change Card Sort (F(1,24) = 4.642, p = .041, np2 = .162) and the Picture Sequence Memory Test (F (1,24) = 5.161, p = .032, np2 = .177) with significant improvements in each (6.095 ± 2.829 p = .041 and 6.988 ± 3.076; p = .032, respectively). Although no significant main effects or interactions were detected for the TM-A or TMT-B, significant time effects were seen for the total recall (F (1,24) = 7.190,p = .013, np2 = .238), delayed recall (F (1,24) = 30.165, p < .001, np2 = .567), percent retained (F(1,24) = 5.168.807, p = .007, np2 = .268) and the discrimination index (F (1,24) = 4.608, p = .042, np2 = .161) with significant improvements in each (total recall: .854 ± .318; p = .013; delayed recall: 1.883 ± .343; p < .001; percent retained: .111 ± .037; p = .007; discrimination index: 631 ± .294; p = .042). CONCLUSION: Results indicate that twice weekly for 12-week CS and traditional power training interventions can produce significant improvements in EF and Verbal Memory in healthy older adults. These data provide practitioners and clinicians with effective and unique training modalities to combat the cognitive decline experienced with aging.