NORDIC WALKING COMBINED WITH SIMPLE COGNITIVE EXERCISES IMPROVES OLDER WOMEN ABILITY TO SELECT VISUAL STIMULI PROPORTIONALLY TO THE INCREASE IN PHYSICAL FITNESS

Abstract

Results of experimental studies suggest that regular physical exercise improves general cognitive function such as attention, memory or speed of information processing in elderly. Despite relatively numerous studies that have demonstrated the benefits of the cognitive area the researchers emphasize the need for further research. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of regular Nordic walking (NW) exercises on the selection of visual stimuli in older women and to establish correlations between perceptual and physical fitness benefits. The study examined 60 women aged 64 to 93 years in three groups. Twenty people participated in a 3-month programme combining NW and CT (group NW+CT), 20 people participated only in NW classes (group NW), and 20 people were a control group (group C). The Attention and Perceptivity Test, the Fullerton Functional Fitness Test, and the Romberg balance tests were conducted. The improvements in abilities to select visual stimuli were found in both experimental groups. Almost all indices of improved physical fitness were positively correlated with indices of improved visual perception. NW training connected with simple cognitive exercises is effective in improving ability to select visual stimuli. Physical training should involve both aerobic and strength exercises combined with cognitive exercises.