Do aqua-aerobics improve gait and balance in older people? A pilot study

Research suggests that aqua-aerobics improves aerobic and muscular capacity of older persons, however, few studies have measured changes in gait and balance with aqua-aerobic activity. In this pilot study, eleven healthy males and females (70.55 (+/-) 3.6 years) participated in a twice-weekly, 12-week aqua-aerobics programme. Measures of gait and balance, physical activity, mobility history and health-related factors were obtained. The step test-a reliable test of dynamic balance-significantly improved (P = 0.005) following the programme. In addition, participants reported a range of perceived psychological and physical benefits. This pilot study provides evidence of the potential benefits of aqua-aerobics on dynamic standing balance in higher functioning older persons. Long-term intervention and follow up are needed to determine retention rates, additional functional outcomes, and falls incidence.