EFFECTS OF PROGRESSIVE RESISTANCE TRAINING ON MUSCLE STRENGTH AND FUNCTIONAL MOBILITY IN GERIATRIC PATIENTS

Abstract

Background
Population ageing has become one of the most significant global healthcare challenges, with increasing
numbers of Geriatric patients experiencing declines in muscle strength, mobility, and balance that
compromise independence and quality of life. Loss of lower-limb strength is strongly associated with
slower gait, impaired postural control, difficulty performing activities of daily living, and an increased
risk of falls. Progressive resistance training (PRT) is widely recommended in geriatric rehabilitation
because it promotes neuromuscular adaptations capable of improving muscle performance. However,
despite strong evidence supporting resistance exercise, uncertainty remains regarding the extent to
which improvements in muscle strength translate into meaningful gains in functional mobility within
routine physiotherapy practice. Evaluating these outcomes is essential for developing evidence-based
rehabilitation programmes for Geriatric patients
Objective
To investigate the effects of an eight-week progressive resistance training programme on muscle
strength, functional mobility, and balance in Geriatric patients undergoing physiotherapy.
Methods
A prospective comparative study was conducted involving 60 Geriatric patients aged 60–75 years who
completed an eight-week supervised progressive resistance training programme. Muscle strength was
evaluated using a hand-held dynamometer, functional mobility was assessed using the Timed Up and
Go (TUG) test, and balance was measured using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Assessments were
performed before and after the intervention. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, paired t-
tests, and independent t-tests, with statistical significance established at p< 0.05. These methods are
consistent with the study protocol described in the dissertation.
Results
Participants demonstrated significant improvements in muscle strength, functional mobility, and
balance following the intervention. Muscle strength increased significantly, while TUG completion
time decreased, reflecting enhanced mobility and dynamic function. Berg Balance Scale scores also
improved, indicating better postural stability and reduced functional limitations. Collectively, these
findings demonstrate that progressive resistance training positively influences both physiological
capacity and clinically relevant functional outcomes in Geriatric patients. The reported improvements
are based on the dissertation results.
Conclusion
Progressive resistance training is an effective rehabilitation strategy for improving muscle strength and
functional mobility in Geriatric patients. Beyond increasing muscular force, structured resistance
exercise contributes to meaningful improvements in movement efficiency, balance, and functional
independence. These findings support the integration of progressive resistance training into evidence-
based physiotherapy programmes aimed at promoting healthy ageing and reducing age-related
disability.