Aerobic exercise practice among adult women as a health education strategy: a descriptive study
Aerobic exercise and health in adult women
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29059/educiencia.v12i1.310Keywords:
health, exercise, diet, adult womenAbstract
The objective of the present research was to characterize the health, dietary, and exercise habits of adult women participating in aerobic dance (Zumba) sessions in municipal parks, and to describe differences in these habits based on weekly exercise frequency and the specific park where the activity took place. A non-experimental, cross sectional study with a descriptive-comparative scope was conducted. Data were collected from 32 women aged 30 to 65 using non-probability convenience sampling across two municipal parks. Information included anthropometric, clinical, and dietary data obtained via questionnaires and direct measurements; analysis was performed using software. Results showed that the group with higher exercise frequency had a greater proportion of women who were aware of their glucose levels and had recently undergone biochemical testing compared to the lower frequency group. No appreciable differences in weight or height were observed between the groups. Dietary patterns showed high intake of fruits and vegetables, with room for improvement regarding legume consumption. Regarding originality, the study provides local evidence on early prevention indicators (glucose awareness and monitoring) within a community setting, which can inform the design of educational interventions integrated with physical activity. The study has limitations, including a small convenience sample and a cross-sectional, self-reported design; given its descriptive nature, comparisons between groups are presented without inferring statistical association or causality.
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Accepted 2026-08-31
Published 2026-10-15
