The effect of aerobic and resistance exercise on markers of atherosclerosis. A narrative review of meta-analyses and systematic reviews.
Abstract
Background: Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory vascular disease with lipid metabolism abnormalities, serves as a major pathological foundation for ischemic coronary heart disease (CHD). As lifestyle-related habits transform to sedentarism and unhealthy eating, the incidence of atherosclerosis increases. The beneficial impact of physical activity on the cardiovascular system is well-documented and widely acknowledged. Major health organisations strongly recommend regular participation in aerobic exercise for individuals to reduce all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality and morbidity, whereas resistance exercise is suggested with caution.
Method and Material: A literature search of the PubMed and Scopus databases was performed where 9 meta-analyses were retrieved, published in the English language from the past 10 years. This narrative review aims to evaluate the latest scientific evidence regarding the role of aerobic and/or resistance exercise in relation to atherosclerosis development, through the evaluation of its effect on lipids, and inflammatory markers.
Results: The findings of the studies summarised here are inconsistent concerning which type of exercise exerts the maximum effect on atherosclerotic biomarkers. There is a moderate level of evidence suggesting that a combination of aerobic and resistance exercise is likely to provide the greatest benefit.
Conclusions: Nevertheless, minimising sedentary behaviour on a population level, lowers the risk of several major chronic diseases, thereby decreasing healthcare costs. Thus, effective interventions to increase physical activity levels or reduce sedentary behaviour should be implemented.
Article Details
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Bokou, N.-M., Dimitriadis, N., Arnaoutis, G., & Panagiotakos, D. (2025). The effect of aerobic and resistance exercise on markers of atherosclerosis. A narrative review of meta-analyses and systematic reviews. Health & Research Journal, 11(1), 83–93. https://doi.org/10.12681/healthresj.38526
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