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As we age, it can be difficult to maintain our balance, which can lead to devastating falls.

Now a new clinical trial is underway to try to strengthen muscles to prevent falls. Researchers at University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore are conducting a study for people over age 65 at the Veteran’s Administration Annex on Lafayette Street and Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science in downtown Baltimore.

“The long-term goal of this research is to develop a mechanistically based therapeutic intervention to enhance muscle power, weight-shifting capability, and lateral balance function through protective stepping to prevent falls,” according to the study protocol.

The study, delayed a year by the pandemic, is seeking 100 volunteers age 65 or older in good health.

Once enrolled, participants will meet with a personal trainer three times a week in the VA Annex’s gym. (Free parking is provided, and masks are required in the gym.) Their exercises will vary, depending on ability, and will be adjusted every two weeks according to their progress.

“Everyone that we’ve had in the study has raved to me about the trainer,” said Dr. Vicki Gray, principal investigator. “It’s one-on-one training, which is an advantage. [The workout] is definitely tailored to the individual.”

The exercises will focus on the hip muscles. The study, known as HIPS for short, requires a total of 42 in-person visits. Participants will be compensated for their time.

Volunteers will be randomized into two groups: One will focus on strength training of the hips, and the other will do “power” training of the hip muscles.

“Power training is moving fast while they’re doing the exercises,” Gray explained.

All volunteers will benefit

During the three-month study, every participant, no matter which group they’re placed in, will increase their muscle strength.

“They’ll improve their balance, reducing their risk of falling and improving the strength of their muscles,” Gray said.

But the benefits of participating in the study may last for generations. Researchers soon may be able to recommend the ideal exercises for people to prevent falls.

“We’ll then provide the appropriate rate of exercise for people who have fallen or are at risk of falling,” Gray said.

For more information about the HIPS study, or to volunteer, call (410) 605-7179.