The comparisons of respiratory muscle strength and six-minute walk distance between female obesity class I and normal-weight

Abstract

Obesity is an important problem that affects respiratory system and walking. The aim of this study was to compare respiratory muscle strength and six-minute walk distance (6MWD) between female obesity class I and normal-weight aged 18-25 years old. Thirty-four subjects were divided into 2 groups, obesity group (BMI = 25.0 - 29.9 kg/m²) and normal-weight (BMI = 18.5 - 22.9 kg/m²). All subjects were measured for maximal inspiratory pressure (PImax) and maximal expiratory pressure (PEmax) using MicroRPM^®, and 6MWD using six minute walk test. The results indicated that PImax of the obese group was significantly higher than the normal-weight group (P < 0.05). However, PEmax was not significant difference between the two groups. 6MWD in the obese group was significantly shorter than the normal-weight group (P < 0.05). This study reveals that inspiratory muscle strength in obesity class I is higher than normal-weight. This could be due to adaptation of skeletal muscle fibers. In addition, the 6MWD in obese female was shorter than normal-weight female.

                Keywords:    Obesity class I, Respiratory muscle strength, Six-minute walk distance