Research Paper: The Effect of 8-Week Strength Training, Balance Training and Combined Training on the Dynamic and Static Balance of the Elderly Inactive Men

Purpose: of the most critical changes in the elderly is the weakness in keeping their balance that can expose them to severe injury risks. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of 8 weeks of strength, balance, and combined (strength and balance) training programs on the dynamic and static balance of inactive older men. Methods: Forty older men, who were the members of Robat Karim Social Security Retirement Association, voluntarily participated in this study. The subjects were randomly assigned to 1. The strength training group; 2. The balance training group; 3. The combined (strength and balance) training group; and 4. The control group. To assess the samples’ static balance, we used the Sharpened Romberg test. Also, their dynamic balance was assessed by the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT). To analyze the difference in means between groups variables in the pre-test and post-test, the Paired t-test and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) with Tukey’s post hoc test were used. The significance level was set at P≤0.05. Results: The results of this study showed that strength, balance, and combined exercise programs improved the dynamic and static balance of older men (P=0.001). Conclusion: Balance is essential for everyday activities for all people, especially older adults. To reduce the probability of falling in older adults, we recommend applying strength, balance, and combined exercise programs for improving balance in these people.