Document Type : Original Article
Researcher
Allameh Tabatabaei University / Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education / Department of Exercise Physiology
Ministerial Ethics Committee
Title and General Objective
Effects of Snack Exercise on Metabolic Indicators and Physical Fitness in Overweight Postmenopausal Women.
Statement of the Problem and Significance
Menopause is a natural stage in the life cycle of women, associated with a decrease in the production of estrogen and progesterone hormones, which causes widespread changes in body systems. Increased visceral fat and metabolic inflammation raise the risk of cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndrome. Regular physical activity and a proper diet can reduce these effects, but time and motivation limitations prevent postmenopausal women from participating in long-term programs. Snack exercises, consisting of short bouts of intense activity, provide a novel and practical approach for this group.
Methodology
This semi-experimental study will employ a pretest–posttest design with a control group. Thirty overweight postmenopausal women will be randomly assigned to an exercise or control group. The exercise group will perform snack exercise three times per week for eight weeks. Physical fitness tests will include the Flamingo Balance Test, Sit and Reach, and 30-second Chair Stand. Metabolic indicators measured will include FPG, HbA1c, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, lipid profile, and TyG index. Data will be analyzed using SPSS 27.
Innovation and Applications
This study is the first in Iran to examine the effects of snack exercise on combined metabolic indicators in postmenopausal women. The home-based, short, and low-cost training model provides a practical solution for trainers, women, and health professionals, potentially improving quality of life and metabolic health.
Ministry of Science, Research and Technology