Effect of two different exercise programs on physical fitness of women with postmenopausal osteoporosis

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different two twelve-week exercise programs which include strength and balance co-ordination to physical fitness capacity of elderly women with postmenopausal osteoporosis. 24 women between the ages of 50-69 who suffer from osteoporosis and are treated with the support of medicines and have not menstruated for several years (menostasis) participated in this research. Subjects divided into two equal groups. Strength exercises program were applied to the first group (n=12, Xage = 59.5±5.9 year) and balance co-ordination exercises program were applied to the second group (n=12, Xage = 60.5±4.5 year). For each of group, before (pre-test) and after (post-test) the exercise program subjects' anthropometric components such as height, weight, BMI, body fat %, waist and hip circumference, waist/hip ratio were determined and senior fitness tests (chair stand test, arm curl, 6 min walk, 2 min step tests, chair sit & reach, back scratch and 8 Foot Up and Go) were performed. Pre-test and post-test results were compared with Paired-Samples T Test. In conclusion, strength and balance co-ordination exercise programs that were applied to the 50-69-year-old women with postmenopausal osteoporosis improve the physical fitness capacities. It is suggested that elderly women suffering from osteoporosis should apply at least 60-minute strength and/or balance co-ordination exercise programs in a week for more healthy and quality life. Thus, they will decrease the risk of falling down by improving strength, durability, flexibility and balance features and prevent to being fractures. © IDOSI Publications, 2013.