Influence of endurance and endurance–strength training on mineral status in women with abdominal obesity: a randomized trial

Abstract Background: Obesity and exercise are associated with disturbances of mineral metabolism, which can lead to physical inefficiency. Our study aimed to compare the influence of endurance and endurance–strength training on mineral status in women with abdominal obesity. Methods: Thirty-eight abdominally obese women were randomized into groups A and B and underwent 3 months long training: group A—endurance training and group B—endurance–strength training. Anthropometric and body composition measurements were carried out and the Graded Exercise Test was performed. Blood, urine, and hair samples were collected for mineral content analysis. Results: Endurance training decreased serum Fe and Zn concentrations as well as hair Zn and Cu content, and increased urine Zn concentration. Endurance–strength training increased serum Mg and Cu concentrations, decreased serum Fe and Zn concentrations, decreased hair Ca and Mg content, and increased urine Ca and Zn concentrations. After training, serum and urine Fe concentration was higher in group A, while urine Ca concentration was higher in group B. A number of correlations was found. Conclusions: Both endurance and endurance–strength training have a significant effect on mineral metabolism in obese women; the favorable effects of endurance–strength exercise predominate in iron, magnesium, zinc, and copper balance.