Six-month table tennis training improves body composition, bone health and physical performance in untrained older men; a randomized controlled trial

© 2020 Elsevier Masson SAS Objectives: In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effects of 6-month table tennis (TT) training on bone health, muscle mass, and physical performance in older men. Material and methods: Forty older men aged of ≥ 65 years were randomly assigned to an experimental group (EXP; n = 20) or control group (CON; n = 20). Before and after the intervention, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, a short physical performance test battery and one-leg balance tests were used to assess body composition and physical function. Results: TT increased whole body and regional bone mineral density (range from 2.6% to 8.7%; p < 0.05), and lean mass (range from 2.2% to 11.1%; p < 0.05), while total and regional body fat mass decreased (range from 4.8% to 24.7%; p < 0.05). TT also improved the performance test score, 4-m walk, 5-chair stands, 400-m walk and balance (range from 4.0% to 13.7%; p < 0.05). Conclusion: This indicates that TT can effectively mitigate changes in bone health, muscle mass and physical performance associated with aging and a sedentary lifestyle.