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Body composition alterations consequent to an exercise program for pre and postmenopausal women.
G Schaberg-Lorei1, J E Ballard, B C McKeown
1University of Texas, Tyler.
The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness
|December 1, 1990
Summary
Regular exercise improves body composition in women, regardless of menopausal status. A 24-week program significantly reduced body fat and increased body density in participants compared to sedentary controls.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Women's Health
- Body Composition Analysis
Background:
- Menopause is associated with changes in body composition, including increased body fat.
- Understanding the impact of exercise on body composition across different menopausal stages is crucial for women's health.
- Previous research indicates exercise can positively influence body composition, but effects may vary by menopausal status.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of a structured exercise program on the body composition of premenopausal and postmenopausal women.
- To compare the outcomes of exercise interventions between premenopausal and postmenopausal women.
- To assess changes in body fatness and related metrics in response to exercise versus a sedentary lifestyle.
Main Methods:
- Participants included 43 premenopausal and 66 postmenopausal women aged 35-70 years.
- Exercise group: 60 minutes/day, 3 times/week for 24 weeks (walking/jogging, light resistance).
- Control group: Sedentary lifestyle. Body composition assessed via skinfold measurements and hydrostatic weighing.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in exercise program effects were observed between premenopausal and postmenopausal women.
- Exercise participants showed significant improvements: increased body density (+.002 g/cc), decreased % fat (-1.2%), decreased fat weight (-0.4 kg).
- Control participants showed negative trends: decreased body density (-.001 g/cc), increased % fat (+.6%), increased fat weight (+1.1 kg), and increased skinfold measurements.
Conclusions:
- Menopausal status did not significantly alter the positive effects of the exercise program on body composition.
- Exercise training effectively reversed body composition trends typically associated with a sedentary lifestyle in women.
- A consistent exercise regimen offers significant benefits for maintaining healthy body composition across different menopausal stages.