Utility of peak torque and rate of torque development characteristics to identify walking performance ability in older women.

Objectives: It is unclear whether peak torque and rate of torque development (RTD) measurements can characterize functional differences in older adults according to their performance on a six-minute walk test. This study aimed to examine the efficacy of isometric peak torque and RTD characteristics of the knee extensors to differentiate between functional status in older women who are able (higher functioning) versus those who are unable (lower functioning) to walk 550 m in six minutes.

Methods: Ten higher functioning (67±4 years) and 10 lower functioning (68±4 years) older women performed three isometric knee extension maximal voluntary contractions followed by a six-minute walk test.

The Acute Effects of Fast-Paced Walking on Isometric Peak Torque and Rate of Torque Development in Regularly Exercising and Inactive Older Women.

This study aimed to examine the acute effects of fast-paced walking on isometric peak torque and rate of torque development (RTD) in regular exercising and inactive older women. Ten regular exercising (67 ± 4 years) and 10 inactive (68 ± 4 years) older women performed three isometric knee extension contractions before and after a control condition (quiet resting) and an experimental condition of fast-paced walking for 6 min. Peak torque and early (RTD100), late (RTD200), and maximum (peak RTD) RTD measurements were obtained from each contraction.

Real-time measurement of isometric peak torque and rate of torque development using a novel strength testing device: a validity and reliability study.

: Isometric peak torque (PT) and rate of torque development (RTD) are important characteristics relevant to athletic performance. A novel device called the Dynamo Torque Analyzer calculates and displays real-time measurements of isometric PT and RTD. However, the ability of the Dynamo to provide valid and reliable isometric PT and RTD measurements similar to those of an isokinetic dynamometer remains unclear.

The time course of passive stiffness responses following an acute bout of static stretching in healthy, elderly men.

Background: The time course of passive stiffness responses following an acute bout of static stretching has received little research attention, particularly in older adults.

Objective: To determine the time course of the acute effects of static stretching on passive stiffness of the hamstrings in healthy, elderly men.

Methods: Fifteen elderly men (age = 70 ± 7 years) underwent two randomized conditions that included a control treatment and an experimental treatment of four, 15-s straight-leg raise static stretches.