Age-related differences in muscular capacity among workers

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.