Impact of mini trampoline exercise on dynamic balance in elderly women, Tehran, Iran

Aging may cause an obvious effect on physiologic systems which are involved in the balance function. It is estimated that 6% of health care costs are spent on unintentional injuries in elderly population. The aim of this study is to analyze the effect of Mini-trampoline training on dynamic balance abilities in the elderly subjects. During a clinical trial design, a sample of 30 females (mean age 55-75 years) in a simple non randomized sampling method, without any remarkable sport experience, were evaluated in Tehran. Patients with cognitive, muscular or neurological disorders were excluded from the study. Height, length of the leg and weight of the subjects were measured. Then, the dynamic balance ability was assessed in eight directions using SEBT (Star Excursion Balance Test) evaluation, before and after Mini trampoline exercises. Each subject participated in a whole mini trampoline program on trampoline during an 18-sessions (three times a week) period, while each session lasting about 30 minutes. Data analysis was carried out by SPSS 11 Software. The findings revealed that mini trampoline exercises showed a significant effect on dynamic balance abilities in all directions in the elderly population. Mini-trampoline exercises could improve the dynamic balance abilities in the elderly population