Pilot testing of a simplified dance intervention for cardiorespiratory fitness and blood lipids in obese older women

Abstract

Introduction: Dance interventions require long learning periods and exert high joint loading. Therefore, a simple dance intervention is required.

Aims: To examine the effects of simplified dance on body composition, cardiorespiratory fitness, and blood lipid levels in obese older women.

Method: Twenty-six obese older women were randomly assigned to exercise and control groups. The dance exercise involved pelvic tilt and rotation with basic breathing techniques. Anthropometry, cardiorespiratory fitness, and blood lipid levels were measured at baseline and after the 12-week training.

Results: The exercise group had lower total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and improved VO₂max after the 12-week training than at baseline; however, no significant difference was observed for the control group. Additionally, the exercise group had lower triglycerides and higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol than the control group.

Conclusions: Simplified dance interventions have the potential to improve blood composition and aerobic fitness in obese older women.

Keywords: Aerobic capability; Ageing; BMI; Dance; Fitness; Older adults.