Comparison of the impact of verbal feedback and visual exercise programs on physical fitness parameters and participation

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of verbal feedback, visual feedback and home exercise programs on physical fitness parameters and the participation of individuals. 51 sedentary individuals aged 18–35 years participated in the study. The individuals were divided into 3 groups by simple randomization: the visual feedback exercise group (n=17, age; 20,18±1.13 years), with verbal feedback accompanied by a physiotherapist exercise group (n=17, age; 19,94±1.12 years) and the home exercise group (n=17, age; 19,93±1.21 years). In this study, lower extremity closed kinetic chain exercises, including squats, single leg squats, side squats, unilateral step-ups and side step-ups were performed for 8 weeks (3 days/week) in all groups. The visual feedback exercise group performed its exercises unattended with laser-assisted equipment, the exercise group accompanied by a physiotherapist performed its exercises with verbal assistance under the supervision of a physiotherapist, and the home exercise group performed its exercises unsupervised and without assistance in their own homes. Quadriceps (0°-45°-90° angles), gluteus medius and hamstring muscle strength were evaluated by hand dynanometer, flexibility by sitto stand test and heel-hip distance, static balance by flamingo balance test, dynamic balance by Y-balance test, agility by three step forward and side jump test were evaluated pre- and post-study. Prior to the research, the physical characteristics and all evaluated parameters of the groups were similar (p>0,05). By study conclusion, an increase was observed in all parameters except agility and dynamic balance in the visual feedback exercise group (p<0,05). In the physiotherapist guided exercise group, there was an increase in all parameters except agility (three-step forward jump) and dynamic balance (p<0,05). At-home exercise group, there was an increase in all parameters except flexibility (heel hip distance), agility and dynamic balance (p<0,05). In general, the results were similar between the groups in all parameters (p>0.05). In addition, when we examined group participation, the participation rates of the exercise group with visual feedback, the exercise group with verbal feedback accompanied by a physiotherapist and the home exercise group were similar (p>0,05). Exercises implemented with visual feedback, a physiotherapist-guided exercise program, or a home exercise program showed the same improvements in physical fitness parameters; therefore, they can be preferred interchangeably according to the needs of individuals. Keywords: Feedback, exercise, physical fitness, physical activity.