EFFECTS OF PHYSICAL EXERCISE ON BODY COMPOSITION AND BLOOD PRESSURE IN ADULT WOMEN

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of an exercise program on body composition and blood pressure in adult women. Material and Methods: The sample consisted of 20 women, aged between 20 and 60 years, who were allocated into training group (TG: n = 10) and control group (CG, n = 10, composed of sedentary women). Initial data were obtained from the records of a pre-existing group for the practice of physical activity, including aerobic exercises. The data referred to sociodemographic characteristics, test of risk factors for coronary heart disease and anthropometric assessment. Categorical variables were expressed as frequency and percentage of cases. The quantitative variables were expressed as mean and standard deviation. The Wilcoxon test was used for intra-group comparisons (baseline X final) and the Mann-Whitney test was used for inter-group comparisons in the final assessment (control x training). The level of significance was set at 5 % (p< 0.05). At the end of 12 months, new assessments were performed in both groups. Results: There was a significant reduction in BMI (p = 0.013) and percent body fat (p = 0.024) in TG. Blood pressure levels remained within the normal range during the study period. Conclusion: We observed that physical exercise is one of the modifiable factors that can positively influence the quality of life of individuals by improving body composition. DESCRIPTORS Motor Activity. Anthropometry. Hypertension.