In this session, you will learn about the physiological consequences of aging, and their impact on functional mobility and carrying out the activities of daily living. The facilitators will also discuss the benefits of exercise in attenuating the loss of muscle mass and muscle quality with aging. General recommendations regarding exercise and some current research on the benefits of power training will be provided. The session will conclude with a brief description of some available facilities on campus for exercise participation and some practical tips and examples of exercises for getting started.
Facilitators: Catherine Amara is a professor at U of T’s Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education. Her expertise includes aging and exercise, muscle health, mitochondrial function, cardiorespiratory physiology, and exercise tolerance. Dina Katsoulis is a senior doctoral student, and she is currently investigating how a lower-body, low intensity (40% of maximum) resistance training programme focusing on speed of movement, affects strength, power and overall function. As part of her investigation, she is interested in examining the effects of frequency of training (1, 2 and 3 times/week) on these outcome measures. Douglas Rosa is the coordinator for personal training & nutrition at U of T’s Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education. He has worked with different clientele to improve fitness and health, improve performance and prevent injury. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and Health and is a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS).