[Purpose] The aim of the reported research was to investigate the effects of regular
aerobic exercise on cartilage oligomeric matrix protein and oxidative DNA damage in obese,
elderly females. [Subjects and Methods] Sixteen class I obese, elderly females, according
to World Health Organization criteria, were randomly and equally assigned to a control
group (n=8) or an exercise group (n=8). The exercise group participated in exercise
sessions of 60 minutes per day, 3 days per week, for a period of 8 weeks. [Results] After
aerobic exercise intervention, weight, body mass index, body fat, waist circumference, and
DNA damage (Tail moment) were significantly decreased, compared with baseline values. In
contrast, serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein levels were not significantly
different among any groups or time-points. [Conclusion] Regular aerobic exercise may be
effective for reducing obesity-induced high DNA damage levels in obese females, without
causing the deformation or degradation of lower extremity articular cartilage.