Abstract
Background: Nordic Walking is a total body type of exercise that can be performed by nonathletes as a health-promoting physical activity.
Aims: In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the impact of a Nordic Walking interventional program in older adults, with regard to the potential improvements in functional parameters.
Methods: Thirty-five women (mean age: 67.86 years, SD: 4.44 years) participated in a 25-week Nordic Walking program, while 25 women (control group, mean age: 76.97 years, SD: 8.14 years) did not engage to any type of exercise during the same period. Functional parameters were assessed using the Senior Fitness Test and the Bosco Counter-Movement Jump Test at baseline and after the completion of the program.
Results: In the experimental group, improvements were observed in all functional parameters assessed by the Senior Fitness Test, including strength, flexibility, movement coordination, dynamic balance, and aerobic capacity. No such correlations were found in the control group. Similarly, with regard to the parameters recorded using the Counter-Movement Jump Test, there was an improvement in strength from baseline to the final measurements.
Conclusions: Our findings confirmed previous evidence regarding the beneficial effects of Nordic Walking on functional parameters in older adults.