| Keywords |
Asymmetry ; Functional fitness ; Fall efficacy ; Bilateral ; Unilateral |
| Abstract |
Leg asymmetry as well as muscle strength are important risk factors for falls in old age. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of bilateral and unilateral resistance training using elastic band on functional fitness and fall efficacy in elderly women. For this purpose, twenty-three healthy, inactive elderly women(65-85 yrs) were randomly assigned to 3 groups: a control(CG, n=8), a bilateral training group(BTG, n=7), a unilateral training group(UTG, n=8). Subjects in training groups followed a 3 day per week, elastic band(10 exercises, 2-3 sets per exercise) protocol for 12 weeks. UTG exercised additionally 1-2 sets in non-dominant leg. Functional fitness, leg asymmetry score and self efficacy were measured at baseline and after training. Unilateral training increased functional fitness, including chair sit and reach, timed up and go, sit and stand, 6 minute walk test. There are no changes in BTG and CG. In leg asymmetry score, we didn't observe significant change between groups. And BTG had a greater increase in fall efficacy compared to the other groups. In conclusion, for the fall prevention in the elderly, we have to design the exercise program considering the asymmetry of leg strength. |