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Meta-Analysis
. 2025 Aug 1;33(4):e406.
doi: 10.1097/jnr.0000000000000685.

Effects of Resistance Exercise in Older Adults With Sarcopenic Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Su-Ru Chen  1 , Mei-Chuan Chen  2   3 , Wen-Hsuan Hou  4   5   6   7   8 , Pi-Chu Lin  9   8
Affiliations
Meta-Analysis

Effects of Resistance Exercise in Older Adults With Sarcopenic Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Su-Ru Chen et al. J Nurs Res. .

Abstract

Background: In Taiwan's aging society, age-related sarcopenic obesity has gradually become an important health issue. Sarcopenic obesity is associated with functional limitations, falls, disabilities, mental health problems, and even mortality.

Purpose: The aim of this meta-analysis was to examine the effects of resistance exercise on body composition and physical functioning in older adults with sarcopenic obesity.

Methods: A search of randomized controlled trials was conducted in six electronic medical databases from their inception to December 2023.

Results: Twelve studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, with results indicating a significant increase in grip strength (effect size=1.560, 95% confidence interval [CI]=[0.178, 2.941]; p =.027) and significant reduction in body fat percentage (effect size=-1.737, 95% CI=[-2.563, -0.912], p <.001) in the experimental group versus the control group. However, gait speed and body mass index were not significantly improved by resistance exercise interventions.

Conclusions: The findings support a positive effect of resistance exercise on grip strength and body fat percentage in older adults with sarcopenic obesity.

Keywords: body composition; meta-analysis; physical function; resistance exercise; sarcopenic obesity.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Meta-Analysis Article Selection Process
Figure 2
Figure 2
Effects of Resistance Exercise on Grip Strength, Gait Speed, Percentage Body Fat, and Body Mass Index
Figure 3
Figure 3
Publication Bias Related to the Grip Strength, Gait Speed, Percentage Body Fat, and Body Mass Index
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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