Authors
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of aerobic training on levels of vascular and intracellular adhesion molecules in overweight middle-aged women. 20 sedentary obese women (mean+age: 46.1+6.88 years, BF%: 36.7+ 6.18, weight: 73.56+10 Kg and BMI: 59.5+4.15 kg.m2) were selected and randomly divided into two groups. Training program consisted of 50-60 min. running with an intensity of 7 met, 5 days a week for 8 weeks. Fasting blood samples were analyzed for ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 levels. Blood samples were gathered after 12 hours of fasting and 48 hours after the last training program. Data were analyzed by paired and independent t tests. The results showed no significant differences in variables in the pretest (P>0.05). ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 levels decreased (18% and 8% respectively) in the experimental group (ICAM-1 decreased significantly, but not VCAM-1). Weight, BMI and BF% decreased 4.6%, 6.2%, 10% respectively. There was a significant relationship between the changes of ICAM-1 and BF%. It was concluded that five days of running with a 7-met intensity for 8 weeks results in weight loss as well as a significant decrease in ICAM-1 level in overweight subjects. Finally, regular aerobic activity not only results in weight loss and BF% decrease but also significantly decreases ICAM-1 although VCAM-1 does not change significantly.
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