The effects of combined training on bone metabolic markers in postmenopausal women

Objectives.-Exercise plays an important role in maximizing and subsequent reduction of the maximum rates of bone loss. The purpose of this study was to determine whether 16 weeks of combined exercise in postmenopausal would affect bone metabolism. Equipment and methods.-Eleven participants (53.1 [+/- 4.0] years) performed combined training that consisted of 60-75% of 1 RM, 2-3 sets of 10-15 repetitions in specific machines and 20-30 min of cardiovascular exercises using an step platform (55-80% FCreserve). Cross-linked N-terminal telopeptides of type I collagen (NTX) was used to analyze bone resorption and serum alkaline phos-phatase (ALP) to analyze bone absorption. Results.-After the training period, postmenopausal significantly (P<0.05) increase their muscle functionality (14% to 26.5%). Levels of NTX were not affected but there was a significant increase in bone synthesis (ALP: 12.5% to 15.9%), while there is no change in bone resorption. Combined training appears to be useful in improving total muscular performance and potentially in bone density. (C) 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.