Multiple-Modality Exercise And Mind-Motor Training To Improve Cardiovascular Health And Fitness In Older Adults At Risk For Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background:The effects of multiple-modality exercise on arterial stiffening and cardiovascular fitness has not been fully explored. Objectives: To explore the influence of a 24-week multiple-modality exercise program associated with a mind-motor training in cardiovascular health and fitness in community-dwelling older adults, compared to multiple-modality exercise (M2) alone. Methods: Participants (n=127, aged 67.5 [7.3] years, 71% females) were randomized to either M4 or M2 groups. Both groups received multiple-modality exercise intervention (60 min/day, 3 days/week for 24-weeks); however, the M4 group underwent additional 15 min of mind-motor training, whereas the M2 group received 15 min of balance training. Participants were assessed at 24-weeks and after a 28-week non-contact follow-up (52-weeks). Results: at 52-weeks, the M4 group demonstrated a greater VO2max (ml/kg/min) compared to the M2 group (mean difference: 2.39, 95% CI: 0. 61 to 4.16, p=0.009). Within-group analysis indicated that the M4 group demonstrated a positive change in VO2max at 24-weeks (mean change: 1.93, 95% CI: 0.82 to 3.05, p=0.001) and 52-weeks (4.02, 95% CI: 2.71 to 5.32, p=0.001). Similarly, the M2 group increased VO2max at 24-weeks (2.28, 95% CI: 1.23 to 3.32, p Conclusion: Mind-motor training associated with multiple-modality exercise can positively impact cardiovascular fitness to the same extent as multiple-modality exercise alone