[Effects of aquatic balance training and detraining on neuromuscular performance and balance in healthy middle aged male]

ABSTRACT

Since disorders in neuromuscular performance and imbalance are the main cause of falling among the middle aged, their aspects including rehabilitation of balance are the main concern the researchers attend to them. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of eight weeks aquatic balance training [ABT] and detraining on neuromuscular performance and balance in healthy middle aged male. Thirty adult male subjects were randomized into two groups of ABT and control [n=15 per group]. Berg balance scale, Timed Up and Go and 5-Chair stand tests, as they are indicators of balance and neuromuscular performance in older subjects, were taken as pretest and post-test and after four, six, and eight weeks of detraining as well. The ABT consisted of the sessions that lasted one hour, three times a week, for eight weeks. Results showed that neuromuscular performance and balance improved significantly in ABT group [P<0.05], and there were not any significant differences in these parameters between post-test and four, six, and eight weeks of detraining periods in this group [P > 0.05]. ABT can affect neuromuscular performance and balance in healthy middle aged male, and reduce the probability of falling among them. Moreover, the effects of these training are persistent after detraining periods. Hence, ABT can be recommended as an effective neuromuscular and balance training in healthy middle aged male