The effects of motor-cognitive training on balance and working memory in young adult women with low physical activity: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Young adult women with low physical activity levels often experience a decline in muscle mass and balance, which can negatively impact both physical and mental health. Cognitive functions, particularly working memory, play a crucial role in maintaining balance during various activities. A reduction in working memory capacity may impair the ability to manage dual-task activities, increasing the risk of instability and falls. Objectives: To investigate the effects of motor-cognitive training combining balance exercises with working memory tasks on balance performance and working memory skills in women aged 18-25 years with low physical activity levels. Materials and methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 46 female participants aged 18-25 years who had low physical activity levels. Participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (N=23) or a control group (N=23). The experimental group underwent motor-cognitive training, which integrated balance training with working memory tasks, for three consecutive days. The control group received general information on improving balance and working memory. Pre- and post-training assessments were conducted using the Biodex Balance System to measure static balance (sway index values from the Balance Error Scoring System), dynamic balance (limit of stability), and working memory were assessed using the digit span test. Data were analyzed statistically, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Following the training, the experimental group exhibited significantly greater improvements in working memory skills compared to the control group. Additionally, the experimental group demonstrated enhanced dynamic balance performance, particularly in the forward/right and backward/left directions, compared to the control group. Conclusion: Motor-cognitive training enhances balance and working memory in young adult women with low physical activity over the short period. This dual-task training approach presents a promising strategy for promoting balance and cognitive function in this population.