Last update:
13-Jan-2026

OBJECTIVE The investigation of the effect of a rhythmic gymnastics (RG) program, with and without the use of the sports apparatus, on the balance ability of women aged 65 and older.

METHOD Ninety-four women over the age of 65 (68.57±0.36), without severe mobility issues or health problems and with no prior experience in RG, were randomly divided into two experimental groups and one control group. Each experimental group followed a 12-week intervention program (three sessions per week, one hour each). The first group (A) participated in an RG program that included body exercises specific to the sport along with three out of the five apparatus used in RG (ball, hoop, ribbon), while the second group (B) followed an RG program that included only the body exercises, without the use of the apparatus. The control group (C) continued their daily routine without any intervention. Balance was assessed at three times (before the intervention, immediately after, and 20 weeks post-intervention) using the Fullerton Advanced Balance (FAB) Scale.

RESULTS After completing the 12-week intervention, groups A and B showed a statistically significant improvement in balance. A consinderable portion of this improvement was maintained 20 weeks after the end of the intervention. In contrast, the control group exhibited a statistically significant decline in performance after 12 weeks, with a further slight reduction in the following weeks.

CONCLUSIONS Rhythmic gymnastics is significantly associated with improved balance in women aged 65 and older. This specific program could serve as a valuable tool for enhancing balance ability in older adults, ultimately improving their quality of life. Further research is recommended on specially adapted RG exercise programs for the elderly, including male participants and vulnerable populations.

Key words: Aging, Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale, Rhythmic gymnastics.