KOKU Health

Gamifying Exercise For Balance and Health

When researchers from the University of Manchester (UK) studied a group of older adults who had self-isolated during COVID-19, they found that the decrease in movement by the participants was leading to muscle inactivity and poorer balance.   Because stability and balance also decline as a person ages (due to muscle loss, reduced flexibility, inner ear imbalances, etc.), their findings were concerning as their research indicated that the risk of a debilitating fall was increasing.

With additional research suggesting that strength and balance exercises can reduce falls by up to 42%, the University of Manchester (UK) team developed a series of games and challenges that could help reduce the physical declines of those self-isolating.  Their app, Keep-On-Keep-Up (KOKU), is a self-guided regiment of exercises led by an animated in-app trainer.  While the app provides ample instruction and encouragement, the exercises are also meant to be fun and can change over time as balance and skills improve.  

KOKU’s training methods are certified and safety approved by Britain's National Health Services (an insurance system similar to Social Security and Medicare).   Available for both iPad and Android Tablets, the free and easy-to-use app is a way to encourage seniors to get more exercise, increase balance, and strengthen bone health.   Important factors in improving stability and reducing the risk of a fall.  

https://kokuhealth.com/

Tags: #KOKU, #kokuhealth, #balance, #falls, #balancetraining, #app, #free