Objective: Verify the effect of non-periodized and linear periodized combined training on body image perception and body dissatisfaction in adults with obesity.
Design: A randomized clinical trial on the effect of two types of combined training periodization was carried out on people with grade I and II obesity.
Setting: Participants were allocated into three groups: non-periodized periodization group, linear periodization group, and control group, with 23 participants in each.
Subjects: Adults with obesity, with a body mass index between 30 kg/m² and 40 kg/m².
Interventions: The intervention lasted 16 weeks (separated into three mesocycles of 4 weeks and 1 week of familiarization), in 3 weekly sessions of 1 hour each, composed of aerobic (30 min) and muscle strength exercises (six exercises) in the same session. The group with non-periodized model maintained uniform intensity, volume, and workload throughout the mesocycles. The group with the linear periodization model started with low initial intensity, subsequently introducing a gradual increase of intensity in the mesocycles.
Main measures: Body image perception (current and ideal silhouette) and body dissatisfaction were assessed using the Stunkard silhouette scale.
Results: The perception of the current silhouette increased only in the control group (Δ = 1.16; p = 0.04). There was a significant reduction in the ideal silhouette over time (p = 0.001), especially in non-periodized group (Δ = -1.26). Body dissatisfaction increased significantly only over time (p = 0.001), especially for control group (Δ = 1.47).
Conclusions: Regardless of periodization, combined training effectively maintained the perception of the current silhouette and reduced the ideal silhouette in adults with obesity.
Trial registration: Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (RBR-3c7rt3).
Keywords: Chronic disease; body dissatisfaction; body weight; exercise.