Low-weight-high-repetitions (LWHR) programs constitute a popular group-based form of exercise for the general population, accompanied by various health benefits for the participants. However, the effect of such programs on cardiorespiratory fitness is still controversial. The aim of the current study was to examine the effects of a 3-month LWHR group exercise program vs pilates on cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition and overall health on previously inactive adult women.
This is a randomized exercise intervention study in healthy subjects (adult women-inactive). Participants will be randomly allocated in two groups: the LLHR group and the Pilates group. All assessments will be blinded to the intervention group of the participants. Both exercise programs will be performed in groups lasting for three months and performed 3 times per week. The study conformed to the principles enumerated in the Helsinki Declaration and ethical approval has been obtained by the national ethical committee. Participants in the LLHR training will participate in a three-month, group based pre-choreographed exercise programme, consisting of three LLHR training sessions per week (in non-consecutive days). All participants will be familiar with the exercises that will be used in this intervention. Each LLHR fitness program, includes a variety of multifunction exercises (i.e. squats, lunges, chest press and chest extension, rowing, triceps extension and bicep curls) addressing all muscle groups; using barbells, dumbbells or body weight. Each session will last for 60 min (including 5 min warm up and 5 min cooldown). Exercise intensity will increase progressively once a month by adding weights to the barbells and dumbbells. Participants in the Pilates program will be trained with the same exercise schedule for the 3-month period. Their 60 min session, will be consisted of warm-up and cool down (5 minutes each), along with static-isometric exercises addressing major muscle groups. Pilates exercises focus on breathing, concentration, control and precision. Exercise intensity progression in the Pilates program will be performed every one month by increasing the level of demanding of the exercises. All training sessions of both the LLHR and Pilates programs will be supervised by a qualified sports scientist (one sport scientist responsible for each program) for securing training standardization. Participants in both programs will be advised to avoid taking part in any other exercise session during the intervention period.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
60
LWHR refers to a specific form of resistance exercise which utilizes low weights and very high repetitions
Pilates style exercise training
U-Fit
Nicosia, Cyprus
Changes from baseline Aerobic Fitness at 12 weeks
The 20m shuttle run will be used in order to assess aerobic fitness levels (Leger et al., 1988). Briefly, the 20m shuttle run test involves continuous shuttle running, between two parallel lines set exactly at 20m apart, in time to recorded beeps being indicated by signals produced from a commercially available pre-recorded CD (Coachwise Ltd, UK). Initial speed dictated at 8.5 km/h and increased by 0.5 km/h per minute. The test for each participant will be terminated when the participant could no longer maintain the speed-pace, for more than two consecutive beeps. For each participant, the number of shuttles completed will be recorded as an index of their aerobic fitness level (Leger et al., 1988).
Time frame: 12 weeks
Changes from baseline Body Composition at 12 weeks
Body fat percentage will be measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) (Tanita body composition analyser, TBF-300). Participants will be asked to avoid any fitness activity, caffeine consumption or eating for 3 hours previous to the test.
Time frame: 12 weeks
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