Responses of Physical Performance to the Eight Weeks of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stability Exercises in Older Men.

Abstract

Balance and lower limb muscle strength are essential factors in preventing falls in older adults. This randomized controlled trial investigated the effect of 8 weeks of dynamic neuromuscular stability (DNS) exercises on static balance, dynamic balance, and lower limb strength in older men. Thirty older men aged 61-76 years were randomly allocated to either a DNS exercise group (n = 15) or a control group (n = 15). The experimental group performed DNS exercises for 8 weeks (3 sessions/week), while the control group received no intervention. Outcomes were assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (static balance), Timed Up and Go test (dynamic balance), and Chair Stand Test (lower limb strength) at baseline and postintervention. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) adjusted for age revealed that the DNS intervention produced significant improvements in all outcomes. The Berg Balance Scale showed an adjusted difference of 3.79 points between groups (F (1, 27) = 38.87, p < 0.0001). The Timed Up and Go test showed an adjusted difference of -0.87 s (F (1, 27) = 10.48, p = 0.0009). The Chair Stand Test showed an adjusted difference of 1.77 repetitions (F (1, 27) = 40.95, p < 0.0001). These improvements remained significant when adjusted for baseline age differences between groups. Eight weeks of DNS exercises significantly improved static balance, dynamic balance, and lower limb strength in older men. These findings suggest that DNS may be an effective intervention for improving balance and strength in the aging population. Trial Registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT): IRCT20260417069089N2.