Background: Multicomponent training has considerable adherence among older populations, but there is a lack of literature on the benefits of this training on older people's posture. Literature also lacks stretching protocols that work the body in an integrated/unified way and respect the principle of individuality in exercise training. We evaluated the effect of a multicomponent training protocol combined or not with flexibility training in improving the posture and quality of movement in physically inactive older women, according to a score lower than 9.11 in the Modified Baecke Questionnaire for the Elderly (MBQE).
Methods: 142 participants were evaluated and randomized in three training groups: multicomponent training (MT = 52), multicomponent and flexibility training (MFT = 43), and a control group (CG = 47). We evaluated joint amplitude using goniometry, flexibility with sit and reach and hands behind the back tests, quality of movement with the functional movement screen, and posture using biophotogammetry.
Results: The MFT group had 15 parameters-flexibility and posture-with a very large effect size (ES > 1.30) and nine with average ES (0.50-0.79). MT presented two variables with large ES (0.80-1.25) and seven with average ES. CG presented three variables with high ES and five with average ES. Both interventions improved the quality of movement.
Conclusions: These results demonstrate that 14 weeks of multicomponent and flexibility training in a group intervention can improve flexibility and posture levels in physically inactive older women.
Keywords: aging; biodynamic response; body balance; physical activity; postural stability.