Effect of Regular Physical Activity on Metabolic Parameters and Anthropometric Indices in Obese Military Personnel: A Quasi-Experimental Study

ABSTRACT

Objective: In recent decades, the world has witnessed a rapid rise in obesity, which has also become a problem in military health care systems. This study aimed to determine the changes in blood lipid profile, blood glucose levels, and anthropometric indices upon regular physical activity in obese men among military personnel. Material and Methods: This study involves quasi-experimental research conducted on 265 military personnel. The subjects underwent physical activities continuously for 2 months under coach supervision. The mean values of blood lipid and blood glucose profiles, as well as the anthropometric indices of these individuals before and after the study period, were compared. To make comparisons, the statistical t-test and standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval were used. Results: Results of this study indicate that after regular physical activity, the mean values of triglyceride levels [SMD=- 0.390, p<0.001], total cholesterol [SMD=-0.259, p=0.003], high-density lipoprotein [SMD=0.387, p<0.001], low-density lipoprotein [SMD=-0.369, p<0.001], and fasting blood sugar [SMD=-0.338, p<0.001] significantly decreased. Based on the test results, the weight [SMD=-0.218, p=0.013] and body mass index [SMD=-0.587, p<0.001] of the individuals had also decreased. Moreover, the waist circumference [SMD=-0.416, p<0.001], hip circumference [SMD=-0.249, p=0.005] and waist-to-hip ratio [SMD=-0.566, p<0.001] also showed a decrease. Conclusion: It is seen in this study that regular physical activity can improve anthropometric indices, blood glucose, and blood lipid profile. It is hence suggested that managers of organizations take adequate measures to encourage employees to exercise and participate in physical sports daily or even make it mandatory, if necessary, for administrative personnel who do not have any physical activity.