By Ben DiPaola
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August 17, 2020
It has been a well known fact that exercise has positive effects on lipid profiles and body composition, which influence overall heart health and other factors. This study shows the positive correlation of exercise modalities and these health markers. Poor lipid values can contribute to heart attack, stroke, diabetes, gallstones, thyroid malfunction, and hardening of the arteries. Lipid profiles consist of total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides (TG). Other measurements taken in the study were body fat % (BF) and body mass index (BMI). Many factors can affect lipid profile such as obesity, family history, sedentary lifestyle, poor lifestyle choices, age and race. This study used a group of young woman participants ages 20-26 with few underlying health issues to complete 8 weeks of a controlled exercise intervention. Each group completed training 3 times a week for 45 to 60 min each workout, some working up to 70 minutes. The modalities used in one group was resistance training using weights, machines, and bodyweight exercises. The second group completed endurance training primarily using a treadmill, for the ease of being able to manipulate speed, intensity, and incline. The last control group did no exercise. Results showed improvements in lipid profile and body composition through several different measures. During the study, other lifestyle factors such as diet was also recorded to better help understand the outcome. Results/ take home message: • Endurance and resistance training showed improvements in all lipid profiles • Endurance and resistance training showed improvements in body fat and BMI • A combination of resistance and endurance exercise 3 times a week for at least 45 min is beneficial • Be aware of the things we do have control over- exercise, diet, and lifestyle choices. Reference: Beqa Ahmeti, G., Idrizovic, K., Elezi, A., Zenic, N., & Ostojic, L. (2020, February 14). Endurance Training vs. Circuit Resistance Training: Effects on Lipid Profile and Anthropometric/Body Composition Status in Healthy Young Adult Women. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7068336/