The Relationship of Static Core Training Methods Versus Traditional Step Aerobics

Abstract

In recent years, epidemics and developments in the field of virtual communication have left people with an inactive lifestyle. For this reason, exercises that include all kinds of physical activity, endurance, and strength training have an important role in the lives of people of different ages. The study aimed to find out the effects of the step aerobic exercise and static core training programs on body composition in sedentary females. Totally 30 sedentary volunteer females (Age: 37.03 ± 4.28 years, height: 1.62 ± .07 m, and body weight: 70.48 ± 18.21 kg) were separated into 3 groups randomly: 1) Step-aerobic exercise group (n=10), 2), Step-aerobic + Core training group (n=10), 3) Control group (n=10). Participants in the Step-aerobic exercise group and the Step-aerobic + Core training group performed one of the exercise programs in a gym for 10 weeks. The circumference and body composition measurements were taken before and after the 10-week period. As a result of the study, a significant decrease was observed in the subjects' body weights (Z=-2.803; p=.005) and body fat percentages (p=.000). Statistical significance was observed in body water level (Z=-1.988; p=.047) and muscle amount (Z=-2.809; p=.005) in static core groups. In the study, it was determined that visceral fat ratios decreased statistically in the step-aerobic (Z=-2.121; p=.034) and static core groups (Z=-2.384; p=.017). In both groups, there was a significant decrease in the circumference of both the upper right and left arm and the right and left upper calf (p<0.05). The results of the study suggest that the step-aerobic exercises and core training together enhance body composition and circumference in sedentary female individuals. Future studies might focus on the effect of step-aerobic and core training with exercises of varying intensity and number.