Circuit Based Deep Water Running Improves Cardiovascular Fitness, Strength and Abdominal Obesity in Older, Overweight Women Aquatic Exercise Intervention in Older Adults

Abstract

Introduction: Sedentary habits are associated with an increased risk of numerous chronic diseases; however, the type of exercise that may be most beneficial to improve health is still unclear. Water based exercise is rapidly growing in popularity as individuals, such as the elderly or the obese, can exercise at relatively high levels of intensity while imposing minimal strain on joints. However, little research has been conducted substantiating the health benefits of exercise in this medium. Aim of the study: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a circuit based deep water running exercise program on aerobic capacity (¦O2peak), strength and abdominal obesity in older, overweight/obese women Materials and Methods: The participants (mean ± SD age 9 ± 9 years, BMI 33 ± kg/m2, n=18) took part in a circuit based deep water running program with continuous deep water running (70-7 % HRpeak) interspersed with 90 seconds of resistance exercises for 12 weeks, 60 min.day-1and 3 days.week-1. Results: There were significant increases (p<.0 ) in ¦O2peak, (1.37 ± 0.10 vs 1. 1 ± 0.08 L·min-1), and muscle strength (upper body 20 ± 7.1%, knee flexion 33 ± 7.9%, knee extension 32 ± 17.9%). There were significant reductions (p<.0 ) in waist circumference (10 ± 2. vs 100 ± 2.6 cm) and waist-hip ratio (0.90 ± 0.01 vs 0.87 ± 0.01). Conclusions: These results indicate circuit based deep water running can elicit significant improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness, strength and abdominal obesity.