Abstract
Objective : Well-rounded training (WRT), consisting of resistance training, aerobic training and flexibility exercise, has been shown to be effective for increasing the physical strength of the elderly. The purpose of this study was to investigate effect of 7-month voluntary WRT after community WRT class on physical activity of elderly women. Methods : The subjects were 18 elderly women aged 65 to 74 years in a town, central Japan, who participated in a municipal WRT class and the subsequent voluntary WRT. The former class was done by the town public health center once a week for three months, while the latter was voluntarily held by the former participants once every two weeks for seven months. Self-administered questionnaire surveys of health status and examinations on physical characteristics and physical fitness were conducted three times before the municipal class, at the end of the class, and 7-month after the end of the class. Results : The replies to the questionnaire of "Are you confident in your present physical strength?" and "How many times do you go out usually?" were significantly improved at the end of the municipal training class and also after 7-month voluntary WRT. Regarding physical fitness, the subjects showed significant improvements in a 10 meter-walking test, a 30-sec chair-stand test, a body reaction time test, and forward bending ability after 7-month voluntary WRT as well as at the end of municipal training class. Conclusion : The present study has suggested that WRT can have some beneficial effects to increase or maintain the physical strength of elderly women. Community-based WRT programs would be an effective exercise program for elderly inhabitants.
