Physical training programs and their effects on aerobic capacity and coronary risk profile in sedentary individuals....

Currently the prevalent perception is that regular exercise training, besides increasing maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), may have a beneficial effect on blood pressure and plasma lipid fractions. This is the basis for recommending exercise training for health maintenance and as a part of any prevention program for middle aged and older individuals. The purpose of this work was first, to review whether a basis exists for these recommendations and if so, to secondly design an exercise training program adjusted to these groups. Its parameters should be efficient enough to cause improvements in VO2max and risk profile, yet prevent cardial and orthopedic problems. The structure and the results of exercise programs in 27 experimental studies (n = 1153) were reviewed. The findings indicate that significant changes in VO2max, apart from individuals having least favourable values initially, do not necessarily effect simultaneous improvements in either blood pressure or plasma lipid fractions. Results strongly indicate the permanent benefits of participating in a long-term exercise program. This program should therefore provide a very useful and natural addition to the accepted dietary and pharmacological therapies.