Effects of Exercise Training on Cardiovascular Health in Middle-aged Women

Effects of Exercise Training on Cardiovascular Health in Middle-aged Women

The hypothesis of the present study is that physical training can oppose detrimental changes in cardiovascular and metabolic health associated with estrogen loss after menopause.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Premenopausal (45-53 years) OR postmenopausal 50-57 years
• BMI> 18.5 and <30
• Sedentary (no regular physical activity the last 2 years)
• Plasma measurements
• Premenopausal: estradiol> 0.20 nmol/l, Follicle stimulating hormone < 22 IU/l and progesterone >2.5 nmol/l
• Postmenopausal: estradiol < 0.20 nmol/l, Follicle stimulating hormone > 22 IU/l and progesterone 0.3-2.5 nmol/l

Exclusion Criteria:

• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol intake
• Regular medication including hormone replacement treatment
• Chronic disease