Effects of Traditional Srichiangmai dance on Balance and Mobility in the Elderly

Background. Previous research indicates that slow movement dance exercise can stimulate function of core muscles effectively may improve physical fitness and balance among older adults. Methods. This study investigated the effects of Traditional Srichiangmai dance on balance and mobility in the elderly. Ninety participants aged 60-75 years, the data was normally distributed, were recruited and randomly assigned into two groups: A Traditional Srichiangmai dance group (TSD) (n = 45) and a walking group (WG) (n = 45). TSD program comprised 15 postures, 4 rounds of dance techniques sessions of 30 minutes, 3 time per week over the course of 12 weeks, while the WG kept their walking exercise. Before and after the training, the tests of health-related physical fitness (HRF) variables composed of body composition, general physiology, balance and mobility performance, were assessed using standardized tests including the Functional reach test (FRT), Timed Up and Go Test, (TUG), 6-minute walk test Chair stand test and Arm curl test for 30 seconds. Results. The results revealed that in both groups, Physiological variables including heart rate rest, systolic blood pressure decreased while VO2max increased, higher than the pre-test values (p <= 0.05). FRT and TUG was better for those in TSD compared to the WG. There was significant in the FRT (p <= 0.001) for those in the dance group. TSD had faster movement, took shorter time and performed a better score in the TUG after training (p <= 0.001). Conclusions. After 12 weeks, Traditional Srichiangmai dance significantly improved balance and mobility among older community-dwelling as potentially prevent age-related mobility and balance decline as well as its related fall risk.