The Effect of a Three-Month Aquatic Training Program on Physical Functioning in Elderly Men: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Aquatic training is emerging as a multifaceted therapy for enhancing health parameters, particularly among elderly populations. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a three-month aquatic training on physical functioning, including balance, muscular strength, and flexibility, among healthy older men. Methods: From an initial sample of 80 elderly men, 45 healthy participants (mean age: 75.5 years) were randomly assigned to either the intervention (n = 23) or control group (n = 22). The intervention group participated in three 60-min sessions per week for 12 weeks. Functional fitness variables, encompassing upper and lower body flexibility and muscular strength, along with dynamic and static balance, were assessed using multiple tests at both baseline and postintervention. The training load increased gradually over the 12-week program, ranging between 50% and 70% of heart rate reserve (HRR). Exercise intensity was controlled using the rate of perceived exertion (RPE) scale, aiming for a targeted range of 12-15 on the Borg scale. The control group maintained their usual daily activities throughout the study period, providing a basis for comparison with the exercise intervention group. Results: No significant baseline differences in demographic characteristics were observed between the study groups (p > 0.05). Compared to the control group, the intervention group demonstrated significant improvements across all outcome measures, including static balance, dynamic balance, upper and lower body flexibility, and upper and lower body muscular strength (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The study findings highlight the efficacy of aquatic training in enhancing various aspects of physical functioning among older men, supporting the growing recognition of aquatic training as an effective therapeutic approach for promoting vitality and independence in elderly populations.