Dissertation
Group exercise interventions improve balance, mobility and functional task performance in adults aged over 55 years
University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Doctor of Philosophy, University of the Sunshine Coast
2015
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25907/00610
Abstract
The maintenance of balance, mobility and the ability to perform functional tasks are integral to healthy ageing and the maintenance of independence. Various exercise interventions are potentially capable of maintaining or improving balance, mobility and functional task performance but the effectiveness of many available exercise options are not yet known. Exergaming (exercise based video games) and group exercise classes are exercise options that have the potential to improve balance, mobility and functional task performance in middle-aged and older adults. The use of exergaming equipment such as the Nintendo Wii is highly accessible, inexpensive and has been shown to help improve balance in older adults in supervised environments. The effectiveness and potential safety of unsupervised Nintendo Wii gaming in independent older adults is not yet well established. Gym or fitness facility based activities are growing in popularity amongst middle-aged and older adults. The effectiveness of gym based activities such as traditional resistance training is well established but the effectiveness of pre-choreographed group fitness classes has been scarcely assessed. Two of the most popular group fitness classes available globally are BodyPumpTM and BodyBalance®. BodyPumpTM is a low-load high-repetition resistance training class while BodyBalance® incorporates elements of tai chi, yoga and Pilates. Both classes are available in several thousand fitness facilities globally so the potential reach of such classes is vast but the effectiveness of these classes has yet to be determined in middleaged or older adults. Three studies were designed to assess the effectiveness of three group exercise interventions on balance, mobility and functional task performance in adults aged over 55.
Details
- Title
- Group exercise interventions improve balance, mobility and functional task performance in adults aged over 55 years
- Authors
- Vaughan P Nicholson
- Contributors
- Brendan J Burkett (Supervisor)Mark McKean (Supervisor)
- Awarding institution
- University of the Sunshine Coast
- Degree awarded
- Doctor of Philosophy
- Publisher
- University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
- DOI
- 10.25907/00610
- Organisation Unit
- School of Health - High Performance Sport; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Health and Sport Sciences - Legacy; School of Health - Sports & Exercise Science
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99450179702621
- Output Type
- Dissertation
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