To assess the effects of resistance training using body weight as a load (RT) on visceral fat and body composition in young women (Mean age 20.8 year, N=24). Subjects were divided into RT group (N=8), Walk group (N=8) and Control group (N=8). The RT group trained six times per week and Walk group walked briskly over 10,000 steps/day four times per week for six weeks. We evaluated body composition and visceral fat using anthropometry, dual energy x-ray absorptiometry and ultrasonography, at baseline and after 6 weeks of training. RT group showed significant changes in the following measurements; fat mass, waist and hip circumferences, and preperitoneal fat thickness as indicator of visceral fat accumulation, abdominal, thigh and upper arm muscle thickness. Walk group showed significant changes only in abdominal and thigh subcutaneous fat thickness. Control group did not show significant changes in all measurements. Relatively short-term resistance training using body weight as a load was effective to improve body composition and fat distribution, and RT indicated different change from walking exercise.

DESCENTE SPORTS SCIENCE Vol.27/THE DESCENTE AND ISHIMOTO MEMORIAL FOUNDATION FOR THE PROMOTION SPORTS SCIENCE