Effect of Resistance Exercise on Physical and Psychological Factors

Effects of Resistance Exercise-based Physical Activity Programme on Physical and Psychological Factors in Inactive Adults

Physical inactivity is a key risk factor for cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, negatively affecting emotional well-being by increasing psychological distress and reducing mental health. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a resistance-based physical activity program on physical and psychological outcomes in physically inactive adults.

Background/Objectives: Sedentary behavior is a prevalent risk factor contributing to the development and progression of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Additionally, physical inactivity has been linked to diminished emotional well-being, characterized by elevated levels of psychological distress and compromised mental health. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of a resistance-focused physical activity intervention on both physical and psychological health outcomes in adults with chronically low levels of physical activity. A randomized controlled trial design was employed. The participant comprised 32 adults (mean age = 46.61 ± 7.33 years) included in the study. These individuals were randomly allocated to either a resistance exercise group (EG, n = 15) or a control group (CG, n = 17). Comprehensive assessments were conducted at baseline and following the 12-week intervention. These assessments included evaluations of muscle strength (knee flexors, knee extensors, ankle dorsiflexors, plantar flexors, and core isometric strength), static and dynamic balance, proprioception, and functional movement capacity (as measured by the Functional Movement Screen (FMS)). Participants' psychological states were quantified using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). The EG participated in a supervised resistance training program 3 days per week for 12 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 55-60 minutes. Conversely, the CG did not engage in any structured exercise program and were advised to maintain their customary lifestyle habits throughout the study duration.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged between 40-60 years
• Physically independent
• Not having cardiac, orthopedic, or musculoskeletal dysfunctions
• Not participating in regular physical activity more than once a week for the last 5 months before the beginning of the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Chronic ankle instability
• Lower extremity musculoskeletal injury in the previous 6 months
• Undergoing hormonal replacement therapy
• Having uncontrolled diabetes
• Having uncontrolled hypertension
• Histroy of cardiovascular disease