Effects of the Strong Hearts, Healthy Communities Intervention on Functional Fitness of Rural Women.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

The purposes of these analyses were to determine whether Strong Hearts, Healthy Communities (SHHC), a multilevel, cardiovascular disease risk reduction program for overweight, sedentary rural women aged 40 or older, led to improved functional fitness, and if changes in fitness accounted for weight loss associated with program participation.

Methods

Sixteen rural communities were randomized to receive the SHHC intervention or a control program. Both programs involved groups of 12-16 participants. The SHHC program met 1 hour twice a week for 24 weeks where participants engaged in aerobic exercise and progressive strength training. Program content addressed diet and social and environmental influences on heart-healthy behavior. The control group met 1 hour each month fo

SUBMITTER: Pullyblank K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6744363 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature