This study investigated the effects of a step-aerobics program versus a core exercise program on serum non-HDL-C levels and other cardiometabolic parameters in sedentary women with overweight/obesity.
Non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) is a key predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD), yet the comparative effects of different exercise modalities on this marker, particularly in high-risk populations, are not fully understood. This study investigated the effects of a step-aerobics program versus a core exercise program on serum non-HDL-C levels and other cardiometabolic parameters in sedentary women with overweight/obesity. Forty-five with overweight/obesity sedentary women were randomly assigned to either a step aerobics group (SAG; n=25) or a core exercise group (CEG; n=20). Both groups participated in supervised exercise sessions for 60 minutes, 4 days per week, for 16 weeks. Exercise intensity was prescribed and progressively increased from 60% to 70% of the heart rate reserve (HRR), determined by the Karvonen formula. A 16-week supervised step-aerobics program is an effective intervention for improving the atherogenic lipid profile, particularly non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, in sedentary women with overweight or obesity.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
45
Step Aerobics: The primary goal is to improve cardiovascular health and burn calories. It mainly targets the lower body muscles, including the legs, glutes, and calves. The arms and core also engage to keep pace with the rhythm.
The primary goal is to stabilize and strengthen the body's center (abs, lower back, hips, and the area surrounding the spine). The focus is on resistance and balance rather than mobility. These exercises target the core region, including deep abdominal muscles, lower back muscles, the pelvic floor, and the diaphragm. They are generally more static (stationary) or controlled.
Mugla Sitki Kocman University
Menteşe, Muğla, Turkey (Türkiye)
Serum Non-High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (Non-HDL-C) levels measured via enzymatic assay (mg/dL)on HDL levels in overweight or obese, sedentary individuals.
Fasting venous blood samples will be collected at baseline and after the 16-week intervention. Serum Non-HDL-C will be calculated as Total Cholesterol minus High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C) using enzymatic assay methodology. Results will be reported as mean ± standard deviation (SD) and percentage change (%) from baseline. Between-group differences in change scores will be compared using independent samples t-tests with significance level set at p \< 0.05.
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-Intervention (Week 16)
Serum Total Cholesterol levels measured via enzymatic assay (mg/dL)
Fasting venous blood samples will be collected at baseline and week 16. Total serum cholesterol will be measured using enzymatic assay. Data will be reported as mean ± SD and percentage change (%) from baseline. Bonferroni correction will be applied for multiple comparisons (adjusted α = 0.05/10).
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-Intervention (Week 16)
Serum Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C) levels measured via enzymatic assay (mg/dL)
Fasting venous blood samples will be collected at baseline and week 16. LDL-C will be measured using enzymatic assay. Results will be reported as mean ± SD and percentage change (%) from baseline. Statistical significance will be assessed using independent samples t-tests with Bonferroni correction applied (adjusted α = 0.05/10).
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-Intervention (Week 16)
Serum High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C) levels measured via enzymatic assay (mg/dL)
Fasting venous blood samples will be collected at baseline and week 16. HDL-C will be measured using enzymatic assay. Data will be reported as mean ± SD and percentage change (%) from baseline. Between-group comparisons will be performed using independent samples t-tests with Bonferroni correction (adjusted α = 0.05/10).
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Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-Intervention (Week 16)
Serum Triglycerides levels measured via enzymatic assay (mg/dL)
Fasting venous blood samples will be collected at baseline and week 16. Triglycerides will be measured using enzymatic assay. Results will be reported as mean ± SD and percentage change (%) from baseline. Statistical analysis will include independent samples t-tests with Bonferroni correction applied (adjusted α = 0.05/10).
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-Intervention (Week 16)