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SarcopeniaNCT07494916

Effects of Functional Task Training on Muscle Health and Function in Older Adults With Sarcopenia

A study testing Functional Task Training in Power Zones, Standard Functional Task Training and Traditional Resistance Training in people with Sarcopenia and Aging, run by Universidad de Granada at 1 site in Spain.

Active, not recruiting

Under way, not looking for participants. Everyone needed has enrolled. The study is still running.

Official record
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Trial summary

Sarcopenia is a condition associated with aging that causes a loss of muscle mass, strength, and physical function. This decline limits the ability to perform basic daily activities and increases the risk of falls and dependency. Read more about this study

Who is it for?
Ages 60 years and older
Conditions the study is for
Sarcopenia, Aging, Physical Functional Performance
What is being tested?
Functional Task Training in Power Zones, Standard Functional Task Training and Traditional Resistance Training
Could I receive a placebo?
No, everyone receives an active treatment
How many people
30 participants
Where
1 siteSpain
Study dates
2 Feb 2026to 2 Jul 2027
Phase
Interventional
Are there results?
Not yet: the study is under way

Key requirements

Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.

  • Ages 60 years and older
  • All sexes
  • No healthy volunteers
  • Adult, Older adult

Who may be able to join

  • Participants aged 60 years or older.
  • Diagnosis of probable or confirmed sarcopenia (according to EWGSOP2 criteria, including low handgrip strength and/or low muscle mass).
  • Ability to walk independently (with or without assistive devices).
  • Medically cleared to participate in a structured physical exercise program.
  • Voluntary participation and signed informed consent.

Who cannot join

  • Unstable cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, or any medical condition where exercise is contraindicated.
  • Recent bone fractures or major surgeries within the last 6 months that limit physical activity.
  • Severe visual or auditory deficits that interfere with the training sessions.
  • Concurrent participation in another structured resistance training or functional exercise program.
  • Any musculoskeletal or neurological condition that prevents the safe use of the Functional Electromechanical Dynamometer (DEMF)

Trial locations and contacts

1 site in 1 country.

Spain1 site
  • Lab. IDAFISAD CTS 642 Faculty of Sports Science, Granada

    Granada, Granada, 18006

Other trials in Spain

About this study

Official title: Effect of Functional Task Training (FTT) on Functional, Physiological, and Structural Biomarkers in Older Adults With Sarcopenia

Sarcopenia is a condition associated with aging that causes a loss of muscle mass, strength, and physical function. This decline limits the ability to perform basic daily activities and increases the risk of falls and dependency.

The purpose of this clinical study is to determine the effects of a 12-week Functional Task Training (FTT) program on functional, structural, and physiological biomarkers in older adults with sarcopenia. FTT involves practicing everyday movements, such as standing up from a chair, climbing stairs, walking, and carrying objects.

Read more

The study aims to answer the following question: Does Functional Task Training performed specifically in optimal muscle power zones offer greater improvements in aging biomarkers compared to standard Functional Task Training or traditional resistance training?

The researchers hypothesize that while all exercise interventions will be beneficial, the FTT program focused on power zones will generate the greatest improvements in functional, physiological, and structural biomarkers in older adults with sarcopenia.

To test this, 30 older adults (aged 60 and older) will be randomly assigned to one of three active groups for a 12-week period (2 days per week): an FTT group training in power zones, a standard FTT group, or a traditional resistance training group. All exercise groups will use a Functional Electromechanical Dynamometer (DEMF) to precisely measure and control the training loads.

Read the detailed description

Population aging is a major public health challenge associated with a progressive decline in muscle function and functional capacity. Sarcopenia, characterized by age-related loss of muscle mass, strength, and function, increases the risk of falls, dependency, and mortality. Among muscular determinants, muscle power has been shown to be highly relevant for executing daily tasks and preventing falls.

In this context, Functional Task Training (FTT) has emerged as a promising strategy to improve muscle quality and functionality by simulating daily activities. Furthermore, the use of a Functional Electromechanical Dynamometer (DEMF) allows for precise load adjustment, replicating natural movements with controlled resistance, and providing accurate measurements of applied force, velocity, and power. Despite these advances, there is a gap in the literature regarding the specific impact of FTT-and particularly FTT executed in optimal power zones-on functional, physiological, and structural biomarkers in older populations.

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate these effects over a 12-week period in a sample of 30 older adults with sarcopenia.

Study Procedures and Progression:

Following initial screening and prior to baseline testing, participants will undergo two familiarization sessions to ensure safety and proper technique. During the 12-week intervention phase, participants will be randomized into one of three active training arms: FTT in Power Zones, Standard FTT, or Traditional Resistance Training (RT). All groups will attend supervised sessions 2 days per week.

A key methodological component of this study is the integration of the DEMF device across all three groups, which ensures electronic and progressive load adjustments. During the first session, the initial load will be determined through individual testing. Throughout the program, loads will be progressively increased on a weekly basis by 5% to 10%, depending on the individual's tolerance, performance, and specific group assignment (e.g., specific velocity and power targets for the FTT Power Zone group).

At the end of the 12-week intervention, all participants will undergo post-intervention assessments in the laboratory using the same instruments and standardized conditions to ensure consistency in the results.

Statistical Analysis:

Data normality will be evaluated using the Shapiro-Wilk test, and homogeneity of variance will be assessed with Levene's test. Repeated measures analysis of variance (Two-way ANOVA) will be used to evaluate intra- and inter-group changes, followed by a Tukey post hoc test if significant differences are found.

Being tested
Functional Task Training in Power Zones, Standard Functional Task Training, Traditional Resistance Training
Keywords
aging population, functional training, task exercise
Medical subject headings
Sarcopenia

What participants receive

What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.

  • Functional Task Training in Power ZonesBehavioural

    Participants will perform a 12-week Functional Task Training (FTT) program (2 sessions/week, 60 min/session). The circuit includes 4 specific functional tasks designed to simulate daily life demands: 1) Sit-to-stand from a chair, 2) Walking with changes of direction, 3) Lifting and carrying objects, and 4) Pulling/pushing movements.

    All exercises will be executed using a Functional Electromechanical Dynamometer (DEMF). This device provides constant electronic resistance and allows for the determination of the individual load that elicits peak power output. Training intensity will be strictly monitored to ensure participants perform each repetition within their optimal muscle power zone. Loads will be adjusted progressively (5-10% weekly) based on the velocity and power data provided by the device. Each session includes a warm-up, 3 sets of 10-12 repetitions per task, and a cool-down.

  • Standard Functional Task TrainingBehavioural

    Participants will perform a 12-week Functional Task Training (FTT) program (2 sessions/week, 60 min/session). The circuit includes 4 specific functional tasks: 1) Sit-to-stand from a chair, 2) Walking with changes of direction, 3) Lifting and carrying objects, and 4) Pulling/pushing movements. All exercises will be executed using the Functional Electromechanical Dynamometer (DEMF). Training follows standard progressive resistance protocols (5-10% weekly load increase) based on individual tolerance, without specifically targeting or monitoring the optimal muscle power zones.

  • Traditional Resistance TrainingBehavioural

    Participants will complete a 12-week traditional resistance training program (2 sessions/week, 60 min/session). The protocol targets major muscle groups through 4 conventional analytical exercises (e.g., leg press, chest press, row, and leg extension). These exercises will be performed using the DEMF device to control and monitor the training loads. This group does not perform functional task simulations or power-zone specific training, following a standard hypertrophy and strength progression.

Study groups in NCT07494916
Study groupRoleWhat they receive
FTT in Power ZonesExperimentalParticipants assigned to this experimental arm will undergo a 12-week Functional Task Training (FTT) program, 2 days per week. The intervention involves exercises simulating activities of daily living, such as sitting and standing from a chair, stair climbing, walking with directional changes, and lifting objects. Crucially, exercises will be performed using a Functional Electromechanical Dynamometer (DEMF) to ensure participants train specifically within their optimal muscle power zones. Execution velocity will be continuously monitored to electronically adjust loads based on individual power performance.
Receives: Behavioral: Functional Task Training in Power Zones
Standard Functional Task Training (FTT)ExperimentalParticipants assigned to this experimental arm will undergo a 12-week Functional Task Training (FTT) program, 2 days per week. The intervention consists of exercises simulating activities of daily living, including sit-to-stand, stair climbing, walking, and lifting objects. Exercises will be performed using the DEMF device following standard progressive load adjustments based on tolerance and performance, without specifically targeting optimal muscle power zones.
Receives: Behavioral: Standard Functional Task Training
Traditional Resistance Training (RT)Active comparatorParticipants assigned to this active comparator arm will complete a 12-week traditional resistance training program, 2 days per week. The protocol targets major muscle groups through conventional exercises (e.g., leg press, bench press). These exercises will also be performed using the DEMF device to control and monitor the training loads, but the focus will remain on traditional strength parameters rather than specific functional tasks or optimal power zones.
Receives: Behavioral: Traditional Resistance Training

What is being measured

The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.

  1. Muscle Thickness of the Rectus Femoris

    Muscle thickness will be measured in centimeters (cm) using B-mode ultrasound. The assessment will be performed at the midpoint between the anterior superior iliac spine and the superior border of the patella. This measurement serves as a structural biomarker to evaluate changes in muscle mass. Higher values indicate an increase in muscle volume

    Measured: Baseline and 12 weeks

  2. Muscle Thickness of the Rectus Femoris (via Ultrasound)

    Evaluation of muscle structural changes using B-mode ultrasound. The thickness (measured in centimeters) of the rectus femoris muscle will be assessed at the midpoint between the anterior superior iliac spine and the superior border of the patella. This measurement serves as a structural biomarker for muscle mass. Higher values indicate an increase in muscle volume and a reduction in sarcopenia-related atrophy.

    Measured: Baseline and 12 weeks

Timeline

From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.

  1. First posted27 Mar 2026
  2. Study start2 Feb 2026
  3. Primary completion30 May 2026 (estimated)
  4. Study completion2 Jul 2027 (estimated)

Resources

More details

For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.

Study design
Study type
Interventional
Phase
Phase N/A
Primary purpose
Treatment
Allocation
Randomised
Intervention model
Parallel groups
Model description
Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three parallel, active intervention groups for a 12-week period (training 2 days per week): an experimental group performing Functional Task Training (FTT) in optimal muscle power zones, a second experimental group performing standard FTT, and an active comparator group performing traditional Resistance Training (RT).
Masking
None (open label)
Enrolment
30 participants (estimated)
IDs, dates and publications
ClinicalTrials.gov ID
NCT07494916
Sponsor's protocol ID
5310/CEIH/2025-FTT
Other IDs
A.SEJ.227.UGR23
Status last verified
Mar 2026
First submitted
20 Mar 2026
Last updated
27 Mar 2026
Results posted
No
Data monitoring committee
Yes
FDA-regulated drug
No
FDA-regulated device
No
Individual data sharing
No: Individual participant data (IPD) will not be shared with external researchers to ensure the strictly confidential treatment of participants' personal and health information. This decision is in accordance with the informed consent form approved by the Institutional Review Board and complies with current data protection regulations (GDPR) to protect the privacy of the older adults involved in the study.

Publications

  • Nieves-Silva R, Chirosa-Rios L, Chirosa-Rios IJ, Martinez-Garcia D, Jimenez-Lupion D, Jerez-Mayorga D. Effects of functional task training on physical performance in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur Geriatr Med. 2026 Feb;17(1):247-260. doi: 10.1007/s41999-025-01310-z. Epub 2025 Sep 18.

    PubMed 40965784

Questions about this trial

What is this clinical trial studying?

A study testing Functional Task Training in Power Zones, Standard Functional Task Training and Traditional Resistance Training in people with Sarcopenia and Aging, run by Universidad de Granada at 1 site in Spain.

The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.

Who may be eligible to take part?

The sponsor lists 5 inclusion and 5 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.

Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?

The record says: under way, not looking for participants, as of the sponsor's last update on 27 Mar 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.

Where is the study taking place?

The record lists 1 site in Spain. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.

What are the possible benefits and risks?

They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.

Are results available for this study?

This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.

How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?

The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.

What does the primary outcome measure?

Muscle Thickness of the Rectus Femoris (time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks). The study lists 2 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.

Where can I read the original study information?

On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT07494916, which also lists 1 linked publication.

Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?

No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.

How often is this information updated?

AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 27 Mar 2026.

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Clinical Trial NCT07494916 | AzTrials