- Physical activity has long been established as a supplemental therapy for treating chronic illnesses. Aerobic, resistance, and combined resistance and aerobic training program may help alleviate the unfavorable metabolic complication associated with HIV and HAART by altering body composition and body fat distribution, as well as normalizing lipid profile.
- Aerobic training is important in HIV-infected patients because of potential to increase cardiovascular fitness and reduce body fat. One study examining the effects of aerobic training on body weight, body composition, and fatigue noted a decrease in body weight sum of skin folds, waist circumference and fatigue, while reporting increase aerobic fitness.
- In another study examining aerobic training in adults with lipodystrophy and dyslipidemia, a mean reduction of 12cm in visceral fat was noted, as well as a reduction in total cholesterol and fasting triglyceride and in increase in HDL cholesterol. Both of these studies suggest that aerobic training may reduce central body fat, which is important factor in reducing cardiovascular risk factors.
- Resistance training (RT) has the ability of increase lean body mass and reduce fat mass in individuals who have HIV.
- One notable study showed that participants in an eight week RT program significantly increased in their fat free mass while decreasing their fat mass. Another study examining the effects of RT on body composition showed a whole body lean mass increase of 2.5% and an 2.6% increase in trunk adipose mass.
- Today, due to medical advance and increased focus by the individuals on their well being, many individuals who are HIV+ are living normal lives. Exercise, healthy eating and physically active lifestyle is a way to maintain and improve their quality of life.
ACSM’s Journal, Certified News- Volume 19, Issue 2, April/May/June 2009