Neuromuscular adaptations after 12 weeks of light- vs. heavy-load power-oriented resistance training in older adults

This study aimed to determine the specific adaptations provoked by power oriented resistance training using light (LL-PT, 40% 1-RM) vs. heavy (HL-PT, 80% 1-RM) loads in older adults. Using a randomized within-subject study design, 45 older adults (>65 years) completed an 8-week control period (CTR) followed by 12 weeks of unilateral LL-PT vs. HL-PT on a leg press. The 1-RM, theoretical force at zero velocity (F0), maximal unloaded velocity (V0), and maximal muscle power (Pmax) were determined through a force-velocity relationship test. Isometrically, the rate of force development (RFD) and the corresponding muscle excitation of the knee extensor muscles were assessed. In addition, muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and architecture of two quadriceps muscles were determined. Changes after CTR, LL-PT and HL-PT were compared using linear mixed models. HL PT provoked greater improvements in 1-RM and F0 (effect size (ES) = 0.55‒0.68; p < 0.001) than those observed after LL-PT (ES = 0.27−0.47; p ≤ 0.001) (post hoc treatment effect, p ≤ 0.057). By contrast, ES of changes in V0 was greater in LL-PT compared to HL-PT (ES = 0.71, p < 0.001 vs. ES = 0.39, p < 0.001), but this differ ence was not statistically significant. Both power training interventions elicited a moderate increase in Pmax (ES = 0.65‒0.69, p < 0.001). Only LL-PT improved early RFD (ie, ≤100 ms) and muscle excitation (ES = 0.36‒0.60, p < 0.05). Increased CSA were noted after both power training programs (ES = 0.13‒0.35, p < 0.035), whereas pennation angle increased only after HL-PT (ES = 0.37, p = 0.004). In conclusion, HL-PT seems to be more effective in improving the capability to gen erate large forces, whereas LL-PT appears to trigger greater gains in movement velocity in older adults. However, both interventions promoted similar increases in muscle power as well as muscle hypertrophy

Effects of Power-Oriented Resistance Training With Heavy vs. Light Loads on Muscle-Tendon Function in Older Adults: A Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Power-oriented resistance training (PRT) is one of the most effective exercise programs to counteract neuromuscular and physical function age-related declines. However, the optimal load that maximizes these outcomes or the load-specific adaptations induced on muscle power determinants remain to be better understood. Furthermore, to investigate whether these adaptations are potentially transferred to an untrained limb (i.e., cross-education phenomenon) could be especially relevant during limb-immobilization frequently observed in older people (e.g., after hip fracture). Methods: At least 30 well-functioning older participants (>65 years) will participate in a within-person randomized controlled trial. After an 8-week control period, the effects of two 12-week PRT programs using light vs. heavy loads will be compared using an unilateral exercise model through three study arms (light-load PRT vs. non-exercise; heavy-load PRT vs. non-exercise; and light- vs. heavy- load PRT). Muscle-tendon function, muscle excitation and morphology and physical function will be evaluated to analyze the load-specific effects of PRT in older people. Additionally, the effects of PRT will be examined on a non-exercised contralateral limb. Discussion: Tailored exercise programs are largely demanded given their potentially greater efficiency preventing age-related negative consequences, especially during limb immobilization. This trial will provide evidence supporting the use of light- or heavy-load PRT on older adults depending on individual needs, improving decision making and exercise program efficacy. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT03724461 registration data: October 30, 2018

D1.4 – First version applied gaming asset methodology

This deliverable (D1.4) is an intermediate document, expressly included to inform the first project review about RAGE’s methodology of software asset creation and management. The final version of the methodology description (D1.1) will be delivered in Month 29. The document explains how the RAGE project defines, develops, distributes and maintains a series of applied gaming software assets that it aims to make available. It describes a high-level methodology and infrastructure that are needed to support the work in the project as well as after the project has ended.This study is part of the RAGE project. The RAGE project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 644187. This publication reflects only the author's view. The European Commission is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information it contains

D2.4 - Final Bundle of Client-side Components

This document describes the final bundle of client-side components, including descriptions of their functionality, and links to their full designs and downloadable versions. This bundle aggregates only the WP2 assets. Other client-side assets not covered here will be addressed in the final WP3 deliverables. Those assets created and licenced as open software will be continuously improved and maintained by their creators until the end of the project (the task has been extended to month 48) and beyond. For a full description of the related server-side components, please refer to D2.2 - Final Bundle of Server-side Components.This study is part of the RAGE project. The RAGE project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 644187. This publication reflects only the author's view. The European Commission is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information it contains

D1.1 – Applied gaming asset methodology

Together with the intermediate deliverable D1.4 (Month 18), this document explains how the RAGE project defines, develops, distributes and maintains a series of applied gaming software assets through a high-level methodology and infrastructure that are needed to support the work in the project, as well as after the project has ended. The asset creation methodology, the quality assurance considerations and the asset metadata requirements are merged together and implemented into a single asset creation wizard, which supports and guides asset owners through the process of asset submission to the Ecosystem portal. It complements the metadata editor that was developed earlier, but which in some respects turned out to be demanding for asset developers. The wizard was used and evaluated by all RAGE’s asset developers. Also, the metadata-viewer tool is briefly explained in this deliverable. Already before the (soft) external launch of the ecosystem portal, which is scheduled in month 36 (January 2018) external parties will be involved to explore the asset creation system and make judgements about its usability. Overall, the asset creation part and its alignment with the RAGE ecosystem portal has now been fully covered.This study is part of the RAGE project. The RAGE project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 644187. This publication reflects only the author's view. The European Commission is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information it contains