Shahabi Kaseb M, Parhizmeymandi N, Mehranian A, Shakerian Toupkanlou N. Effects of Unstable Surface Resistance Training on Memory, Balance, and Muscle Strength of a 68-Year-Old Veteran. 3 2026; 18 (2) :173-180 URL: http://ijwph.daneshafarand.org/article-3-85705-en.html
1- Department of Motor Behavior, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Science, Hakim Sabzevari University, Sabzevar, Iran 2- Department of Sports Sciences, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Ardakan University, Ardakan, Iran 3- Department of Motor Behavior, Faculty of Sports Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
* Corresponding Author Address: Department of Motor Behavior, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Science, Hakim Sabzevari University, Towhid Shahr, Sabzevar, Razavi Khorasan, Iran. Postal Code: 9617976487 (mr.shahabi@hsu.ac.ir)
Abstract (90 Views)
Aims: This study aimed to investigate the effects of unstable surface resistance training on cognitive and motor functions in an older war veteran. Materials & Methods: This single-subject experimental study was performed on a 68-year-old male veteran with a history of a lower-limb injury. The intervention consisted of a 4-week unstable surface resistance training program (three sessions per week) using bodyweight squats on a foam surface with progressive overload. Outcome measures included lower-extremity muscular strength (30-second chair stand test), static balance (Romberg test), dynamic balance (timed up and go test), and short-term memory (Wechsler Memory Scale subtests). Assessments were conducted at baseline, during the intervention, and during the withdrawal phases. Findings:Across all outcomes, mean and median values increased from baseline (A1) to the intervention (B) and then decreased during follow-up (A2). Stability within each phase met the 80/25 criterion, and within-phase variability remained below the 40% threshold for every parameter. Relative level changes indicated improvements from A1 to B for lower-limb strength (16.6%→12.5%), static balance eyes open (3.29%→9.73%), static balance eyes closed (1.77%→8.40%), dynamic balance (2.6%→9.17%), and short-term memory (8.69%→16.66%), with partial attenuation at A2. Overall, the intervention produced concurrent gains in physical and short-term cognitive performance, with some decline after cessation but overall trends generally remaining above baseline. Conclusion:Unstable surface resistance training produces concurrent and largely sustained improvements in both lower-limb strength and postural control, with accompanying benefits to short-term memory in the older veteran.