I test fitness parameters associated with fall risk both the first and last day of class to measure the effectiveness of the classes. I do this for several reasons; one, I am a firm believer in using standardized tests to measure the effectiveness of intervention strategies. Secondly, I am a firm believer in the FallProof™ program and have been keeping data for over eight years to show the effectiveness of the program and the methodology of instruction.
Lastly, numbers don't lie. Balance can be a subjective feeling that is hard to measure so having pre-and post-data clearly shows the impact of participating in the class on the three fitness parameters associated with balance and falls.
Ages varied from 67 to 89. Fitness levels ranged from highly independent and active to high fall-risk. Here are the results:
- Dynamic Balance: 89 yo improved her speed and agility by 2.5 seconds (+2.5 seconds)
- Lower body strength: 67 yo increased leg strength by 5 chair stands, putting her in the 100th percentile for women her age (+5 stands)
- Lower body flexibility:
- 89 yo man: improved (4)four inches in (4)four weeks (+4.1 inches)
- 81 yo woman: increased flexibility 6.5 inches in four weeks (+6.5 inches)
I am so proud everyone in the class. These people "get it" and understand the importance of consistent movement to remain independent . They also "get" the fact that balance can improve but it takes effort. Isn't your independence and vitality worth the effort?
Next class starting March 30th at Fit-4U Fitness Studio.
Contact me at info@thefallpreventionlady.com
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