Chair Fitness Program for Improved Strength and Physical Function for Older Adults: A Pilot Comparative Effectiveness Study

Within the US, people are experiencing longer life expectancy, yet these extended lifespans have not necessarily translated into years living in good health. Musculoskeletal degenerative diseases are particularly prevalent amongst older adults. Research shows that regular resistance exercise carries preventive health benefits to combat these conditions. This study evaluated the impact of an innovative hand-held device (OYO) on the physical function of older adults compared to a traditional chair fitness program (CF) and no exercise control (CG). Participants (n = 48) were 60 years old and older, retirement community residents with no current history of chronic conditions, who possessed the ability to follow guided exercise. Participants elected to the OYO, CF or CG groups. The exercise program was 45 minutes, twice a week for 9 weeks. The CF group used standard gym equipment while the OYO group utilized a hand-held device capable of multi-planar movements and varying resistance. Various pre-post measures of physical function were recorded. Preliminary data suggests that there was a significant positive difference between the study group for biceps strength test F(2, 39) = 3.49 p = 0.04, h² = 0.15), 30-second chair stand (F(2, 37) = 3.60, p = 0.04, h² = 0.16) and a 2-min step test (F(2, 39) = 3.27 p = 0.05, h² = 0.14). A Tukey-HSD test showed a positive trending, however, not significant effect for 30-second chair stand and latissimus strength test (p = 0.08 and 0.06, respectively) between the OYO and CF groups. The two groups had equivocal post-intervention results on all other measures. In conclusion, our results suggest this hand-held device is as or more efficacious as a traditional resistance program that utilizes several pieces of equipment. Widespread adoption of this device could reduce program costs and improve access to quality fitness opportunities for older adults.