The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a 10-week strength training intervention on isometric strength, rate of force development (RFD), physical function (stair climbing, rising from a chair, and preferred and maximal walking speed), and physical activity among frail elderly people receiving home-care services. Thirty participants were randomly assigned (by sex) to a control group (CON) or a strength training group (ST) performing a supervised training programme using elastic bands, box-lifting, and body weight exercises twice per week. Twenty-three participants were selected to complete the study (age 84.9 +/- 6.1 years). For the ST, only improvement in muscle properties was the peak RFD in leg extension (p = 0.04). No significant differences were observed in muscle properties for the control group (CON) (p = 0.16 to 1.00) or between groups (p = 0.39 to 1.00). There were no changes within and between the groups in physical function (p = 0.12 to 0.19) or physical activity levels (p = 0.06 to 0.73). The results of this pilot study did not demonstrate greater improvements in muscle properties and physical function and improved physical activity after attending a home-based resistance program compared to physical activity advise; however, larger population studies should examine these findings. This trial is registered with ISRCTN10967873.

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