Physical Conditioning Index on Active Elderly Population

Fabiana Rodrigues Scartoni*^1,2, Matheus Freitas Pércia Rabello², Samuel Nascimento Ramos da Silva², Leandro de Oliveira Sant’Ana^2,5, Estevão Scudese^1,2, Ayrton Moraes Ramos⁴, Gilmar Weber Senna^1,2, Antonio Alías Garcia³ and Estélio Henrique Martin Dantas^1,4

Received: December 04, 2018;   Published: December 11, 2018

DOI: 10.26717/BJSTR.2018.11.002177

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Abstract

Issues regarding the human aging process have become the focus of discussions and investigations around the world. Inevitably, this process is associated with physiological changes such as modifications in body composition that are related to progressive declines in the biological function as well as the presence of chronic and locomotor impairment conditions, which besides life- threatening risk, pose a challenge to the elderly independence and autonomy. The proposal of an active aging has been strengthened with training programs that seek to improve physical fitness. There are several factors that comprise physical conditioning such as: aerobic resistance, body composition; muscular strength, localized muscular endurance, neuromotor abilities and flexibility, which are important components to maintain the independence of the elderly, since there is direct influence on the functional autonomy. Within these components, the musculoskeletal system is considered the core of the elderly physical health, which consists of three major pillars: muscular strength, aerobic resistance and flexibility. Although there are a considerable number of tests that evaluate physical conditioning, intending to optimize and facilitate the diagnostic evaluations for a satisfactory prescription, it was necessary to compile a battery of tests that contemplated variables of the physical fitness of the elderly to enhance evaluation, prescription and supervision of the exercise programs proposed by health professionals. With this in mind, the Latin American Maturity Development Group (GDLAM) sought to associate a battery of tests that could approximate the reality of activities performed in daily life. From this compilation of tests, it was possible to measure the physical fitness index and functional capacity of the active elderly population.

Keywords :Physical Fitness; Elderly