Analysis of the effectiveness of various fitness methods in the prevention of hypodynamia and improvement of quality of life in elderly and senile individuals

Abstract

In the context of population aging and the high prevalence of hypodynamia, the aim of this study was to perform a comparative analysis of the effectiveness of various fitness methods in preventing a decline in motor activity and improving the quality of life among elderly and senile individuals. The longitudinal study lasted 18 months and involved 482 participants aged 60-82 years, who underwent medical screening and were distributed through stratified randomization into four experimental groups (Nordic walking, aqua aerobics, adaptive Pilates/stretching, and comprehensive functional training with cognitive tasks) and a control group that received only general recommendations for morning exercises. Functional tests (blood pressure, heart rate, vital lung capacity, six-minute walk test, Romberg test, handgrip dynamometry), psychometric methods (SF-36, GDS-15, Spielberger–Khanin scale), assessment of training adherence, and statistical analysis in SPSS using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov, Student’s, and Mann–Whitney criteria, as well as correlation and factor analysis, were applied. It was found that all experimental groups demonstrated a significant improvement in cardiorespiratory indicators, coordination, muscle strength, and quality of life parameters compared to the control group, which showed a negative age-related dynamic; the greatest effect was observed in the comprehensive training group, where decreases in systolic blood pressure and increases in vital lung capacity and grip strength reached clinically significant values, along with the maximum improvement on the Vitality and Mental Health scales. It was shown that mono-method approaches (Nordic walking, aqua aerobics, Pilates) possess specific areas of predominant influence (endurance, respiratory function, coordination), whereas comprehensive training provides a synergistic effect and the most pronounced reduction in depression and anxiety. Statistically significant correlations were found between the increase in physiological reserves and the improvement in subjective quality of life assessment, which allows pedagogically organized fitness activity to be considered a key resource for extending the period of active longevity and justifies the inclusion of comprehensive programs in the practice of active aging centers and social service institutions.