A randomized controlled exercise training trial on insulin sensitivity in African American men: The ARTIIS study

Abstract

Background Lack of regular physical activity at prescribed intensity levels is a modifiable risk factor for insulin resistance and the development of diabetes. African American men are at increased risk for developing diabetes and most African American men are not meeting the current recommended levels of physical activity. The primary objective of the Aerobic Plus Resistance Training and Insulin Resistance in African American Men (ARTIIS) study is to determine the effectiveness of an exercise training intervention aimed at reducing diabetes risk factors in African American men at risk for developing diabetes. Methods Insufficiently active 35–70 year old African American men with a family history of diabetes were eligible for the study. The 5-month randomized controlled trial assigns 116 men to an exercise training or healthy living control arm. The exercise training arm combines aerobic and resistance training according to the current national physical activity recommendations and is conducted in community (YMCA) facilities. The healthy living arm receives information promoting healthy lifestyle changes. Outcomes Insulin response to an oral glucose load is the primary outcome measure, and changes in physiological parameters, cardiorespiratory fitness, strength, body composition, and psychological well-being comprise the secondary outcomes. Conclusions The ARTIIS study is one of the first adequately powered, rigorously designed studies to investigate the effects of an aerobic plus resistance exercise training program and to assess adherence to exercise training in community facilities, in African American men.

Racial Congruence in Physical Activity Interventions among Older African Americans

“…Each potential participant's first exposure to the study usually came through community-based outreach efforts or via the study website. We utilized community-based outreach methods previously shown to be effective by the investigators, including presentations at churches, tabling at health fairs, and attendance at other community events specifically targeting African Americans [18][19][20] . If interested, a phone screen, orientation session, and baseline clinic visit would be required before being randomized.…”