Longitudinal study on the impact of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise on VO2max and depression symptoms in late menopausal women

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Introduction To evaluate the effects of a 12-month moderate-intensity aerobic exercise program on VO2max, depression symptoms, and secondary health outcomes in late menopausal women. Methods This is a 12-month longitudinal randomised controlled trial (RCT) to assess the influence of a 12-month moderate-intensity aerobic exercise program on cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) and depressive symptoms in postmenopausal women. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group, participating in structured aerobic exercise, or a control group, continuing their usual activities with no structured exercise. Randomisation will be age-stratified and stratified by baseline severity of depression to have equally sized groups. The 12-month duration is selected in order to detect long-term effects, since shorter interventions would likely have smaller effect sizes for VO2max and depression. The study will be conducted according to the CONSORT statement guidelines for RCTs to promote methodological thoroughness. Results Participants showed a significant increase in VO2max (+2.9 ml · kg−1 · min−1) and a 43% reduction in depression scores by 12 months. Physical activity rose markedly, sleep quality improved (PSQI score dropped from 8.5 to 6.2), and quality of life enhancements were noted across multiple menopause-related domains. BMI modestly decreased, and greater improvements were observed in younger participants and those with more severe baseline depression. Conclusions Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise is a safe, accessible, and effective intervention to enhance physical fitness and psychological well-being in late menopausal women, with added benefits for sleep, weight, and quality of life.