Effects of strength training on physical fitness and perceived health in women with endometriosis.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of an 8 weeks functional strength training program on physical performance, pain perception, and quality of life in women with endometriosis.

METHODS

Sixty-four women with endometriosis participated and were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (age: 37.0 [6.00] years, weight: 65.61 [11.35] kg, and height 1.63 [0.05] m) or a control group (age: 37.37 [6.52] years, weight: 66.36 [16.58] kg, and height 1.66 [0.05] m). The experimental group completed an 8 weeks strength training program consisting of two weekly sessions. Physical performance was assessed using the squat jump and handgrip strength tests, and quality of life was measured using a questionnaire.

RESULTS

A significant group × time interaction was observed for physical performance (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.37), including handgrip strength (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.26) and squat jump performance (F[1,60] = 61.16, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.24). Handgrip strength increased from 26.28 (3.96) to 28.85 (3.83) kg and squat jump performance from 18.53 (4.43) to 21.22 (4.21) cm in the experimental group, whereas no significant changes were observed in the control group. Pain perception and quality of life also improved significantly in the experimental group, with no significant changes in the control group.

CONCLUSION

The experimental group demonstrated notable gains in muscular strength and lower limb power, suggesting improved neuromuscular function, greater functional autonomy, and reduced physical limitations in daily activities. Additionally, a reduction in pain perception and an enhancement in health-related quality of life were observed.