Comparison of Effects of Resistance Exercise and Endurance Exercise on Body Weight and Body Mass Index (Bmi)

Background: Regular endurance exercise decreases obesity, improves BMI, reduces the level of inflammatory markers and chronic diseases; while the regular resistance exercise prevents the development of chronic diseases such as stroke, heart failure and other cardiovascular diseases.

Objective: The present study was designed to compare the effects of resistance and endurance exercise training on body weight and BMI of medical students at our institution.

Materials and Methods: This study was performed on male subjects who were apparently healthy with normal daily physical activity. There were sixty male participants, aged between 18-25yrs with normal BMI (18.5-24.9 kg/m2). Subjects were grouped into endurance (n=30) and resistance training (n=30). Endurance training and Resistance training was given for five days a week at 60-70% of maximum heart rate (HR) for 8 weeks. HR was measured before and after the exercise.

Results: The findings of the study indicate statistically significant differences in body weight & BMI before and after Endurance training as well as Resistance training. There is statistically significant decrease in body weight and BMI after both types of exercise. But endurance exercise training was found more effective in decreasing body weight and BMI. 

Conclusion: Endurance exercise training is more effective in decreasing body weight and BMI.