Efficacy of moderate-intensity walking provided feedback by ECE PEDO on abdominal fat in overweight and obese women: A randomized, exercise study

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of walking with Equipment for Clever Exercise (ECE PEDO) compared to supervised, moderate-intensity, aerobic, treadmill walking exercise in overweight and obese women. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between September 2014 and January 2015, 28 women with overweight and obesity were assigned to two groups: supervised treadmill walking (Group 1, n=14) or walking with ECE PEDO (Group 2, n=14). The target heart rate (HR) corresponding to values of 50 to 70% VO2max were determined by submaximal treadmill test. Group 1 was instructed walking at their target HR on treadmill. The number of steps in a min corresponding to the target HR was calculated by a criterion pedometer and Group 2 was instructed walking in this step range recorded to the ECE PEDO giving audible feedback. Before and after a 12-week exercise program, all participants were evaluated by Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC). Ultrasonographic visceral fat thickness (VFT) and ergospirometric VO2max. RESULTS: The VFT decreased in both walking groups in association with reduced WC and weight loss and also significant increases in the VO2max after exercise intervention (p<0.05). The VFT decreased only in women by walking with ECE PEDO compared to the other group (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Our study results showed that both moderate-intensity exercise provided by a novel pedometer and supervised treadmill walking showed significant improvements in abdominal obesity and VO2max.