The aim of the study was to determine whether it is possible to improve both 
maximum and rapid force production using resistance training that is typically 
used to induce muscle hypertrophy in previously untrained older men. Subjects 
(60-72 years) performed 20 weeks of "hypertrophic" resistance training twice 
weekly (n = 27) or control (n = 11). Maximum dynamic and isometric leg press, as 
well as isometric force over 0-100 ms, and maximum concentric power tests were 
performed pre- and post-intervention. Muscle activity was assessed during these 
tests by surface electromyogram of the vastus lateralis and medialis muscles. 
Muscle hypertrophy was assessed by panoramic ultrasound of the vastus lateralis. 
The intervention group increased their maximum isometric (from 2268 ± 544 to 
2538 ± 701 N) and dynamic force production (from 137 ± 24 to 165 ± 29 kg), and 
these changes were significantly different to control (isometric 12 ± 16 vs. 1 ± 
9 %; dynamic 21 ± 12 vs. 2 ± 4 %). No within- or between-group differences were 
observed in rapid isometric force or concentric power. Relative increases in 
vastus lateralis cross-sectional area trended to be statistically greater in the 
intervention group (10 ± 8 vs. 3 ± 6 %, P = 0.061). It is recommendable that 
resistance training programs for older individuals integrate protocols 
emphasizing maximum force/muscle hypertrophy and rapid force production in order 
to induce comprehensive health-related and functionally important improvements 
in this population.