Author(s): VARJAN, M., BÖHMEROVÁ, L., SCHICKHOFER, P., HAMAR, D., Institution: FACULTY OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND SPORTS, COMENIUS UNIVERSITY, Country: SLOVAKIA, Abstract-ID: 1279

INTRODUCTION:
Combining endurance activities and resistance training represents most frequently used approach to health oriented physical programs focused on improvement of physical fitness. Nevertheless, some individuals for various reasons may not feel comfortable with this form of exercise program. The present study aims at the evaluation of sensorimotor training as a tool to enhance motor skills in the female elderly population and comparing its effects with a traditional combined resistance-endurance training program.
METHODS:
Altogether 34 active, healthy elderly women were randomly assigned to three groups, undergoing different 10-week interventions: the sensorimotor training (SMT, n = 12, age 73.8 ± 4.9 years, height 161.4 ± 5.4 cm, weight 66.4 ± 9.4 kg), the resistance-endurance training (RET, n = 11, age 73.9 ± 4.2 years, height 160. 4 ± 4.7 cm, weight 67.2 ± 8.8 kg), and the control group (CG, n = 11, age 70.4 ± 3.4 years, height 163. 1 ± 5.1 cm, weight 67.0 ± 7.6 kg). Program sessions were performed twice a week from 40 to 60 minutes. The test of 10-meter maximal walking speed and the stair climb test were performed prior to and after the intervention period.
RESULTS:
Neither of groups improved significantly maximal walking speed. However, the SMT group improved significantly both, ascendent and descended time in the SCT (from 5.13 ± 0.45 s to 4.55 ± 0.46 s, p ≤ .001 and from 4.67 ± 0.62 s to 3.99 ± 0.54 s, p ≤ .001, respectively). On the other hand, no significant changes of ascendent and descendent time were observed in the RET group and event deterioration of descendent time were observed in the CG (from 3.44 ± 0.46 s to 3.78 ± 0.50 s, p ≤ .01).
CONCLUSION:
Results indicate that for untrained individuals in the early stages of intervention even sensorimotor training alone represents sufficient stimulus to improve motor skills. Therefore, particularly in untrained elderly individuals, sensorimotor training may be recommended as a suitable option to enhance motor skills.