Objectives: To evaluate the effects of an ambulatory physical exercise program on the quality of life, anthropometric and biochemical parameters in obese post-menopausal women.
Methods: One hundred and six obese post-menopausal women were randomized to take part in an ambulatory program of physical exercise (aerobic and anaerobic), or to receive conventional information about diet and exercise. After three months, effects on quality of life were evaluated (test Euroqol, Rosenberg and subjective evaluation of health), weight, BMI, waist perimeter and fat mass, and biochemical parameters.
Results: Mean age was 59.79 (8.02) years and BMI 37.51 (6.03) kg/m(2). Women included in the exercise group improved their quality of life after three months (EuroQol 0.48 (0.38) vs 0.66 (0.35); Rosenberg: 19.21 (5.05) vs 16.86 (4.94); subjective evaluation of health (%): 60.68 (19.99) vs 71.14 (17.28); p<0.01) and lost weight (90.95 (15.51) vs 88.72 (15.17); p<0.001), BMI (37.5 (5.68) vs 36.59 (5.72); p<0.001) and fat mass (46.28 (4.92)% vs 45.47 (4.88)%; p<0.01). No changes were observed in control group. 31 people withdrew the study before 12 weeks.
Conclusions: An ambulatory physical exercise program improves quality of life and reduces weight and fat mass, in a short period of time, in obese post-menopausal women. The high rate of withdrawal should be considered as an inconvenient in this type of programs.