Effect of 12 weeks of moderate–intensity resistance training on arterial stiffness: a randomised controlled trial in women aged 32–59 years. Issue 8 (16th October 2008)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yoshizawa, M; Maeda, S; Miyaki, A; Misono, M; Saito, Y; Tanabe, K; Kuno, S; Ajisaka, R
• Is Part Of: British journal of sports medicine. Volume 43:Issue 8(2009)
• Page Start: 615
• Page End: 618
• Publication Date: 2008-10-16
• Subjects: Sports medicine -- Periodicals; 617.1027
• DOI: 10.1136/bjsm.2008.052126
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-3674

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Resistance training has been increasingly incorporated into the overall exercise programme because of its effect on muscle strength, functional capacity and osteoporosis. High-intensity resistance training increases arterial stiffness. However, the effect of moderate-intensity resistance training on arterial stiffness is unknown. Objective: To determine whether 12 weeks of moderate-intensity resistance training increases arterial stiffness in middle-aged women. Methods: 35 middle-aged women (age range 32 to 59 years) volunteered to participate. The subjects were randomly assigned to one of three groups: resistance training (RT) group, aerobic exercise training (AET) group or control group. The RT and AET groups performed 12 weeks of moderate-intensity resistance training or aerobic exercise training (two days/week). Results: In the RT group, one-repetition maximum strength significantly increased after the intervention. Interestingly, aortic (carotid–femoral) pulse wave velocity (PWV; an index of arterial stiffness), and peripheral (femoral–ankle) PWV did not change with moderate-intensity resistance training. In contrast, in the AET group, carotid–femoral PWV significantly decreased after the intervention. Resistance training and aerobic exercise training did not affect blood pressure. Conclusions: This study found that moderate-intensity resistance training did not increase arterial stiffness in middle-aged women, which may have great importance for health promotion with resistance training.