Effect of a multicomponent exercise program on muscle quality assessed by ultrasound, body composition, and functionality in older women: A randomized controlled trial protocol

INTRODUCTION: Muscle quality (MQ) is increasingly recognized as a vital metric for healthy aging, potentially offering good prognostic value. However, there is a lack of robust longitudinal protocols integrating ultrasound-assessed MQ with functional performance and body composition in older women. METHODS: This randomized controlled trial will involve community-dwelling women aged 60 and older. Participants will be randomized into an experimental group performing a multicomponent training (MT) program or a control group. The intervention consists of a 32-week supervised program (3 sessions/week, 50 minutes/session) combining aerobic, strength, balance, and coordination exercises. The primary outcome is the modification of muscle architecture (echo intensity and thickness) in the rectus femoris and rectus abdominis muscles, assessed via ultrasound. Secondary outcomes include functional capacity (assessed by SPPB, TUG, and 5-time sit-to-stand tests), handgrip strength, and body composition. DISCUSSION: We hypothesize that long-term MT will induce positive architectural adaptations, such as reduced echogenicity (indicating lower intramuscular fat), which will correlate with improved functional independence. This protocol aims to validate ultrasound as a sensitive, non-invasive tool for monitoring skeletal muscle health during aging.