Browsing by Issue Date, starting with "2025-05-22"
Now showing 1 - 1 of 1
Results Per Page
Sort Options
- The effect of water aerobics in adults and older adults in health-related variables: The importance of duration and intensity parametersPublication . Faíl, Luís Oliveira Brandão ; Marinho, Daniel Almeida; Neiva, Henrique PereiraWater aerobics has gained popularity, with its benefits increasingly recognized. However, there is limited information on the intensity and duration needed for optimal outcomes. This thesis explores the effects of varying intensities and durations of water aerobics on health-related variables in adults and older adults. To achieve this, the following steps were performed i) a systematic review with meta-analysis on the effects of water-based programs on the health and fitness of healthy adults and those with chronic diseases; ii) comparison of moderate versus high-intensity water aerobics (12 and 24 weeks) on muscle strength, anthropometry, lipid profile, blood pressure (BP), and quality of life (QoL); iii) analysis of the relationship between muscle strength gained after water aerobics and other factors including program intensity and duration, age, and baseline health-related variables; iv) analysis of the association between BP and lipid profile results obtained after water aerobics and factors like program intensity and duration, age, and initial health-related measurements. The findings indicated that i) few studies have assessed exercise intensity in water aerobics; ii) high-intensity water aerobics was more effective than moderate-intensity in improving lipid profile, fat mass, fat-free mass, diastolic BP, and physical QoL; iii) both durations of high-intensity water aerobics benefited diastolic BP, with greater effects after 24 weeks; iv) both programs improved muscular endurance after 12 and 24 weeks, with higher intensity related to better lower limb muscular endurance; v) psychological QoL improved after 12 weeks; vi) initial values of muscular endurance and age were related to upper limb muscular endurance and explosive strength outcomes, while initial body composition was associated with explosive strength; vii) changes in lipid profile were influenced by intensity, while diastolic BP was affected by program duration, and initial total cholesterol levels were positively associated with changes in systolic and diastolic BP. Overall, high-intensity water aerobics improves lipid profile, body composition, and physical QoL in adults and older adults. 24 weeks of this exercise also reduces diastolic BP. Water aerobics enhances muscular endurance regardless of intensity and duration. This thesis offers valuable insights for water aerobics instructors, recommending strategies to tailor intensity levels to individual needs.