A Study on Differences in Static Balance Ability Among Older Women Engaged in Different Types of Exercise

Abstract

Older women face significantly increased fall risk due to muscle atrophy and vestibular decline. Balance is a critical factor in fall prevention, yet the effects of different exercise modalities on static balance remain unclear. This study aimed to compare the effects of Taiji, square dancing, brisk walking, and no exercise on static balance in older women, providing evidence for developing community-based fall prevention exercise strategies. The study recruited 172 women aged 60 years and older, who were classified into Taiji, square dancing, brisk walking, or no exercise groups based on their exercise habits. The Israeli Tetrax balance tester was used to assess overall stability (ST), weight distribution index (WDI), and fall risk index (FI) across eight postures. The effects of different exercise modalities were explored using analysis of variance and linear regression models. Results: Significant differences in ST were observed across multiple postures (NC, PC, HR, HL, HB) among all four groups (P < 0.05). The Taiji group showed the best stability in most postures, followed by square dance; brisk walking showed only limited improvement. WDI indicated a more even weight distribution in the Taiji group during head rotation conditions. Regression analysis showed that Taiji, square dancing, and brisk walking all significantly reduced fall risk (P < 0.001), with Taiji showing the greatest effect. Conclusions: Regular exercise significantly improves static balance and reduces fall risk in older women. Taiji excels under multisensory deprived conditions by enhancing the integration of the visual, proprioceptive, and vestibular systems, warranting prioritized implementation in community settings.