Force–velocity, force–power relationships of bilateral and unilateral leg multi-joint movements in young and elderly women

The present study investigated force–velocity and force–power relationships of bilateral and unilateral knee-hip extension movement in young and elderly women. Twelve healthy young (age, 19–31 yr) and 12 healthy elderly (age, 60–82 yr) women performed bilateral and unilateral knee-hip extension movements on the dynamometer against loads controlled by the servo system. Under the isotonic force condition, force–velocity relationships were measured. The maximum isometric force (Fmax), unloaded velocity (Vmax) and power output (Pmax) of the movements were calculated from extrapolating force–velocity and force–power relationships. Fmax and Pmax of bilateral and unilateral knee-hip extension movements were 20–30% lower in elderly than in young women. On the other hand, there were no significant differences in Vmax between young and elderly women and between bilateral and unilateral movements. Bilateral deficit was larger as the generation of force was larger in both young and elderly women. Also, bilateral deficit of Fmax and Pmax were not different between young and elderly women. The results were that lower maximum power output of bilateral and unilateral leg multi-joint movements in elderly women did not depend on the intrinsic shortening velocity of muscle action, but largely on reduction in force generating capacity. This suggests the importance of preventing a loss of force generating capacity of muscles during leg multi-joint movements in elderly women.