| Influence of Mind-Body Exercise on Gait Symmetry Among Older Adults with Functional Movement Impairments |
| Paper ID : 1324-SPORTCONGRESS (R1) |
| Authors |
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Elham Dehghan Niri1, Mostafa Hajlotfalian *2, Faeze Heydari3 1Department of Behavioral and Cognitive Sciences in sport, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran 2Department of Psychology and Educational Sciences - Physical Education and Sports Science, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran 3Department of Physical Education , Faculty of Humanities and Arts, Technical and Vocational University (TVU), Tehran, Iran |
| Abstract |
| Abstract Introduction: As the population ages, maintaining mobility and preventing falls in older adults is a growing public health concern. Declines in strength, balance, and coordination increase gait asymmetry—a key indicator of reduced stability and independence. Mind–body exercises such as yoga and Pilates, which emphasize controlled movement and focused breathing, have emerged as effective, non-pharmacological ways to improve balance, gait symmetry, and reduce fall risk in the elderly. Methods: This quasi-experimental study examined the effects of an eight-week mind–body exercise program in older adults (≥65 years) with functional movement impairments (FMS < 14). Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 12) or a control group (n = 12). The intervention involved 60-minute sessions, three times per week for eight weeks. Gait analysis was performed on a treadmill using reflective markers and 3D motion capture at 120 fps, with at least ten gait cycles analyzed in MATLAB. Gait symmetry (based on step length and stride time) were compared using two-way repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc tests (p < 0.05). Results: The group × time interaction was significant (F(1,11)=10.19, p=0.009, partial η²=0.48), showing greater improvement in gait symmetry for the experimental group (83.93 ± 10.01 to 87.56 ± 9.41) compared to the control group, which showed minimal change (84.32 ± 2.38 to 84.90 ± 3.09). Conclusion: The findings indicate that mind–body exercise improves gait symmetry and functional movement in older adults with movement impairments. Enhanced symmetry suggests better coordination and balance, potentially lowering fall risk. Given its safety and broad benefits, mind–body exercise should be included in elderly rehabilitation programs. Future studies should explore long-term effects and multimodal approaches for greater functional and cognitive gains. |
| Keywords |
| Keywords: Gait Symmetry, Older Adults, Functional Movement, Mind-Body Exercise, Yoga, Pilates, Fall Prevention |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation) |
