Influence of Altitude-Simulated Aerobic Training on Estrogen Levels and Quality of Life in Urban Postmenopausal Women

Introduction Postmenopausal women are frequently affected by decreased levels of estrogen, which affects their quality of life (QoL) in terms of hot flashes, anxiety, and fatigue. Urban postmenopausal women are also faced with aggravating environmental and psychosocial characteristics. Simulated altitude aerobic training, conducted in a state of hypoxia, could have a positive effect on exercise benefits by influencing physiological and hormonal adaptations. Objective This study explores the influence of altitude-simulated aerobic training on estrogen levels and QoL in urban postmenopausal women. Methods A randomized controlled trial included 94 urban postmenopausal women aged 50–65 years, divided into hypoxic (altitude-simulated) and normoxic (regular aerobic exercise) groups for 12 weeks. Outcomes assessed included serum levels of estradiol and estrone, QoL (MENQOL questionnaire), aerobic capacity (VO2max), body composition, symptom severity (Kupperman Index), and psychological well-being. Results Estrogen levels had minimal non-significant alterations. QoL improved noticeably in both groups, particularly in the hypoxic group in relation to vasomotor symptoms and physical function. Hypoxic training increased VO2max (+3.6 vs. +2.3 mL/kg/min), hemoglobin level, sleep quality, and reduction of anxiety more than normoxic training. Body composition improved equally in both groups. Conclusion Altitude-simulated aerobic training effectively improves QoL, especially physical and vasomotor symptoms, in urban postmenopausal women, despite minimal hormonal changes. This training modality can be recommended to enhance physical function, sleep, and psychological wellbeing in this population.