Effects of Multicomponent Training on Metabolic and Functional Health of Older Women With Obesity: A Randomized Clinical Trial

INTRODUCTION: The aging global population demands strategies to mitigate inflammation and anabolic resistance impacting older adults' quality of life. This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of multicomponent training on obese older women to enhance muscle health and functionality. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of a 12-week multicomponent training program on physical and functional capacities, body composition, metabolic health, and whole body muscle quality. METHODS: Twenty-six older women (body mass index: >30 kg/m2) were randomized into an exercise (n = 13) or control group (n = 13). Exercise group participated in 12 weeks of supervised multicomponent training. Outcomes assessed pre- and postintervention including functional and physical capacities, body composition, waist circumference, lower limb muscle ultrasound, lipid profile, blood glucose, glucose tolerance, inflammatory cytokines, and type III procollagen peptide protein. Assessments were conducted blind to group allocation. Data were analyzed using R software. RESULTS: Exercise group showed significant reductions in body fat percentage (Hedges' g: -0.14) and enhanced functional performance (sit-to-stand test: Hedges' g: 1.21). Improvements in cardiometabolic health and inflammatory profiles were observed, reducing morbidity risk. Correlations between inflammatory markers, body composition, and functional outcomes suggested a nonlinear cytokine response. CONCLUSION: Multicomponent training effectively improved body composition and functional capacity in obese older women, with potential benefits for inflammatory and metabolic health. SIGNIFICANCE: These results underscore the importance of integrating exercise with dietary strategies to optimize outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05552677. FUNDING: Supported by FAPESP/2022/15078-4 and CnPq 303766/2022-0.