Effectiveness of loincloth exercise program on physical performance in elderly

Abstract

This quasi-experimental research was to examine the effect on physical performance of a loincloth exercise program for the elderly. This study recruited 34 eligible volunteers aged between 60-75 to participate in the loincloth exercise program. The loincloth exercise consists of five warm-up exercises, eighteen continuous exercises and three cool down exercises. The physical performance examination comprises of 1) leg strength, 2) upper body strength, 3) cardiopulmonary endurance, 4) back muscle and hamstring flexibility 5) upper body and shoulder flexibility, and 6) agility and dynamic balance. The data were analyzed by frequency distribution, mean, standard deviation and Wilcoxon matched pairs signed ranks test. The results of this research showed that after 12 weeks the mean score of physical performances was better than pre-experiment (p < .05).