The Effect of a 16-Week Ja-Jun Dance Program on the Risk Factors of Coronary Artery Disease in Hypertensive Women

• Published in: Journal of aging and physical activity 2008-07, Vol.16, p.S180-S180
• Main Authors: Kwak, J, Kim, H-MCJ, Park, C, Nho, H
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1063-8652

It is generally known that participation in a regular exercise program is effective in preventing a decrease in functional capacity associated with aging as well as reducing the risk factors for coronary artery diseases (CAD). However, because many older adults have avoided regular exercise because of exaggerated fears of exercise-related injury, safe exercise programs are required for older population. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of Jajun-dance program on the risk factors of CAD in hypertensive women. Thirteen sedentary women (55.8 plus or minus 5.2 yrs) were recruited for this study. Subjects had essential hypertensive. All subjects completed a 16-week Jajun-Dance program. Blood sugar level (FBG), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and visceral fat area (VFA) were measured. The 40-min Jajun-Dance program was performed 3 times per week. Exercise was maintained at an intensity corresponding to rating of perceived exertion (RPE) 13-15. The results showed that FBG, SBP, and DBP were significantly decreased after the Jajun-Dance program. TG and VFA tended to be decreased, but there were no significant differences. It is concluded that Jajun-Dance may be a safe exercise program to reduce coronary risk factors in hypertensive middle-aged women as well as lower blood pressure.