Resistance training and neuromuscular performance in seniors. Postural stability and quality of life after guided and self-training among older adults residing in an institutional setting Effects of Plyometric Training on Components of Physical Fitness in Prepuberal Male Soccer Athletes: The Role of Surface Instability Lower extremity biomechanics in athletes with ankle instability after a 6-week integrated training program. Two years later: a prospective long-term follow-up of a training intervention in geriatric patients with a history of severe falls. Exercise: effects on physical functional performance in independent older adults. The Effect of Shoulder Plyometric Training on Amortization Time and Upper-Extremity Kinematics. Exercise training for rehabilitation and secondary prevention of falls in geriatric patients with a history of injurious falls. Neuromuscular effects of three training methods in ageing women. Musculoskeletal adaptations to resistance training in old age. Effect of Plyometric Training on Handspring Vault Performance and Functional Power in Youth Female Gymnasts Evaluation of a Six-Week Whole-Body Vibration Intervention on Neuromuscular Performance in Older Adults Lower limb power rehabilitation (LLPR) using interactive video game for improvement of balance function in older people. Effect of low-intensity versus high-intensity resistance training on the functioning of the institutionalized frail elderly Effects of a targeted multimodal exercise program incorporating high-speed power training on falls and fracture risk factors in older adults: a community-based randomized controlled trial. Does vibration training reduce the fall risk profile of frail older people admitted to a rehabilitation facility? A randomised controlled trial Effects of feedback-based balance and core resistance training vs. Pilates training on balance and muscle function in older women: a randomized-controlled trial.
Age-related processes in the neuromuscular and the somatosensory system are responsible for decreases in maximal and explosive force production capacity and deficits in postural control . Thus , the objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of resistance training on strength performance and on postural control in seniors . Forty healthy seniors ( 67+/-1 yrs ) participated in this study . Subjects were r and omly assigned to a resistance training ( n=20 ) and a control group ( n=20 ) . Resistance training for the lower extremities lasted for 13 weeks at 80 % of the one repetition maximum . Pre and post tests included the measurement of maximal isometric leg extension force with special emphasis on the early part of the force-time-curve and the assessment of static ( functional reach test ) and dynamic ( t and em walk test , platform perturbation ) postural control .  Resistance training result ed in an enhanced strength performance with increases in explosive force exceeding those in maximal strength . Improved performances in the functional reach and in the t and em walk test were observed . Resistance training did not have an effect on the compensation of platform perturbations . Increases in strength performance can primarily be explained by an improved neural drive of the agonist muscles . The inconsistent effect of resistance training on postural control may be explained by heterogeneity of testing methodology or by the incapability of isolated resistance training to improve postural control Purpose To evaluate whether rehabilitation of muscle force or balance improves postural stability and quality of life ( QoL ) , and whether self-administered training is comparable with guided training among older adults residing in an institutional setting . Patients and methods A r and omized , prospect i ve intervention study was undertaken among 55 elderly patients . Three intervention groups were evaluated : a muscle force training group ; a balance and muscle force training group ; and a self-administered training group . Each group underwent 1-hour-long training sessions , twice a week , for 3 months . Postural stability was measured at onset , after 3 months , and after 6 months . Time-domain-dependent body sway variables were calculated . The fall rate was evaluated for 3 years . General health related quality of life ( HRQoL ) was measured with a 15D instrument . Postural stability was used as a primary outcome , with QoL and falls used as secondary outcomes . Results Muscle force trainees were able to undertake training , progressing towards more strenuous exercises . In posturography , the number of spiky oscillations was reduced after training , and stationary fields of torque moments of the ankle increased , providing better postural stability in all groups ; in particular , the zero crossing rate of weight signal and the number of low variability episodes in the stabilogram were improved after training . While no difference was found between different training groups in posturography outcomes , a reduction of fall rate was significant in only the guided training groups . A significant part of the variability of the QoL could be explained by the posturography outcome ( 46 % ) . However , the outcome of training was associated with a reduced QoL. Conclusion Even moderate or severely demented residents could do exercises in five-person groups under the supervision of a physiotherapist . An improvement in postural stability was observed in all training groups , indicating that even self-administered training could be beneficial . Posturography outcome indicated that training alters the postural strategy by reducing the oscillatory fluctuations of body sway signal . However , only guided training tended to reduce falls .  Short training intervention programs may decrease QoL by changing the elderly ’s daily routine and making it more active and exhausting Abstract Negra , Y , Chaabene , H , Sammoud , S , Bouguezzi , R , Mkaouer , B , Hachana , Y , and Granacher , U. Effects of plyometric training on components of physical fitness in prepuberal male soccer athletes : the role of surface instability . J Strength Cond Res 31(12 ) : 3295–3304 , 2017—Previous studies contrasted the effects of plyometric training ( PT ) conducted on stable vs. unstable surfaces on components of physical fitness in child and adolescent soccer players . Depending on the training modality ( stable vs. unstable ) , specific performance improvements were found for jump ( stable PT ) and balance performances ( unstable PT ) . In an attempt to combine the effects of both training modalities , this study examined the effects of PT on stable surfaces compared with combined PT on stable and unstable surfaces on components of physical fitness in prepuberal male soccer athletes . Thirty-three boys were r and omly assigned to either a PT on stable surfaces ( PTS ; n = 17 ; age = 12.1 ± 0.5 years ; height = 151.6 ± 5.7 cm ; body mass = 39.2 ± 6.5 kg ; and maturity offset = −2.3 ± 0.5 years ) or a combined PT on stable and unstable surfaces ( PTC ; n = 16 ; age = 12.2 ± 0.6 years ; height = 154.6 ± 8.1 cm ; body mass = 38.7 ± 5.0 kg ; and maturity offset = −2.2 ± 0.6 years ) . Both intervention groups conducted 4 soccer-specific training sessions per week combined with either 2 PTS or PTC sessions . Before and after 8 weeks of training , proxies of muscle power ( e.g. , countermovement jump [ CMJ ] , st and ing long jump [ SLJ ] ) , muscle strength ( e.g. , reactive strength index [ RSI ] ) , speed ( e.g. , 20-m sprint test ) , agility ( e.g. , modified Illinois change of direction test [ MICODT ] ) , static balance ( e.g. , stable stork balance test [ SSBT ] ) , and dynamic balance ( unstable stork balance test [ USBT ] ) were tested . An analysis of covariance model was used to test between-group differences ( PTS vs. PTC ) at posttest using baseline outcomes as covariates . No significant between-group differences at posttest were observed for CMJ ( p > 0.05 , d = 0.41 ) , SLJ ( p > 0.05 , d = 0.36 ) , RSI ( p > 0.05 , d = 0.57 ) , 20-m sprint test ( p > 0.05 , d = 0.06 ) , MICODT ( p > 0.05 , d = 0.23 ) , and SSBT ( p > 0.05 , d = 0.20 ) . However , statistically significant between-group differences at posttest were noted for the USBT ( p < 0.01 , d = 1.49 ) in favor of the PTC group . For most physical fitness tests ( except RSI ) , significant pre-to-post improvements were observed for both groups ( p < 0.01 , d = 0.55–3.96 ) . Eight weeks of PTS or PTC result ed in similar performance improvements in components of physical fitness except for dynamic balance . From a performance-enhancing perspective , PTC is recommended for pediatric strength and conditioning coaches because it produced comparable training effects as PTS on proxies of muscle power , muscle strength , speed , agility , static balance , and additional effects on dynamic balance CONTEXT Plyometric exercise has been recommended to prevent lower limb injury , but its feasibility in and effects on those with functional ankle instability ( FAI ) are unclear . OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of integrated plyometric and balance training in participants with FAI during a single-legged drop l and ing and single-legged st and ing position . DESIGN R and omized controlled clinical trial . SETTING University motion- analysis laboratory . PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS Thirty athletes with FAI were divided into 3 groups : plyometric group ( 8 men , 2 women , age = 23.20 ± 2.82 years ; 10 unstable ankles ) , plyometric-balance (integrated)-training group ( 8 men , 2 women , age = 23.80 ± 4.13 years ; 10 unstable ankles ) , and control group ( 7 men , 3 women , age = 23.50 ± 3.00 years ; 10 unstable ankles ) . INTERVENTION(S ) A 6-week plyometric-training program versus a 6-week integrated-training program . MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S ) Postural sway during single-legged st and ing with eyes open and closed was measured before and after training . Kinematic data were recorded during medial and lateral single-legged drop l and ings after a 5-second single-legged stance . RESULTS Reduced postural sway in the medial-lateral direction and reduced sway area occurred in the plyometric- and integrated-training groups . Generally , the plyometric training and integrated training increased the maximum angles at the hip and knee in the sagittal plane , reduced the maximum angles at the hip and ankle in the frontal and transverse planes in the lateral drop l and ing , and reduced the time to stabilization for knee flexion in the medial drop l and ing . CONCLUSIONS After 6 weeks of plyometric training or integrated training , individuals with FAI used a softer l and ing strategy during drop l and ings and decreased their postural sway during the single-legged stance . Plyometric training improved static and dynamic postural control and should be incorporated into rehabilitation programs for those with FAI OBJECTIVE To study the long-term outcome of a physical training regimen of ambulant postward rehabilitation in community-dwelling geriatric patients with a history of injurious falls . DESIGN Prospect i ve 2-year follow-up of a r and omized placebo-controlled intervention trial . SETTING Postward rehabilitation in a geriatric hospital in Germany . PARTICIPANTS Fifty-seven geriatric patients ( mean age , 84.3+/-4.4 y ) with a history of severe falls . INTERVENTION Ambulatory training of strength , functional performance , and balance 3 times a week for 3 months for 31 patients versus placebo activities for 26 patients . MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Strength , functional performance , fall-related psychologic parameters , and physical activity assessed by st and ardized protocol s 2 years after the training intervention , compared with baseline results . RESULTS Motor performance decreased substantially in both groups . As patients in the intervention group declined from significantly improved motor performance levels achieved in the initial training intervention , differences between the groups were still significant in most functional performances 2 years later . Functional decline was greater in persons who were institutionalized or being cared for by family members . Physical activity , which increased during the exercise intervention , returned to low baseline levels . CONCLUSIONS Improved functional performance in the training group did not lead to an increased level of physical activity after training , which might have preserved the functional improvements . In mobility-restricted , frail , geriatric patients such as our study population , training programs should continue to keep patients active and to prevent the decline in strength and functional performance that precedes loss of autonomy BACKGROUND Age-related loss in physiologic capacities contributes to the decline in physical function in the elderly population . Despite the beneficial effects of exercise interventions on maximal physiologic capacity measures , the functional benefits have not been shown in independently living older adults . The objective of this study was to evaluate exercise in independent older adults for significant and meaningful improvements in physical function , not detected by commonly used measures of physical function . METHODS In a r and omized controlled study , 49 independently living men and women were assigned to either a nonexercise control group ( Control ; n = 26 ) or an exercise training group ( Exercise ; n = 23 ) . Participants ( age = 76+/-4 ) in good general health were recruited from retirement communities or apartments . The combined endurance and strength training was performed at 75 % to 80 % intensity ; the groups met 3 times/week for 6 months of supervised sessions . Outcome measures included physical capacity , health status , and physical function using a newly developed performance test -- the Continuous Scale-Physical Functional Performance test ( CS-PFP ) . RESULTS Compared to the Control group , the Exercise group showed significant increases in maximal oxygen consumption ( 11 % ) and muscle strength ( 33 % ) . No significant differences were found between groups for changes in the Sickness Impact Profile , SF-36 scales , or the 6-minute walk . However , the CS-PFP score improved significantly in the Exercise group ( 14 % , effect size 0.80 ) . CONCLUSIONS Independent older adults gain meaningful functional benefits from several months of exercise training . The public health importance of physical activity may relate not just to its role in preventing decline , but also to its role in enhancing physical function CONTEXT Plyometric training is credited with providing benefits in performance and dynamic restraint . However , limited prospect i ve data exist quantifying kinematic adaptations such as amortization time , glenohumeral rotation , and scapulothoracic position , which may underlie the efficacy of plyometric training for upper-extremity rehabilitation or performance enhancement . OBJECTIVE To measure upper-extremity kinematics and plyometric phase times before and after an 8-wk upper-extremity strength- and plyometric-training program . DESIGN R and omized pretest-posttest design . SETTING Research laboratory . PARTICIPANTS 40 recreationally active men ( plyometric group , age 20.43 ± 1.40 y , height 180.00 ± 8.80 cm , weight 73.07 ± 7.21 kg ; strength group , age 21.95 ± 3.40 y , height 173.98 ± 11.91 cm , weight 74.79 ± 13.55 kg ) . INTERVENTION Participants were r and omly assigned to either a strength-training group or a strength- and plyometric-training group . Each participant performed the assigned training for 8 wk . MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Dynamic and static glenohumeral and scapular-rotation measurements were taken before and after the training programs . Dynamic measurement of scapular rotation and time spent in each plyometric phase ( concentric , eccentric , and amortization ) during a ball-toss exercise were recorded while the subjects were fitted with an electromagnetic tracking system . Static measures included scapular upward rotation at 3 different glenohumeral-abduction angles , glenohumeral internal rotation , and glenohumeral external rotation . RESULTS Posttesting showed that both groups significantly decreased the time spent in the amortization , concentric , and eccentric phases of a ball-toss exercise ( P < .01 ) . Both groups also exhibited significantly decreased static external rotation and increased dynamic scapular upward rotation after the training period ( P < .01 ) . The only difference between the training protocol s was that the plyometric-training group exhibited an increase in internal rotation that was not present in the strength-training group ( P < .01 ) . CONCLUSION These findings support the use of both upper-extremity plyometrics and strength training for reducing commonly identified upper-extremity-injury risk factors and improving upper-extremity performance OBJECTIVE To determine the safety and efficacy of an exercise protocol design ed to improve strength , mobility , and balance and to reduce subsequent falls in geriatric patients with a history of injurious falls . DESIGN A r and omized controlled 3-month intervention trial , with an additional 3-month follow-up . SETTING Out-patient geriatric rehabilitation unit . PARTICIPANTS Fifty-seven female geriatric patients ( mean age 82 + /- 4.8 years ; range 75 - 90 ) admitted to acute care or inpatient rehabilitation with a history of recurrent or injurious falls including patients with acute fall-related fracture . INTERVENTION Ambulatory training of strength , functional performance , and balance 3 times per week for 3 months . Patients of the control group attended a placebo group 3 times a week for 3 months . Both groups received an identical physiotherapeutic treatment 2 times a week , in which strengthening and balance training were excluded . MEASUREMENTS Strength , functional ability , motor function , psychological parameters , and fall rates were assessed by st and ardized protocol s at the beginning ( T1 ) and the end ( T2 ) of intervention . Patients were followed up for 3 months after the intervention ( T3 ) . RESULTS No training-related medical problems occurred in the study group . Forty-five patients ( 79 % ) completed all assessment s after the intervention and follow-up period . Adherence was excellent in both groups ( intervention 85.4 + /- 27.8 % vs control 84.2 + /- 29.3 % ) . The patients in the intervention group increased strength , functional motor performance , and balance significantly . Fall-related behavioral and emotional restrictions were reduced significantly . Improvements persisted during the 3-month follow-up with only moderate losses . For patients of the control group , no change in strength , functional performance , or emotional status could be documented during intervention and follow-up . Fall incidence was reduced nonsignificantly by 25 % in the intervention group compared with the control group ( RR:0.753 CI:0.455 - 1.245 ) . CONCLUSIONS Progressive resistance training and progressive functional training are safe and effective methods of increasing strength and functional performance and reducing fall-related behavioral and emotional restrictions during ambulant rehabilitation in frail , high-risk geriatric patients with a history of injurious falls AIM The present study aim ed to compare the effects of 3 strength development methods on muscular mass and muscular strength in healthy ageing women . METHODS Thirty-two healthy women , 62 to 75 years old were r and omised into 3 groups . The 3 groups performed 4 sessions a week of strength development for 6 weeks . The 1(st ) group ( SC ) climbed up and down 300 stairs per session . The 2(nd ) group ( ES ) followed an electrostimulation programme on the quadriceps muscles . The 3(rd ) group ( SC+ES ) combined stair climbing with electrostimulation . Before and after the 3 programmes , the muscular mass of the leg was assessed using a biphotonic absorptiometry machine . Isometric ( angle 20 degrees and 100 degrees ) and isokinetic ( 60 degrees /s and 240 degrees /s ) knee extension torque was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer . RESULTS None of the programmes changed the muscular mass . All 3 groups increased isometric ( angle 20 degrees , p<0.001 ; angle 100 degrees , p<0.003 ) and isokinetic ( 60 degrees /s , p<0.0001 ; 240 degrees /s , p<0.0001 ) knee extension torque . None of the programmes appeared more efficient than the others for muscular mass or muscular strength . CONCLUSION Six weeks of activity ( SC , ES or SC+ES ) improved the isometric and dynamic muscular strength in ageing healthy women . However , this period was too short to change the muscular mass . None of the activities presented a real advantage over the others in ageing women Muscle weakness experienced in old age has many detrimental consequences for activities of daily life . Given the serious problems presented by weakness in old age , strategies to prevent or mitigate this process are of paramount importance . In recent years resistance training has emerged as an effective method for increasing strength in the elderly . Despite this , little is known regarding the muscular , neural and tendinous adaptations that occur with resistance training in old age . Hence , we have conducted a series of experiments to investigate these adaptations . We have found increases in maximal isometric and concentric torque by 9 - 37 % after resistance training in older people ( 65 - 81 years ) . Associated with these strength gains were increases in agonist muscle neural drive without any change in the co-activation of antagonist muscles .  Resistance training can cause increases in muscle size and also adaptations to the internal muscle structure . Tendons of older adults adapt to resistance training by increasing their stiffness and Young 's modulus . In conclusion , many of the musculoskeletal factors characterizing ageing can be at least partially mitigated by resistance training This study aim ed to determine the effect of plyometric training ( PT ) when added to habitual gymnastic training ( HT ) on h and spring vault ( HV ) performance variables . Twenty youth female competitive gymnasts ( Age : 12.5 ± 1.67 y ) volunteered to participate and were r and omly assigned to two independent groups . The experimental plyometric training group ( PTG ) undertook a six-week plyometric program , involving two additional 45 min PT sessions a week , alongside their HT , while the control group ( CG ) performed regular HT only . Videography was used ( 120 Hz ) in the sagittal plane to record both groups performing three HVs for both the baseline and post-intervention trials . Furthermore , participants completed a countermovement jump test ( CMJ ) to assess the effect of PT on functional power . Through the use of Quintic biomechanics software , significant improvements ( P < 0.05 ) were found for the PTG for run-up velocity , take-off velocity , hurdle to board distance , board contact time , table contact time and post-flight time and CMJ height . However , there were no significant improvements on pre-flight time , shoulder angle or hip angle on the vault for the PTG . The CG demonstrated no improvement for all HV measures . A sport-specific PT intervention  improved h and spring vault performance measures and functional power when added to the habitual training of youth female gymnasts . The additional two hours plyometric training seemingly improved the power generating capacity of movement-specific musculature , which consequently improved aspects of vaulting performance . Future research is required to examine the whether the improvements are as a consequence of the additional volume of sprinting and jumping activities , as a result of the specific PT method or a combination of these factors Abstract Perchthaler , D , Grau , S , and Hein , T. Evaluation of a 6-week whole-body vibration intervention on  neuromuscular performance in older adults . J Strength Cond Res 29(1 ) : 86–95 , 2015— Research in the field of whole-body vibration ( WBV ) for the enhancement of neuromuscular performance is becoming increasingly popular . However , additional underst and ing of optimal WBV training protocol s is still necessary to develop optimal and effective training and prevention concepts , especially for elderly people . The intention of this study was to evaluate a 6-week WBV intervention program based on optimal vibration loads adapted from the literature on lower-limb strength parameters and performance , as well as on perceived exertion according to a subjective rating . A total of 21 older adults were allocated r and omly into either a WBV training or control group ( CO ) . Before and after the intervention period , jump height was measured during a countermovement jump . In addition , isolated isokinetic maximal knee extension and flexion strength , mean power , and work were recorded using a motor-driven dynamometer . Borg 's scale for rating of perceived exertion was used to evaluate the intensity of WBV exercises within each training session . After the intervention period , jump height increased by 18.55 % ( p < 0.001 ) in the WBV group , whereas values of the CO remained unchanged . There were no statistically significant differences in isokinetic maximal strength , mean power , or work values in knee extension or flexion ( all p > 0.05 ) . Finally , the subjective perceived exertion of the WBV exercises and respective training parameters ranged between moderate rating levels of 7 and 13 of Borg 's scale . Our data show that WBV is a feasible and safe training program for elderly people to increase multijoint strength performance of the lower limbs during a countermovement jump . This could help to determine the potential of WBV programs in training of the elderly to prevent age-related reduction of neuromuscular performance Declined balance functions have adverse effects on elderly population .  Lower limbs muscle power training is currently an emerging concept in rehabilitation on individuals with decreased balance and mobility . In this prospect i ve , controlled study , we used a human-computer interactive video-game-based rehabilitation device ( LLPR ) for training of lower limb muscle power in the elderly . Forty ( aged > 65 years ) individuals were recruited from the community . Twenty participants in the exercise group received 30-min training , twice a week , using the LLPR system . The LLPR system allows participants to perform fast speed sit-to-st and ( STS ) movements . Twenty age-matched participants in the control group performed slow speed STS movements , as well as strengthening and balance exercises , with the same frequency and duration . The results were compared after 12 sessions ( 6 weeks ) of training . The mechanical and time parameters during STS movement were measured using the LLPR system . Modified falls efficacy scale ( MFES ) , Tinetti Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment ( POMA ) , function reach test , five times sit to st and ( FTSS ) and Timed Up and Go ( TUG ) were administered to participants as clinical assessment s. Results showed that in the exercise group , all the mechanical and time parameters showed significant improvement . In control group , only the maximal vertical ground reaction force ( MVGRF ) improved significantly . For clinical assessment s ( balance , mobility , and self-confidence ) , exercise group showed significantly better scores . The STS movements in video-game-based training mimic real life situations which may help to transfer the training effects into daily activities . The effectiveness of lower limb muscle training is worthy of further investigation Frailty has emerged as an important risk factor for disability . Age-related declines in physical and physiological function lead to increased risk of loss of independence and poor quality of life . Recent evidence has shown the effectiveness of physical exercise programmes in preventing or reversing frailty . The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in the functioning of frail elderly individuals after undergoing  resistance training  for 3 days a week for 8 weeks . The effectiveness of exercise training was investigated in 48 frail elderly individuals who were r and omly assigned to the following intervention groups : high-intensity ( HI ; n=16 ; age : 69–96 years ) or low-intensity ( LI ; n=16 ; age : 77–93 years ) strength training groups or a control group ( n=16 ; age : 76–93 years ) with no specific exercise programme . Participants were assessed for muscle strength , physical function , activities of daily living , depression and quality of life . The HI group had significantly better results ( P<0.05 ) on the Short Physical Performance Test than the LI group ; however , the LI group did show a significant improvement in those scores , whereas the scores of the control group worsened . Results for the other evaluations were similarly favourable in both exercise groups ( P>0.05 ) . The study showed that LI exercise was as effective as HI exercise for most parameters tested . Exercise training is useful for the prevention or treatment of frailty , as it improves functioning by contributing positively to muscle strength , gait , balance and quality of life Multimodal exercise programs incorporating traditional progressive resistance training ( PRT ) , weight-bearing impact training and /or balance training are recommended to reduce risk factors for falls and fracture . However , muscle power , or the ability to produce force rapidly , has emerged as a more crucial variable to functional decline than muscle strength or mass . The aim of this 12-month community-based r and omized controlled trial , termed Osteo-cise : Strong Bones for Life , was to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of a multimodal exercise program incorporating high-velocity (HV)-PRT , combined with an osteoporosis education and behavioral change program , on bone mineral density ( BMD ) , body composition , muscle strength and functional muscle performance in older adults . Falls incidence was evaluated as a secondary outcome . A total of 162 older adults ( mean ± SD ; 67 ± 6 years ) with risk factors for falls and /or low BMD were r and omized to the Osteo-cise program ( n = 81 ) or a control group ( n = 81 ) . Exercise consisted of fitness center-based HV-PRT , weight-bearing impact and challenging balance/mobility activities performed three times weekly . After 12 months , the Osteo-cise program led to modest but significant net gains in femoral neck and lumbar spine BMD ( 1.0 % to 1.1 % , p < 0.05 ) , muscle strength ( 10 % to 13 % , p < 0.05 ) , functional muscle power ( Timed Stair Climb , 5 % , p < 0.05 ) and dynamic balance ( Four Square Step Test 6 % , p < 0.01 ; Sit-to-St and , 16 % , p < 0.001 ) relative to controls . There was no effect on total body lean mass or mobility ( timed-up- and -go ) , and no difference in falls rate ( incidence rate ratio [ IRR ] , 1.22 ; 95 % confidence interval [ CI ] , 0.72 - 2.04 ) . In conclusion , this study demonstrates that the Osteo-cise : Strong Bones for Life community-based , multimodal exercise program represents an effective approach to improve multiple musculoskeletal and functional performance measures in older adults with risk factors for falls and /or low BMD . Although this did not translate into a reduction in the rate of falls , further large-scale trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy of this multimodal approach on reducing falls and fracture Abstract Purpose : To determine the effect of Vibration Training ( VT ) on functional ability and falls risk among a group of frail older people admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation unit in a regional hospital in New Zeal and . Method : A r and omized controlled trial of 56 participants ( mean 82.01 years in the intervention group and 81.76 years in the control group ) .  VT targeting lower limb muscles with a frequency 30–50 Hz occurred three times per week until discharge . Amplitude progressively increased from 2 to 5 mm to allow the programme to be individually tailored to the participant . The control group received usual care physiotherapy sessions . Outcome measures were : Physiological profile assessment ( PPA ) ; and Functional Independence measure ( FIM ) and Modified Falls Efficacy Scale ( MFES ) . Results : There was a statistically significant difference observed between the two groups in terms of FIM score ( F = 5.09 , p = 0.03 ) and MFES ( F = 3.52 , p = 0.007 ) but no difference was observed in terms of PPA scores ( F = 0.96 , p = 0.36 ) . Conclusions : Among older people admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation facility there may be some beneficial effect to the use of VT in conjunction with usual care physiotherapy in terms of improved functional ability . The study design and the small dosage of VT provided may have precluded any change in falls risk among participants . Implication s for Rehabilitation Vibration training ( VT ) may assist in reducing the risk of falling among at risk older people . Current pressures on health systems ( ageing population , reduced hospital length of stay ) necessitate the development of innovative strategies to maximise the rehabilitation potential of older people . Among older people admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation facility there may be some beneficial effect to the use of vibration training in conjunction with usual care physiotherapy in terms of improved functional ability BACKGROUND Aging is associated with decline in physical function that could result in the development of physical impairment and disability . Hence , interventions that simultaneously challenge balance ability , trunk ( core ) and extremity strength of older adults could be particularly effective in preserving and enhancing these physical functions . OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of feedback-based balance and core resistance training utilizing the a special computer-controlled device ( Huber ® ) with the conventional Pilates training on balance ability , neuromuscular function and body composition of healthy older women . METHODS Thirty-four older women ( age : 70±4 years ) were r and omly assigned to a  Huber group ( n=17 ) or Pilates group  ( n=17 ) . Both groups trained for 8 weeks , 3 times a week . Maximal isometric strength of the trunk flexors , extensors , and lateral flexors , leg power , upper-body strength , single- and dual-task static balance , and body composition were measured before and after the intervention programs . RESULTS Significant group × time interactions and main effects of time ( p<0.05 ) were found for body composition , balance ability in st and ard and dual-task conditions , all trunk muscle strength variables , and leg power in favor of the Huber group . The observed improvements in balance ability under both st and ard and dual-task conditions in the Huber group were mainly the result of enhanced postural control in medial-lateral direction ( p<0.05 ) . CONCLUSION Feedback-based balance and core resistance training proved to be more effective in improving single- and dual-task balance ability , trunk muscle strength , leg power , and body composition of healthy older women than the traditional Pilates training
Conclusion Plyometric training is a feasible and safe training option with potential for improving various performance , functional , and health-related outcomes in older persons
Background The aging process is associated with a progressive decline of neuromuscular function , increased risk of falls and fractures , impaired functional performance , and loss of independence .
Plyometric training may mitigate or even reverse such age-related deterioration ; however , little research on the effects of plyometric exercises has been performed in older adults .
Objective The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of plyometric training in older adults .