Vol 15, Issue 3

Efficacy of a 6-Week Suspension Training Exercise Program on Fitness Components in Older Adults

Authors

Christina Pierle
Alexander T. McDanielUniversity of North Carolina – Wilmington
Lindsey H. SchroederUniversity of North Carolina – Wilmington
Michel J.H. HeijnenUniversity of North Carolina at Wilmington
Wayland TsehUniversity of North Carolina Wilmington
International Journal of Exercise Science 15(3): 1168-1178, 2022.
DOI: 10.70252/GPEB7735

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of a 6-week suspension training exercise program on fitness components in older adults. Eleven participants (age = 80 ± 5 yrs) completed a 6-week suspension training exercise program. Pre- and post-fitness assessments comprised of body composition, handgrip dynamometer, functional reach, and balance. The 6-week suspension training intervention required individuals to perform suspension training exercises for fifty minutes, twice per week. A paired sample t-test was used to determine differences from pre-and post-assessments. An improvement was observed in functional reach (57.2 ± 6.4 cm vs 68.6 ± 4.3 cm; p = 0.02) and overall balance score (67.5 ± 2.4 vs 72.2 ± 2.2; p = 0.02). A 6-week suspension training exercise program can be adequate to enhance core stability and overall balance amongst older adults. This paradigm should be explored further to determine the effects on fall-risk and fall prevention.

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