We have co-designed a novel training program, LEAP (Low-cost, Ecological and Accessible Perturbation) to deliver reactive balance training using simple equipment. The LEAP program can be tailored to each individual’s capacity to ensure appropriate challenge and improvement. The LEAP program specifically targets reactive balance control from unexpected slips and trips while walking which are the major causes of falls. 

This study involves eight visits to NeuRA in Randwick including two assessments and six LEAP training sessions focused on slip and trip recovery. 

The LEAP team are calling on volunteers aged 65 years and over who:

• are living independently in the community
• can walk 50 meters without a mobility aid or resting
• have NO diagnosed neurological diseases (e.g. Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, dementia, etc.)
• have NO existing conditions that prevent exercise (e.g. severe pain, fatigue, exercise intolerance, heel ulcers, etc.)
• have NOT been advised by a medical practitioner against exercise
• have NO history of lower limb, pelvis or vertebral fracture(s) or joint replacement(s) in the past 6 months
• are NOT currently participating in any other falls prevention research studies
• Weigh less than 120 kg

The findings from this study will inform the development of practical and scalable fall prevention strategies for integration into healthcare settings.

If you are interested in participating in the LEAP study, REGISTER YOUR INTEREST by clicking the link below.

Welcome to the LEAP Study!

If you have any questions regarding the study, please send an email to email hidden; JavaScript is required, or call the team on 0435 298 199.