پژوهشگاه تربیت بدنی و علوم ورزشی مطالعات طب ورزشی 2322-1658 17 45 2025 09 23 From Balance to Belonging: The Impact of a Novel Pickleball Intervention on Functional Balance and Social Capital in Older Women از تعادل تا تعلق: تأثیر یک مداخله نوین پیکلبال بر تعادل عملکردی و سرمایه اجتماعی در زنان سالمند 113 132 4891 10.22089/smj.2025.18107.1815 FA منصور صاحب الزمانی گروه آسیب‌شناسی ورزشی و حرکات اصلاحی، دانشکده علوم ورزشی، دانشگاه شهید باهنرکرمان، کرمان، ایران 0000-0002-1368-8508 شیما شیخ بهایی گروه آسیب‌شناسی ورزشی و حرکات اصلاحی، دانشکده علوم ورزشی، دانشگاه شهید باهنرکرمان، کرمان، ایران 0009-0002-1145-3534 سعید بحیرایی گروه آسیب‌شناسی ورزشی و حرکات اصلاحی، دانشکده علوم ورزشی، دانشگاه شهید باهنرکرمان، کرمان، ایران 0000-0002-1553-1571 Journal Article 2025 06 04 <span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Background and Purpose As individuals age, they encounter various physical and psychological challenges that can significantly affect their overall well-being. Among the most prevalent issues in older adults especially elderly women are reductions in functional balance and declines in social capital. Functional balance is essential for maintaining stability during movement and preventing falls, which are a major cause of injury and loss of independence in aging populations. Likewise, social capital, which includes social networks, emotional support, interpersonal trust, and community involvement, plays an important role in promoting mental health and enhancing quality of life. Diminished social capital can lead to increased loneliness, depressive symptoms, and reduced engagement in community activities. This study aimed to investigate the effects of an eight-week structured pickleball intervention on functional balance and social capital in elderly women. Pickleball, a recreational sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is increasingly recognized as an accessible activity for older adults due to its low-impact nature, simple rules, and strong emphasis on social interaction. The primary objective of the study was to determine whether regular participation in pickleball sessions could lead to measurable improvements in physical balance and social engagement among elderly women aged 60 to 75 years. A randomized, single-blind trial involving 36 women was conducted. Participants were divided into an intervention group, which took part in supervised pickleball training three times per week for eight weeks, and a control group, which continued their normal daily routines. Functional balance was evaluated using the Mini-BESTest, a validated tool for assessing balance in older adults. Social capital was measured using the Persian version of the Onyx and Bullen questionnaire. It was hypothesized that the intervention group would demonstrate significant improvements in both outcomes after the eight-week training period. Methods This research employed a quasi-experimental pretest–posttest design with a control group. Participants were recruited from health centers and community organizations in Kerman, Iran. Eligibility criteria included being between 60 and 75 years old, having independent mobility, maintaining general good health, and having no history of major neurological disorders, severe balance impairments, or musculoskeletal problems. Individuals who had participated in organized physical activity programs within the previous three months were excluded. Forty women initially enrolled in the study, but 36 completed the intervention. Random assignment to the intervention or control group was performed using block randomization (block size = 8) via Random.org to ensure balanced demographic characteristics. The intervention group participated in supervised pickleball sessions, whereas the control group continued regular low-intensity activities such as walking or household routines. The pickleball intervention lasted eight weeks, with three sessions per week. Each session was 60 minutes long and followed a structured format consisting of a 10-minute warm-up, a 40-minute main activity phase, and a 10-minute cool-down. The warm-up included dynamic stretching, light aerobic movements, and simple balance exercises. The main activity phase involved group-based pickleball games designed to promote movement, coordination, rapid direction changes, and social interaction. The cool-down focused on gentle stretching and relaxation exercises. Functional balance was assessed using the Mini-BESTest, which measures stability in response to various challenges such as directional changes, gait modifications, and reactive balance tasks. Social capital was assessed using the Onyx and Bullen questionnaire, which evaluates social networks, trust, participation in community activities, and sense of belonging. Measurements were taken at baseline and after the eight-week intervention. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 27. Paired t-tests were used to compare pretest and posttest scores within each group, while independent t-tests were used to compare outcomes between groups. ANCOVA was performed to control for baseline differences. Ethical protocols, including voluntary participation, informed consent, and confidentiality of data, were strictly followed. Ethical approval was obtained from the Sports Sciences Research Institute (SSRI.REC-2306-2301). Results A total of 36 participants completed the study, with 18 women in each group. Baseline comparisons demonstrated no significant differences between the groups in age, height, or body mass, confirming that the groups were statistically homogeneous before the intervention. After the eight-week program, the intervention group showed a significant improvement in functional balance compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Mini-BESTest scores increased notably among those who participated in pickleball training, while the control group exhibited minimal or no improvement. The effect size was large (partial η² = 0.62), indicating that pickleball had a strong and meaningful influence on balance enhancement. The improvement is likely related to the sport’s emphasis on quick directional changes, controlled lateral movements, and reactive stability all of which stimulate neuromuscular coordination and strengthen postural control mechanisms. Similar results were observed for social capital. The intervention group demonstrated significant increases in social capital scores compared with the control group (p < 0.05). The effect size was moderate (partial η² = 0.42), suggesting that the pickleball program effectively enhanced social engagement, interpersonal relationships, and community involvement. Participants in the intervention group reported feeling more connected to others, receiving greater emotional support, and experiencing a stronger sense of belonging. These findings highlight the social benefits of group based physical activity, particularly for older women who may be more vulnerable to social withdrawal. Overall, the results indicate that pickleball provides a multifaceted benefit: it improves physical functioning related to balance while simultaneously strengthening social bonding and reducing feelings of isolation. Because the training is conducted in a supportive, interactive environment, participants can engage both physically and socially. Conclusion This study demonstrates that an eight week structured pickle ball intervention can significantly improve both functional balance and social capital in elderly women. The physical component of the sport requiring coordinated movement, postural adjustments, and reactive balance contributes to strengthening lower limb muscles and improving neuromuscular control. Meanwhile, the social nature of pickleball fosters companionship, emotional support, and increased participation in group activities, all of which are essential for psychological well-being in aging populations. These findings highlight pickleball as an effective and enjoyable activity that can help maintain physical independence and enhance social engagement among elderly women. Considering global demographic trends and the growing need for accessible community-based health programs, pickleball could be integrated into public health strategies aimed at improving quality of life in older adults. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term sustainability of these benefits and to examine how pickleball may influence additional health outcomes such as cognitive function, mood, and fall risk. Article Message <span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">This study indicates that pickleball, combining physical activity and social interactions, improves functional balance and enhances social capital in elderly women. It can be a practical strategy in health promotion programs. Ethical Considerations <span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Ethical principles were maintained throughout the research, including confidentiality, autonomy, physical safety, and informed consent. The protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Sports Sciences Research Institute (SSRI.REC-2306-2301). Authors’ Contributions <span dir="LTR" style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Conceptualization: Shima Sheikhbahaei <span dir="LTR" style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Data Collection: Shima Sheikhbahaei <span dir="LTR" style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Data Analysis: Shima Sheikhbahaei, Saeid Bahiraei <span dir="LTR" style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Manuscript Writing: Shima Sheikhbahaei <span dir="LTR" style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Review and Editing: Mansour Sahebozamani <span dir="LTR" style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Responsible for funding: Shima Sheikhbahaei <span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Literature Review: Shima Sheikhbahaei Project Manager:<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> Mansour sahebozamani Conflict of Interest <span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">According to the authors, this article has no conflicts of interest.. Acknowledgments <span style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: 'B Nazanin'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: FA;">The researchers sincerely appreciate all the participants, instructors, and managers who collaborated in the implementation of this research program <span lang="FA" style="font-size: 10.0pt; font-family: 'B Mitra'; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;">با افزایش سن، اختلال در تعادل عملکردی و کاهش سرمایه اجتماعی از شایع‌ترین چالش‌هایی هستند که سالمندان، به‌ویژه زنان با آن مواجه‌‌اند. هدف این مطالعه، بررسی تأثیر یک برنامه ساختاریافته تمرین پیکل‌بال به مدت هشت هفته بر تعادل عملکردی و سرمایه اجتماعی زنان سالمند بود. این پژوهش به ‌صورت کارآزمایی بالینی تصادفی، با طراحی یک‌سویه‌کور، روی ۳۶ زن ۶۰ تا ۷۵ ساله (میانگین سنی 41/3±<span lang="FA" style="font-size: 10.0pt; font-family: 'B Mitra'; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;">28/67 سال، قد 77/5±<span lang="FA" style="font-size: 10.0pt; font-family: 'B Mitra'; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;">58/1 متر و جرم بدن 30/9±<span lang="FA" style="font-size: 10.0pt; font-family: 'B Mitra'; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;">66/65 کیلوگرم) انجام شد. شرکت‌کنندگان به ‌صورت تصادفی به دو گروه مداخله و کنترل تقسیم شدند. گروه مداخله، سه جلسه در هفته (هر جلسه به مدت 60 دقیقه) در تمرینات هدایت‌شده پیکل‌بال شرکت کرد؛ در حالی که گروه کنترل به فعالیت‌های معمول روزمره خود ادامه داد. برای سنجش تعادل عملکردی از آزمون مینی بس و برای ارزیابی سرمایه اجتماعی از نسخه فارسی اعتبارسنجی‌شده پرسشنامه اونیکس و بولن استفاده شد. نتایج تحلیل کوواریانس (آنکووا) نشان داد که گروه مداخله در مقایسه با گروه کنترل، بهبود معناداری در تعادل عملکردی (05/0<span dir="LTR" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-font-family: 'B Mitra';">p<<span lang="FA" style="font-size: 10.0pt; font-family: 'B Mitra'; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;">) و سرمایه اجتماعی (05/0<span dir="LTR" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-font-family: 'B Mitra';">p<<span lang="FA" style="font-size: 10.0pt; font-family: 'B Mitra'; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;">) داشت؛ بر این اساس، پیکلبال به‌عنوان یک مداخله ترکیبی با ابعاد اجتماعی و حرکتی، می‌تواند راهکار مؤثری برای ارتقای تعادل عملکردی و تعاملات روانی-اجتماعی زنان سالمند باشد.

https://smj.ssrc.ac.ir/article_4891_e9257036daf20f062a498aab563d7712.pdf