Modulation of cardiovascular autonomic functions in obese persons in response to short-term isometric skeletal muscle contraction

ABSTRACT

This study was designed to investigate the modulation of cardiovascular autonomic functions in obese persons in response to short-term isometric skeletal muscle contraction by monitoring heart rate variability [HRV]. Fifty male non-smoker medical students were divided into two groups control and obese according to body mass index [BMI] and the waist measurement. Parameters of heart rate variability were recorded by Power Lab instrument at rest and after two-minute sustained isometric contraction. Our results revealed signifi cant relations between HRV and obesity indices [BMI and waist circumference]. Higher values of obesity indices were signifi cantly associated with autonomic alteration i.e. lower sympathetic and parasympathetic activities