Effects of elastic-band resistance exercise on balance, mobility and gait function, flexibility and fall efficacy in elderly people

Effects of elastic band training on body composition and physical performance in older people: A systematic review with meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review with meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of elastic band training (EBT) on body composition and physical performance in apparently healthy older people.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted between October 2023 and May 2024 using the core collection of six generic databases: PubMed, ProQuest, EBSCOhost, CINAHL Complete, Scopus, and Web of Science. The PRISMA, TESTEX, RoB 2, and GRADE tools assessed the evidence's methodological quality and certainty. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (code: CRD42024547050).

RESULTS

Of 5916 records, 9 randomized and non-randomized controlled trials involving 477 healthy older people were included. Six meta-analyses were performed showing significant improvements in 30-second chair stand (SMD = 3.03; 95 % CI = 0.14 to 5.93; I2 = 100 %; p = 0.04), sit-and-reach (SMD = 2.09; 95 % CI = 0.15 to 4.03; I2 = 100 %; p = 0.04) and timed up-and-go (SMD = 3.10; 95 % CI = 1.67 to 4.53; I2 = 98 %; p < 0.0001) tests. However, in maximal isometric handgrip strength, back-scratch test, and fat-free mass, no significant improvements (p > 0.05) in favor of EBT were reported.

CONCLUSION

EBT improves 30-second chair stand, sit-and-reach, and timed up-and-go in older people. Nevertheless, the certainty of evidence is very low; thus, not definitive recommendations can be made.

The Influence of Hip-Strengthening Program on Patients with Chronic Ankle Instability

Background and Objectives: Repetitive ankle sprains lead to mechanical instability of the ankle. Patients with chronic ankle instability may experience decreased muscle strength and limited postural control. This study investigated the effects of a hip-strengthening exercise program on muscle strength, balance, and function in patients with chronic ankle instability. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 patients participated in the study and were randomly assigned to the two groups. Among the 30 participants, 14 were assigned to the hip joint-strengthening exercise group and 16 to the control group. The experimental group underwent a hip-strengthening exercise program and received training for 40 min per session twice a week for four weeks. The control group received the same frequency, duration, and number of sessions. Measurements were performed before and after the training period to assess changes in hip strength, balance, and function. Results: In the within-group and between-group comparisons, both groups showed significant differences in hip joint strength, static balance, dynamic balance, and function (FAAM; foot and ankle ability measures) (p < 0.05). Statistically significant differences were observed in the time × group interaction effects among the hip abductors and external rotation in hip joint strength, path length in static balance, posterolateral and posteromedial in dynamic balance, and FAAM-ADL and FAAM-SPORT functions (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Accordingly, this study confirmed that hip joint-strengthening exercises have a positive effect on the strength, balance, and function of patients with chronic ankle instability, and we believe that hip joint-strengthening exercises will be recommended as an effective intervention method for patients suffering from chronic ankle instability.

Effects of elastic band resistance training on the physical and mental health of elderly individuals: A mixed methods systematic review

OBJECTIVES

Elastic band resistance training in elderly individuals can improve physical fitness and promote mental health in addition to other benefits. This systematic review aimed to review, summarize, and evaluate quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methodological studies on the use of elastic band resistance training in elderly individuals, and to investigate the influence of elastic band resistance training on the physical and mental health of elderly individuals, as well as their preferences and obstacles in training.

METHODS

A convergent separation approach was used to synthesize and integrate the results, specifically the mixed systematic review approach recommended by the Joanna Briggs Institute. The extensive search strategy included electronic database searches in the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, and CINAHL. The researchers rigorously screened the literature, extracted and analyzed the data, and evaluated the quality of the included studies using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT).

RESULTS

Twenty-eight studies were included, of which 25 were quantitative studies, 2 were qualitative studies, and 1 was a mixed-methods study. A total of 1,697 subjects were investigated across all studies. Quantitative evidence supports the notion that elastic band resistance training can improve upper and lower limb flexibility, endurance, upper strength, physical balance, and cardiopulmonary function and enhance the mental health of elderly individuals. Participants in the qualitative study reported some preferences and obstacles with band resistance training, but most participants reported physical benefits.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the heterogeneity between studies, this review is the first systematic review to comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of elastic band resistance training in older adults. It not only shows the influence of elastic band resistance training on the physical and mental health of the elderly, but also emphasizes the preference and obstacles of elderly individuals face.

Effects of exercise using a modified elastic band with a coconut shell on muscle strength and balance in community-dwelling older adults

[Purpose] To investigate the effects of exercise using a modified elastic band with a coconut shell on leg muscle strength and balance in older adults. [Participants and Methods] The study consisted of 30 participants aged 60 years and older. The participants were randomly assigned to either the exercise (n=15) or control groups (n=15). The exercise group used a modified elastic band with a coconut shell three days a week for four weeks. Both groups received a single educational session on fall prevention after a baseline assessment. The Functional Reach Test (FRT) and Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) were used to assess balance, respectively. The 30-second chair stand test (30CST) was also used to measure leg strength. All outcome parameters were measured at the beginning of the study, immediately after a single exercise session, and after four weeks of exercise. [Results] The FRT and 30CST significantly increased in the exercise group after four weeks of exercise. The TUG significantly decreased in the exercise group after completing the program. [Conclusion] This study demonstrated that exercise using a modified elastic band with a coconut shell could effectively improve leg muscle strength and balance in older adults.

Effect of elastic resistance training on functional capacity in older adults: a systematic review with meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of Elastic Resistance Training (ERT) on functional capacity (FC) in older adults.

METHODS

The databases used were Embase, Virtual Health Library, PubMed, SciElo, Scopus, SPORTS Discus, and Web of Science. Eligibility criteria: aged ≥ 60 years; both sexes; intervention of at least 8 weeks; structured ERT; comparator group that performed other types of training or without any intervention; at least one functional test measurement. Functional tests were grouped according to their specificity for the sub-group meta-analyses.

RESULTS

Twenty-six studies were considered eligible for qualitative synthesis, of which 16 were used for quantitative analysis. Favorable effects (p < .001) of ERT compared to the control group without intervention were observed in the 30-second sit to stand test, Timed Up and Go test, arm curl test, handgrip strength test, 6-minute walk test, lower and upper limb flexibility, and Short Physical Performance Battery (p = .007). Comparisons between ERT and other types of training were not performed because of the high heterogeneity of the studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that ERT is able to improve the FC of older adults when compared to older adults not involved in any type of training.

Exercise Therapy in Nonspecific Low Back Pain among Individuals with Lower-Limb Amputation: A Systematic Review

Low back pain is very common condition that often becomes a long-lasting problem in prostheses users after lower limb amputation. The presented study aims to decide the potential benefits of exercise therapy on low back pain among lower limb amputees by using a systematic review. The PICO technique was used to answer the primary issue of this review: Does exercise treatment lessen the prevalence of low back pain in the population of lower limb amputees? Systematic review was conducted in the following databases: Medline-PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies up to September 2010 published in English are included. Aim, target population, development and execution strategies, and treatment suggestions were among the data gathered. The primary outcomes of interest were exercise interventions as a therapy for low back pain but only two articles met including criteria. The search was broadened and 21 studies describing biomechanical changes in gait and pelvic-spine posture were analysed. This review indicates that movement therapy is a potential treatment strategy in low back pain among amputees. The major limitation of the study is the very heterogenous group of subjects in terms of amputation level, baseline activity level and comorbidities. We used a procedure that was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022345556) to perform this systematic review of systematic reviews. There is a necessity of good quality research for concluding a consensus of exercise intervention.

Resistance Training Induces Improvements in Range of Motion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Although it is known that resistance training can be as effective as stretch training to increase joint range of motion, to date no comprehensive meta-analysis has investigated the effects of resistance training on range of motion with all its potential affecting variables.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of chronic resistance training on range of motion compared either to a control condition or stretch training or to a combination of resistance training and stretch training to stretch training, while assessing moderating variables.

DESIGN

For the main analysis, a random-effect meta-analysis was used and for the subgroup analysis a mixed-effect model was implemented. Whilst subgroup analyses included sex and participants' activity levels, meta-regression included age, frequency, and duration of resistance training.

DATA SOURCES

Following the systematic search in four databases (PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science) and reference lists, 55 studies were found to be eligible.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Controlled or randomized controlled trials that separately compared the training effects of resistance training exercises with either a control group, stretching group, or combined stretch and resistance training group on range of motion in healthy participants.

RESULTS

Resistance training increased range of motion (effect size [ES] = 0.73; p < 0.001) with the exception of no significant range of motion improvement with resistance training using only body mass. There were no significant differences between resistance training versus stretch training (ES = 0.08; p = 0.79) or between resistance training and stretch training versus stretch training alone (ES = - 0.001; p = 0.99). Although "trained or active people" increased range of motion (ES = 0.43; p < 0.001) "untrained and sedentary" individuals had significantly (p = 0.005) higher magnitude range of motion changes (ES = 1.042; p < 0.001). There were no detected differences between sex and contraction type. Meta-regression showed no effect of age, training duration, or frequency.

CONCLUSIONS

As resistance training with external loads can improve range of motion, stretching prior to or after resistance training may not be necessary to enhance flexibility.

A Non-Randomized Combined Program of Walking and Low-Load Resistance Exercise Improves Cognitive Function and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Community-Dwelling Elderly Women

Background: This study examines whether changes in cardiometabolic risk factors, functional fitness, and depressive symptoms following a six-month exercise intervention were associated with cognitive function in Korean women aged 65 years and older. Methods: A non-randomized study design was used to compare post-intervention changes in measured variables between control (n = 30) and exercise (n = 30) groups. The exercise intervention consisted of three days of low-load resistance exercise and two days of walking. Cognitive function and depressive symptoms were assessed with the Korean version of the Mini−Mental State Examination and the Korean version of the Geriatric Depression Scale, respectively. Functional fitness was measured using a senior fitness test battery. Results: The exercise group showed a significant improvement in cognitive function (p < 0.001) in conjunction with significant decreases in blood glucose (p = 0.052), triglycerides (p = 0.011), insulin (p = 0.002), tumor necrosis factor-α (p = 0.043), and depressive symptoms (p = 0.006) and an increase in interleukin-10 (p = 0.037), compared with the control group. Multivariate stepwise regression showed that changes in depressive symptoms (p < 0.001), insulin resistance (p < 0.001), and upper body muscle strength (p = 0.003) were positively associated with cognitive function. Conclusion: A six-month exercise intervention consisting of walking and low-load/high-repetition elastic band resistance exercise has the potential to improve cognitive function, as well as physical function and cardiometabolic risk factors, and to decrease depressive symptoms in older women.

Feasibility, Psychosocial Effects, Influence, and Perception of Elastic Band Resistance Balance Training in Older Adults

This study utilised feedback from older adults during balance-challenging, elastic band resistance exercises to design a physical activity (PA) intervention.

METHODS

Twenty-three active participants, aged 51-81 years, volunteered to perform a mini balance evaluation test and falls efficacy scale, and completed a daily living questionnaire. Following a 10 min warm-up, participants performed eight pre-selected exercises (1 × set, 8-12 repetitions) using elastic bands placed over the hip or chest regions in a randomised, counterbalanced order with 15 min seated rests between interventions. Heart rate (HR) and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were measured throughout. Participant interview responses were used to qualify the experiences and opinions of the interventions including likes, dislikes, comfort, and exercise difficulty.

RESULTS

Similar significant (p < 0.01) increases in HR (pre- = 83-85 bpm, mid- = 85-88 bpm, post-intervention = 88-89 bpm; 5-6%) and RPE (pre- = 8-9, mid- = 10, post-intervention = 10-11) were detected during the PA interventions (hip and chest regions). Interview data revealed that participants thought the PA interventions challenged balance, that the exercises would be beneficial for balance, and that the exercises were suitable for themselves and others. Participants reported a positive experience when using the PA interventions with an elastic band placed at the hip or chest and would perform the exercises again, preferably in a group, and that individual preference and comfort would determine the placement of the elastic band at either the hip or chest.

CONCLUSION

These positive outcomes confirm the feasibility of a resistance band balance program and will inform intervention design and delivery in future studies.

The effects of elastic band exercise on the pain, kinesiophobia, functional, and psychological status after total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Elastic band exercise not only improves muscle strength and elasticity, increases efficiency, balance, and quality of life but also decreases the injury risk. This study was conducted to determine the effect of elastic band exercise on pain, kinesiophobia, functional, and psychological status after total knee arthroplasty.

METHODS

This study was conducted out between October 2019 and April 2020 as a randomized controlled experimental study with a total of 60 patients. Data collection tools in this study included a descriptive information form, visual analog scale, Tampa Kinesiophobia, WOMAC Osteoarthritis Index, and Beck Depression Inventory.

RESULTS

Before intervention, the total score of VAS, WOMAC, Tampa Kinesiophobia, and Beck Depression showed no statistically significant difference between intervention group and control group. However, 4 weeks after intervention observed a statistically significant difference between the intervention and control groups in terms of VAS (U = 10,000; p < 0.001), WOMAC (U = 0.00; p < 0.001), Tampa Kinesiophobia (U = 221.5; p = 0.001), and Beck Depression means score (U = 112.5; p < 0.001). In addition, 4 weeks after the intervention, joint range and walking test assessments were statistically significant between the intervention and control groups (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The results of the research showed that elastic band exercise had a positive effect on psychological and functional capacity.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study is registered in the Clinical Trial Registry (registration number NCT04981106) Key points • Patients with total knee arthroplasty require rehabilitation exercise to avoid physical function weakness. • Elastic band exercise significantly reduces patients' fear of movement and depression. • Elastic band exercise activities facilitate significant physical motion function. • Elastic band exercise inspires the will of patients to engage in home rehabilitation exercise patients after total knee arthroplasty.

The Effect of Convergence Gamification Training in Community-Dwelling Older People: A Multicenter, Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES

It is necessary to improve the health of older adults through exercise, but there is no concrete way to implement it or an environment in which they can exercise continuously. Our objective was to confirm the safety and efficacy of information technology (IT) convergence gamification exercise equipment for older adults. We tried to demonstrate equivalence to conventional exercise by comparing the functional improvement.

DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial, with 8-week-long IT convergence exercises 3 times a week vs conventional exercise.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

40 community-dwelling participants aged 60-85 years.

METHOD

Participants were randomly divided into a conventional exercise group (group 1) and an IT convergence exercise group (group 2). Both groups were trained for 8 weeks, and functional assessment was performed before training (pre-evaluation), after training, and after 4 weeks of rest.

RESULTS

There were functional improvements in both groups. A comparison of the differences in the functional assessment between pre-evaluation and after 8 weeks of training yielded the following results. In group 1, the mean Five Times Sit to Stand Test-30 seconds was scored as 3.60 ± 2.56 (P < .015); Five Times Sit to Stand Test-5 times, -1.75 ± 2.04 s (P < .015); Berg Balance Scale, 1.05 ± 1.39 (P < .015); Timed Up-and-Go test, -0.64 ± 0.64 s (P < .015); and 10-m Walking Test, -0.35 ± 0.47 s (P < .015). And in group 2, the mean Five Times Sit to Stand Test-30 seconds (s) was scored as 3.70 ± 2.62 (P < .015), Five Times Sit to Stand Test-5 times, -1.65 ± 1.59 s (P < .015); Berg Balance Scale, 1.05 ± 1.00 (P < .015); Timed Up-and-Go test, -0.93 ± 0.68 s (P < .015); 10-m Walking Test, -0.41 ± 0.489 s (P < .015); Chair Sit and Reach test, 2.23 ± 3.19 cm (P < .015); and Korean version of the Falls Efficacy Scale-International, -1.05 ± 1.43 (P < .015).

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

The results of this study suggest that the IT convergence gamification exercise equipment such as balpro110 has exercise effects similar to conventional exercise and also has advantages as an alternative to exercise for older adults in the next generation.

Upper versus lower body resistance exercise with elastic bands: effects on cognitive and physical function of institutionalized older adults

PURPOSE

To compare the effects of upper versus the lower-body resistance exercise on cognitive and physical functions of institutionalized older people.

METHODS

This was a non-randomized multi-center comparative and crossover study (clincialtrials.gov code NCT03831373). Two experimental groups performed a 12-week intervention of resistance exercises with low-intensity elastic bands, one program focused on exercises of the upper body (n = 20, mean age 87.6 ± 6.4 years, 75% women) and the other on the lower body (n = 29, mean age 81.4 ± 7.7 years, 55% women). Following 12 weeks of detraining, the groups performed the other intervention. After another 12 weeks, a follow-up assessment was carried. The control group (n = 19, mean age 81.3 ± 9.5, 68% women) performed a full body stretching exercise program in both phases. Before and after each period, cognitive and physical function was assessed by standardized test (Mini-Mental State Examination, Trail Making test and Phototest; Timed Up and Go, Back Scratch, Chair Sit and Reach and had grip strength, respectively). Intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses were carried.

RESULTS

After the first intervention, significant improvements (p < 0.05) were observed in the cognitive function in both experimental groups, and in the hand grip strength in the group that performed lower-body exercise. After the second phase, all groups showed improvements in lower-body and shoulder flexibility and a significant worsening in hand grip strength. The lower-body exercise group showed a worsening in cognitive function, and the upper-body group in functional mobility and dynamic balance.

CONCLUSIONS

Resistance exercise with elastic bands showed beneficial effects on cognitive function and functional independence in institutionalized older adults. While upper body exercises seemed to be more effective on cognitive function, lower limb exercises showed better results on physical function parameters.

Balance Enhancement in Older Adults: Is Functional-Task Training Better Than Resistance Training in Enhancing Balance in Older Adults?

Background and purpose

The effects of various exercise training programs on balance in older adults are well established. This study aimed to compare the effect of functional-task training with resistance training in improving balance performance in older adults.

Methods

A total of 100 community-dwelling older adults aged 65 years and above were randomly allocated into two groups: functional-task training (FTT) group and resistance training (RT) group. The FTT group (n = 50) performed functional task exercises and the RT group (n = 50) performed resistance exercises three times a week for 12 weeks. Balance was evaluated before and after the trial using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test.

Results

A total of 87 subjects who completed the study were analyzed. Both the groups showed a significant change in BBS and TUG test (p < 0.05) from baseline to 12 weeks. However, post-intervention analysis between the groups showed a significant difference in both the BBS and TUG test (p < 0.05), i.e. improvement in the FTT group was better than the RE group at the end of training.

Conclusion

Both the FTT and RT were effective in improving balance. However, the improvement achieved by the FTT group was better than the RT group.

Evaluation of Training with Elastic Bands on Strength and Fatigue Indicators in Paralympic Powerlifting

Background: Variable resistance training has recently become a component of strength and conditioning programs. Objective: This randomized counterbalanced cross-over study aimed to investigate the use of elastic bands (EB) and the traditional method (TRAD) and force indicators in a training session. Methods: 12 Paralympic athletes (age: 28.60 ± 7.60 years) participated in this three-week study. In the first week, the participants were familiarized with EB and TRAD and were tested for maximal repetition (1-RM). The research occurred in weeks 2 and 3, which included the pre-post training, during which the following measures were extracted: maximum isometric force (MIF), the peak torque (PT), rate of force development (RFD), fatigue index (FI), and time to MIF (Time). The athletes performed two tests, EB and TRAD, separated by a one-week interval. Results: Significant differences were found between the pre- and post-test for 1RM (p = 0.018, η2p = 0.412), MIF (p = 0.011, η2p = 0.415), PT (p = 0.012, η2p = 0.413), and RFD (p = 0.0002, η2p = 0.761). With the use of EB, there was a difference in RFD between TRAD before and EB after (p = 0.016, η2p = 0.761). There were significant differences in the before and after for FI between TRAD and EB (p < 0.001) and for Time (p < 0.001), indicating that training with the use of elastic bands promotes overload, characterized by increased fatigue and decreased strength. Conclusions: Training with EB did not decrease 1RM, PT, MIF or RFD, however, there was an increase in fatigue and time to reach MIF when compared to the method with fixed resistance.

Resistance Band Exercise Training Prevents the Progression of Metabolic Syndrome in Obese Postmenopausal Women

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is classified as a combination of risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD), and postmenopausal women are specifically at an increased risk for MetS, in part due to the hormonal and metabolic changes that occur at the menopause transition. It is crucial to combat the components of MetS with appropriate lifestyle interventions in this population, such as exercise. This study aimed to examine the effects of a resistance band exercise training program in obese postmenopausal women with MetS. A total 35 postmenopausal women were randomly assigned to either a control group (CON, n = 17) or a resistance band exercise training group (EX, n = 18). Participants in the EX group trained 3days/week. Levels of blood glucose, insulin, homeostatic model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), blood lipid profile, anthropometrics, and blood pressure (BP) were measured at baseline and after the exercise intervention. There were significant group by time interactions (p < 0.05) for blood glucose (Δ-4.5 mg/dl), insulin (Δ -1.3 μU/ml), HOMA-IR (Δ -0.6), triglycerides (Δ -9.4 mg/dl), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(Δ -10.8 mg/dl), systolic BP(Δ -3.4 mmHg), body fat percentage (Δ -3.0 %), and waist circumference (Δ -3.4 cm), which significantly decreased (p < 0.05), and lean body mass (Δ 0.7 kg) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (Δ 5.1 mg/dl), which significantly increased (p < 0.05) after EX compared to no change in CON. The present study indicates that resistance band exercise training may be an effective therapeutic intervention to combat the components of MetS in this population, potentially reducing the risk for the development of CVD.

Genetic Risk, Muscle Strength, and Incident Stroke: Findings From the UK Biobank Study

OBJECTIVE

To examine the associations of muscle strength and genetic risk for stroke with stroke incidence.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS

We included 284,767 white British participants of UK Biobank without genetic relatedness and stroke or myocardial infarction at baseline between March 13, 2006, and October 1, 2010. Genetic risk was assessed with polygenic risk scores, calculated by summing the risk-increasing alleles, weighted by the effect estimates. Muscle strength was assessed through grip strength tests by hand dynamometers. Incidence of overall (n= 4008), ischemic (n= 3031), and hemorrhagic (n=1073) stroke was adjudicated during 11.5-year follow-up.

RESULTS

Compared with the bottom muscle strength tertile, hazard ratios (95% CI) of stroke were 0.81 (0.75 to 0.87) and 0.76 (0.71 to 0.82) for the middle and top muscle strength tertiles, respectively, after adjustment for confounders and genetic risk; higher genetic risk was independently associated with higher stroke incidence. Stroke hazards for the top muscle strength tertile were consistently lower across genetic risk strata, with no evidence of interaction. Compared with individuals with high muscle strength and low genetic risk, stroke hazards were higher for individuals who had medium or high genetic risk combined with low or medium muscle strength but not for those who had medium genetic risk but high muscle strength. Associations were similar for ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke (although CIs were inconclusive for some of the associations).

CONCLUSION

Higher muscle strength was associated with lower stroke incidence in all individuals, including those with high genetic susceptibility. The increased genetic risk of overall and ischemic stroke was partly attenuated through increased muscle strength.

Effects of School-Based Exercise Program on Obesity and Physical Fitness of Urban Youth: A Quasi-Experiment

(1) Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate if an after-school intervention program could prevent obesity and promote the physical fitness of urban sedentary school children. (2) Methods: A 16-week after-school physical fitness program was provided to 36 middle school students (7th, 8th, and 9th graders) recruited from a middle school for three days a week. They were high-risk youth showing poor health status (level 4 or 5) in the regular physical fitness evaluation conducted. Their body mass index (BMI), cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance, quickness, and flexibility were evaluated. (3) Results: A paired sample t-test was used (α = 0.05). There were statistical differences ((x ± s), p < 0.05) between the pre-Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run (PACER) (13.36 ± 4.98 (# of laps)) and post-PACER (18.64 ± 6.31 (# of laps)) (p < 0.001), between the pre-sit-up (18.06 ± 7.22 (# of sit-ups)) and post-sit-up (24.89 ± 7.52 (# of sit-ups)) (p < 0.001), and between the pre-Trunk Flexion (2.64 ± 3.49 ((cm))) and post-Trunk Flexion (5.97 ± 2.78 ((cm)) (p < 0.001). There was no statistical difference between the pre-50m-Run (10.74 ± 1.30 ((sec))) and post-50m-Run results (10.69 ± 1.25 (sec)) (p = 0.063) or between the pre-BMI (24.84 ± 3.97 (kg/m2)) and post-BMI (24.76 ± 3.61 (kg/m2)) (p = 0.458). Overall, the physical fitness measures improved, whereas BMI did not change after 16 weeks. (4) Conclusion: Sixteen weeks of the school-based Health-related Physical Fitness (HrPF) program can be effective in improving overall physical fitness levels of adolescents, although additional treatments would be required to change BMI, which showed no improvement in the present study. It is concluded that in order for adolescents to maintain and promote physical fitness and health, participation in a school-based HrPF program is recommended for at least 30 min a day, three days a week. In addition, schools should provide high-risk youth with easy access to physical activities that are similar to the objectives of the physical education curriculum. In order to promote the health of school-age children, each school should establish and operate school-based systematic intervention programs.

Impact of Habitual Exercise on Locomotive Function of Middle-aged and Elderly Volunteers: A Longitudinal Study

OBJECTIVES

This longitudinal study aimed to evaluate the effect of acquisition of an exercise habit on locomotive dysfunction (LD).

METHODS

The subjects were 121 male and 196 female volunteers aged more than 50 years who attended health checkups in Toei, central Japan, in 2012 and 2014. We divided the subjects into three groups: an acquiring exercise group (Ac-Ex) composed of those who acquired an exercise habit between 2012 and 2014, a non-exercise group (Non-Ex) who did not acquire an exercise habit, and an exercise group (Ex) who already had an exercise habit in 2012. We compared the 25-question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale (GLFS-25) score among the three groups.

RESULTS

In men in the Ac-Ex group, the GLFS-25 score improved significantly between 2012 and 2014 (P=0.046), and sub-analysis of the GLFS-25 responses showed that fundamental and instrumental activities of daily living (ADL) improved significantly. In women in the Ac-Ex group, the prevalence of radiologically diagnosed knee osteoarthritis was significantly higher (P=0.027) than that for the other two groups, and there was no significant improvement in GLFS-25 score over the 2-year period.

CONCLUSIONS

The acquisition of an exercise habit had a positive effect on the locomotive function in men. Orthopedic surgeons must enlighten people on the need for a continuous exercise habit.

Effect of an intensive intervention on the increase of physical activity and the decrease of sedentary lifestyle in inactive postmenopausal

BACKGROUND

During the transition to menopause, women experience different psychological, hormonal, and physical alterations that can affect their health. Physical activity is considered an important strategy in the prevention and control of such changes.

AIM

To evaluate the short-term effect of an intensive intervention, based on a combined exercise programme using a Smartband, on the increase of physical activity and the decrease of sedentary lifestyle in postmenopausal and inactive women.

DESIGN

Randomized clinical trial with two parallel groups.

METHODS

In total, 100 postmenopausal and inactive women aged 45-70 years will be randomized to a control group or an intervention group. Both groups will be given a standardized advice about physical activity. The intervention group will carry out a supervised 12-week programme of aerobic and muscle strengthening exercise; moreover, the women in this group will receive a Smartband to assist them in the intervention. The main result will be the increase of physical activity and the decrease of sedentary lifestyle, measured with an accelerometer for 1 week. This programme will be conducted by a nurse and a physiotherapist of the health centre. The study was approved by the Drug Research Ethics Committee of the Salamanca Health Service on 15 February 2019. The project was funded by the Autonomous Government of Castile and Leon and by the Carlos III Health Institute.

DISCUSSION

Physical activity is an important strategy to consider when addressing the changes caused by menopause, although the current evidence shows that further studies should be carried out with longer intervention periods and new technologies.

IMPACT

This study will allow determining the effectiveness of the intensive intervention based on a combined programme of physical activity using a Smartband in postmenopausal and inactive women.

TRIALS REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov with identifying code NCT03872258.

[Comparison of the Effects of Education Only and Exercise Training Combined with Education on Fall Prevention in Adults Aged 70 Years or Older Residing in Elderly Residential Facilities]

PURPOSE

To compare the effects of education only and exercise training combined with education on fall knowledge, fall efficacy, physical activity, and physical function in adults aged 70 years or older residing in elderly residential facilities.

METHODS

A three-group pre- and post-test design was utilized: education only (EO; n = 23), education and TheraBand (ET; n = 22), and education and walking (EW; n = 22). Fall education was provided for all three groups. In addition, TheraBand exercise training was provided for the ET and a walking exercise for the EW. Data were collected from November 1st, 2017 to February 15th, 2019 and analyzed with χ² test, paired t-test, and one-way ANOVA using IBM SPSS/WIN ver. 22.0.

RESULTS

Compared with the EO, the ET and the EW were more effective in terms of fall efficacy, physical activity, and lower extremity muscle strength. The EW showed higher improvement in walking abilities than the EO and the ET.

CONCLUSION

Exercise training combined with education is more effective in preventing falls among community-dwelling adults aged 70 years or older. When considering fall prevention programs for older adults, both TheraBand and walking exercise training combined with education can be chosen based on the participant's physical status. Aggressive strategies to improve daily walking are required to maintain walking abilities among community-dwelling adults aged 70 years or older.

Plantar Myofascial Mobilization: Plantar Area, Functional Mobility, and Balance in Elderly Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of plantar myofascial mobilization (PMM) on the plantar area, balance, and functional mobility of elderly women.

METHODS

In this randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, elderly women with maintained independent orthostatism were recruited from the community and randomly separated into a PMM group (MG = 15), a placebo group (PG = 13), or a control group (control group = 14). Vigorous PMM and soft PMM were performed in the MG and PG, respectively, for 5 days with a rest day between each. The measures of plantar area, single leg stance test with open eye and closed eye, and timed up-and-go test were performed pre-PMM, immediately post-PMM, and on the last day of the protocol. The control group only underwent evaluation before and on the last day of the protocol. The sample size was calculated, and, for quantitative variables, a mixed analysis of variance was used for repeated measurements (split plot), followed by the Bonferroni post hoc test. The results were analyzed in 2 ways: 3 groups at 2 moments (pre, last day), and 2 groups at 3 moments (pre, post, last day).

RESULTS

Forty-two elderly women with mean age of 69.03 ± 3.32 years were included in the study. The vigorous MMP showed a statistically significant increase in the plantar area of the right foot (3 groups: P = .49) and single leg stance test with open eye time (2 groups: P = .002; 3 groups: P = .001), and a decrease in the timed up-and-go time (2 groups: P = .04; 3 groups: P = .0001).

CONCLUSION

The vigorous PMM showed increases of the plantar area and promoted beneficial effects on functional mobility and body balance.

Effects of Pilates on fall risk factors in community-dwelling elderly women: A randomized, controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

the main objective was to analyze the effects that an exercise programme based on the Pilates method would have on balance confidence, fear of falling, and postural control among women ≥60 years old.

METHODS

a total of 110 women (69.15 ± 8.94 years) participated in this randomized, controlled trial that took place in Jaén (Spain). The participants were randomly assigned to either a control group (n = 55), which received no intervention, or to a Pilates group (n = 55), which carried out an exercise programme based on the Pilates method in 60-minute sessions for 12 weeks. The Falls Efficacy Scale-International and the activity-specific balance confidence scale were respectively used to assess fear of falling and balance confidence in performing activities of daily living. Postural control was evaluated using a stabilometric platform.

RESULTS

Regarding balance confidence, the Pilates group showed higher values compared to the control group (77.52 ± 18.27 vs 72.35 ± 16.39, Cohen's d = 0.030). Women in the Pilates group showed lower fear of falling, compared to those of the control group (22.07 ± 5.73 vs 27.9 ± 6.95, Cohen's d = 0.041). Finally, concerning static balance, participants of the Pilates group experienced statistically significant improvements on the velocity and anteroposterior movements of the centre of pressure with eyes open and closed respectively (Cohen's d = 0.44 and 0.35 respectively).

CONCLUSION

A 12-week Pilates training programme has beneficial effects on balance confidence, fear of falling and postural stability, in elderly women.

The effects of a client-centered leisure activity program on satisfaction, self-esteem, and depression in elderly residents of a long-term care facility

[Purpose] This study aimed to examine the effects of a client-centered leisure activity program on satisfaction, upper limb function, self-esteem, and depression in elderly residents of a long-term care facility. [Subjects and Methods] This study included 12 elderly subjects, aged 65 or older, residing in a nursing home. The subjects were divided into an experimental and a control group. Subjects in the control group received leisure activities already provided by the facility. The experimental group participated in a client-centered leisure activity program. The subjects conducted individual activities three times per week, 30 minutes per session. The group activity was conducted three times per week for eight weeks. Each subject’s performance of and satisfaction with the leisure activity programs, upper limb function, self-esteem, and depression were measured before and after the intervention. [Results] After participating in a program, significant improvements were seen in both the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure and upper limb function in the experimental group. Also after the intervention, the subjects’ self-esteem significantly increased and their depression significantly decreased. [Conclusion] A client-centered leisure activity program motivates elderly people residing in a long-term care facility and induces their voluntary participation. Such customized programs are therefore effective for enhancing physical and psychological functioning in this population.

Exercise intervention for unilateral amputees with low back pain: study protocol for a randomised, controlled trial

Background

Atraumatic lower limb amputation is a life-changing event for approximately 185,000 persons in the United States each year. A unilateral amputation is associated with rapid changes to the musculoskeletal system including leg and back muscle atrophy, strength loss, gait asymmetries, differential mechanical joint loading and leg length discrepancies. Even with high-quality medical care and prostheses, amputees still develop secondary musculoskeletal conditions such as chronic low back pain (LBP). Resistance training interventions that focus on core stabilization, lumbar strength and dynamic stability during loading have strong potential to reduce LBP and address amputation-related changes to the musculoskeletal system. Home-based resistance exercise programs may be attractive to patients to minimize travel and financial burdens.

Methods/design

This study will be a single-assessor-blinded, pre-post-test randomised controlled trial involving 40 men and women aged 18–60 years with traumatic, unilateral transtibial amputation. Participants will be randomised to a home-based, resistance exercise group (HBRX) or a wait-list control group (CON). The HBRX will consist of 12 weeks of elastic resistance band and bodyweight training to improve core and lumbopelvic strength. Participants will be monitored via Skype or Facetime on a weekly basis. The primary outcome will be pain severity (11-point Numerical Pain Rating Scale; NRS_pain). Secondary outcomes will include pain impact on quality of life (Medical Outcomes Short Form 36, Oswestry Disability Index and Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire), kinematics and kinetics of walking gait on an instrumented treadmill, muscle morphology (muscle thickness of multifidus, transversus abdominis, internal oblique), maximal muscle strength of key lumbar and core muscles, and daily step count.

Discussion

The study findings will determine whether a HBRX program can decrease pain severity and positively impact several physiological and mechanical factors that contribute to back pain in unilateral transtibial amputees with chronic LBP. We will determine the relative contribution of the exercise-induced changes in these factors on pain responsiveness in this population.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT03300375. Registered on 2 October 2017.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13063-017-2362-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Effects of Three Different Chair-Based Exercise Programs on People Older Than 80 Years

This study aimed at comparing the effects of three chair-based exercise programs on people older than 80 years. Thirty-six participants (87.91 ± 4.70 years) were randomly allocated to an aerobic, muscular resistance, or joint mobility exercise program. The participants exercised 3 days per week during 3 months. A hand-held dynamometer, the Tinetti Gait Balance, the Barthel Index, and the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) (assessed by means of the Wiva^® science sensor) were used to evaluate the effects of the programs on the participants' strength, balance, functional independence, and functional mobility, respectively. After the intervention, it was observed that only the elastic-band program resulted in significant improvements in strength and balance. These results imply that when choosing a low-cost exercise program for very old people, the use of elastic bands stands as a far better option than pedaling on a pedal exerciser or performing mobility exercises.