Fast-velocity Resistance Training Improves Force Development and Mobility in Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the benefits of a lower-limb fast-velocity concentric resistance training on rate of force development, mobility, and quality of life in people with Multiple Sclerosis. A randomized controlled trial was conducted in 30 people with Multiple Sclerosis, who were randomly assigned to either an experimental (n=18) or a control (n=12) group. The experimental group carried out 10-weeks of fast-velocity concentric resistance training, while the control group did not perform any intervention. Early and late rate of force development during knee extension in both legs, sit-to-stand and Timed Up and Go tests and quality life questionnaire were evaluated before and after intervention. The training program evoked an increase in early rate of force development in experimental group (0-30; Rightleg: 63.9%, p<0.001;ES=-1.4; Leftleg: 52.7%, p<0.001;ES=-1.0) compared to control group (showed modest increases). Furthermore, experimental group improved mobility after training (Sit-to-stand: 22.2%, p<0.001;ES=1.0; Timed Up and Go Test: 10.1%, p<0.001;ES=1.1) and increased the perception of quality of life after training, while control showed no changes. The fast-velocity concentric resistance training has the potential to improve early rate of force development and mobility after 10-weeks of training. In addition, the increase in self-perceived quality of life following this training modality demonstrates promising results in the Multiple Sclerosis population.

Effects of fast‐velocity concentric resistance training in people with multiple sclerosis: A randomized controlled trial

“…Although recent studies have analyzed the benefits of resistance training on maximal strength of trained limbs, there are no studies that have investigated improvements in upper limb strength following lower limb focused training. In addition, the neural improvements derived from FVCRT has been studied in other populations, 14 but not in MS. FVCRT may be an appropriate type of training for the MS population as it may generate greater increases in rate of force development (RFD), 20 which in turn can enhance gait and balance.…”

Effects of exercise in people with multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

“…Most interventions specified aerobic exercise ( n = 16) ( 24 – 26 , 30 , 33 , 34 , 36 , 38 , 39 , 45 , 46 , 51 , 53 , 56 , 58 , 63 ), balance training ( n = 10) ( 29 , 37 , 43 , 47 , 50 , 52 , 54 , 55 , 59 , 61 ), resistance exercise ( n = 6) ( 27 , 28 , 32 , 41 , 44 , 49 ), or other types of exercise [such as multicomponent training ( n = 5) ( 31 , 35 , 42 , 48 , 62 ) water sports ( n = 2) ( 40 , 57 ); interval training ( n = 1) ( 60 )]. Of the 40 studies, 26 studies provided data for balance, which was tested by BBS (20 studies) ( 24 , 29 , 34 , 36 – 40 , 42 – 44 , 46 , 49 , 50 , 52 – 54 , 58 , 59 , 61 ) and TUG (17 studies) ( 25 – 27 , 33 , 34 , 37 , 38 , 42 – 44 , 50 , 51 , 54 – ...…”

The Interplay of Sports and Nutrition in Neurological Health and Recovery

“…Significantly, the same research group suggests employing fast-velocity concentric resistance training in neurological populations. This form of resistance training involves maximum-velocity contractions during the concentric phase, resulting in heightened neuromuscular adaptations and greater improvements in functional capacity and balance compared to other types of physical training programs [95,96]. The intention to generate force at maximal velocity during the concentric phase imposes greater neural demands, indicating promising results improving health and functional markers in neurological disorders such as individuals with multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's [97].…”