The Effect of Aquatic Exercise on Quality of Life, Body Mass index and cardiovascular Markers in Middle-aged Women: a pilot study

Midlife is one of the most important steps of life that in case of lack of exercise, can lead to a significant reduction in quality of life. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of 8 weeks of Aquatic Exercise on quality of life, Body Mass index, and cardiovascular Markers in Middle-aged Women.
After measuring anthropometric markers, 20 women aged between 45 and 55 years were randomly assigned into two groups of aquatic exercise (n=10) and control (n=10). In the baseline stage, both groups completed WHOQOL-BREF scale to assess the quality of life. Moreover, Body Mass index and cardiovascular Markers were measured. The exercises in aquatic exercise group were performed in 60 minutes sessions twice a week for eight weeks. At the end of the eighth week, study parameters were measured in both groups.
Eight weeks of aquatic exercise significantly increased the quality of life in middle-aged women (P=0.001), so that in addition to the overall life quality scores, the subscales including mental health (P=0.001), social relationships (P=0.02) and environmental health (P=0.001) were improved. In addition, blood pressure (P=0.04) and body mass index (P=0.001) were significantly decreased.
Eight weeks of aquatic exercise may significantly increase the quality of life and improve Body Mass index and cardiovascular indices in middle-aged women.