Author/Authors :
Sattar، Mina نويسنده Master of Exercise Physiology, Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran. , , Esfarjani، Fahimeh نويسنده Assistant Professor, Department of Exercise Physiology, School of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran , , Nezakat-Alhosseini، Maryam نويسنده Assistant Professor, Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran , , Kordavani، Laleh نويسنده MSc, Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran ,
Abstract :
BACKGROUND: In postmenopausal women, the risk of having cardiac diseases, especially high
blood pressure, is increased due to the decrease in secretion of estrogen. The goal of this study
was to evaluate the effect of 8 weeks of aquatic resistance training on blood pressure and
physical function of postmenopausal women.
METHODS: In this quasi-experimental study, 24 postmenopausal women (age: 53-60 years,
BMI= 29.23 ± 5.27kg/m2) were randomly divided into experimental (n = 14) and control
(n = 10) groups. Women in the experimental group participated in an aquatic exercise program
for 8 weeks (3 sessions per week) in the deep parts of the pool. Training included walking and
running in water with water dumbbells weighing 250 grams. Before and after the exercise
period, the body composition, blood pressure, dynamic balance, and flexibility of the subjects
were measured.
RESULTS: According to the T-score, the average systolic blood pressure in the experimental
group significantly decreased (9.29%) (P = 0.001). Dynamic balance and flexibility, respectively,
significantly increased by 22.02% and 24.4% (P < 0.01). No significant changes were observed
in body fat and weight.
CONCLUSION: Due to the positive effect of aquatic resistance training on blood pressure,
dynamic balance, and flexibility these exercises are recommended for postmenopausal women.
