The effect of the order of performing compound exercises on body composition and health-related physical fitness in obese men in their 20s

This study performed a complex exercise program including aerobic exercise and resistance exercise in different orders for 12 weeks targeting chronically obese men in their 20s. The purpose is to provide basic data on efficient exercise methods to improve obesity by identifying differences in endurance and body composition. Subjects (BMI ≥ 25 ㎏/㎡, body fat ≥ 30%) were divided into two groups: aerobic exercise followed by resistance exercise (AR group) and resistance exercise followed by aerobic exercise (RA group). Repeated two-way ANOVA was used, and post hoc analysis was conducted when necessary. The results showed that the AR group significantly improved body fat mass, skeletal muscle mass, and body fat percentage, while the RA group showed a significant increase only in skeletal muscle mass. Both groups improved health-related fitness factors, but the AR group had greater improvements in flexibility and cardiorespiratory endurance. Overall, complex exercise positively affects obese young men’s body composition and fitness, with aerobic exercise followed by resistance exercise being more effective. Future research should address limitations like dietary and psychological variables and expand the diversity of subjects.