Effect of physical activity on free fatty acids, insulin resistance, and blood pressure in obese older women

[Purpose] Obesity is characterized by a progressive increase in body fat accompanied by insulin resistance (IR) and elevated blood pressure (BP), and presents significant health risks, particularly in aged individuals. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of physical activity (PA) on free fatty acid (FFA) levels, IR, and BP in obese older women. [Methods] Twenty-three participants were randomly assigned to either the control group (CON, n = 11) or the physical activity group (PA, n = 12). The PA group was provided with a target of achieving >7,000 steps/ day for 5 days each week. Body composition, FFA levels, IR, and BP were measured at pre- and post- of the 12-week intervention. [Results] The analysis revealed a statistically significant interaction between FFA (p < 0.01), IR (p < 0.01), and SBP (p < 0.001). FFA (p < 0.5), IR (p < 0.5), and systolic blood pressure (SBP) (p < 0.01) were significantly decreased in the PA group compared to those in the CON group, which showed no significant changes in FFA, IR, and SBP. [Conclusion] PA significantly decreased FFA, IR, and SBP in older women with obesity. Therefore, PA is an effective intervention for the prevention and management of obesity and cardiovascular diseases in obese older women.