A Well Woman's Health Maintenance Study Comparing Physical Fitness and Group Support Programs

Abstract

This pilot study examined the effect of group support and physical activity on 75 physiological and psychological indicators of health in well women 40 to 64 years old Fifty subjects were randomly placed in one of four groups: physical fitness (exercise), group support (discussion), physical fitness and group support, or control Groups met weekly for 3 months in structured programs. All subjects completed daily diaries Pre- and post-program psychosocial measures were obtained by questionnaires and standardized tests. Physical measurements were determined through treadmill pulmonary function, body composition, flexibility, and strength tests. A two-way analysis of variance determined differences between groups for changes in all measurements Diastolic pressure, quadriceps strength, and participation in organized sports decreased more in the exercise than nonexercise groups Maximal oxygen consumption, time on the treadmill, time to get 90% of maximal oxygen consumption, and amount of exercise done increased more in the exercise group. Heart rate increased more in the discussion than non-discussion group, while hand strength and forced vital capacity decreased more in the discussion group. Subjects who exercised felt they weren't doing enough exercise while those in discussion groups felt the opposite. Those exercising decreased their stimulant intake, and those not exercising increased their intake The purpose of this study was to delineate specific measurable variables and to identify procedural changes for a larger study.