USA, 2009. Effects of strength training on physical function: influence of power, strength, and body composition.

The purpose of this study was to determine (a) the effects of strength training (ST) on physical function and (b) the influence of strength, power, muscle volume (MV), and body composition on physical function. Healthy, inactive adults (n = 50) aged 65 years and older underwent strength, power, total body composition (% fat and fat free mass [FFM]), and physical function testing before and after 22 weeks of ST. Physical function testing consisted of tasks designed to mimic common physical activities of daily living (ADL). To improve internal validity of the assessment of mid-thigh intermuscular fat, subcutaneous fat, and knee extensors MV, a 10-week unilateral ST program using the untrained leg as an internal control preceded 12 weeks of whole-body ST.

Germany, 2009. Effects of fitness training and yoga on well-being stress, social competence and body image

Aims of our study were to describe and compare influences from a physical activity program and a yoga program on well-being, mood, stresscoping, body-image and social competence in healthy people. METHODS:18 persons attending a gym and 21 taking part in a yoga program answered following questionnaires before entering the program and after taking part for 20 units: Body-Image-Questionnaire (25), Symptom-Checklist- 90R (8), Complaint- List (31), Adjective Mood-Scale (32) and a Visual Analogue Scale for assessing stress-level (10).