Research Articles

• Assessment of Strength Training Effects on Leg Composition in Older Men Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• Increased Energy Requirements and Changes in Body Composition with Resistance Training in Older Adults
• Effects of Strength Training on Body Composition in Older Men
• One Year of Strength Training and Weight Loss in Older Women: Effects on Body Composition

The following definitions will be useful in understanding the research studies dealing with body composition.

Body Composition:
The levels of fat mass and lean body mass which make up the composition of the body.

DEXA:
Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry - a scientific test using x-ray technology to determine body composition.

Fat Mass:
The amount of body which is made up of fat. Often referred to as percent body fat.

HYDRO:
Hydrostatic weighing - a method of determining fat mass verses lean mass by weighing an individual underwater.

Lean Body Mass:
The amount of body which is made up of muscle, bone, fluids, and internal organs. Often called metabolically active mass or fat free mass.

MRI:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging - a scientific test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce colorful images which differentiate between muscle and fat.

Resting Metabolic Rate:
The number of calories (i.e., energy required) to sustain the body while at rest.

Skinfold:
A test done to measure the subcutaneous fat.

Subcutaneous Fat:
Fat stored directly under the skin surface