The Effect of Combined Training on Older Men’s Walking and Turning Kinetics

Abstract

Aims: This study aimed to investigate the effect of combined turning and balance training on ground reaction force (GRF) characteristics during walking and turning in older men.Methods: Thirty older men were selected and randomly divided into two equal experimental (EG: age = 65.47 ± 2.50 years; BMI = 24.57 ± 0.68 kg/m2) and control (CG: age = 65.80 ± 2.34 years; BMI = 24.72 ± 0.64 kg/m2) groups. EG participants completed 12 weeks of training. Kinetic data were recorded using the force plate.Results: After the training, there was a significant difference between the EG and CG in the peak of GRF components and related time parameters as well as the required coefficient of friction in all directions. There was a significant decrease and increase in the stance time and loading rate respectively after the training in EG.Conclusions: The results showed improvement in gait and turning performance of older men. Therefore, combined exercises with emphasis on the turning components for older men are recommended. © 2022 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.