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International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health

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Open Access 01-10-2009 | Original Article

Age-related differences in muscular capacity among workers

Authors: Heleen H. Hamberg-van Reenen, Allard J. van der Beek, Birgitte M. Blatter, Willem van Mechelen, Paulien M. Bongers

Published in: International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health | Issue 9/2009

Abstract

Purpose

To quantify the age-related changes in muscular capacity in a working population, and to investigate whether these changes are dependent on sports participation.

Methods

Data were used from the longitudinal study on musculoskeletal disorders, absenteeism, stress and health (n = 1,800). At baseline, isokinetic lifting strength and static muscle endurance were assessed, and endurance measurements were repeated after 3 years of follow-up. Sports participation was assessed using a questionnaire.

Results

Cross-sectionally, static endurance of the neck/shoulder muscles was highest among older workers, but decreased longitudinally among all age groups. Younger workers who participated in sports 3 h per week or more had the best performance, but older workers who participated between 0 and 3 h per week had better performance than those who participated in sports more frequently.

Conclusions

There were age-related differences on muscular capacity. Younger workers who participated in sports frequently had the best muscular capacity. For aging workers, moderate sports participation seems to be effective in keeping them suitable for the relatively growing work demands.

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Title: Age-related differences in muscular capacity among workers
Authors: Heleen H. Hamberg-van Reenen
Allard J. van der Beek
Birgitte M. Blatter
Willem van Mechelen
Paulien M. Bongers
Publication date: 01-10-2009
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health / Issue 9/2009
Print ISSN: 0340-0131
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1246
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00420-009-0407-8

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Springer Medicine

Age-related differences in muscular capacity among workers

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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