Comparative Effectiveness of Whole- Body Vibration and Aerobic Training among Egyptian Older Adults with Sarcopenia: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Early identification and effective interventions for sarcopenia in older people are crucial to prevent functional decline and improve quality of life. This work aimed to examine and compare the efficacy of aerobic training exercises and whole-body vibration (WBV) in the management of sarcopenia, with respect to muscular strength, muscle mass, and physical performance in older adults. Methods: This randomized controlled trial involved 70 aged participants with sarcopenia at Outpatient and Inpatient Geriatrics Care Centers. Cases were randomly allocated to 3 groups: Group A (Study group) (n=24): received WBV exercises with diet modification life style and conventional progressive resistance exercises. Group B (Study group) (n=23): received aerobic exercise training with diet modification life style and conventional progressive resistance exercises. Group C (Control Group) (n=23): was administered conventional progressive resistance exercises and a lifestyle modification regimen for 3 sessions per week for 12 weeks. Sessions lasted 6 minutes for WBV and 30 minutes for aerobic training, plus resistance exercises. Outcomes—muscular strength, muscle mass, and physical performance—were measured using BIA, handgrip strength, 6-MWT, gait speed, and TUG. Post-intervention differences were analysed using rm MANCOVA, adjusting for baseline values (p < 0.05). The sessions were conducted under direct supervision of qualified physical therapists. Participants trained in small groups, but each one followed an individualized program based on their initial assessment and tolerance. Close supervision was maintained throughout to ensure proper technique and safety, with adjustments made when needed. Attendance was also recorded to monitor adherence to the program. Results and Discussion: After intervention, group A had significantly increased hand grip strength compared to group C (p=0.026) and group B (p=0.02). Also, group A demonstrated significantly faster gait speed than group C (p=0.002) and group B (p=0.017). SMI revealed a significant impact among groups (F = 124.28, p < 0.001, η² = 0.790) as well as for the hand grip test (F = 39.17, \ η²= 0.543) and 6-MWT (F = 38.47, η²= 0.538). Moreover, Gait Speed (F = 21.28, η²= 0.392) and TUG (F = 7.58, \η²= 0.187) showed group-dependent enhancements in functional flexibility. Conclusions: The results of the present study support the integration of either WBV or aerobic training into standard sarcopenia management protocols, as both interventions provided measurable benefits beyond conventional resistance training and dietary modification alone..