Types of physical activity in obese senior people with metabolic syndrome

Abstract

An active lifestyle can prevent most chronic diseases. The objective of this study is to describe the preferences of types of physical activities in a population with high risk for cardiovascular disease, which will optimize professional advice in similar populations. The sample consisted of 326 senior, obese people with the metabolic syndrome from the PREDIMED-Plus study in Málaga, who at the baseline visit were asked for types of physical activities they performed. The answers were standardized and classified. 47.5% (155) perform brisk walking. After walking, the "Calisthenics, light or moderate effort" is the most frequent type of exercise done. In conclusion people who refer to perform some type of exercise, prefer activities of light intensity to moderate, simple and / or directed by an instructor. Some participants report practicing a more intense and complex physical activity, which may be a feasible recommendation for people with similar characteristics.