Effects of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation on Physical Function Adaptations to High-Intensity Interval Training in Older Adults.

The CoQ10 group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in lower-body strength and power measures compared to the placebo group.

• Between-group differences were statistically significant for the 5-repetition chair stand test (5XSST) and 30-second chair stand test (30CST) (p < 0.05).
• The study was an 8-week supervised HIIT program in adults aged 65-75.
• Sample consisted of 38 participants: CoQ10 group (8 females, 11 males) and placebo group (8 females, 11 males).
• The design was a double-blind, randomized controlled trial.

Both CoQ10 and placebo groups showed significant within-group improvements in handgrip strength, balance, aerobic endurance, and mobility.

• Within-group improvements were significant for right and left handgrip strength, single-leg stand (SLS), 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and timed up and go (TUG) in both groups (all p < 0.001).
• No significant between-group differences were observed for these outcomes (p > 0.05).
• This indicates that HIIT alone was sufficient to drive improvements in these measures regardless of supplementation.

No adverse events were reported in either group during the 8-week intervention.

• Safety was assessed across the full 8-week supervised HIIT program.
• Both the CoQ10 and placebo groups completed the intervention without any reported adverse events.

The performance-related effects of CoQ10 supplementation appeared specific to muscular power output and fatigue resistance rather than general mobility or balance-related tasks.

• CoQ10 showed between-group benefits only for lower-body power measures (5XSST and 30CST) but not for TUG, grip strength, SLS, 6MWT, or 25-foot walk (25FW).
• The authors concluded that 'the performance-related effects of CoQ10 may be more specific to muscular power output and fatigue resistance, rather than general mobility or balance-related tasks.'
• The authors highlight 'the potential of CoQ10 as a targeted adjunct in exercise for supporting lower-body function and physical performance in older adults.'

The study assessed a comprehensive battery of physical function outcomes before and after the intervention in older adults aged 65-75.

• Outcomes included lower- and upper-body strength (5XSST, 30CST, handgrip strength left and right), balance (SLS, TUG), mobility (25-foot walk), and aerobic endurance (6-minute walk test).
• Assessments were conducted pre- and post-intervention.
• Participants were adults aged 65-75 years in a double-blind, randomized controlled design.