Resistance training has been identified as an effective strategy to improve body composition, reduce metabolic risk and decrease inflammation in postmenopausal and older women.

In the field of health and sport, particularly as it relates to postmenopausal and older women, there is a growing interest in exploring how resistance training can improve body adiposity, reduce metabolic risk, and decrease inflammation. A new study published in the Journal of Sports and Health Science examines whether the volume of resistance training, i.e., the total amount of exercise performed, has any effect on these health parameters.

In the ongoing quest to achieve a better quality of life and prevent diseases associated with aging, physical activity has become popular among postmenopausal and older women. Resistance training has been identified as an effective strategy to improve body composition, reduce metabolic risk, and decrease inflammation in this specific demographic group. However, it was not known whether the volume of resistance training had any impact on these improvements.

How was the research on the effects of resistance training conducted?

To address this question, a group of researchers conducted a meta-analysis analyzing the results of several randomized controlled studies investigating the effects of resistance training in postmenopausal and older women. Major medical databases were searched and studies comparing the effects of resistance training on body adiposity, metabolic risk, and inflammation with a control group were selected.

The results of the meta-analysis showed that both the low-volume resistance training group (approximately 44 sets per week) and the high-volume group (approximately 77 sets per week) experienced significant improvements in body composition, metabolic risk, and inflammation compared to the control group. However, the high-volume group showed greater improvement in glucose and c-reactive protein levels compared to the low-volume group. This suggests that resistance training volume may play an important role in health outcomes for postmenopausal and older women.

Importance of this research

These findings have significant implications for both researchers and sport and health professionals working with women at this crucial stage of life. When implementing resistance training programs, one might consider recommending a higher volume of exercise to achieve greater improvements in metabolic health and reduced inflammation. Furthermore, these results highlight the importance of providing appropriate guidance and education to postmenopausal and older women, providing them with effective tools and strategies to improve their health through regular exercise.

In summary, this study demonstrates that resistance training volume plays an important role in improving metabolic health in postmenopausal and older women. This provides health professionals and academics with a solid framework to identify optimal training guidelines and support women in their pursuit of a healthy and active life at this stage of their lives.

Continue your professional training

With the growing interest and awareness of the impact of physical activity on health, the field of physical activity and health offers a promising area of study. Finally, the Universidad Internacional Iberoamericana (International Iberoamerican University, UNIB) offers the Master in Physical Activity: Sports Training and Management, specifically designed to provide students with the necessary experience to enter the field of exercise science, with a special focus on coaching and sport management. 

In conclusion, embarking on our program is an unparalleled opportunity for those passionate about improving people’s health and well-being through evidence-based interventions. Join us and work your way into a rewarding career where you can positively contribute to the health and vitality of people from diverse populations.

Source: Effect of resistance training volume on body adiposity, metabolic risk, and inflammation in postmenopausal and older females: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials