The comparison of resistance and balance exercise on balance and falls efficacy in older females

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of resistance and balance exercise in reducing the risk of falls for females 65-years-old or older. Design: The study was a single blind, controlled trial, conducted over a period of 12-weeks with pre- and post-exercise assessment. Patients and methods: Ninety-five participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: resistance-training group, balance training group, control group. Resistance training group were trained to increase strength of upper, lower. Balance training group were trained to improve balance, coordination and proprioception. Outcome measurement consisted of balance ability, muscle strength, proprioception and fall efficacy. Results: The resistance and balance exercise group showed a statistically significant improvement in balance ability compared to the control group (P < 0.01). The resistance exercise group showed significant improvement in muscle strength compared to the balance exercise group (P < 0.01). The balance exercise group showed significant improvement in proprioception compared to the resistance exercise group (P < 0.01). Both resistance and balance exercise showed a significant improvement in fall efficacy than the control group (P < 0.01). Conclusions: We conclude that the resistance and balance exercise have significant effects on balance ability and falls efficacy in older females. (C) 2012 Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.