This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. The long term goals of this study are to develop a regimen that is suitable and effective in improving health in the growing population of overweight postmenopausal women and, ultimately, to devise a program to improve adherence to a lifestyle that includes regular exercise. Swimming may appeal to older women who, due to excess weight or joint problems, find land-based activities laborious. However, no studies have been found that focus on the pysiological and psychological efects of swimming without dietary restriction on postmenopausal women. Consequently, it is unknown whether swimming can be recommended to that group as an effecatious treatment for obesity.
The specific aims are to develop a study to test whether swimming without dietary restriction can cause fat loss, and improve overall fitness, thereby lowering risk for CHD,and improve perception of quality of life in overweight and obese post-menopausal women. In addition, we will investigate whether water temperature influences fat loss or retention. Thirty overweight or obese (BMI 25-39) previously sedentary postmenopausal women will be randomly assigned to one of three exercise groups. Since walking has been shown to cause fat loss, one group will walk, serving as controls. One group will swim in water of 82 degrees, one will swim in water of 92 degrees. After 4 weeks of building up endurance, all will exercise 4 times a week for 45 minutes each time, at 70 to 80 percent of maximum heart rates. Overall body fat, visceral fat, VO2max and perception of quality of life will be measured.
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