Date

8-29-2025

Department

School of Health Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences (PhD)

Chair

Orchid George

Keywords

perimenopause, obesity, resistance training, African American women, body fat percentage

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

Abstract

This quantitative randomized controlled trial investigated the impact of resistance training on body fat in obese African American perimenopausal women in San Antonio, Texas. The study aimed to support the World Health Organization's efforts to combat obesity and address the underrepresentation of African American women in research, a population with over half being overweight or obese. Eleven eligible participants completed an intake survey and had their body fat percentage measured using an InBody 270 before and after the intervention. Participants were divided into two groups: one utilizing weights (e.g., dumbbells, barbells, machines, resistance bands) and the other using body weight for resistance training. Both groups engaged in bi-weekly sessions with a personal trainer. Statistical analysis (Mann-Whitney U test and MANOVA) revealed no statistically significant difference between the two training methods in reducing body fat percentage. However, participants in both groups experienced noticeable reductions in body fat and overall mass. The findings suggest that while resistance training may contribute to body composition improvements, broader, culturally responsive intervention strategies are necessary to effectively reduce body fat in this population. Future research should explore culturally tailored lifestyle interventions, including nutrition education and physical activity promotion, to address obesity and health disparities effectively among obese African American perimenopausal women.

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