Background. Physical activity (PA) is highly recommended for older adults in order to improve physical functioning, health and well-being. Aims. The purposes of this pilot research were: to investigate the influence of Harmonic Gymnastics (HG) on flexibility, dynamic balance, health and well-being of older adults, and to verify the feasibility of the research tools. Methods. In this pilot research 15 healthy men and women, mean age 58.7 (6.5), from Tel Aviv, Israel, volunteered to participate in the research program, which included 50 min. of HG practice, three times a week, for six weeks. Three questionnaires – SF-36 Health and quality of life questionnaire, The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) and the Mindfulness Awareness Assessment Scale (MAAS) – and two physical skills testing equipment – Y Balance Test (YBT) and the Back Saver Sit and Reach test (BSSR) – were used to assess the subjects. Results. Post-test results showed significant improvements of total score of health and well-being by SF-36 (p < 0.05) and body awareness by MAAS (p <0.0001), but no significant results for SF-36 (0.0629) subscales nor for the global PA measured by GPAQ (p= 0.391). Participants improved hamstring flexibility (p < 0.05) and dynamic balance of right leg (p < 0.001) and left leg (p = 0.00001). Conclusions. This pilot research indicates the feasibility of YBT, BSSR, MAAS and SF-36. HG was found to be tailored for older adults. Older adults improved functioning capabilities, body awareness, health and well-being after the program.

Keywords: harmonic gymnastics, older adults, flexibility, dynamic balance, health and well-being