Physiological and psychological effects of physical exercise on a group of elderly nonexercisers
Italienischer übersetzter Titel: | Effetti fisiologici e psicologici di un programma di attività fisica in un gruppo di anziani non sportivi |
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Deutscher übersetzter Titel: | Physiologische und psychologische Auswirkungen eines Programms körperlicher Aktivität bei älteren nicht-sporttreibenden Menschen |
Autor: | Faina, M.; Mirri, G.; Manili, U.; Cavalazzi, E.; Morandini, C.; Besi, M.; Bali, F.; Manno, R. |
Erschienen in: | Medicina dello sport |
Veröffentlicht: | 61 (2008), 2, S. 121-138, Lit. |
Format: | Literatur (SPOLIT) |
Publikationstyp: | Zeitschriftenartikel |
Medienart: | Elektronische Ressource (online) Gedruckte Ressource |
Sprache: | Englisch, Italienisch |
ISSN: | 0025-7826, 1827-1863 |
Schlagworte: | |
Online Zugang: | |
Erfassungsnummer: | PU200909005206 |
Quelle: | BISp |
Abstract
Aim. Experimental evidence shows that physical activity can counteract the aging-induced decline in physical and psychological performance. The aim of this study was to determine whether physical and mental fitness in a group of sedentary elderly improved after a brief exercise training program consisting of light exercises without the use of special equipment or extra cost to the subjects. Methods. A total of 32 subjects (5 men, 27 women; mean age 66.19±6.92 years; mean height, 155±7 cm) residing in four communities in Latium and attending a senior center took part in a 10-week exercise program conducted in twice weekly sessions of about one h each. Data were collected from anthropometric, physical and psychological assessment at baseline and at the end of the study. Results. Final assessment showed improvement in body composition, with a significant reduction in body weight and body-mass index (P<0.01), improved physical functional capacity, with a significant increase in muscle strength (P<0.01), joint flexibility (P<0.01), speed of movement (P<0.01), cardiovascular efficiency (P<0.01), mental status, with a significantly improved sense of self-esteem and mood (P<0.01). Conclusion. Sedentary adults respond positively to even moderate intensity exercise training. Physical activity can effectively improve a series of health factors regarding functional independence, reduced risk of disease, increased socialization and emotional well-being. An efficacious exercise program can be conducted without the use of special equipment or facilities and without extra cost to program participants. Verf.-Referat