The impact of an exercise intervention using low-cost equipment on functional fitness in the community-dwelling older adults: A pilot study

• DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1039131
• Publication Date: 2022-10-17T05:16:16Z
• Authors: Filipe Rodrigues; Nuno Amaro; Rui Matos; Diogo Mendes; Diogo Monteiro; Pedro Morouço
• Keywords: Frailty; experimental; Physiology; frailty; 16. Peace & justice; fitness; 3. Good health; Experimental; 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; Older adults; Fitness; QP1-981; autonomy; Autonomy; older adults

Exercise interventions have shown significant improvements in the older adult population regarding functional and cognitive capacity. However, much research has applied exercise protocols that are expensive both for participation. Thus, high investments made currently not ecologically efficient. The aim of study was to determine whether impact a 20-week multicomponent intervention using low-cost material could improve physical fitness community-dwelling adults. We tested feasibility this three times per week protocol an inclusive approach. Eligibility criteria included age ≥65 years, ability stand walk with or without assistive devices, being physically inactive; medical clearance, living community. Outcomes were muscle resistance measured chair-stand test lower limbs, cardiorespiratory capacity 6-min test, agility balance Timed-up Go test. Flexibility chair sit reach limbs back scratch upper dominant leg arm, respectively. Hand grip strength dynamometer. Thirty participants ( n = 30) recruited intention-to-treat analysis. mean 70 years (±3.62 years), 100% Caucasians, 50% female. There trend toward clinically important improvement (t −5.23; p < 0.001; d 0.36), arm curl −5.21; 0.74), −4.69; <0.001; 0.77), timed-up go 8.788; 1.18), hand 2.846; 0.009; 0.23). also differences 2.243; 0.035; 0.29) −3.380; 0.15). This pilot provided preliminary evidence community-based program may be effective improving overall people. trial necessary data design future randomized-controlled trials can implemented community ecological feasible manner.