Goran Markovic1, Nejc Sarabon2, Zrinka Greblo3, Valerija Krizanic4. 1. Motor Control and Human Performance Lab, School of Kinesiology, University of Zagreb, Croatia; Research Unit, Motus Melior Ltd., Zagreb, Croatia. Electronic address: gmarkov@kif.hr. 2. University of Primorska, Andrej Marusic Institute, Department of Health Study, Koper, Slovenia; S2P Ltd., Laboratory for Motor Control and Motor Learning, Ljubljana, Slovenia. 3. Department of Psychology, Centre for Croatian Studies, University of Zagreb, Croatia. 4. Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences J. J. Strossmayer, University of Osijek, Croatia.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Aging is associated with decline in physical function that could result in the development of physical impairment and disability. Hence, interventions that simultaneously challenge balance ability, trunk (core) and extremity strength of older adults could be particularly effective in preserving and enhancing these physical functions. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of feedback-based balance and core resistance training utilizing the a special computer-controlled device (Huber®) with the conventional Pilates training on balance ability, neuromuscular function and body composition of healthy older women. METHODS:Thirty-four older women (age: 70±4 years) were randomly assigned to a Huber group (n=17) or Pilates group (n=17). Both groups trained for 8 weeks, 3 times a week. Maximal isometric strength of the trunk flexors, extensors, and lateral flexors, leg power, upper-body strength, single- and dual-task static balance, and body composition were measured before and after the intervention programs. RESULTS: Significant group×time interactions and main effects of time (p<0.05) were found for body composition, balance ability in standard and dual-task conditions, all trunk muscle strength variables, and leg power in favor of the Huber group. The observed improvements in balance ability under both standard and dual-task conditions in the Huber group were mainly the result of enhanced postural control in medial-lateral direction (p<0.05). CONCLUSION:Feedback-based balance and core resistance training proved to be more effective in improving single- and dual-task balance ability, trunk muscle strength, leg power, and body composition of healthy older women than the traditional Pilates training.
RCT Entities:
BACKGROUND: Aging is associated with decline in physical function that could result in the development of physical impairment and disability. Hence, interventions that simultaneously challenge balance ability, trunk (core) and extremity strength of older adults could be particularly effective in preserving and enhancing these physical functions. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of feedback-based balance and core resistance training utilizing the a special computer-controlled device (Huber®) with the conventional Pilates training on balance ability, neuromuscular function and body composition of healthy older women. METHODS: Thirty-four older women (age: 70±4 years) were randomly assigned to a Huber group (n=17) or Pilates group (n=17). Both groups trained for 8 weeks, 3 times a week. Maximal isometric strength of the trunk flexors, extensors, and lateral flexors, leg power, upper-body strength, single- and dual-task static balance, and body composition were measured before and after the intervention programs. RESULTS: Significant group×time interactions and main effects of time (p<0.05) were found for body composition, balance ability in standard and dual-task conditions, all trunk muscle strength variables, and leg power in favor of the Huber group. The observed improvements in balance ability under both standard and dual-task conditions in the Huber group were mainly the result of enhanced postural control in medial-lateral direction (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Feedback-based balance and core resistance training proved to be more effective in improving single- and dual-task balance ability, trunk muscle strength, leg power, and body composition of healthy older women than the traditional Pilates training.