NCT05351476 · Florida State University
Exercise Training and Fat Metabolism in Postmenopausal Women
What this study is about
Adipose tissue turnover plays a critical role in body weight maintenance, and obesity is underscored by the dysregulated balance between fat breakdown and synthesis. Although there are clear health-related benefits of physical activity, little is known about how resistance exercise, as opposed to endurance exercise, can reduce the risk of metabolic disorders, particularly in women.
View original scientific description
Adipose tissue turnover plays a critical role in body weight maintenance, and obesity is underscored by the dysregulated balance between fat breakdown and synthesis. Although there are clear health-related benefits of physical activity, little is known about how resistance exercise, as opposed to endurance exercise, can reduce the risk of metabolic disorders, particularly in women. The goal of the proposed study is to investigate the effectiveness of resistance training to improve basal and stimulated fat metabolism in postmenopausal women with obesity and pre-diabetes, potentially serving as a viable and practical approach to prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Resistance Exercise
200 Kcal worth of weightlifting, 3 times/week for 12 weeks
BEHAVIORAL
Endurance Exercise
200 Kcal worth of treadmill walking, 3 times/week for 12 weeks
Primary outcome measures
Change from baseline subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue glycerol concentration at 12 weeks
Time frame: 12 weeks of resistance or endurance training
Changes in physical activity (walking)-stimulated lipolysis will be assessed as measured by glycerol concentration in dialysate samples from subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue utilizing a powerful in-vivo microdialysis methodology
Change from baseline gluteal adipose tissue glycerol concentration at 12 weeks
Time frame: 12 weeks of resistance or endurance training
Changes in physical activity (walking)-stimulated lipolysis will be assessed as measured by glycerol concentration in dialysate samples from gluteal adipose tissue utilizing a powerful in-vivo microdialysis methodology
Change from baseline whole-body lipolysis at 12 weeks
Time frame: 12 weeks of resistance or endurance training
Whole body lipolysis will be measured using whole body rate of appearance of 2H5-glycerol in blood samples collected at rest, during walking exercise, and for 120 minutes after exercise.
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
- Postmenopausal (50-75 yrs.)
- Obese (BMI 30-50 kg/m2)
- Prediabetes (HbA1c 5.7 - 6.4% or fasting blood glucose 100 to 125 mg/dL, or 2hr OGTT blood glucose 140 to 199 mg/dL)
- Sedentary (not performing purposeful exercise training more than 20 minutes per day twice a week)
- Non-smokers
- No hormone replacement therapy for at least the past two years.
Exclusion criteria
- Engaging in purposeful resistance training or endurance training (\> 20min/day, \> 2 days/week)
- Resting blood pressure above 140 mmHg systolic or 90 mmHg diastolic
- Type 1 or type 2 diabetes
- Medical problems in which exercise is contraindicated, such as chronic infections
- History of, or currently presentation with, cancer, cardiovascular or respiratory disease
- Uncontrolled thyroid dysfunction, liver or renal dysfunction
- Taking any medication affecting lipid metabolism
- Musculoskeletal disease or injury that would otherwise prevent engagement in resistance and endurance training
- Smokers and those with diagnosed eating disorders
Where
- Tallahassee, Florida
Collaborators
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), Pennington Biomedical Research Center, University of Arkansas
Related conditions & keywords
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 Apr 13, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations