STEP EXERCISE PROGRAM FOR ELDERLY WOMEN: SUPPORT LOAD EFFECTS ANALYSIS

Abstract

The goal of the step program is the improvement of health and physical condition, within the scope of advisable exercise. The purpose of this study was to assess the safety of the program and identify its possible osteogenic effects on the elderly. Fifteen postmenopause women (mean age 61.66 ± 5.10 years) performed two-step patterns (basic step and knee lift). Vertical GRF were measured when stepping down on a Kistler force plate and a two-dimensional kinematics analysis was done using the APAS system. The amount of BMD was collected by DXA before and six months after the program. Although the conclusions drawn from a restricted population cannot be generalized, the results suggest that the mechanical stress associated with the program seems to constitute a positive osteogenic stimulus and is a safe and healthy activity that may be included in the physical activity programs for the elderly.