The Effect of 8-Weeks’ Hand-Props Exercise on Muscle Strength, Dynamic Balance and Gait Ability in Elderly Male Farmer

The purpose of this study was to analyze the changes in muscle strength, dynamic balance, and gait ability of elderly male farmer by applying an hand-props exercise for 8 weeks. The subjects were randomly assigned to two groups, exercise group(n=15), control group(n=16). Exercise was performed for 60min/day with three times for 8 weeks. Measurement variables were muscle strength(grip strength), muscle endurance(30sec chair stand), dynamic balance(3m tandem walking, 3m backward walking, and 3m up and go), and gait ability(4m walking speed, 10m walking, and, 400m walking). As a results of the study, there were significant difference in muscle strength(p<.001) and muscle endurance(p<.001). In the case of dynamic balance, it was significantly difference in time(p<.01) and interaction(p<.05) on tandem walking. And there was a significantly difference in time(p<.01) on 3m up and go. There was no significant difference in 4m walking speed, however, in 10m walking(p<.001) and 400m walking(p<.001) were a significantly difference between time and group. In conclusion, hand-props exercise with elastic band and swiss ball for 8 weeks has significantly effect on the muscle strength, dynamic balance, and walking ability of elderly male farmer, therefore, it is considered an effective exercise method for improving the health of elderly male farmer.