Music-Enhanced Calisthenics in Older Adults

This randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed to evaluate the effects of music-enhanced calisthenic exercises on balance, muscle strength, proprioception, and quality of life (QoL) in healthy sedentary older adults living in nursing homes. The study included 31 participants aged 65 years and older, randomly assigned to one of three groups: the Calisthenic Exercise Group (CEG), the Music-based Calisthenic Exercise Group (MCEG), and the Control Group (CG). The intervention was conducted over 8 weeks, consisting of 16 sessions, with each session lasting approximately 50 minutes. Sessions included a 10-minute warm-up, 30 minutes of calisthenic exercises, and a 10-minute cool-down. The MCEG performed the exercises with background music, while the CEG performed the same exercises without music. The CG did not receive any structured exercise intervention.

The calisthenic exercises included seated leg lifts, chair squats, seated marching, arm curls, and seated torso twists. From the fifth week onwards, elastic resistance bands were introduced to progressively increase the difficulty level and promote muscle hypertrophy and strength gains. Music tracks for the MCEG were carefully selected to promote engagement and motivation, including popular rhythmic and motivational songs suitable for older adults.

Assessments were conducted pre- and post-intervention using standardized measurement tools. Balance was assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test, muscle strength with the Sit-to-Stand Test, proprioception with joint position sense testing, and quality of life with the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP). These assessments were chosen to capture the physical and psychological impact of the exercise interventions, providing a comprehensive evaluation of the participants' physical function and overall well-being.

Data were analyzed using SPSS (v22.0), with parametric or non-parametric tests selected based on data distribution. Paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used for within-group comparisons, while ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis tests were applied for between-group comparisons. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Non-Interventional Ethics Committee of Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University (Approval No: 2022/11-12, dated 26.09.2022). All participants provided written informed consent before participating in the study.

The primary aim of this study was to determine whether music-enhanced calisthenic exercises provide greater physical and psychological benefits compared to standard calisthenic exercises alone. Secondary aims included evaluating changes in balance, muscle strength, proprioception, and overall quality of life among healthy sedentary older adults. The results are expected to provide evidence supporting the use of music as a simple, low-cost, and enjoyable addition to exercise programs for older adults.

Inclusion criteria

Only individuals deemed physically suitable for exercise by the institutional physician and who agreed to participate in the exercise program were included.

Exclusion criteria

Individuals under 65 years of age.

Severe cognitive impairment or diagnosed dementia that would prevent safe participation in the exercise program.

Severe musculoskeletal, neurological, or cardiovascular conditions that contraindicate physical exercise.

Acute or unstable medical conditions requiring immediate medical intervention.

Hearing impairment that would significantly reduce the ability to follow music-based exercises.