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The Effects of Combined Training on Functionality, Balance, and Gait Speed of the Elderly: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Document Type : Meta-Analyses

Authors

1 Department of sports Biomechanics, Faculty of Sport Science and Physical Education, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.

2 Department of Sport Biomechanics, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.

3 Department of Ergonomics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

4 Department of sports Biomechanics, Faculty of Sport Science and Physical Education, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic azad University, Tehran, Iran

10.30476/jrsr.2024.103011.1493

Abstract

Background: Ensuring the safety and functional independence of older people is becoming increasingly important. Fall-prevention guidelines emphasize the use of highly challenging training modalities to reduce fall risk. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of combined training (CT) on functionality, balance, and gait speed in older adults.
Methods: A systematic search was conducted in four electronic databases—PubMed, SCOPUS, Cochrane Central, and Web of Science—from inception to June 2, 2024. Standardized mean differences (SMDs), weighted mean differences (WMDs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using fixed- or random-effects models, depending on heterogeneity.
Results: Twelve studies involving 570 participants met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis indicated that CT significantly improved functionality (SMD = 0.64; 95% CI: 0.34–0.93; p = 0.003), balance (SMD = 0.65; 95% CI: 0.39–0.90; p = 0.001), and gait speed (SMD = 1.18; 95% CI: 0.76–1.59; p = 0.001). Furthermore, CT was superior to traditional training (TT) in enhancing functionality (SMD = 0.50; 95% CI: 0.28–0.73; p = 0.001).
Conclusion: This meta-analysis demonstrates that combined training has a significant positive effect on functionality, balance, and gait speed in older adults. Compared with traditional training, CT yields greater improvements in functional performance. Therefore, CT is an effective and practical method for enhancing physical function and mobility in older people.

Highlights

Amirali Jafarnezhadgero

Keywords

References
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Journal of Rehabilitation Sciences & Research
Volume 13, Issue 1
March 2026
Pages 20-30
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