Strength and Endurance Influence on the Trunk Muscle in the Functional Performance of Elderly Women

Background: The trunk muscles have an important role in the stabilization of the trunk in the elderly, however it is not known how much they can influence in the functional performance of this specific population. Objective: To verify the influence of strength and endurance on the trunk muscles on functional performance in elderly women. Methods: There were 45 elderly women in the study. The maximum strength and endurance of the trunk and the functional performance were evaluated through the stable wooden seat, McGill protocol, Senior Fitness Test battery and the deadlift. For statistical purposes, a multiple regression model was used. The trunk strength and endurance were used as independent variables and functional performance as a dependent variable. Results: There was a participation of trunk extensor muscles endurance from 17.9 to 24.4% in functional performance in the elderly. The maximum strength of these muscles did not influence the performance. Conclusion: Strength and endurance have a significant influence on the trunk muscles on the measures of functional performance in elderly women.