ABSTRACT
The ability to move with purpose and to remain independent with increasing age depends to a large degree on retaining an adequate functional capacity in the neuromuscular system. This system, which governs the generation and control of muscle force, typically undergoes a substantial decline in functional capacity with age, but retains a great degree of its remarkable adaptive capabilities. Beginning at approximately 30 years of age, human muscular strength declines at a rate of 10 to 15% per decade
(Figure 6.1).
