gms | German Medical Science

Routine movements, while generally efficient, economical and time-saving, are of necessity rather limited in range and in the number of joints and muscles employed.

Calisthenics and other forms of exercise, which are usually taught in a structured format , widen the range of movements and are instrumental in a methodical work-out of the different body systems. However, real life situations inevitably include unplanned, accidental and destabilizing movements which require, but frequently do not receive, adequate reflex responses for physical balance to be restored. Such conditions are particularly dangerous for the elderly, for falls frequently lead to considerably deterioration in the quality of life.

During the past 8 years, we have purposely incorporated irregular movements within the framework of structured exercises, as a preventive measure for situations in which bodily equilibrium is threatened. In the weekly sessions, the trainees, aged 70-80 years, may be walking, seated or leaning on chairs. Controlled instability is brought about by series of both random and irregular movements, often asymmetrical. The random movements are generated by the trainees themselves, within the framework of the structured exercises.

An additional type of exercise is performed in pairs: one member of the pair pulls or twists the other (in a friendly and non-competitive manner) , into unexpected directions; this requires coordination and paying attention to the other. These exercises- as well as those based on random movements, frequently activate dormant muscles and joints.

Over the years, several participants have informed us that when they sometimes found themselves slipping or stumbling, their (previously acquired) ability to respond to unexpected situations actually prevented their falling.