Healthy profile in physically active adults according to training patterns and physiological condition
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v75.118163Keywords:
Body composition, resistance training, high-intensity interval training, heart rateAbstract
Introduction. Training patterns in physically active adults influence body composition and physiological responses; however, uncertainty remains regarding which combinations of these variables define a physiologically healthy profile under free-practice conditions, where exercise intensity and stimulus control are not standardized.
Objective. To determine the body composition factors, physiological responses, and training characteristics associated with a physiologically healthy profile in physically active adults engaged in different exercise modalities.
Methodology. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 973 participants. Sociodemographic data, training variables, and physiological indicators were obtained through smartwatches. BMI and body fat percentage were measured using standardized anthropometry and bioelectrical impedance. Kruskal–Wallis tests and Spearman correlations were applied. A binary logistic regression model was adjusted for age, gender, and training variables (p < 0.05).
Results. No significant differences were found in BMI (p = 0.298), body fat percentage (p = 0.135), or heart rate parameters across yoga, strength training, HIIT, and cardio. Session duration (OR = 3.91; p < 0.001), weekly training frequency (OR = 1.35; p = 0.003), daily water intake (OR = 1.42; p = 0.043), and female sex (OR = 4.84; p < 0.001) significantly increased the likelihood of a healthy profile. Exercise modality showed no independent effects.
Discussion. The similarity across modalities suggests that, under free-practice conditions, training volume, hydration, and internal load influence physiological adaptation more than the type of exercise performed. Body fat percentage was a better discriminator than BMI.
Conclusions. Weekly training volume, hydration, and female sex were associated with a physiologically healthy profile, whereas exercise modality was not a determining factor.
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