Simple, novel physical activity maintains proximal femur bone mineral density, and improves muscle strength and balance in sedentary, postmenopausal Caucasian women

A simple, appealing, physical activity program can be prescribed to reduce the risk of falls in sedentary, postmenopausal, independent-living, Caucasian women. Foot stamping, progressively loaded squats, and in-line dancing positively influence proximal femoral bone mineral density, lower extremity strength, and static and dynamic balance. Introduction Foot stamping, squats exercises, and in-line dancing together create a suitable activity program for sedentary, independent-living older women. Methods Forty-five postmenopausal women not taking medications for bone health were randomly assigned to one of three groups. All groups attended one line dance class per week. Two groups additionally performed progressively loaded squats five times per week. One group also performed four foot stamps, twice daily, five times per week. Broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA), proximal femur (PF) and lumbar spine (LS) bone mineral density (BMD), squats number, and balance variables were measured. Results There were no differences within or between groups in baseline and follow-up BUA, PF or LS BMD; however, a strong stamp compliance effect was apparent for BUA (r=0.73) and PF BMD (r=0.79). Number of squats (p < 0.01) and single leg stance time (p < 0.01) increased, while timed up and go time decreased (p < 0.01) for all participants. Conclusions Line dancing, particularly in concert with regular squats and foot stamping, is a simple and appealing strategy that may be employed to reduce lower extremity bone loss, and improve lower limb muscle strength and balance, in independent living, otherwise healthy, postmenopausal Caucasian women.