Effect of Two Kinds of Exercise Performed in the Sitting Position for 12 Months on the Muscular Strength and Functional Fitness of Community-Dwelling Older Adults

[Purpose] To determine the effects of 12 months performance of two kinds of exercise in the sitting position on a group of older adults. [Subjects and Methods] The subjects were assigned to a resistance exercise group (REG, n=19) and a balance exercise group (BEG, n=17). Muscular strength (MS) and functional fitness were assessed at pre-intervention (T1) and after 3 months (T2) and 12 months (T3) of the intervention. [Results] No significant interaction was noted in any measured variable. Improvements in knee extension, and ankle dorsal extension strength were noted only in REG between T1 and T2, and the improvements were maintained at T3. No significant changes were noted in any other parameters in either group between T1 and T2. After 12 months, a significant decrease in the functional reach (FR) of both groups and the gait speed of BEG was noted. [Conclusion] The resistance and balance exercises had similar effects on the muscular strength of frail older adults. FR probably did not improve, because of the seated nature of the exercises.