Impact of 14 Days of Bed Rest in Older Adults and an Exercise Countermeasure on Body Composition, Muscle Strength, and Cardiovascular Function: Canadian Space Agency Standard Measures

Abstract

In this first Canadian HDBR study in older adults, an exercise countermeasure helped maintain aerobic fitness and lean body mass without affecting the reduction of knee extension strength. However, it was ineffective in protecting against orthostatic intolerance. These results support HIIT as a promising approach to preserve astronaut health and functioning during space missions, and to prevent deconditioning as a result of hospitalization in older adults.