Evaluating Participant Responsivness to the Chair Based Resistance Program

Authors

Eileen A. Nunez-Ortiz, California State Polytechnic University - PomonaFollow
Zakkoyya Lewis, California State Polytechnic University, PomonaFollow

Abstract

Physical inactivity among older adults remains a major public health concern, with fewer than 15% meeting national guidelines. Resistance training has been proven to help prevent these outcomes, yet participation remains low. This research utilized the OYO Fitness Program, an 8-week chair-based intervention using the portable OYO double flex device to offer a more accessible and inclusive approach to resistance training for older adults. PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to examine participants' responsiveness to the program, with a focus on post-program focus group findings. METHODS: Adults ages 65 and older (n = 28) completed the 8-week program across three cohorts. With the first cohort (n = 8) at a primarily bilingual community center and two residential cohorts of primarily English-speaking participants (Cohort 1, n = 11; Cohort 2, n = 9). Only a subset (n = 16) of the total participants participated in a focus group at the program’s conclusion. Focus groups evaluated quality of delivery and participant responsiveness, with recordings transcribed and analyzed thematically. RESULTS: Participants found the OYO program practical and the chair-based design appropriate for their needs. They valued the group setting and instructor support, and many reported perceived strength gains. Focus group participation was notably lower in the bilingual community center cohort (n = 1) compared to the residential cohort (n=15). Residential participants also noted that having the program on-site contributed to their strong attendance and engagement. Suggestions for improvement included adding smaller weight increments and incorporating more targeted lower-body exercises. CONCLUSIONS: Findings across the three cohorts provided valuable insight into program feasibility, highlighting both strengths and opportunities for improvement. While the bilingual community center cohort showed reduced responsiveness, offering the program on-site in residential settings appeared to support stronger attendance and engagement. Considering setting characteristics, such as accessibility and social support, may enhance participation and responsiveness among older adults. These findings will guide refinements to the OYO program and device, further supporting scaling the intervention across diverse community sites.

Recommended Citation

Nunez-Ortiz, Eileen A. and Lewis, Zakkoyya (2025) "Evaluating Participant Responsivness to the Chair Based Resistance Program," International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings: Vol. 14: Iss. 5, Article 64.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/ijesab/vol14/iss5/64