Comparison of Balance, Physical Performance, and Plantar Tactile Sensory of Older Women Submitted to Balance Circuit Training and High-Intensity Functional Training: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Abstract
PURPOSE: To compare balance, physical performance, and plantar tactile sensory (PTS) of older adult women before and after 8-week (24 training sessions) balance circuit training (BCT) or high-intensity functional training (HIFT). METHOD: Forty-five older adult women were randomly allocated into groups: BCT, HIFT, and control (CG). The BCT group performed a seven-station exercise circuit, whereas the HIFT group performed six calisthenic exercises. Balance and physical performance were assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), respectively. PTS in the plantar region was evaluated through monofilaments. Within and between-group comparisons were performed. RESULTS: SPPB score and PTS improved significantly in the BCT and HIFT groups, and were significantly different from the CG. BBS score also improved significantly in the BCT and HIFT groups, but only the BCT group score was significantly different from the CG score. CONCLUSION: BCT and HIFT interventions were shown to improve balance, physical performance, and PTS among older adult women.