Exercise groups implemented by municipalities promote older adults’ physical functioning: the Strength in Old Age Program

Background The implementation and outcomes of physical activity promotion programs are less studied. This study examines whether physical exercise groups implemented by municipalities are feasible and promote physical functioning among community-dwelling older adults in real-life settings. Methods Five municipalities participating in the Strength in Old Age Program organized guided exercise to 176 voluntary participants (79.5 ± 4.2 years, 75% women), who were recruited into Strength-Balance training Groups (twice a week) or Other Exercise Groups (e.g. chair and balance exercise or senior dance once a week plus home exercise). SPPB was conducted by local exercise instructors and perceived daily activity performance was assessed before and after the 8–12-week exercise period. Changes in outcomes by exercise group and baseline functioning were analyzed. Results Average attendance rate to exercise sessions was 87%. Both exercise groups showed significant improvement in the SPPB score, balance score, gait speed and chair stand time. Participants with lower SPPB baseline score (SPPB < 10) had a greater improvement in the SPPB score, balance score and chair stand time compared to the participants with better baseline functioning (SPPB ≥ 10). No significant differences in changes of gait speed were found between lower- and higher-functioning groups. Significant improvement was found in perceived performance of daily activities. Subgroup analysis revealed that the improvement occurred in the Strength-Balance Groups and among participants with higher functioning. Conclusions In real-life settings, municipalities successfully implemented physical exercise groups and mobility tests. Older adults’ physical functioning improved. For municipal exercise groups, it is recommended to include baseline testing and to pay attention to the recruitment of participants with lower physical functioning. Trial registration Clinical trial number: not applicable