Physiological and psychological effects of physical exercise on a group of elderly nonexercisers

Aim. Experimental evidence shows that physical activity call counteract the aging-induced decline in physical and psychological performance. The aim of this study was to determine whether physical and mental fitness in a group of sedentary elderly improved after a brief exercise training program consisting of light exercises without the Use of special equipment or extra cost to the subjects. Methods. A total of 32 subjects (5 men, 27 women; mean age 66.19 +/- 6.92 years; mean height, 155 +/- 7 cm) residing in four communities in Latium and attending a senior center took part in a 10-week exercise program conducted in twice weekly sessions of about one h each. Data were collected fiom anthropometric, physical and psychological assessment at baseline and at the end of the study. Results. Final assessment showed improvement in body composition, with a significant reduction in body weight and body-mass index (P < 0.01). improved physical functional capacity, with a significant increase muscle strength (P < 0.01), joint flexibility (P < 0.0 1), speed of moverrient (P < 0.01), CaldlOWISCI-Ilar efficiency (P < 0.01), mental stalLIS, with a significantly improved sense of self-esteem and rnood (P < 0.01). Conclusion. Sedentary adults iespond positively to even modeiale intensity exercise training. Physical activity can effectively improve a seiies of health factors regaiding fUlICtional independence, ieduced risk of disease, increased socialization and emotional well-being. An efficacious exercise program can be conducted without the use of special equiipment or facilities and without extra cost to program participants.