High Intensity Resistance Training In Postmenopausal Women (HIRT)

Effects of High Intensity Resistance Training in Postmenopausal Women

Menopause is defined as a permanent cessation of menstrual cycle for 12 months due to intrinsic diminution of ovarian oocytes among women in older age. Globally reported mean age for menopause is 48.78 years (ranges from 46-52 years). Menopausal age reported among Asian and African population was lower as compared to European women . Among postmenopausal women, age related various central nervous system, musculoskeletal, urogenital, metabolic and skin changes ensue along with osteoporosis (T-score = ≤ -2.5) and decreased bone mineral density due to estrogen deficiency that is directly associated with fragility fractures and disability among this age group. Therefore, recruitment of older adults in resistance training program is crucial in inducing increases in muscle strength and ameliorating glucose tolerance and increased insulin sensitivity along with improvements in BMD and BMR.

Physical activity is extremely crucial in maintaining quality of life and estrogen metabolism among postmenopausal women, owing to the increased risk of falls, age related decline in cardiopulmonary, musculoskeletal endurance and cognitive capacity. In Pakistan, fitness of women specifically of postmenopausal age group is ignored due to some cultural norms. Performance of physical activity in the form of resistance training (RT) is one of the best known methods to improve physical fitness in the elderly. So the current study is planned with objectives to determine effects of High Intensity Resistance Training in Postmenopausal Women. Supervised exercise training will be provided for 3 months and functional performance will be measured accordingly.

After initial screening of postmenopausal women including history and anthropometric details, females meeting inclusion criteria and willing to participate in high intensity resistance exercise trial will be recruited in the study. After that; physical fitness, performance base testing for functional performance outcome measures and MENQOL assessment will be done at baseline and after 3 months. Patients will perform resistance training twice a week, 40-50 min/session for 12 weeks respectively. It is hypothesized that supervised high intensity resistance training will improve functional performance, physical fitness and Quality of life among postmenopausal women.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Postmenopausal women
• Age: 45-70 years
• Sedentary life style

Exclusion Criteria:

• High risk of fracture as calculated by WHO online FRAX tool.
• Presence/history of fragility fracture.
• MMSE < 20
• Systemic illness: hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, renal failure, any malignancy, extensive radiation exposure.
• Any orthopedic injury/disorder hindering performance of exercise.
• Not willing for exercise.