Effect of Abdominal Muscle Exercise on Peak Expiratory Flow Rate in Overweight/Obese Post-Menopausal Women

Abstract

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES: Menopause is a natural process that occurs when a woman's menstrual period stops, and post-menopause occurs when she hasn't had a period for at least a year. Along with a myriad of symptoms, women following menopause are more likely to gain weight, particularly around the abdomen. Their lung function is compromised, and central obesity increases the chance of acquiring a number of disorders, including cardiovascular and neurological illnesses. The goal of the study was to see how abdominal muscle exercise affected PEFR, Waist-Hip ratio, and abdominal strength in postmenopausal women who were overweight or obese. METHODOLOGY: A total of 30 subjects were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, then divided into two groups. Group A (Experimental group n= 15) received abdominal muscle exercise, Group B (control group n=15) did not receive any sort of exercise and went about their daily routines as usual. For six weeks, the exercise programme was held three times a week on alternate days (35 minutes). PEFR, waist hip ratio, and abdominal strength were measured using a Peak flow meter, inch tape method, and abdominal MMT at the start and six weeks following intervention, respectively. RESULTS: Peak Expiratory Flow Rate, Waist Hip Ratio, and Abdominal Strength all improved among and between groups, according to the data (using paired and unpaired t test respectively). When compared to the control group, the Experimental group exhibited significantly greater improvement in all three parameters. CONCLUSION: In obese/overweight postmenopausal women, a well-planned exercise intervention programme containing abdominal muscle exercise is helpful in improving Peak Expiratory Flow Rate, Waist Hip Ratio, and Abdominal strength. Key words: Post menopause, Abdominal muscle exercise, PEFR, Abdominal strength, Waist Hip Ratio