2nd Edition of International Obesity and Metabolism Conference 2026

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a constellation of metabolic disorders characterized by a range of cardiovascular risk factors, often associated with central adiposity and insulin resistance. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of combined land-based and aquatic exercises on functional and biochemical indices associated with MetS in older men.
Methods: In this semi-experimental study, 45 overweight or obese older men diagnosed with metabolic syndrome (MetS) (aged 60-75 years, body mass index 27-35 kg/m²) were purposefully selected and randomly assigned to one of three groups: combined aquatic exercise, combined land-based exercise, and a control group. The exercise protocols for the intervention groups comprised both aerobic and resistance exercises (utilizing resistance bands), which were performed alternately and progressively, with three 60-minute sessions per week at 65-85% of maximum heart rate (HRmax). Serum levels of angiopoietin-like 4 protein (ANGPTL4) were assessed 24 hours prior to and 48 hours following the exercise intervention. Additionally, balance and anthropometric indices were evaluated both before and after the intervention. Data analysis was conducted using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Bonferroni post hoc test, with a significance level set at P<0.05..
Results: The results indicated no significant difference in ANGPTL4 levels among the groups (p=0.303). However, a significant time × group interaction was observed for the balance with eyes open variable (p=0.001). Post hoc analysis revealed no significant differences between the groups at either pre-test or post-test intervals. Intra-group mean comparisons demonstrated a significant reduction in body mass index exclusively within the aquatic exercise group (p=0.020).
Conclusion: The analysis of average changes within the exercise groups suggests that both exercise protocols exhibit comparable beneficial effects on the hepatokine ANGPTL4 and improvements in balance. Nevertheless, considering the optimal changes observed in body mass index within the aquatic exercise group, it appears that aquatic exercise may play a more effective role in this specific body composition-related marker of metabolic syndrome. Further research is warranted to enhance understanding of these findings.