The Combination of Aerobic and Resistance Exercise Induces Weight Loss via the PGC-1α/Irisin/UCP-1 Pathway

Obesity is a modern disease and the cause is quite complicated. This study explores the effects of aerobic and resistance exercise on weight loss and their relationship with the PGC-1 alpha/Irisin/UCP-1 signaling pathway. First, we selected 52 obese students for aerobic and resistance exercise. Second, we established an obesity rat model, and then subjected them to 12 weeks of aerobic and resistance exercise. The body weights and blood lipid contents of all the subjects were measured, and mRNA and protein expressions were determined via real-time PCR and western blot. In obese students, aerobic exercise and the combination of aerobic and resistance exercise significantly reduced body weight and blood lipid levels. In obese model rats, aerobic and resistance exercise significantly reduced the body weight, blood lipid levels, gastrocnemius muscle fat, and mRNA and protein expression of PGC-1 alpha, hisin, and UCP-1. Furthermore, the combined effects of aerobic and resistance exercise were similar to those of prolonged aerobic exercise in both human subjects and model rats. The mechanism of weight loss via aerobic and resistance exercise may be related to the PGC-1 alpha/Irisin/UCP-1 pathway, and the combination of aerobic and resistance exercise may be a more suitable weight loss option for obese patients.