Effects of Individualized Exercise on Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Exercise intervention is effective in alleviating the severity of metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, the results of previous studies on the effect of exercise on MetS have demonstrated considerable individual variability in response to a specific dose of exercise, which was attributed to the lack of a personalized approach to exercise prescription. It is essential to consider individual factors to enhance the effectiveness of exercise in addressing MetS. This scoping review assesses the effectiveness of individualized exercise on the risk factors associated with MetS. Various databases and articles were examined based on eligibility criteria and nine studies were chosen for this review. Personal and adjusted factors were predominantly analyzed to tailor exercise prescriptions to individual needs. This review proposes that personal factors can be classified into three categories: fixed factors, adaptation factors, and response factors, considering both clinical and exercise science perspectives. It also suggests that a two-way communication approach between specialists and individuals is more effective for prescribing exercise to address MetS compared to a one-way method. A one-way communication approach relies solely on an expert’s decision, even whether or not he or she fully considers a client’s lifestyle and preferences. If the individualized selection of exercise prescriptions is achieved through two-way communication between specialists and subjects, significant improvements can be expected in terms of both MetS severity and exercise adherence.

Keywords

• metabolic syndrome
• exercise
• sports medicine