The Science Behind Flywheel Training: A Breakthrough in Senior Health and Fitness

The benefits of flywheel training for seniors is not a new ground-breaking discovery. One of the earlier scientific studies to take note of this was one conducted by NASA when contemplating the use of flywheel technology as a means to maintain physical well being of astronauts on extended missions in micro gravity. The physiology scientists behind the study pointed out that the insights gained could also benefit Earth-based applications, particularly in managing conditions like osteoporosis and sarcopenia in older and sedentary individuals.

Fast forward 30 years and there have a plethora of studies focusing on this, in this article I want to discuss the findings of one such study:

Title: Eccentric Overload Flywheel Training in Older Adults

Author: Kelsi Kowalchuk and Scotty Butcher

Published In: Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology

Publication Date: 2019

Link to Publication: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7739307/

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of flywheel resistance training on muscle function and quality of life in older adults.

Methodology: The researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of various studies that focused on flywheel resistance training in older populations. They included randomized controlled trials and observational studies that assessed outcomes related to muscle strength, physical function, and quality of life.

Findings:

• Muscle Function: Flywheel resistance training significantly improved muscle strength and physical function in older adults. The review indicated that this training method, which uses a flywheel device to create resistance, effectively enhances muscle power and endurance.

• Physical Performance: The training positively impacted physical performance measures such as mobility and balance. Increased muscle power was associated with better postural stability and a potential reduction in fall risk.

• Quality of Life: Participants in the studies showed improvements in overall quality of life, attributed to increased physical capacity and reduced frailty.

• Safety: The review found that flywheel resistance training is safe for older adults and has a low incidence of adverse events, making it a viable exercise option for this age group.

Conclusion: Flywheel resistance training is beneficial for older adults, offering substantial improvements in muscle function and quality of life. It is recommended for its effectiveness in enhancing physical performance and its safety profile.

“Traditional resistance training, which is the common method used to maintain or improve muscle strength and power, is limited through the load lifted during the concentric phase of a contraction. Eccentric overload flywheel training not only overcomes this limitation through the ability to apply varying and constant resistance through all phases of a contraction, but it also poses many other benefits applicable to an aging population.”

Practical Implications: Why Flywheel Training is Ideal for Older Adults

Given the study's positive outcomes, flywheel training presents an ideal exercise solution for older adults. Unlike traditional weight training, flywheel devices provide constant resistance throughout the entire movement, making the workout more adaptable and less stressful on joints.

Up until recently and the core reason flywheel training has been reserved for specialist physiotherapy and rehabilitation centres has been accessibility and affordability. We have overcome this with SpaceGym, our affordable, compact and lightweight design makes it easy to use at home, allowing older adults to safely and effectively improve their muscle strength, balance, and overall fitness without needing to visit a gym.

If you're looking to enhance your physical health and quality of life as you age, consider incorporating SpaceGym into your daily routine. It’s a safe, effective, and convenient way to stay active and strong.

Conclusion: A New Era in Senior Fitness

Flywheel resistance training is rapidly emerging as a powerful tool for improving the health and well-being of older adults. With its ability to enhance muscle function, improve physical performance, and boost quality of life, this innovative approach to exercise is poised to become a standard in senior fitness.

As we look to the future, the incorporation of flywheel training could redefine how we approach fitness for older adults. SpaceGym, with its unique design and proven effectiveness, offers a practical solution for those ready to embrace this new era in senior fitness. Stay strong, stay balanced, and keep moving with SpaceGym.