INTRODUCTION: The study aimed to determine the effect of group exercise frequency on health related quality of life in institutionalized elderly. METHODS: One hundred participants were recruited for voluntary participation from five aged care facilities, with inclusion being based on the outcome of a medical assessment by a sports physician. A quasi-experimental design was used to compare the effect of a 12 week group exercise programme on two groups of participants using pre-test and post-test procedures. RESULTS: A significant difference was noted in social function post training 2x/week (MD -13.85, 95% CI -24.66 to -3.38, p = 0.017, d = 0.674) and 3x/week (MD -13.30, 95% CI -21.81 to -5.59, p = 0.003, d = 0.712) a week. Training 3x/week a week provided an additional benefit in vitality (MD -7.55, 95% CI -13.16 to -1.91, p = 0.018, d = 0. 379). Improvements in mental component summary scale post training 2x/week (MD -4.08, 95% CI -7.67 to -0.42, p = 0.033, d = 0.425) and 3x/week (MD -6.67, 95% CI -10.92 to -2.33, p = 0.005, d = 0.567) a week was further noted. CONCLUSION: Mental health and social health benefits can be obtained irrespective of exercise frequency 2x/week or 3x/week. The exercise intervention at a frequency 3x/week was more effective in improving mental component summary due to a larger effect size obtained compared to the exercise frequency of 2x/week. Additional benefits in vitality were achieved by exercising 3x/week. This may assist the elderly in preserving their independence.

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