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This research explored the balance benefits to untrained older adults of participating in community-based resistance and flexibility programs. In a blinded randomized crossover trial, 32 older adults (M = 66.9 yr) participated in a resistance-exercise program and a flexibility-exercise program for 16 weeks each. Sway velocity and mediolateral sway range were recorded. Timed up-and-go, 10 times sit-to-stand, and step test were also assessed, and lower limb strength was measured. Significant improvements in sway velocity, as well as timed up-and-go, 10 times sit-to-stand, and step test, were seen with both interventions, with no significant differences between the 2 groups. Resistance training resulted in significant increases in strength that were not evident in the flexibility intervention. Balance performance was significantly improved after both resistance training and standing flexibility training; however, further investigation is required to determine the mechanisms responsible for the improvement.

Item Type:	Refereed Article
Keywords:	strength, training, falls, mobility
Research Division:	Health Sciences
Research Group:	Sports science and exercise
Research Field:	Exercise physiology
Objective Division:	Health
Objective Group:	Specific population health (excl. Indigenous health)
Objective Field:	Health related to ageing
UTAS Author:	Bird, M-L (Dr Marie-Louise Bird)
UTAS Author:	Ball, M (Professor Madeleine Ball)
UTAS Author:	Williams, AD (Associate Professor Andrew Williams)
ID Code:	53921
Year Published:	2009
Web of Science® Times Cited:	50
Deposited By:	Health Sciences A
Deposited On:	2009-01-22
Last Modified:	2015-06-03
Downloads:	3,963 View Download Statistics