Evaluation of the effect of a physical exercise program on cardiorespiratory capacity in academics with metabolic syndrome at the University of Sonora: a pilot study

The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the effects of a physical exercise intervention program on cardiorespiratory capacity in academics from the University of Sonora who manifested metabolic syndrome.A pre-experimental study with a pre and post test design was carried out in a single group of 10 individuals who participated voluntarily (47.10 +/- 11.10 years).The intervention program lasted 13 weeks with four weekly sessions that included aerobic activities such as walking, swimming, stationary cycling, dancing, and outdoor activities. Anthropometric measurements and VO2max were taken at the beginning and end of the intervention.The dependent samples t-test was used (p <.05), and in other cases, the Wilcoxon test in case of the non-compliance with normality.The program achieved a significant increase in the main variable VO2max of 10.41 (ml/kg/min) (p =.002), the body mass index was reduced by 0.94 kg/m(2) (p =.004), the fat mass by 2.40 kg (p =.014), triglyceride levels at 14.41 mg/dL and waist circumference 3.98 cm (p =.016). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure also decreased at the end of the program, but these changes were not statistically significant (p>.05).This work focused on metabolic syndrome disorders, finding improvements mainly in cardiorespiratory capacity. It is important to highlight that this type of intervention in Mexico is scarce, so it is suggested to continue investigating in this regard and document the findings.