The Effect of Plyometric Training on the Balance Ability of the Lower Limbs in the Elderly

For the elderly using plyometric training, there are very few studies on strengthening the explosive power of the lower limbs of the elderly. For example, past studies have explored the effect of high-speed and low-speed plyometric training on the improvement of muscle contraction speed in the elderly over 60 years old. From the past researches, the study found that compared with low-speed training, High-speed training can not only improve muscle strength, but also effectively increase muscle speed and improve life functions. However, studies using plyometric training to improve lower body balance in older adults are scarce and the evidence is scant. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore the clinical benefits of plyometric training for improving the balance ability of the lower limbs in the elderly.

Plyometric training is an exercise method that has gained significant popularity in recent years for effectively enhancing explosive power in the lower limbs. It involves rapid and forceful muscle contractions following a quick stretch. This type of training enables the body to generate maximum muscle strength for short durations during exercise. As individuals age, their ability to produce explosive power decreases, particularly in the lower limbs. This decline in explosive power can result in reduced responsiveness to sudden balance disturbances, leading to falls among the elderly and greatly impacting their daily activities. Hence, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of a 10-week plyometric training program on the balance ability of the lower limbs in elderly individuals.

A total of 38 elderly participants, aged between 65 and 89 years, were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (N=19) or the control group (N=19). The experimental group underwent plyometric training three times a week, performing three rounds each session, for a total intervention period of 10 weeks. The control group, on the other hand, engaged in regular exercises during the same intervention period. Before and after the training program, both groups underwent assessments to evaluate their balance abilities, which included the 30-second sit-to-stand test, time up and go test (TUG), functional reach test (FRT), and lower extremity explosiveness test. To analyze the data, SPSS 18.0 statistical software was used. Independent sample t-tests were employed to compare the baseline values between the two groups and to determine the differences in the 30-second sit-to-stand test, TUG, FRT, and force plate maximum reaction force values after the intervention. Paired samples t-tests were conducted to assess changes in balance performance from pre-test to post-test. The statistical significance level (α) was set at 0.05.

Eligibility Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Healthy elderly individuals aged 65 to 89 years, including both healthy older adults and pre-frail individuals.
2. Able to perform activities of daily living independently at home and in the community

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Severe neurological and musculoskeletal disorders of the lower limbs
2. Severe cardiovascular disease
3. Vestibular deficit
4. Medication affects or improves balance ability