Cardiovascular conditioning from a salutogenic perspective

Regular physical activity can improve cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, mobility and physical endurance, as well as promote social interaction and a sense of belonging. This study analyzed cardiovascular fitness variables and Sense of Coherence (SOC) among older users of SUS receiving care in Primary Health Care. This was a quasi-experimental, longitudinal and quantitative study with a single-group pre- and post-intervention design. Participants were 19 older adults who underwent a Body Practices and Physical Activity program lasting 26 weeks, conducted twice a week for approximately 60 minutes per session. Pre- and post-intervention assessments of body mass index (IMC), waist-to-hip ratio (RCQ) and marching in place were performed, along with administration of an adapted questionnaire to assess dimensions of SOC. The results indicated 100% affirmative responses in the SOC dimensions assessed, reductions in IMC (27.3±3.83 to 26.8±3.56/ p-value 0.003) and RCQ (0.85±0.06 to 0.82±0.07/p-value 0.044), and increased performance in marching in place (25.0±6.77 to 38.6±7.55/p < 0.001). RCQ also showed moderate negative correlations with pre- and post-intervention IMC (r = −0.611; p < 0.005 and r = −0.562; p < 0.01, respectively) and with post-intervention marching in place (r = −0.627; p < 0.001). It is concluded that body practices may contribute to maintaining autonomy, quality of life and participation of older adults in health promotion activities.