Effects of Aerobic vs. Resistance Training on Metabolic Syndrome in Postmenopausal Women Using Wearable Technology

This study aims to evaluate the effects of aerobic versus resistance training on cardiometabolic adaptations in postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome, while introducing wearable-based continuous monitoring to enhance the precision of exercise exposure assessment and adherence tracking. A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 1,500 women diagnosed with metabolic syndrome who were assigned to aerobic training (n = 500), resistance training (n = 500), or a control group (n = 500). Participants completed supervised training for 12 weeks at 60–75% HRmax, three times per week, with exercise intensity, duration, and adherence monitored continuously using Fitbit Charge 5 and Polar H10 wearables. Clinical variables such as waist circumference, BMI, systolic and diastolic BP, fasting glucose, triglycerides, and HDL cholesterol were measured both pre-intervention and post-intervention. Paired t-test and Cohen's dz statistical methods were used for within-group analysis. Both exercise modalities demonstrated significant positive effects on metabolic variables (p < 0.001). Resistance training was effective at decreasing BMI, waist circumference, and fasting glucose, while aerobic training was more effective at decreasing blood pressure and triglycerides. This study adds to the literature by showing that the effects of modality-specific adaptations can be quantified more accurately when monitoring the intensity, compliance, and load of the exercise throughout the duration of the intervention. Overall, the findings indicate that both types of exercise improve metabolism, but via different mechanisms: whereas strength training improves glycemic regulation and body composition, aerobic exercise provides greater benefit for the heart and lipids. From a clinical and public health perspective, the integration of wearable-assisted monitoring provides a scalable approach for optimizing individualized exercise prescriptions and improving long-term adherence in high-risk postmenopausal populations.