The BONEMORE-study

The purpose of this study

• To investigate the effect of isometric axial loading (OsteoStrong) compared to dynamic multicomponent exercise on bone strength in older women with low bone mass.
• To explore the participant's experiences and perceptions of the training methods.

Why is this study important?

Osteoporosis and fragility fractures are a major public health problem worldwide. Fragility fractures result in major functional impairments and suffering, while worldwide medical care costs skyrocket every year. Osteoporosis is very common in the older population (women and men) and particularly in women. 

Physical exercise is a very important part in prevention and treatment of osteoporosis and fragility fractures. Previous studies has found that physical exercise can reduce bone loss and prevent falls. However, the research on the effectiveness of exercise on bone quality, and bone markers that reflect bone remodulation, is very scarce. We also don't know whether isometric training can have positive effects on bone strength and other health-related factors. This study will increase the knowledge about these areas.

Study designs

• Randomized controlled trial
• Qualitative interview study
• Longitudinal study

Training methods

Training method A: Isometric axial loading (IAL) at OsteoStrong

The participants trained individually at the OsteoStrong studio in Solna, Sweden (one 20-minute session per week for nine months). Each session consisted of warm-up exercises on a vibration platform (including balance training), and isometric exercises (static loading) in four machines. The training was supervised by training instructors.

Specific Exercises:

• Balance on vibration platform (e.g. standing on one leg)
• Upper growth trigger (static bröstpress)
• Lower growth trigger (static benpress)
• Core growth trigger (static pull-down)
• Postural growth trigger (similar to a static deadlift)

Training method B: Dynamic multicompontent exercise (DME)

The participants train in a group, two 60-minute sessions per week, for nine months, at the Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences (GIH). Each session consists of exercises based on current recommendations and previous research regarding exercise for osteoporosis. The sessions focus on strength, balance, coordination, mobility, and cardio fitness. The training was supervised by a training instructor.

Specific exercises in training session 1 (station-based training): warm-up, squats, supine hip thrusts, side-lying hip thrusts, side-to-side jumps, push-ups against the wall, light jumping while jogging, back extension in prone position, dead bug (core exercise), step-up, balance (e.g. standing on one leg, balance board).

Specific exercises in training session 2 (in the gym with machines): warm-up (treadmill, rowing, cross-trainer, bike), leg press, lats pull-down, row, back extension in belly-back, chest press, leg lift to the side (standing or lying down), balance (e.g. standing on one leg, balance board).