Impact of a functional gait training program as a complementary strategy to improve physical function in older adults: a randomized clinical trial

Background: Research on healthy aging increasingly highlights the importance of muscle function, strength, and mass due to their pivotal roles in intrinsic capacity, frailty, sarcopenia, and overall health. Physical exercise remains a cornerstone strategy for enhancing these parameters. This study aimed to assess the impact of functional gait training using the sequential square mat (SSM) Fisior^® program on physical performance, muscle mass and strength, and overall mobility in aging populations. Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted with older adults aged 60 years and older from the Comprehensive Senior Adult Center (CIAM) in Lima, Peru. Participants were randomly assigned to a control group (structured physical activity workshops: gymnastics, dance, swimming, and Tai Chi) or an intervention group (same workshops plus SSM Fisior^® program for 35 min, three times weekly). The 12-week intervention’s impact was analyzed using linear regression models to calculate β coefficients, standard errors, 95% confidence intervals, and p-values. Results: Among 47 participants (95.74% women, mean age 72.66 years), 29 (61.70%) were in the intervention group and 18 (38.30%) in the control group. Significant improvements were observed in the adjusted model (by age and sex) for the Timed Up and Go Test (B = -1.43, p = 0.002), calf circumference (B = -0.10, p = 0.001), grip strength (B = -0.05, p = 0.004), and Barthel index (B = -0.02, p = 0.001). No association was found with other variables: Short Physical Performance Battery, abdominal circumference, and Sarc-F. Conclusion: Integrating the SSM Fisior^® program into physical activity workshops enhances muscle activity and functional performance, in terms of Timed Up and Go Test, muscle strength, functionality and calf circumference, supporting its value in promoting healthy aging. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT07006584. Retrospectively registered, Date of registration May 05, 2025.