Effects of a Concurrent Training Protocol on Body Composition and Phase Angle in Physically Inactive Young Women: A Quasi-Experimental Intervention Study

Abstract

To determine the effect of a concurrent training program on body composition and phase angle in young women. 38 women (19.26 +/- 1.86 years) participated in the study, and were assigned according to convenience sampling into two groups: 11 into the control group (CG) and 27 into the intervention group (IG). The IG performed a 12-weeks concurrent training protocol. The frequency was five days a week, and the intensity was established in 40-60 % of a repetition maximum to strength exercise, and 40-65 % heart rate reserve to endurance exercise. Body composition and phase angle were evaluated by bioelectrical impedance before and after the intervention. The IG had a decrease in fat mass (pre = 24.66 +/- 5.65 kg; post = 20.38 +/- 4.20 kg; Cohen's d = .80; p < 0,001 [CI 95 % = 3.34, 5.22]), and an increase in muscle mass (pre = 22.75 +/- 3.23 kg; post: 23.50 +/- 3.41 kg; Cohen's d = -0.86; p=<0,001[CI 95 % = -1.09, -0.40]) and total phase angle (pre = 5.72 degrees +/- 0.39; post: 6.24 degrees +/- 0.51; Cohen's d = -1.32; p=<0,001 [CI 95 % = -0.67,-0.36]), whereas the CG had not show significant variations in variables of body composition or total phase angle. The results suggest that a 12-weeks concurrent training program could modify positively the young women's body composition and phase angle. Hence, it is recommended using similar protocols to change variables related to young women's health.