Effects of Walking Exercise Intensities on Fatigue, Serum Lipids and Immune Function among Middle-Aged Women

Lee, Jung In

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to confirm the effects of a moderate and fast walking exercise program on middle-aged women's fatigue, serum lipids and immunoglobulins. METHOD: A non-equivalent control group pretest-posttest design was used for this study. The experiment was conducted for 10 weeks from May 17th to July 25th, 2004 with 44 middle-aged women, consisting of 16 for the moderate walking group, 15 for the fast walking group and 13 for the control group. RESULT: Walking exercise at both a moderate and fast speed was effective in middle-aged women in reducing fatigue and serum lipids. It was also revealed that extended periods of exercise was more effective in decreasing fatigue while for reducing serum lipid, high intensity exercise was more effective. In this study, serum immunoglobulins were reduced after moderate and fast walking exercise but its cause was not fully understood so further research is needed. CONCLUSION: This study helps us recognize the importance of regular exercise and promotes motivation to exercise for a healthy life among middle-aged women.