Design: Forty-five women (aged 64 ± 1.4 y) were randomly assigned to 3 groups. One group performed strength training only (ST group) for 90 d, whereas the others performed the same strength-training program and received FO supplementation (2 g/d) for 90 d (ST90 group) or for 150 d (ST150 group; supplemented 60 d before training). Muscle strength and functional capacity were assessed before and after the training period.

Results: No differences in the pretraining period were found between groups for any of the variables. The peak torque and rate of torque development for all muscles (knee flexor and extensor, plantar and dorsiflexor) increased from pre- to posttraining in all groups. However, the effect was greater in the ST90 and ST150 groups than in the ST group. The activation level and electromechanical delay of the muscles changed from pre- to posttraining only for the ST90 and ST150 groups. Chair-rising performance in the FO groups was higher than in the ST group.

Conclusions: Strength training increased muscle strength in elderly women. The inclusion of FO supplementation caused greater improvements in muscle strength and functional capacity.

Cintia LN Rodacki, André LF Rodacki, Gleber Pereira, Katya Naliwaiko, Isabela Coelho, Daniele Pequito, and Luiz Cléudio Fernandes

First published January 4, 2012, doi: 10.3945/?ajcn.111.021915
Am J Clin Nutr February 2012 ajcn.021915

Author Affiliations

1 From Paraná Federal University, Setor de Ciências Biológicas, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil (CLNR, ALFR, KN, IC, DP, and LCF), and Positivo University, Nucleus of Biological and Health Science, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil (CLNR and GP).

Author Notes

2 There was no funding source in this study. Fish oil was kindly donated by Herbarium Foundation for Health and research, Curitiba, Paran√°, Brazil.

3 Address correspondence to ALF Rodacki, R. Coração de Maria, 92–Jardim Botânico–Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil. E-mail: rodacki@ufpr.brThis e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .