Effect of combined aerobic and resistance training exercise on Vo2 max and BMI in overweight collegiate population a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Introduction

Obesity and overweight are prevalent within college students and represent a major health concern due to sedentary lifestyles and absence of exercise. This study was intended to ascertain the impact of discrete and combined aerobic and resistance training exercises on maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) and Body Mass Index (BMI) among overweight collegiate population.

Method

In this study, 30 male college students aged between 18 and 26 years, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 25 kg/m, were divided at random between three groups: Group 1 (n = 10) engaged in aerobic exercise, Group 2 (n = 10) engaged in resistance training, and Group 3 (n = 10) engaged in combined training regime. BMI was determined using the formula weight/height (kg/m²), and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) was measured using the Queen's College Step Test, both prior to and following the intervention. The efficacy of the interventions was assessed once the fourth week was over.

Result

An ANCOVA showed significant effects of intervention type on BMI and VO₂ Max. For BMI, the Combined group had the lowest post-intervention BMI, F(2, 25) = 10.29, p < .001, η² = 0.04. VO₂ Max also showed a main effect, F(2, 25) = 61.85, p < .001, η² = 0.01, with the Aerobic and Combined groups demonstrating the greatest improvements, underscoring the effectiveness of these interventions.

Conclusion

This study highlights that Combined and Aerobic interventions significantly improve BMI and VO₂ Max, with the Combined group showing the greatest BMI reduction and both Combined and Aerobic groups demonstrating enhanced VO₂ Max.