Document Type : Original article
Authors
1
1. Department of Behavioral and Cognitive Sports Sciences, Faculty of Sports and Health Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
2
Motor Behavior, Faculty of Physical Education, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
3
Assistant Professor of Motor Behavior,Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
4
Department of Sports biomechanics, Faculty of Sports and Health Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
5
Department of motor behavior, Faculty of sport sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
10.22037/sjrm.2025.117361.3306
Abstract
Background and Aims: The nonlinear training method provides a theoretical framework for pedagogical principles that can be used to estimate nonlinear changes in motor learning. The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of linear and nonlinear training on the improvement and maintenance of postural control indices in older women.
Materials and Methods: The present study was a quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest and recall design. Forty-five elderly women aged 60-75 years were randomly divided into three groups: non-linear training, linear training and control. Subjects in the experimental groups received training for four weeks, four 30-minute sessions per week. During this time, the control group only performed their usual daily activities. One day before and after the intervention, and one week later, the subjects performed a static balance task on a force plate.
Results: The results showed that the scores for anterior-posterior displacement, lateral displacement and speed in the linear and non-linear training groups were significantly reduced in the post-test and retention phases compared with the pre-test (P<0.0005); this means that postural oscillations were reduced and static balance improved in both groups, but no significant difference was found between the above scores in the post-test and retention phases (P<0.0005); these results indicated that the improvement in static balance was sustained in both the linear and non-linear training groups. The non-linear training stimulation group also had significantly fewer postural oscillations than the linear training and control groups at both the post-test and retention phases (P<0.0005).
Conclusion: The flexible, adaptable and comprehensive nature of non-linear training, compared to the repetitive and predictable structure of linear training, makes it more effective in training balance in older people.
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