Relations between maximal strength indices and bone health parameters in a group of elderly subjects

Abstract

Introduction The aim of the present study was to explore the relationships between several maximal strength indices and bone health parameters (bone mineral content, bone mineral density [BMD] and hip geometry indices) in a group of elderly Lebanese subjects.

Summary of facts and results This study included 60 healthy elderly women and 37 healthy elderly men whose ages range between 65 and 75 years. Body composition, bone mineral density (BMD) and hip geometry indices (cross-sectional area [CSA] and cross-sectional moment of inertia [CSMI]) were evaluated by DXA. 1-repetition maximum (RM) bench press, 1-RM leg press and handgrip were evaluated using validated methods. In both sexes, 1-RM bench press and 1-RM leg press were positively correlated to total hip BMD and CSMI.

Conclusion The current study suggests that 1-RM leg press and 1-RM bench press are factors correlated with total hip BMD and CSMI in elderly subjects.