EFFECT OF RECREATIONAL RUNNING ON ENDURANCE AND MORPHOFUNCTIONAL STATUS IN WOMEN

Abstract

Aim. This paper aims to assess the effect of recreational running on endurance and morphofunctional status in women. Materials and methods. A baseline assessment of physical fitness in women was conducted using the Stage XII GTO tests (age 40–44 years), along with baseline anthropometric measurements, hemodynamic parameters, and hypoxia tolerance. These data were used to develop a health-enhancing program that optimally combines progressive exercise, adaptation patterns, and age-related changes in middle-aged women. Results. This study confirmed the efficacy of recreational running combined with strength, breathing, and joint exercises for enhancing endurance (specific effect) and improving overall health (non-specific effect). General endurance significantly increased, along with a significant decrease in heart rate, systolic and mean blood pressure, and a significant increase in myocardial oxygen supply and hypoxia tolerance. The observed reductions in body weight and body mass index were not statistically significant. Conclusion. After 24 weeks of the proposed recreational running program, the final measurements of general endurance and morphofunctional status in women confirmed its efficacy.