Effects of Hypoxic Exercise on Metabolic Syndrome Indicators in the Elderly Population

This study examined the effects of an 8-week aerobic exercise program under hypoxic conditions (14.5% O₂) on metabolic and oxygen transport markers in elderly women at risk for metabolic syndrome. Participants were randomly assigned to four groups based on environment (normoxic or hypoxic) and exercise participation. Aerobic exercise was performed 3 times per week for 50 minutes at 60-70% of maximal heart rate. The hypoxic exercise group showed the greatest improvements in waist circumference, blood pressure, and triglycerides. Significant increases in EPO, VEGF, 2,3-DPG, and hemoglobin were also observed. These results suggest that hypoxic training effectively enhances metabolic and cardiovascular health in older adults, offering a low-impact but physiologically potent intervention. This study highlights the potential of hypoxic exercise in elderly fitness and chronic disease prevention.