This RCT investigates a 12-week NASM OPT program targeting pectoral muscle strength, breast aesthetics (firmness, lift, chest circumference), and low back pain in 120 non-athletic women. The intervention group performed structured resistance training, while the control group engaged in general exercise. Outcomes included pectoral strength (dynamometer), aesthetic satisfaction (Likert scale), and functional performance (push-up test).
Participants were randomized to NASM OPT (3 weekly sessions: stabilization, strength, and hypertrophy phases) or general exercise (brisk walking/aerobics). Measurements at baseline and 12 weeks included pectoral strength, chest circumference, low back pain (VAS), and perceived breast aesthetics.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
120
Three 60-minute weekly sessions for 12 weeks, progressing through stabilization (weeks 1-4), strength endurance (weeks 5-8), and hypertrophy (weeks 9-12) phases. Exercises included bench presses, chest flyes, and push-ups.
Three 60-minute weekly sessions of brisk walking and light aerobics without targeted resistance training.
Sport Sciences Department
Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran
Pectoral Strength
Kilogram (kg); handheld dynamometer
Time frame: Baseline, 12 weeks
Perceived Breast Firmness/Lift
5-point Likert scale
Time frame: Baseline, 12 weeks
Chest Circumference
Centimeter (cm)
Time frame: Baseline, 12 weeks
Aesthetic Satisfaction
5-point Likert scale
Time frame: Baseline, 12 weeks (post-intervention)
Functional Performance
30-second push-up test
Time frame: Baseline, 12 weeks (post-intervention)
Low Back Pain
VAS, 0-10 cm
Time frame: Baseline, 12 weeks (post-intervention)
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