Effects of Alexander Technique training experience on gait behavior in older adults

This study examined the effect of Alexander Technique training in older adults on aspects of gait and medio-lateral centre-of-mass displacement during fast and comfortably paced over-ground walking. Six qualified Alexander Technique teachers and seven controls between the ages of 60 and 75 took part. Compared to the controls, AT teachers demonstrated a reduction in side-to-side centre-of-mass displacement during fast paced walking, compared to comfortably paced walking. Due to this difference Alexander Technique teachers displayed a smaller medio-lateral centre-of-mass displacement compared to controls during fast paced walking. AT teachers also demonstrated significantly smaller stride width and lower gait timing variability compared to controls. The findings suggest superior control of dynamic stability during gait and potentially reduced fall risk in Alexander Technique teachers and deserve further study.