The Impact of High-Intensity Fall-Proof Exercises on the Balance of Elderly Men in Mashhad

Abstract

This study examined the impact of Fall-Proof exercises on the balance of elderly individuals aged 66 to 77 years. In this research, 20 elderly men were divided into an experimental group and a control group. All participants took part in a research design that included a pre-test, eight weeks of Fall-Proof exercises, and a post-test. The experimental groups participated in training for eight weeks, three sessions per week, with each session lasting 45 minutes, while the control group continued with their daily activities. The Fall-Proof Activity and Health Questionnaire was used to collect data, providing information about general health status, lifestyle, and physical activity patterns of the elderly participants. Additionally, the Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale was used to identify balance issues. The results of the covariance analysis test indicated a significant difference in balance variables between the experimental group (high-intensity exercises) and the control group (F = 31.92, p = 0.001, η² = 0.44). Furthermore, the pre-test, as a covariate, had a significant effect on the results (F = 24.76, p = 0.001, η² = 0.38). The adjusted mean of the experimental group was significantly higher than that of the control group, indicating a notable effectiveness of this training protocol on the balance of elderly men in Mashhad. These results emphasize the importance of Fall-Proof exercises as an effective intervention for improving balance in the elderly, and they can be used as a rehabilitation strategy in elderly exercise programs.