The Effects of Low Intensity Resistance Exercise on Cardiac Autonomic Function and Muscle Strength in Obese Postmenopausal Women

The present study examined the effects of a 12-week low intensity resistance exercise training (LIRET) regimen on heart rate variability (HRV), strength and body composition in obese postmenopausal women. Participants were randomly assigned to 12 weeks of either LIRET (n= 10) or non-exercising control group (n= 10). HRV, leg muscle strength and body composition were measured before and after 12 weeks. There were significant decreases (P < 0.05) in sympathovagal balance (LnLF/LnHF) and sympathetic tone (nLF) as well as significant increases (P < 0.05) in parasympathetic tone (nHF) and strength following LIRET compared to no changes after control. There were no significant changes in body composition after LIRET or control. LIRET may be an effective therapeutic intervention for improving sympathovagal balance and strength in obese postmenopausal women. Since obese postmenopausal women are at increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and physical disability, they could potentially benefit from LIRET.