Comparison of traditional vs. lighter load strength training on fat-free mass, strength, power and affective responses in middle and older-aged adults: A pilot randomized trial.

Objectives: Strength training is widely recommended to improve strength, muscle mass and power. However, the feasibility and potential efficacy of strength training using lighter loads near failure on these outcomes in middle and older-aged adults remains unclear.

Methods: 23 community-living adults were randomized into two groups: Traditional strength training (ST) (8-12 repetitions) or a lighter load, higher repetitions (LLHR) (20-24 repetitions) group.