Abstract 46: Legacy Effects of STRRIDE Exercise Training Programs on Cardiometabolic Health Observed Ten Years Later

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Introduction: STRRIDE Reunion evaluated longitudinal changes in cardiometabolic health 10 years after completion of STRRIDE (Studies Targeting Risk Reduction Interventions through Defined Exercise). Subjects originally were randomized to one of four eight-month interventions: inactive control (IC); low amount moderate, intensity exercise (LAMI); low amount, vigorous intensity (LAVI); high amount, vigorous intensity (HAVI). Methods: Of 153 Duke STRRIDE graduates, 28 were lost to followup; 21 declined to participate in the Reunion; 104 were studied. Participants completed medical history and physical activity questionnaires; height, weight, blood pressure, waist circumference, and blood were collected; fitness was assessed on 93. We evaluated change in CMH 10 years after completion relative to assessments taken at the time of original randomization; thus, change scores reflect the original study-related changes plus those persisting over the ensuing ten years (legacy effect). Results: Several independent measures suggested group-specific legacy effects. Mean arterial pressure was lower in LAMI. This was different (P<0.05) from all other groups even after controlling for BP meds and baseline values. LAMI also had a lower fasting insulin; this was different (P<0.05) from IC. Peak VO2 decreased 10-11% over ~11 y in IC and LAMI, but decreased < 5% in both vigorous intensity groups (LAVI, HAVI). IC increased 5.3 kg and 5 cm in waist circumference; however, none of the exercise groups changed significantly in these variables. All exercise groups maintained or improved lipids, blood pressure, body weight, fasting insulin; fasting glucose increased substantially in all groups. Physical activity was maintained more in all exercise groups over follow-up. Conclusions: We observed group-specific legacy effects from a eight-month exercise training program. Whether this was due to maintained physical activity, it demonstrates the power and value for long-term CMH of even moderate term exercise interventions.