RESISTANCE TRAINING AND CAPILLARIZATION - ROLE ON THE ANABOLIC RESPONSE IN OLDER ADULTS

This randomized clinical trial will investigate the effects of different exercise training strategies on skeletal muscle adaptations in older adults. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three training groups and will complete a supervised 12-week exercise program, consisting of three sessions per week.

The interventions will include different combinations and sequencing of resistance and aerobic exercise during the first 8 weeks of training, followed by a standardized resistance training program during the final 4 weeks. The study is designed to determine whether the timing and type of exercise influence muscle growth, vascular adaptations, and functional outcomes.

Participants will undergo assessments before the intervention and after 4, 8, and 12 weeks of training. Measurements will include body composition, muscle size and architecture, muscle strength, aerobic fitness, and physical function. A subgroup of participants may also undergo optional muscle biopsies to evaluate changes in muscle capillarization and biological markers associated with muscle adaptation.

The results will help identify exercise strategies that optimize muscle and vascular adaptations in older adults and improve understanding of the mechanisms underlying individual variability in training responsiveness.

Inclusion criteria

• Age ≥ 65 years
• Body Mass Index (BMI) >18 and <30 kg/m²
• Stable body weight for at least 3 months prior to enrollment

Exclusion criteria

• Prediabetes or diabetes according to ADA criteria
• Chronic diseases, including cardiovascular, liver, respiratory diseases, or cancer
• Acute inflammatory conditions, infections, or other clinically significant illnesses
• Regular participation in vigorous physical activity (≥2 sessions per week)
• Current or recent (within the previous 3 months) treatment with steroid medications
• Regular use of protein supplements