Effects of online and face-to-face exercise training compared in healthy older adults: a feasibility study

Supervised online exercise training (OET) may help to counteract physical inactivity in healthy older adults. Few studies to date have compared the effect of OET and traditional face-to-face exercise training (TET).

With this study we compared the effect of OET and TET on physical function in healthy older adults and investigated the feasibility of OET.

Power analysis indicated that a sample size of n = 20 per group was necessary to detect a moderate effect size. Of 80 individuals potentially interested in the study, 32 did not meet the inclusion criteria and 22 declined participation; 26 were assigned to receive OET via Zoom© and 19 to receive TET twice a week for 12 weeks. The exercise training program was the same for both groups: fine finger and muscle strengthening and balance exercises. Performance was measured using the 400-m Walk, Timed Up and Go, Four Square Step, One Leg Stance, Five Time Chair Stand, and Hand Grip tests.

In general, physical function was improved after OET and TET (η_p² range, 0.349–0.642). No improvement in upper limb strength was observed in either group (p > 0.05), whereas endurance on the 400-m Walk Test was increased for the OET group and decreased for the TET group (Time × Group interaction F 5.540, η_p² 0.187; p = 0.007). Good adherence was noted for the OET group (82%). No adverse events during the 12-week study period were recorded. Our findings suggest a positive effect of exercise training on physical function over time, regardless of how delivered. OET was found to be feasible and acceptable, making it a viable alternative to conventional exercise programs for older adults.