| The Effect of Eight Weeks of TRX Training on Balance and Strength in Individuals with Visual Impairment |
| Paper ID : 1358-SPORTCONGRESS |
| Authors |
|
fatemeh behmanesh *1, hanie farhangi2, danial saraey1 1دانشگاه علامه طباطبایی تهران 2دانشگاه علامه طباطبایی |
| Abstract |
| Introduction: Visual impairment causes balance deficits, poor postural control, and reduced muscular strength due to the absence of visual feedback, leading to a higher risk of falls and functional dependence. Conventional training programs relying on vision are unsuitable for this population. TRX suspension training offers an alternative by combining strength and balance through controlled instability, engaging core muscles and proprioceptive pathways. These multi-planar movements enhance tactile and vestibular feedback, allowing visually impaired individuals to improve coordination without relying on sight. Despite strong evidence of TRX benefits in older and clinical populations, few studies have adapted it for the visually impaired. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate an eight-week TRX program tailored to their sensory and safety needs to improve balance, strength, and independence. Methods:Twenty visually impaired adults were randomly divided into two groups: TRX training (n=10) and control (n=10). The intervention group performed supervised TRX sessions three times per week for eight weeks (50–60 minutes). The protocol included warm-up (8–10 min), main workout (six functional TRX exercises: squat-row, single-leg sit-to-stand, hamstring curl, chest press, pallof press, and supported single-leg reach; 2–4 sets, 8–12 reps, RPE 4–8), and cool-down. All sessions were conducted under verbal and tactile guidance for safety. Balance (Berg Balance Scale, TUG) and strength (handgrip, sit-to-stand test) were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Results: Evidence indicates suspension training improves dynamic balance and lower-limb strength. Similarly, this study expects meaningful improvements in TUG time, postural stability, and core strength following TRX intervention, supporting proprioceptive compensation for vision loss. Conclusion: An eight-week supervised TRX program with verbal-tactile guidance can safely and effectively enhance strength and balance in visually impaired adults. This approach may serve as a rehabilitation method to increase autonomy and reduce fall risk. |
| Keywords |
| TRX, Visual impairment, Balance, Strength, Proprioception |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation) |
