Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
Comparative Effects Between a Resistance Training and a Combined Balance and Strength Training on Functional Fitness and Fall Risk in Older Adults
Sponsor: University of Palermo
Summary
The aim of this study was to compare the effects of two different training protocols on muscle strength, flexibility, aerobic endurance, balance and walking ability in older adults in order to reduce their fall risk. The participants (n=110) aged 65-85 years, self-sufficient and physically active, were randomly assigned to a resistance training (RT) group and a combined balance and strength (BS) group. Both groups attended supervised sessions of 3 hours twice a week for 6 weeks. To measure the functional fitness, before and after the training program the Senior Fitness Test Battery was used, while physical activity level and fear of falling were assessed with self-reported questionnaires. Moreover, participants were asked to record the number of falls they had over the next two years after the end of the training program.
Official title: Effects of Resistance Training Versus Combined Dynamic Balance and Strength Training on Functional Fitness and Fall Risk in Older Adults. A Randomized Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
60 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
111
Start Date
2022-11-01
Completion Date
2025-05-30
Last Updated
2026-04-29
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Elastic-band resistance training
Supervised group-based resistance training with elastic bands, targeting major upper- and lower-limb muscle groups. Sessions include warm-up, a structured resistance phase with music-based exercises, and cool-down, with progressive increases in band resistance and exercise volume to improve lower-limb strength, dynamic balance, and reduce fall risk.
Functional and balance circuit training
Supervised multistation circuit combining bodyweight strengthening exercises and dynamic balance tasks (e.g., directional changes, stepping, and weight-shifting activities). Sessions include warm-up, one or two rounds of the circuit, and cool-down, with progressive increases in task complexity to enhance postural control, dynamic stability, and reduce fall risk.
Locations (1)
University of Palermo
Palermo, Sicily, Italy