Influence of different frequencies of deep water running on oxidative profile and insulin resistance in obese women

Abstract

IntroductionObesity is associated with health damages related to increased oxidative stress and insulin resistance. Aerobic exercise can be an ally in reducing the prevalence of obesity and its consequences. This study evaluated the effect of deep water running in two frequencies, with the same intensity, in anthropometric parameters, oxidative profile and insulin resistance in obese and sedentary women. MethodsThe study included 24 women with ages ranging from 47.33 ± 2.98 years old and body mass index of 33.39 ± 0.77 kg/m2. They were divided into two groups: aerobic training 1 (AT1) (5 days/week) and aerobic training 2 (AT2) (3 day/week), both with moderate intensity (50–75% VO2max – Borg Scale), for 60 min each session. Anthropometric measurements, oxidative stress and insulin resistance were evaluated before and after the 26 training sessions. ResultsAT1 training provoke a significant reduction in anthropometric parameters, lipids peroxidation (TBARS) and protein oxidation (carbonyl), and increased enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase (p < 0.05). On the other hand, AT2 reduced waist circumference, sulfhydryl levels and GPx activity; however, this training did not alter insulin resistance parameters. ConclusionsThe data suggest that the deep water running performed 5 days per week (AT1) proved to be more effective in reducing obesity rates. For this reason, this training could be an important choice to help reduce the anthropometric parameters and oxidative damage, and increase antioxidant defenses in obese women.