Enhancing motor fitness in the elderly: The impact of structured functional training program

Abstract

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a 12 week structured functional training program on various aspects of physical fitness in different age groups within the elderly population, including active adults (aged 50–59 years) and geriatric individuals (aged 60 years and above). The interventions targeted leg strength and endurance, static and dynamic balance, aerobic capacity, and upper and lower body range of motion. The structured training program incorporated multiple fitness components; including core strength, balance and stability for fall prevention, mobility and flexibility, and multipoint exercises. The experimental groups, consisting of both active adults and geriatric participants, underwent the 12-week training program, which was then compared to respective control groups. The data was collected at three time periods pre (0 week), mid (6 week), and post (12 week) after successfully following the structured training program. The statistical analysis included the Shapiro-Wilk normality test, descriptive analysis (mean ± SD), inferential analysis (2*3*2 repeated measure ANOVA), followed by the effect size (Cohen’s D and partial eta square).The result showed a significant improvement in (p - .000 ) Leg Strength & Endurance (Chair stand test), Static balance (flamingo balance test) (p - .000 ), aerobic capacity (2-minute step test) (p - .000 ), Range of motion; lower back and hamstring (sit and reach test) (p - .000 ), back scratch test (Range of motion of upper body and shoulder)(p - .000), and dynamic balance (four square step test) (p - .000). The magnitude of significance was recorded medium to large. The study provides compelling evidence for the effectiveness of structured motor fitness programs in enhancing physical performance among elderly populations. It is recommended that such interventions are essential for advancing in the field of elderly fitness and optimizing health outcomes.