Effect of concurrent training on physiological and psychological outcomes for women at risk for metabolic syndrome

Purpose : Psychological stress, psychological distress and mental well-being, are related to metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk factors. Exercise is beneficial for both MetS and mental health independently, however concurrent training (combining aerobic and resistance exercise) has been insufficiently studied for its potential to simultaneously address both physical and psychological outcomes. The purpose of this intervention was to examine how a concurrent training intervention consisting of sprint interval training and resistance training impacted MetS outcomes, perceived stress, psychological distress and well-being. Methods : 40 (M Age= 44.59 ± 9.24 years, weight = 197.25 ± 44.07 kg height= 1.65 ± 0.07 m) were recruited to begin a 10-week concurrent training study consisting of resistance training and sprint interval training. Participants were assessed for MetS outcomes (blood pressure, waist circumference, triglycerides, high density lipoprotein, and fasting blood glucose) and psychological outcomes (well-being, perceived stress, anxiety, depression and anger). Results : Waist circumference ( t (36) = 3.18, p = .002), systolic blood pressure ( t (36) = 2.81, p = .004), diastolic blood pressure ( t (36) = 2.85, p = .004) and triglycerides (t(36) = 2.04, p = .024) showed a significant decrease from pre to post-test. A significant increase was noted for psychological well-being ( t( 36) = 2.18, p = .03). Conclusions : These findings support the utility of high-intensity concurrent training in improving both physical and psychological health in individuals with MetS risk factors.