Interactive Effects of Forward, Backward Walking Exercise and Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercise on Sexual Function and Functional Fitness in the Elderly Male Population

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: To assess the effect of forward, backward walking exercise and pelvic floor muscle exercise on sexual function and functional fitness in elderly males. METHODS: Twenty two elderly males participated in this study. They were divided into two groups. The Complex Exercise(CE) group(n=11) performed the forward, backward walking exercise(3 days/week, 12 weeks) and pelvic floor muscle exercises(PFME; 5 days/week, 12 weeks). The PFME group(n=11) only performed PFME(5 days/week, 12 weeks). Both groups performed the PFME in the same manner. Outcomes were evaluated by IIEF-5(5-item version of the interna- tional index of erectile function), 6min walk, and 30sec & 1min sit-to-stand before exercise training, and at week 4, week 8, and week 12. RESULTS: Total scores and erectile function scores had significant interaction effect(p<0.05) in group and period. 6min walk wassignificantly different(p<0.05) in exercise period and 30sec(p<0.001) & 1min sit-to-stand(p<0.01) had signi- ficant interaction effectin group and period. CONCLUSION: Three months of forward, backward walking and pelvic floor muscle exercises did not have significant positive effects on sexual function and functional fitness in elderly males.