Introduction: Published research studies show that elderly subjects who do physical activities achieve a better quality of life, functional abilities and balance. This study aimed to observe changes produced in explosive power and balancing ability after an intervention to improve functional strength.

Material and methods: 27 physically active subjects aged 69.2 ± 4.9 years with a height of 1.613 ± 0.092 m participated. The method was as follows: initial data were gathered at the beginning, 8 weeks of intervention (2 sessions a week) and then data were gathered again at the end. A countermovement jump test on a Quattro Jump force plate (Kistler, Switzerland) was carried out, as well as centre of pressure tracking for stability limits test using a 9281CA force platform (Kistler, Switzerland). After 3 months of intervention the final tracking test was performed.

Results: Increases in lower limb stiffness (p < 0.01) and jump height (p < 0.05) were shown while doing the countermovement jump tests. Increases in centre of pressure shifting area and average speed were achieved on the stability limits test, comparing the initial and final data (p < 0.05). This improvement was maintained after follow-up of 3 months.

Conclusion: Functional strength training in elderly people improved the centre of pressure track of stability limits test, so balance was also improved in a group of physically active senior citizens.

© 2015 Consell Català de l’Esport. Generalitat de Catalunya. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.