Balance Ability of Older Women With a History of Falls

This study aims to investigate the effects of regular practice of Chinese fitness Qigong, Wuqinxi, on the balance ability of older women with a history of falls. Participants in the experimental group (n=35) and the control group (n=36), matched for age, height, and weight, were included in the study. The experimental group underwent a 24-week (3 times per week, 70 minutes per session) Wuqinxi exercise regimen. Changes in dynamic and static balance abilities of the participants were tested at weeks 0, 12, and 24. A 24-week Wuqinxi exercise regimen increased the static and dynamic balance abilities in both directions for older women with a history of falls. Compared to 12 weeks, a longer Wuqinxi exercise regimen further enhanced the static balance ability in the open-eye state.