paper
2019
Morat et al.
Experimental Gerontology
Top Paper
Senso-Study
Effects of stepping exergames under stable versus unstable conditions on balance and strength in healthy community-dwelling older adults: a three-armed randomized controlled trial
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of training with the Senso on a stable surface (ordinary Senso) and on an unstable surface (Senso on a moving platform "Posturomed"). Study participants were healthy seniors who were randomly assigned to either one of the training groups (Senso stable, Senso unstable) or the control group (inactive). Participants in the two training groups performed training with the Senso three times per week for eight weeks, each session lasting 45 minutes. Fifty-one participants were included in the study. Results showed improvement in balance and calf muscle strength in both training groups with the Senso. However, superior effects were shown for training on the unstable moving Senso for reactive balance as well as functional mobility. No adverse events such as falls occurred in either group. It appears that training on unstable surfaces requires motor skills relevant to fall prevention.