Cardiometabolic and Hormonal Adaptations to 4-Month Zumba Training in Overweight/Obese Women

Effects of a 4-month Intervention on Cardiometabolic, Hormonal, Inflammatory, Liver, Renal, Electrolyte, and Muscle Enzyme Parameters in Pre- and Post-Menopausal Overweight and Obese Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study aims to evaluate the effects of a 4 month Zumba training program on cardiometabolic, hormonal, inflammatory, hepatic, renal, and functional parameters in overweight and obese women. Participants will be classified according to menopausal status (pre- or post-menopausal) and randomly assigned to an exercise group or a non-exercise control group.

Overweight and obesity are associated with metabolic dysregulation, hormonal imbalance, chronic inflammation, and reduced physical capacity. Zumba training is a dance-based aerobic exercise that can improve cardiovascular fitness, energy expenditure, and adherence to physical activity programs.

This study will assess the effects of a 4 month Zumba training program (4 sessions per week, 60 minutes per session) on: Body composition and anthropometric measures, Aerobic capacity, Hormonal profile, Lipid profile, Inflammatory biomarkers, Liver enzymes, Renal function markers, Electrolytes, Muscle enzymes, Pre- and post-training measurements will be taken under standardized conditions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Female, aged 18-65 years
• BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²
• Pre-menopausal or post-menopausal (classified clinically)
• Voluntary written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Hormonal therapy or weight-loss medications
• Endocrine diseases or chronic illness
• Recent intense physical training (<48 hours before baseline)