The effect of balance training in a group of community-dwelling elderly women: a pilot study of a specific, non-systematic and short-term approach

Abstract

Objective: verify the effect of a group program of balance training in a short period, with specific exercises and without association of systematic strength training, on a community dwelling older women. Methods: it is a pilot study with six women that participate of an intervention with balance training. Tests: BBS (Brazilian version); Timed Up & Go, Chair Stand and Tandem Gait. Interview: health perception and fear of falling. Training: Group activities with isolated exercises and closed circuits. It was done twice a week, with duration of one hour per day, for a period of eight weeks. Results: The training, without systematic strength training, improved the balance of participants. Conclusions: An specific, non-systematic, short and at group balance training of a community dwelling older women had some effects on balance measures, however, it is necessary to assessment the isolated impact of a systematic strength training on the balance measures.