Krista Zeug

Document Type

Thesis - University Access Only

Award Date

2005

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department / School

Health, Physical Education, and Recreation

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine which of three training programs (resistance plus balance, velocity plus balance or balance training alone) was the best method for increasing dynamic balance in older adults. Thirty-eight subjects over the age of 60 were recruited to complete a 12-week training protocol. Subjects were randomized into four groups: resistance plus balance, velocity plus balance, balance alone, and control. Pre-test evaluation consisted of age, height, weight, and percent body fat measurement. Questionnaires included the Modified FaHs Efficacy Scale (MFES), Medical Outcomes Survey-Short Form (MOS-SF), and the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE). Functional outcomes were measured via the fo]]owing balance tests: Berg Balance Scale (BBS), One-Legged Stand (OLS), and Timed Up and Go (TUG). The only significant difference (p < .05) found among the baseline measurements was a difference in PASE scores between the control and resistance plus balance group. Baseline comparisons of the BBS, TUG, and OLS showed no significant difference (p >.05) among the groups. The BBS saw no significant differences (p > .05) among the groups pre- to post- training. The TUG showed an improvement among al] groups from pre-to post-training, but no significant differences (p > .05) were observed among them. The OLS saw the greatest improvements with a significant difference (p < .05) from pre to post-training in the velocity plus balance group. The resistance plus balance training and velocity plus balance training groups saw significant improvements in 10 repetition maximum (RM) resistances over the 12-week training period. The resistance plus balance training group saw significant (p < .05) strength gains in the bench press, incline bench press, lat pulldown, arm curl, calf raise, leg curl, and low back. The velocity plus balance group saw significant (p < .05) improvements in the bench press, arm curl, and leg press. The velocity plus balance group saw the greatest improvements over the 12-week training period. Based on these findings it appears that velocity training may be a useful adjunct in a well-rounded training program to improve both strength and balance. Therefore, balance and velocity training should be considered as part of an older adult's fitness program.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Equilibrium (Physiology)

Physical fitness for older people

Exercise for older people -- Physiological aspects

Format

application/pdf

Number of Pages

104

Publisher

South Dakota State University

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