Does Ramadan Fasting along with Circuit Resistance Training Have an Effect on Body Composition and Lipid Profiles of Healthy Inactive Middle-aged Men?

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Sharekord University

2 Shahed University, Department of Exercise Physiology, Tehran, Iran.

3 Department of Sport Science, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Physical activity and healthy nutrition are essential components of a healthy lifestyle. Fasting during Ramadan also showing potential health benefits. However, the impact of combining fasting and physical activity on health outcomes in diverse individuals remains relatively unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Ramadan fasting alone or with circuit resistance training on the body composition and lipid profile of middle-aged men. Methods: Thirty inactive and healthy adult males were randomly assigned to one of three groups in this study: fasting (30 days of Ramadan fasting), circuit resistance training (30 days of Ramadan fasting plus 12 training sessions), or the control group. A day prior to the commencement of the fasting month of Ramadan and one day subsequent to its conclusion, anthropometric and biochemical parameters were assessed utilizing established methodologies. The training program consisted of 12 training sessions every other day, which lasted between 30 and 45 minutes. This training protocol was done at 5:00 PM. Statistical analysis was done with SPSS software. The data were analyzed with the statistical method of analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) (P ≤ 0.05). Results: The results showed that, compared to the control group, the variables of body weight (P=0.001), BMI (P=0.001), body fat % (P=0.001) and muscle mass (P=0.002) decreased significantly in the fasting and fasting combined with exercise groups. In contrast to the control group, the intervention groups exhibited negligible reductions in total cholesterol (P=0.082), triglyceride (P=0.132), and LDL-C (P=0.123) levels. In addition, it was observed that the HDL-C level in the fasting (P=0.001) and fasting combined with training (P=0.001) groups was significantly reduced compared to the control group. Conclusion: In conclusion, the integration of circuit resistance training with a one-month fast during Ramadan has resulted in changes in body composition, including a reduction in body weight, BMI, body fat%, and muscle mass. A non-significant reduction in the blood lipid profile, however, accompanied these modifications. However, the HDL variable was also reduced following the implementation of exercise and fasting.

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