Risk of Falls in Healthy Older Adults: Benefits of High-Intensity Interval Training Using Lower Body Suspension Exercises

Abstract

The objective of this study was to compare the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate intensity interval training (MIIT) programs, both with a suspension training system, on several fall risk factors in healthy older adults. A total of 82 participants (68.49 ± 5.18 years) were randomized to HIIT (n=28), MIIT (n = 27), or control (n = 27) groups. Balance confidence (Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale), fear of falling (Falls Efficacy Scale International), dynamic balance (Timed Up and Go Test) and gait analysis (OptoGait optical detection system) were assessed. Statistical analysis showed improvements after the intervention in HIIT group compared with MIIT and control group regarding the fear of falling (p < .05 and < .01 respectively), gait (both p < .05), and dynamic balance (p < .05 and < .01 respectively), while both HIIT and MIIT improved balance confidence compared to group control (p < .01 and p < .05 respectively). We can conclude that HIIT has significant beneficial effects of fall risk in older adults.