Effects of Functional Task Training on Muscle Health and Function in Older Adults With Sarcopenia (NCT07494916) | Clinical Trial Compass
Active — Not RecruitingNot Applicable
Effects of Functional Task Training on Muscle Health and Function in Older Adults With Sarcopenia
Spain30 participantsStarted 2026-02-02
Plain-language 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.
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.
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.
Who can participate
Age range
60 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
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.
Exclusion Criteria:
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)
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1This trial focuses on something called 'functional task training' for sarcopenia — can you explain what that type of exercise involves and whether it's something that would realistically fit into my current physical ability and daily routine?
2The trial is no longer actively enrolling participants, so I likely can't join — but based on what this study is measuring, like muscle thickness in the thigh using ultrasound, are there similar programs or supervised exercise approaches you'd recommend I try now?
3Since this is a Phase NA study, which often means it's more exploratory or non-drug in nature, what does that tell us about how much is already known about functional task training's safety and benefit for someone with my level of sarcopenia?
4The trial is measuring muscle thickness using ultrasound — is that something you could use to monitor my muscle health over time if we pursue any exercise or treatment plan together?
5Before considering any exercise-based trial or program like this, are there standard treatments or physical therapy options for sarcopenia that you think I should try first, and how would we know if they're working?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Muscle Thickness of the Rectus Femoris
Timeframe: Baseline and 12 weeks
2
Muscle Thickness of the Rectus Femoris (via Ultrasound)