This randomized, parallel-group clinical trial evaluates a 12-week adapted CrossFit program versus usual activity in community-dwelling older adults. The primary endpoint is change in Timed Up and Go (TUG) from baseline to 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes include Functional Reach (FRT), Romberg (eyes closed), gait velocity, stride length, and lower-limb power tests (Chair-Stand, Stair Ascent, Stair Descent; time and W/kg). Sixty participants were randomized (1:1). Analyses used repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni adjustments and Cohen's d effect sizes.
Participants were screened and randomized (1:1) to an adapted CrossFit program (12 weeks) or to maintain usual activities (no structured training). Baseline characterization included demographics, anthropometrics, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE ≥ 26), physical activity level, and handgrip strength. Balance outcomes: Romberg (s, eyes closed), gait velocity (m/s), stride length (cm), TUG (s), and FRT (cm). Lower-limb power: Chair-Stand (s; W/kg), Stair Ascent/Descent (s; W/kg). Statistical analysis: normality (Shapiro-Wilk), homogeneity (Levene), repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni post-hoc, and Cohen's d effect sizes. A priori sample size (G\*Power 3.1): effect size 0.25, α = 0.05, power 0.80 → target n = 60 to account for attrition.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
60
Supervised sessions focused on functional, multi-joint movements adapted for older adults; emphasis on safety and progressive overload.
University of Jaén
Jaén, JAEN, Spain
Timed Up and Go (TUG), seconds
Change in functional mobility. Shorter time indicates better performance and reduced risk of falls.
Time frame: Baseline and Week 12
Functional Reach Test (FRT)
Change in dynamic balance assessed by the distance a participant can reach forward without losing stability. Greater distance indicates better balance.
Time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks
Chair-Stand Test (CST)
Sit-to-stand repetitions (5 times). Lower time and higher relative power indicate better lower-limb strength and functional capacity.
Time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks
Fear of Falling (Falls Efficacy Scale-International, FES-I)
Self-reported concern about falling during daily activities. Higher scores indicate greater fear of falling.
Time frame: Baseline and week 12
Sleep Quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, PSQI)
Subjective sleep quality over the previous month. Higher scores indicate poorer sleep quality.
Time frame: Baseline and week 12
Anxiety and Depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, HADS)
Symptoms of anxiety and depression measured with HADS. Higher subscale scores indicate greater severity.
Time frame: Baseline and week 12
Gait Velocity, meters per second
Walking speed measured over a standardized distance. Higher speed indicates better mobility.
Time frame: Baseline and week 12
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Stride Length, centimeters
Average step length during gait assessment. Longer stride indicates better gait performance.
Time frame: Baseline and week 12
Kinesiophobia (Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, TSK)
Fear of movement measured with the Tampa Scale. Higher scores indicate greater kinesiophobia.
Time frame: Baseline and week 12