An interventional study of Step-Aerobics Group and Core Exercise Group in Cholesterol (Total and HDL) and Exercise, sponsored by Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University. Completed at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye). Open to female participants aged 25 Years to 45 Years, including healthy volunteers. Per ClinicalTrials.gov, last updated 2026-01-20.
Sponsored by Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University · Not applicable, Interventional, and Prevention
This study investigated the effects of a step-aerobics program versus a core exercise program on serum non-HDL-C levels and other cardiometabolic parameters in sedentary women with overweight/obesity.
Non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) is a key predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD), yet the comparative effects of different exercise modalities on this marker, particularly in high-risk populations, are not fully understood.
This study investigated the effects of a step-aerobics program versus a core exercise program on serum non-HDL-C levels and other cardiometabolic parameters in sedentary women with overweight/obesity.
Forty-five with overweight/obesity sedentary women were randomly assigned to either a step aerobics group (SAG; n=25) or a core exercise group (CEG; n=20). Both groups participated in supervised exercise sessions for 60 minutes, 4 days per week, for 16 weeks. Exercise intensity was prescribed and progressively increased from 60% to 70% of the heart rate reserve (HRR), determined by the Karvonen formula.
A 16-week supervised step-aerobics program is an effective intervention for improving the atherogenic lipid profile, particularly non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, in sedentary women with overweight or obesity.
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This study's enrollment of 45 is below the median of 60 across 2,118 interventional studies indexed under Motor Activity.
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The aerobic-step exercise training protocol included methodically planned 60-minute training sessions with the following components: Warm-up Phase (10 minutes): Low-intensity aerobic movements that are intended to slowly raise heart rate and ready the cardiovascular system for more vigorous exercise. This phase consisted of low stepping movements, arm circles, and dynamic stretching exercises. Main Exercise Phase (40 minutes): Aerobic-step exercise routines done on adjustable step platforms.Step height was individualized according to participant fitness level and progressed incrementally during the course of the intervention. Exercises consisted of simple step-ups, lateral steps, knee lifts, and complex choreographed movement patterns incorporating both lower and upper body movements. Music with suitable tempo was used to help maintain rhythm and motivation. Cool-down Phase (10 minutes): Progressive decrease in the intensity of exercise coupled
Other: Step-Aerobics Group · Other: Core Exercise Group
Warm-up Phase (10 minutes): Simple aerobic movements akin to the step group but with focus on core engagement and spinal mobility. This phase involved marching in place, slow torso rotations, and preparatory core engagement exercises. Main Exercise Phase (40 minutes): Strength and stability exercises targeting the core and integrating aerobic movements. Planks, modified crunches, bridge exercises, stability ball exercises, Pilates160 inspired movements, and functional core strengthening exercises were included in this phase. The aerobic element was preserved by using continuous movement patterns and circuit-style training to keep heart rate within the desired zone.
Other: Step-Aerobics Group · Other: Core Exercise Group
Step Aerobics: The primary goal is to improve cardiovascular health and burn calories. It mainly targets the lower body muscles, including the legs, glutes, and calves. The arms and core also engage to keep pace with the rhythm.
The primary goal is to stabilize and strengthen the body's center (abs, lower back, hips, and the area surrounding the spine). The focus is on resistance and balance rather than mobility. These exercises target the core region, including deep abdominal muscles, lower back muscles, the pelvic floor, and the diaphragm. They are generally more static (stationary) or controlled.
Serum Non-High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (Non-HDL-C) levels measured via enzymatic assay (mg/dL)on HDL levels in overweight or obese, sedentary individuals.
Fasting venous blood samples will be collected at baseline and after the 16-week intervention. Serum Non-HDL-C will be calculated as Total Cholesterol minus High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C) using enzymatic assay methodology. Results will be reported as mean ± standard deviation (SD) and percentage change (%) from baseline. Between-group differences in change scores will be compared using independent samples t-tests with significance level set at p \< 0.05.
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-Intervention (Week 16)
Serum Total Cholesterol levels measured via enzymatic assay (mg/dL)
Fasting venous blood samples will be collected at baseline and week 16. Total serum cholesterol will be measured using enzymatic assay. Data will be reported as mean ± SD and percentage change (%) from baseline. Bonferroni correction will be applied for multiple comparisons (adjusted α = 0.05/10).
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-Intervention (Week 16)
Serum Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C) levels measured via enzymatic assay (mg/dL)
Fasting venous blood samples will be collected at baseline and week 16. LDL-C will be measured using enzymatic assay. Results will be reported as mean ± SD and percentage change (%) from baseline. Statistical significance will be assessed using independent samples t-tests with Bonferroni correction applied (adjusted α = 0.05/10).
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-Intervention (Week 16)
Serum High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C) levels measured via enzymatic assay (mg/dL)
Fasting venous blood samples will be collected at baseline and week 16. HDL-C will be measured using enzymatic assay. Data will be reported as mean ± SD and percentage change (%) from baseline. Between-group comparisons will be performed using independent samples t-tests with Bonferroni correction (adjusted α = 0.05/10).
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-Intervention (Week 16)
Serum Triglycerides levels measured via enzymatic assay (mg/dL)
Fasting venous blood samples will be collected at baseline and week 16. Triglycerides will be measured using enzymatic assay. Results will be reported as mean ± SD and percentage change (%) from baseline. Statistical analysis will include independent samples t-tests with Bonferroni correction applied (adjusted α = 0.05/10).
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-Intervention (Week 16)
Body Mass Index (BMI) calculated from body weight and height (kg/m²)
Body weight (kg) and height (cm) will be measured at baseline and week 16 using calibrated scales and stadiometers. BMI will be calculated as weight (kg) divided by height (m²). Results will be reported as mean ± SD and absolute change from baseline. Between-group comparisons will be performed using independent samples t-tests.
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-Intervention (Week 16)
Waist Circumference measured at the midpoint between the iliac crest and the lowest rib (cm)
Waist circumference will be measured at baseline and week 16 using a non-stretchable measuring tape positioned at the midpoint between the iliac crest and the lowest rib margin, with participants standing upright. Measurements will be recorded to the nearest 0.1 cm. Data will be reported as mean ± SD and absolute change from baseline. Statistical analysis will include independent samples t-tests for between-group comparisons.
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-Intervention (Week 16)
Resting Heart Rate measured via validated heart rate monitors (beats per minute, bpm)
Resting heart rate will be measured at baseline and week 16 after participants have rested in a supine position for at least 5 minutes. Heart rate will be measured using validated heart rate monitors (Polar, Finland) placed on the chest. Results will be reported as mean ± SD and absolute change from baseline. Between-group differences will be compared using independent samples t-tests.
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-Intervention (Week 16)
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Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University