NCT06445842 · Loma Linda University
Short-term Circuit Training on Muscle Mass and Quality of Life in Sedentary Postmenopausal Women
What this study is about
The purpose of this graduate student research study is to provide healthcare professionals with evidence of the potential of circuit strength training in improving the physical and psychosocial well-being of postmenopausal women.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this graduate student research study is to provide healthcare professionals with evidence of the potential of circuit strength training in improving the physical and psychosocial well-being of postmenopausal women.
Interventions
OTHER
Exercise
The protocol involves a 10-minute warm-up and cool-down session, followed by two sets of high-intensity circuit training exercises (bench press, squats, overhead press, calf raising, barbell row, deadlifts) that last 12 minutes each (6 stations×2sets). There will be a 3-minute break between the exercise sets. The heart rate required during the exercise will be between 70-90% of their maximum capacity and a pre-scale rate of 7.5. The intensity of the exercise will be progressive each two weeks, commencing at 50% of their one rep max and increasing to 80% in their last week. During the initial phase, participants will be required to complete eight reps for each exercise. We will encourage them to increase their intensity level every two weeks.
OTHER
No exercise
This group will need to maintain their sedentary lifestyle without changing their activity levels or diet
Primary outcome measures
sleep quality
Time frame: change between baseline and eight weeks
The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index will be used to measure any trouble sleeping.
IL-6 Biomarker
Time frame: change between baseline and eight weeks
Inflammatory biomarker IL-6 will be tested using a blood draw.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Females aged between 50 and 75 years.
- Self-reported postmenopausal status (i.e., cessation of menstruation for a minimum of 12 months).
- Physically capable of participating in an exercise intervention.
- No engagement in structured resistance or aerobic training programs in the six months preceding the study.
Exclusion criteria
- Classification as moderate and highly active on the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) (600-3000 MET-minutes/week for "moderate" and higher than 3000 MET-minutes/week for "high" score)
- Diagnosis of any health condition that constitutes a contraindication to physical exercise (e.g., significant cardiovascular disease, orthopedic or neuromuscular restrictions impacting exercise performance or safety).
- Regular use of medication with the potential to affect study outcomes (e.g., corticosteroids, immunosuppressants).
Where
- Loma Linda, California
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Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations