Design, Development, and Validation of a Recreational Exercise Intervention in Older Adults to Improve Intrinsic Capacity and Motivation: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Status: Recruiting
Location: See location...
Intervention Type: Other
Study Type: Interventional
Study Phase: Not Applicable
SUMMARY
This randomized clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured, multicomponent recreational exercise program (FEXO: Fun Exercise for Older Adults) in improving intrinsic capacity, motivation, and adherence among community-dwelling older adults. Participants aged 60 years and older will be randomly allocated to either the FEXO group or a control group performing the established OTAGO program. The intervention will last 14 weeks, with three weekly sessions. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, post-intervention, and after a 3-month follow-up.
Eligibility
Participation Requirements
Sex: All
Minimum Age: 60
Healthy Volunteers: t
View:
• Community-dwelling adults aged 60 years or older.
• Able to walk independently, with or without assistive devices (e.g., cane or walker).
• Provide written informed consent before participation.
• Willing and able to attend scheduled exercise sessions and assessments over the full duration of the study.
Locations
Other Locations
Spain
Universidad Ceu Cardenal Herrera
RECRUITING
Valencia
Contact Information
Primary
JF Lisón, Dr
juanfran@uchceu.es
0034606503108
Backup
Vicente Benavent-Caballer, Dr
vicente.benvanet@uchceu.es
Time Frame
Start Date:2025-09-04
Estimated Completion Date:2025-12-31
Participants
Target number of participants:120
Treatments
Experimental: FEXO (Fun EXercise for Older adults)
Participants assigned to the experimental group will take part in a structured multicomponent exercise program specifically designed for older adults. The program, named FEXO, emphasizes recreational and motivational aspects to enhance adherence and enjoyment. It consists of three non-consecutive 1-hour sessions per week for 14 weeks. Exercises are conducted in a group setting (maximum ratio 1 instructor to 15 participants) and are progressively adapted according to the functional capacity of each participant, assessed using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB).~The program uses simple, low-cost, portable materials such as elastic bands, chairs, soft balls, scarves, maracas, and a bubble machine, creating a playful and inclusive environment.
Active_comparator: OTAGO multicomponent exercise program
Participants in the control group will follow the OTAGO Exercise Program, a widely studied and evidence-based intervention aimed at reducing fall risk and improving lower-limb strength and balance in older adults. This program also lasts 14 weeks, with three non-consecutive sessions per week, delivered in a group format under the supervision of a physiotherapist.~Unlike the FEXO program, OTAGO is more traditional and does not include recreational or cognitive stimulation elements. It serves as an active comparator to evaluate whether incorporating fun and motivational strategies improves adherence, engagement, and intrinsic capacity.