Abstract

Introduction: Although exercise is known to improve vascular outcomes associated with weight loss, there is limited evidence of whether similar benefits occur in the absence of weight loss. Objective: To examine the effects of 6-week concurrent training on pulse wave velocity (PWV) and flow-mediated dilation (FMD) in adults who were responders and nonresponders to ‘weight loss’ to exercise. Methodology: A secondary analysis of an experimental randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted in 60 adult participants (BMI: 29.7 kg/m2) reported into 3 groups; weight loss responders’ (WLRET, n=14), ‘weight loss nonresponders to exercise’ (WLNRET, n=14), and a control group (CG, n=30). Participants underwent a 6-week intervention consisting of three sessions per week of concurrent high-intensity interval and resistance training where delta changes (Δ) of pulse wave velocity (ΔPWV) and flow-mediated dilation (ΔFMD) were reported. Results: After intervention and comparing groups WLRET vs. WLNRET, there were similar significant changes in outcomes; ΔPWV (˗0.9 vs. ˗0.8 m/s-1), ΔFMD (6.5 vs. 6.5%), both outcomes different vs. CG P<0.05. Likewise, the prevalence of responders and nonresponders was comparable ΔPWV (Rs: 78.5%; NRs 21.4%) and ΔFMD (Rs: 57.1%; NRs 42.8%). Despite significant superior ΔDBP decreases in WLNRET (˗5.5 mmHg vs. ˗1.3 mmHg, P<0.05), no other differences were detected for other outcomes. Conclusions: Adult participants classified as weight loss nonresponders (WLNRET) also experienced reductions in ΔPWV and increased the ΔFMD in similar physiological adaptations to WLRET. These findings are supported by additional benefits observed in WLNRET, including reductions in blood pressure and improvements in vascular function.