Effects of 8-weeks combined training (strength and endurance) on serum levels of AGRP, GH and changes in appetite and body mass in postmenopausal women

Introduction: Menopause is associated with physiological, mental and social changes such as depression, weight gain and appetite disturbances. AGRP is a neuropeptide released from Arcuate Neucleus of hypothalamus which plays an important role in energy balance, weight control and feeding. This study was performed with aim to investigate the effects of 8-weeks combined training (strength and endurance) on agouti � related protein (AGRP), GH and changes in appetite and body mass in postmenopausal women. Methods: This clinical trial study was performed on 40 Postmenopausal women who were retired from Growth and Education referred to Shahrekork Ghahremani Center in 2014. They were randomly placed into four groups, strength + endurance (S+E), endurance + strength (E+S), circulation concurrent (CI) and control groups. Training program was done eight week, 3 times per week. Endurance training was performed on a cycle ergometer and strength training involved several upper and lower body workout. Data was analyzed by SPSS software (version 16) and dependent-t test and ANOVA. PResults: After 8 weeks of combined training, there was significant difference between four groups in terms of body mass (P=0.017) and BMI (P=0.023). But, no significant difference was observed between four groups in AGRP (P=0.07) and GH (P=0.35). Despite the increase in feeling of fullness in the group S + E (P<0.05), there was no significant differences between four groups (P=0.4). Conclusion: Combined exercise training with every order could lead to improved body composition. But training with different combination during 8 weeks cannot significantly change appetite, GH and AGRP levels in elderly people; so, longer training period is suggested.