The effects of 6 weeks Zumba Fitness Program on oscillatory brain activity and cognition in women between 57 – 90 years old

Abstract

Electrical activity of the brain has been studied throughout time and measured using the electroencephalogram (EEG). Studies reveal that exercise has been related to changes in cortical activity, however, the number of researches related with dance and fitness dance-based programs effects on brain activity are very few. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of 6 weeks Zumba fitness program on oscillatory brain activity and on cognition in women between 57 – 90 years old. Thirty voluntary healthy women, between 57 – 90 years old, members of the adult group "Taller del maestro" of Villa Delia neighborhood located in the city of Bogota - Colombia participated in this study. Participants were randomly assigned, in two groups, Zumba group (n=15) and Control group (n=15). Zumba group women participated during six consecutive weeks, two times per week in a Zumba class, Participants EEG activity was measured before 6 weeks Zumba workout, during activity and immediately after last Zumba class. Also, cognitive test for working memory and attention were performed before and after 6 weeks. Results demonstrates increases in beta absolute power during the stages during and after compared to before measurement. However, no significant results were found in absolute alpha band power during the stages after 6 weeks Zumba program and during session in the Zumba group, these findings suggest increases in EEG beta band power reflect grater cortical activations during and after Zumba, while alpha increases can be due to fatigue or decreased anxiety. This study also showed that 6 weeks of Zumba Fitness program generate positive effects in working memory. On the other hand, taking into account that control group did not underwent any type of treatment, results of brain activity and cognition did not show significant differences before VS after 6 weeks for this group. Additionally, in order to verify data and compare beta wave activity during a Zumba session with control group participants, Motor imagery (MI) test was performed for both groups after 6 weeks. Results showed greater brain activity in beta brain wave in the Zumba group, related to a greater cognitive capacity of attention and working memory while the control group presented low values which can be associated with a lower cognitive capacity.