Effects of resistance training with elastic bands on bone mineral density, body composition, and osteosarcopenic obesity in elderly women: A meta-analysis

Background: Elastic band exercises can improve bone density, muscle quality, and body fat in elderly patients with Sarcopenic Obesity Syndrome (SOS), a common diagnosis. Encouraging this exercise can bring significant benefits. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search until April 1, 2023, covering UpToDate, PubMed, and Web of Science databases. The analysis focused on osteosarcopenic obesity and resistance training, involving four randomized controlled trials with 108 participants. After collecting key information, the methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale. Outcome quality was graded using the GRADE technique, and bias risk was evaluated using the Cochrane Bias Risk tool. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4. Results: After a 12-week elastic band resistance training regimen, the meta-analysis revealed significant improvement. The study focused on age-related osteoporosis and obesity in older women, evaluating parameters such as bone mineral density (BMD) (P < 0.001, I2 = 98 %, CI: 0.39–0.71), decreased body fat percentage (BFP) (CI: −262.55–260.11, P < 0.001, I2 = 100 %), and skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) (P < 0.001, I2 = 98 %, CI: 0.31–0.71). T-score (P < 0.001, I2 = 97 %, CI: −2.85–1.27), Time to Chair Rise (TCR) (P < 0.001, I2 = 100 %, CI: −24.28–23.44), and Gait Speed (GS) (P < 0.001, I2 = 100 %, CI: 9.84–9.88) were also evaluated. Conclusion: Following a 12-week elastic band resistance exercise regimen, older women showed notable improvements, particularly those with age-related osteoporosis and obesity.