Square-stepping exercise versus strength and balance training for fall risk factors

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Exercise Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Falls are a significant risk for older adults.
• Exercise programs targeting fall risk factors can reduce fall incidence.
• Low-cost, feasible exercise interventions are needed for this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of square-stepping exercise (SSE) with strength and balance (SB) training.
• To evaluate the impact of SSE on lower-extremity functional fitness and fall risk.
• To assess the cost-effectiveness of SSE for older adults.

Main Methods:

• 39 community-dwelling adults aged 65-74 were randomized to SSE or SB groups.
• Participants engaged in 70-minute group sessions twice weekly for 12 weeks.
• Physical performance, fear of falling, and fall incidence were assessed over 14 months.

Main Results:

• Both SSE and SB training improved physical performance in 7 of 9 tests.
• No significant changes were observed in self-reported measures.
• The SSE group had a significantly lower rate of falls per trip (17.1%) compared to the SB group (50.0%).

Conclusions:

• Square-stepping exercise is as effective as strength and balance training for improving lower-extremity functional fitness.
• SSE is a recommended exercise for older adults due to its low cost and effectiveness in reducing fall rates.
• Further research should explore long-term adherence and broader implementation of SSE programs.