Citation

Rissel CE, Passmore E, Mason C, Merom D. J. Environ. Public Health 2013; 2013: 686412.

Affiliation

Prevention Research Collaboration, School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia ; University of Sydney, Council on The Ageing (NSW), Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Hindawi Publishing)

DOI

10.1155/2013/686412

PMID

23690805

Abstract

Objectives. Study 1 examines whether age-related declines in balance are moderated by bicycling. Study 2 tests whether regular cycling can increase leg strength and improve balance. Methods. Study 1: a cross-sectional survey of 43 adults aged 44-79 was conducted. Leg strength was measured, and Balance was measured using the choice stepping reaction time (CSRT) test (decision time and response time), leg strength and timed single leg standing. Study 2: 18 older adults aged 49-72 were recruited into a 12-week cycling program. The same pre- and postmeasures as used in Study 1 were collected. Results. Study 1: participants who had cycled in the last month performed significantly better on measures of decision time and response time. Study 2: cycling at least one hour a week was associated with significant improvements in balance (decision time and response time) and timed single leg standing. Conclusions. Cycling by healthy older adults appears promising for improving risk factors for falls.

Language: en