Effects of Exercise on Physical Fitness and Anthropometric Variables in Ex-Crack Cocaine Users

Abstract

Introduction: Worldwide cocaine use in all its various forms is increasing; cocaine users exceeded 17 million in the world. In Brazil, this data is also alarming. A survey conducted in 2010 found that the country has more than 900,000 crack-cocaine users. Objective: To evaluate the effects of exercise on anthropometric variables and components of physical fitness in ex-crack cocaine users. Methods: Randomized controlled trial with 20 men, divided into exercise group (n=10) and control group (n=10), admitted to a detoxification center. We assessed the physical fitness components related to health (cardiorespiratory endurance, flexibility, muscular strength/endurance, and body composition) before and after the physical training program. Results: The exercise contributed to the maintenance of anthropometric variables, while the control group had an increased in total body fat and visceral fat. Regarding physical fitness, resistance training led to the increase of most variables studied, particularly strength and cardiorespiratory capacity. On the other hand, the VO 2 max and the strength of the sedentary subjects were reduced (P<0.05). Conclusion: The exercise showed beneficial effects on the components of physical fitness and maintenance of body composition.Keywords: crack cocaine; exercise; physical fitness; anthropometry. RESUMO Introdução: O consumo mundial de cocaína em suas diversas formas está aumentando; os usuários de cocaína ultrapassaram 17 milhões no mundo. No Brasil, esses dados também são alarmantes. Uma pesquisa realizada em

Characteristics and impact of physical activity interventions during substance use disorder treatment excluding tobacco: A systematic review

“…Next, 101 full texts were read and 74 were excluded (see Fig 1 ), which left with 27 studies. After screening the list of references of these 27 studies, 16 new articles were identified for a total of 43 [ 29 – 71 ].…”