Different types of exercise are indicated for the elderly to prevent functional capacity limitations due to
aging and reduce the risk of falls. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of three different exercises
(mini-trampoline, MT; aquatic gymnastics, AG and general floor gymnastics, GG) on postural balance in
elderly women. Seventy-four physically independent elderly women, mean age 69 4 years, were
randomly assigned to three intervention groups: (1) MT (n = 23), (2) AG (n = 28), and (3) GG (n = 23). Each
group performed physical training, including cardiorespiratory, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility
and sensory-motor exercises for 12 weeks. To determine the effects on each intervention group, five postural
balance tasks were performed on a force platform (BIOMEC 400): the two-legged stand with eyes open
(TLEO) and two-legged stand with eyes closed (TLEC); the semi-tandem stand with eyes open (STEO) and
semi-tandem stand with eyes closed (STEC) and the one-legged stand. Three trials were performed for each
task (with 30 s of rest between them) and the mean was used to compute balance parameters such as center
of pressure (COP) sway movements. All modalities investigated such as the MT, AG and GG were significantly
(P < 0.05) efficient in improving the postural balance of elderly women after 12 weeks of training. These
results provide further evidence concerning exercise and balance for promoting health in elderly women.