Physical activity of older people based on exercises in various forms of combat sports as a prevention of unintentional falls

Abstract

Falls are one of the most serious health risks in the elderly population and are a significant public health problem. One of the best-documented strategies for preventing falls is regular physical activity in the form of planned and structured exercise. Exercise programmes have a beneficial effect on key risk factors for falls, such as muscle strength, balance control and gait quality.A characteristic feature of many forms of hand-to-hand combat is the integration of motor and cognitive components, which makes them particularly valuable in preventing falls, which often occur in situations requiring simultaneous information processing, posture control and motor adaptation to changing environmental conditions.Mastering the appropriate motor techniques, including elements of safe falling, enables a more conscious response even in conditions of sudden loss of balance.The aim of this publication is to present the importance of introducing physical activity through martial arts as a multidimensional strategy for preventing falls in older people.Appropriately modified elements of combat sports and hand-to-hand combat systems – without competition and injury – are a tool that supports primary and secondary fall prevention. However, the effectiveness of such programmes depends on their competent implementation and individual adaptation to the participants' abilities.

Keywords: Aged, Combat Sports, Functional Status, Physical Fitness, Postural Balance

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1007816