Researchers are starting a major study to find the best combination of strength training and protein intake for frail older adults. The TEAMS study will test different exercise intensities (from light to heavy weights) and protein amounts in 300 community-dwelling seniors over 12 weeks. This research aims to discover the most effective way to help older adults build muscle, get stronger, and improve their daily activities. The findings could help doctors and fitness professionals create better programs to fight muscle loss and weakness that often comes with aging.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: How different levels of strength training combined with higher protein intake affect muscle and strength in frail older adults
  • Who participated: 300 frail older adults living independently in their communities who will exercise twice weekly for 12 weeks
  • Key finding: This is a study protocol - results are not yet available, but researchers will compare exercise intensities from 20% to 80% of maximum strength
  • What it means for you: Once completed, this study may help determine the best exercise and nutrition plan for maintaining strength as we age

The Research Details

This is a two-step randomized controlled trial, which means participants will be randomly assigned to different groups twice during the study. First, older adults will be randomly assigned to different strength training intensities, ranging from very light (20% of their maximum strength) to quite heavy (80% of their maximum). Then, they’ll be randomly assigned again to either receive extra protein guidance or continue with their normal diet.

This design allows researchers to test multiple variables at once - both exercise intensity and protein intake - to find the best combination. The randomized approach helps ensure that any differences in results are due to the interventions, not other factors.

This study protocol shows good planning with a substantial sample size of 300 participants, clear randomization procedures, and registration in an international trial registry, which suggests transparency and scientific rigor.

What the Results Show

This is a study protocol paper, meaning the actual research hasn’t been completed yet. The researchers are describing their plan to test different strength training intensities and protein intake levels. The study will measure changes in muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance over 12 weeks of training.

The protocol doesn’t provide results since the study is still in the planning phase. However, the researchers plan to examine how different combinations of exercise intensity and protein intake affect various aspects of physical function in frail older adults.

Previous research has shown that both strength training and adequate protein are important for older adults, but the optimal intensity of exercise and the added benefit of protein supplementation in frail populations remains unclear. This study aims to fill that knowledge gap.

Since this is only the study protocol, we cannot assess limitations of the actual results. However, the planned study will be limited to community-dwelling frail older adults, so results may not apply to all older adult populations.

The Bottom Line

Since this study hasn’t been completed yet, specific recommendations cannot be made. However, current evidence suggests older adults should engage in regular strength training and consume adequate protein (around 1.2-1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight daily).

Frail older adults, their caregivers, healthcare providers, and fitness professionals working with seniors should watch for the results of this study when they become available.

The study results are not yet available. When completed, the 12-week intervention suggests that meaningful changes in muscle and strength might be seen within 3 months of consistent training and adequate protein intake.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track daily protein intake in grams and strength training sessions, noting the weight used and repetitions completed for each exercise
  • Begin incorporating regular strength training twice weekly and monitor protein intake to ensure adequate consumption throughout the day
  • Log weekly strength improvements, daily protein intake, and subjective measures of energy and physical function over time

This article discusses a research protocol for a study that has not yet been completed. The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Older adults should consult with healthcare providers before starting any new exercise or nutrition program, especially if they have existing health conditions or physical limitations.