Effects of Aquajogging in Obese Adults: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Aim and Method. To examine in obese people the potential effectiveness of a six-week, two times weekly aquajogging program on body composition, fitness, health-related quality of life, and exercise beliefs. Fifteen otherwise healthy obese persons participated in a pilot study. Results. Total fat mass and waist circumference decreased 1.4 kg (P=.03) and 3.1 cm (P=.005), respectively. The distance in the Six-Minute Walk Test increased 41 meters (P=.001). Three scales of the Impact of Weight on Quality of Life-Lite questionnaire improved: physical function (P=.008), self-esteem (P=.004), and public distress (P=.04). Increased perceived exercise benefits (P=.02) and decreased embarrassment (P=.03) were observed. Conclusions. Aquajogging was associated with reduced body fat and waist circumference and improved aerobic fitness and quality of life. These findings suggest the usefulness of conducting a randomized controlled trial with long-term outcome assessments.