Comparison of the Effect of Resistance, Swimming, and Combination Training Patterns on Bone Density in Female Osteoporotic Rats

Introduction: The aim of the study was to compare the effects of resistance, swimming, and combined training patterns on L5 vertebral mineral density in osteoporotic rats. Methods: In this experimental study, 36 female Wistar rats, each weighing between 170-190 grams, were selected as samples. To verify the induction of osteoporosis, 12 rats were randomly divided into two groups: healthy and alcohol-injected (6 rats). Osteoporosis induction was induced through intraperitoneal injection of a saline solution combined with ethanol over a period of 3 weeks. 24 rats were randomly divided into 4 groups (6 rats): 1. Resistance training, 2. Swimming training, 3. Combined training, and 4. Control. Swimming training (90 minutes per day, 5 days in 12 weeks) and resistance protocol (5 days in 12 weeks, each session 8 sets with 8-12 repetitions of climbing the ladder) and the combined group performed resistance training in 4 sets with 8-12 repetitions of climbing the ladder and swimming training with half the duration of the swimming group. After 12 weeks, samples were collected from the spine and the density of L5 was evaluated using a DEXA machine. Data were analyzed using independent t-test, one-way ANOVA, and Tukey's test with a significance threshold of less than 0.05 in SPSS-16 (P<0.05). Results: In the intragroup comparison, resistance training and combined training significantly increased L5 density (P=0.00). In the intergroup comparison, L5 density of the combined group showed a significant increase compared to the training and control groups (P=0.00). The resistance group showed a significant increase in this variable compared to the swimming and control groups (P=0.00). Conclusion: Using combined exercise as a therapeutic approach can increase bone density; therefore, it serves as an effective strategy for improving osteoporosis.