Skip to main content
Log in

Blood Lipid and Lipoprotein Adaptations to Exercise

A Quantitative Analysis

  • Review Article
  • Published:
Sports Medicine Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Dose-response relationships between exercise training volume and blood lipid changes suggest that exercise can favourably alter blood lipids at low training volumes, although the effects may not be observable until certain exercise thresholds are met. The thresholds established from cross-sectional literature occur at training volumes of 24 to 32km (15 to 20 miles) per week of brisk walking or jogging and elicit between 1200 to 2200 kcal/wk. This range of weekly energy expenditure is associated with 2 to 3 mg/dl increases in high-density lipoprotein- cholestrol (HDL-C) and triglyceride (TG) reductions of 8 to 20 mg/dl. Evidence from cross-sectional studies indicates that greater changes in HDL-C levels can be expected with additional increases in exercise training volume. HDL-C and TG changes are often observed after training regimens requiring energy expenditures similar to those characterised from cross-sectional data. Training programmes that elicit 1200 to 2200 kcal/wk in exercise are often effective at elevating HDL-C levels from 2 to 8 mg/dl, and lowering TG levels by 5 to 38 mg/dl. Exercise training seldom alters total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDLC). However, this range of weekly exercise energy expenditure is also associated with TC andLDL-C reductions when they are reported. The frequency and extent to which most of these lipid changes are reported are similar in both genders, with the exception of TG. Thus, for most individuals, the positive effects of regular exercise are exerted on blood lipids at low training volumes and accrue so that noticeable differences frequently occur with weekly energy expenditures of 1200 to 2200 kcal/wk. It appears that weekly exercise caloric expenditures that meet or exceed the higher end of this range are more likely to produce the desired lipid changes. This amount of physical activity, performed at moderate intensities, is reasonable and attainable for most individuals and is within the American College of Sports Medicine’s currently recommended range for healthy adults.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Institutional subscriptions

Table I
Table II

Similar content being viewed by others

References

  1. Fletcher G, Blair S, Blumenthal C, et al. Benefits and recommendations for physical activity programs for all Americans: a statement for health professionals by the Committee on Exercise and Cardiac Rehabilitation of the Council on Clinical Cardiology, American Heart Association. Circulation 1992; 86: 340–4

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  2. Durstine JL, Crouse SF, Moffatt R. Lipids in exercise and sports. In: Driskell J, Wolinsky I, editors. Energy-yielding macronutrients and energy metabolism in sports nutrition. Vol 1. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press, 2000: 87–117

    Google Scholar 

  3. Durstine JL, Haskell W: Effects of exercise training on plasma lipids and lipoproteins. In: Holloszy J, editor. Exercise and sports science reviews. Philadelphia (PA): Williams and Wilkins, 1994: 477–521

    Google Scholar 

  4. Pate R, Pratt M, Blair S. Physical activity and public health. JAMA 1995; 273: 402–7

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  5. Wood P, Haskell W, Stern M, et al. Plasma lipoprotein distributions in male and female runners. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1977; 301: 748–63

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  6. Martin R, Haskell W, Wood P. Blood chemistry and lipid profiles of elite distance runners. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1977; 301: 346–60

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  7. Hartung G, Foreyt J, Mitchell R, et al. Relation of diet to high-density- lipoprotein cholesterol in middle-aged marathon runners, joggers, and inactive men. N Engl J Med 1980; 302: 357–61

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  8. Lakka T, Salonen J. Physical activity and serum lipids: a cross sectional population study in Eastern Finnish men. Am J Epidemiol 1992; 136: 806–18

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  9. Kokkinos P, Holland J, Pittaras A, et al. Cardiorespiratory fitness and coronary heart disease risk factor association in women. J Am Coll Cardiol 1995; 26: 358–64

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  10. Kokkinos P, Holland J, Narayan P, et al. Miles run per week and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in healthy middle aged men: a dose-response relationship. Arch Intern Med 1995; 155: 415–20

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  11. Leclerc S, Allard C, Talbot J, et al. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol, habitual physical activity and physical fitness. Atherosclerosis 1985; 57: 43–51

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  12. Williams P. Relationships of heart disease risk factors to exercise quantity and intensity. Arch Intern Med 1998; 158: 237–45

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  13. Superko H. Exercise training, serum lipids and lipoprotein particles: is there a change threshold? Med Sci Sports Exerc 1991; 23: 677–85

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  14. Gordon D, Witztum D, Hunninghake D. Habitual physical activity and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in men with primary hypercholesterolemia. Circulation 1983; 67: 512–20

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  15. Gordon D, Probstfeld J, Rubenstein C. Coronary risk factors and exercise test performance in asymptomatic hypercholesterolemic men: application of proportional hazards analysis. Am J Epidemiol 1984; 120: 210–24

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  16. Enger S, Herbjornsen K, Erikssen J, et al. High density lipoproteins (HDL) and physical activity: the influence of physical exercise, age, and smoking on HDL-cholesterol and the HDL- /total cholesterol ratio. Scand J Clin Lab Invest 1977; 37: 251–5

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  17. Lehtonen A, Viikari J. The effects of vigorous physical activity at work on serum lipids with a special reference to serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Acta Physiol Scand 1978; 104: 117–21

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  18. Lehtonen A, Viikari J. Serum triglycerides and cholesterol and serum high density lipoprotein cholesterol in highly physically active men. Acta Med Scand 1978; 204: 111–4

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  19. Adner M, Castelli W. Elevated high-density lipoprotein levels in marathon runners. JAMA 1980; 243: 534–6

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  20. Rotkis T, Cote R, Coyle E, et al. Relationship between high density lipoprotein cholesterol and weekly running mileage. J Cardiac Rehab 1982; 2: 109–12

    Google Scholar 

  21. Hagan R, Gettman L. Maximal aerobic power, body fat, and serum lipoproteins in male distance runners. J Cardiac Rehab 1983; 3: 331–7

    Google Scholar 

  22. Thompson P, Lazarus B, Cullinane E, et al. Exercise, diet, or physical characteristics as determinants of HDL-levels in endurance athletes. Atherosclerosis 1983; 46: 333–9

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  23. Herbert P, Bernier D, Cullinane E, et al. High-density lipoprotein metabolism in runners and sedentary men. JAMA 1984; 252: 1034–7

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  24. Williams P, Krauss R, Wood P, et al. Lipoprotein subfractions of runners and sedentary men. Metabolism 1986; 35: 45–52

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  25. Durstine JL, Pate R, Sparling P, et al. Lipid, lipoprotein and iron status of elite women distance runners. Int J Sports Med 1987; 8: 119–23

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  26. Frey I, Berg A, Baumstark M, et al. Effects of age and physical performance capacity on distribution and composition of high-density lipoprotein subfractions in men. Eur J Appl Physiol 1990; 60: 441–4

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  27. Thompson P, Cullinane E, Sady S, et al. High density lipoprotein metabolism in endurance athletes and sedentary men. Circulation 1991; 84: 140–52

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  28. Blessing D, Warren B, Williford H, et al. Influence of sport participation on blood lipids and lipoproteins in competitive female athletes. Sports Med Train Rehab 1996; 7: 77–85

    Google Scholar 

  29. Stevenson E, DeSouza C, Jones P, et al. Physically active women demonstrate less adverse age-related changes in plasma lipids and lipoproteins. Am J Cardiol 1997; 80: 1360–3

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  30. Giada F, Baldo-Enzi G, Baiocchi M, et al. Specialized physical training programs: effects on serum lipoprotein cholesterol, apoproteins A-I and B, and lipolytic enzyme activities. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 1991; 31: 196–203

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  31. Reaven P, McPhillips J, Barrett-Conner E, et al. Leisure time exercise and lipid and lipoprotein levels in an older population. J Am Geriatr Soc 1990; 38: 847–54

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  32. Williams P. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol and other risk factors for coronary heart disease in female runners. N Engl J Med 1996; 334: 1298–303

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  33. Williams P. Relationship of distance run per week to coronary heart disease risk factors in 8283 male runners: The National Runner’s Health Study. Arch Intern Med 1997; 157: 191–8

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  34. Williams P. High density lipoproteins and lipase activity in runners. Atherosclerosis 1993; 98: 251–4

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  35. Drygas W, Jegler A, Kunski H. Study on threshold dose of physical activity in coronary heart disease prevention. Part 1. Relationship between leisure-time physical activity and coronary risk factors. Int J Sports Med 1988; 9: 275–8

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  36. Drygas W, Kostka T, Jegler A, et al. Long-term effects of different physical activity levels on coronary heart disease risk factors in middle-aged men. Int J Sports Med 2000; 21: 235–41

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  37. Moore C, Hartung G, Mitchell R, et al. The relationship of exercise and diet on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in women. Metabolism 1983; 32: 189–95

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  38. Kokkinos P, Fernhall B. Physical activity and high density lipoprotein cholesterol levels: what is the relationship? Sports Med 1999; 28: 307–14

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  39. Ballor D, Poehlman E. Resting metabolic rate and coronary heart disease risk factors in aerobically and resistance-trained women. Am J Clin Nutr 1992; 56: 968–74

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  40. Berg A, Ringwald G, Deus B, et al. Physical performance and serum cholesterol fractions in healthy young men. Clin Chim Acta 1980; 106: 325–30

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  41. Fanong T, Toth M, Katzel L, et al. Relationship between physical activity and HDL-cholesterol in healthy older men and women: a cross-sectional and exercise intervention study. Atherosclerosis 1996; 127: 177–83

    Article  Google Scholar 

  42. Toth M, Poehlman E. Resting metabolic rate and cardiovascular disease risk in resistance- and aerobic-trained middle-aged women. Int J Obesity 1995; 19: 691–8

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  43. Altekruse E, Wilmore J. Changes in blood chemistries following a controlled exercise program. J Occup Med 1973; 15: 110–3

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  44. Ponjee G, Janssen E, Hermans J, et al. Effect of long-term exercise of moderate intensity on anthropometric values and serum lipids and lipoproteins. Eur J Clin Chem Clin Biochem 1995; 33: 121–6

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  45. Hill J, Theil J, Heller P, et al. Differences in effects of aerobic exercise training on blood lipids in men and women. Am J Cardiol 1989; 63: 254–6

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  46. Lopez A, Vial R, Balart L, et al. Effect of exercise and physical fitness on serum lipids and lipoproteins. Atherosclerosis 1974; 20: 1–9

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  47. Nye E, Carlson K, Kirstein P, et al. Changes in high density lipoprotein subfractions and other lipoproteins induced by exercise. Clin Chim Acta 1981; 113: 51–7

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  48. Tomiyasu K, Ishikawa T, Ikewaki K, et al. Effects of exercise on plasma lipases and cholesterol ester transfer protein activities in normolipidemic male subjects. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 1996; 6: 13–20

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  49. Seip R, Moulin P, Cocke T, et al. Exercise training decreases plasma cholesterol ester transfer protein. Atheroscler Thromb 1993; 13: 1359–67

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  50. Buono M, McKenzie T, McKenzie R. Effects of a diet and exercise program on blood lipids, cardiorespiratory function, and body composition in obese women. Clin Kinesiol 1988; 42: 22–5

    Google Scholar 

  51. Despres J, Pouliot M-C, Moorjani S, et al. Loss of abdominal fat and metabolic response to exercise training in obese women. Am J Physiol 1991; 261: E159–67

    Google Scholar 

  52. Kiens B, Jorgenson I, Lewis S, et al. Increased plasma HDL cholesterol and Apo A-I in sedentary middle-aged men after physical conditioning. J Clin Invest 1980; 10: 203–9

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  53. Raz I, Rosenblit H, Kark J. Effect of moderate exercise on serum lipids in young men with low high density lipoprotein cholesterol. Arteriosclerosis 1988; 8: 245–51

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  54. Binder E, Birge S, Kohrt W. Effects of endurance exercise and hormone replacement therapy on serum lipids in older women. J Am Geriatr Soc 1996; 44: 231–6

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  55. Boyden T, Pamenter R, Going S, et al. Resistance exercise training is associated with decreases in serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in premenopausal women. Arch Intern Med 1993; 153: 97–100

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  56. Ready E, Drinkwater D, Ducas J, et al. Walking program reduces elevated cholesterol in women postmenopause. Can J Cardiol 1995; 11: 905–12

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  57. Grandjean PW, Oden G, Crouse SF, et al. Lipid and lipoprotein changes in women following 6 months of exercise training in a worksite fitness program. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 1996; 36: 54–9

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  58. Barr S, Costill D, Fink W, et al. Effects of increased training volume on blood lipids and lipoproteins in male collegiate swimmers. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1991; 23: 795–800

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  59. Wood P, Stefanick M, Dreon D, et al. Changes in plasma lipids and lipoproteins in overweight men during weight loss through dieting as compared with exercise. N Engl J Med 1988; 319: 1173–9

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  60. Halbert J, Silagy C, Finucane P, et al. Exercise training and blood lipids in hyperlipidemic and normolipidemic adults: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Eur J Clin Nutr 1999; 53: 514–22

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  61. Shephard R, Youldon P, Cox M, et al. Effects of a 6-month industrial fitness programme on serum lipid concentrations. Atherosclerosis 1979; 35: 277–86

    Article  Google Scholar 

  62. Baker T, Allen D, Lei K, et al. Alterations in lipid and protein profiles of plasma lipoproteins in middle-aged men consequent to an aerobic exercise program. Metabolism 1986; 35: 1037–43

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  63. Despres J-P, Moorjani S, Tremblay A, et al. Heredity and changes in plasma lipids and lipoproteins after short-term exercise training in men. Arteriosclerosis 1988; 8: 402–9

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  64. Despres J-P, Moorjani S, Lupien P, et al. Regional distribution of body fat, plasma lipoproteins, and cardiovascular disease. Arteriosclerosis 1990; 10: 497–511

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  65. Peltonen P, Marniemi J, Hietanen E, et al. Changes in serum lipids, lipoproteins, and heparin releasable lipolytic enzymes during moderate physical training in man: a longitudinal study. Metabolism 1981; 30: 518–26

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  66. Goodyear L, Fronsoe M, Van Houten D, et al. Increased HDL cholesterol following eight weeks of progressive endurance training in female runners. Ann Sports Med 1986; 3: 33–8

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  67. Rotkis T, Boyden T, Stanforth P, et al. Increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in women after 10 weeks of training. J Cardiac Rehabil 1984; 4: 62–6

    Google Scholar 

  68. Haskell W. The influences of exercise training on plasma lipids and lipoproteins in health and disease. Acta Med Scand 1986; 711: S25–37

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  69. Tran Z, Weltman A, Glass G, et al. The effects of exercise on blood lipids and lipoproteins: a meta-analysis of studies. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1983; 15: 393–402

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  70. Filipovsky J, Simon J, Chrastek J, et al. Changes in blood pressure and lipid pattern during a physical training course in hypertensive subjects. Cardiology 1991; 78: 31–8

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  71. Brownell K, Bachorik P, Ayerle R. Changes in lipid and lipoprotein levels in men and women after a program of moderate exercise. Circulation 1982; 65: 477–84

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  72. Grandjean PW, Crouse SF, O’Brien BC, et al. The effects of menopausal status and exercise training on serum lipids and the activities of intravascular enzymes related to lipid transport. Metabolism 1998; 47: 377–83

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  73. Lamarche B, Despres J, Pouliot M-C, et al. Is body fat loss a determinant factor in the improvement of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism following aerobic exercise training in obese women? Metabolism 1992; 41: 1249–56

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  74. Andersen R, Wadden T, Bartlett S, et al. Effects of lifestyle activity vs structured aerobic exercise in obese women. JAMA 1999; 281: 335–40

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  75. Nieman D, Haig J, Fairchild K, et al. Reducing-diet and exercise training effects on serum lipids and lipoproteins in mildly obese women. Am J Clin Nutr 1990; 52: 640–5

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  76. Wood P, Stefanick M, Williams P, et al. The effects on plasma lipoproteins of a prudent weight-reducing diet, with or without exercise, in overweight men and women. N Engl J Med 1991; 325: 461–6

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  77. Moll M, Williams S, Lester R, et al. Cholesterol metabolism in non-obese women. Atherosclerosis 1979; 34: 159–66

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  78. Bassett-Frey M, Doerr B, Laubach L, et al. Exercise does not change high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in women after 10 weeks of training. Metabolism 1996; 31: 1142–6

    Article  Google Scholar 

  79. Crouse SF, O’Brien BC, Grandjean PW, et al. Training intensity, blood lipids and apolipoproteins in men with high cholesterol. J Appl Physiol 1996; 82: 270–7

    Google Scholar 

  80. Franklin B, Buskirk E, Hodgson J, et al. Effects of physical conditioning on cardiorespiratory function, body composition, and serum lipids in relatively normal-weight and obese middle aged women. Int J Obes 1979; 3: 97–109

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  81. Houmard J, Bruno N, Bruner R, et al. Effects of exercise training on the chemical composition of plasma LDL. Atheroscler Thromb 1994; 14: 325–30

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  82. Lewis S, Haskell W, Wood P, et al. Effects of physical activity on weight reduction in obese middle-aged women. Am J Clin Nutr 1976; 29: 151–6

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  83. Leon A, Conrad J, Hunninghake D, et al. Effects of a vigorous walking program on body composition, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism of obese young men. Am J Clin Nutr 1979; 32: 1776–87

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  84. Milesis C, Pollock M, Bah M, et al. Effects of different durations of physical training on cardiorespiratory function, body composition, and serum lipids. Res Q 1976; 47: 716–25

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  85. Whitehurst M, Menendez E. Endurance training in older women. Phys Sports Med 1991; 19: 95–103

    Google Scholar 

  86. Schwartz R. The independent effects of dietary weight loss and aerobic training on high density lipoproteins and apolipoprotein A-I concentrations in obese men. Metabolism 1987; 36: 165–71

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  87. Van der Eems K, Ismail A. Relationships between age and selected serum lipids and lipoproteins in women before and after a physical fitness programme. Br J Sports Med 1985; 6: 43–5

    Google Scholar 

  88. Wirth A, Diehm C, Hanel W, et al. Training-induced changes in serum lipids, fat tolerance, and adipose tissue metabolism in patients with hypertriglyceridemia. Atherosclerosis 1985; 54: 263–71

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  89. Wood P, Haskell W, Blair S, et al. Increased exercise level and plasma lipoprotein concentrations: a one year randomized, controlled study in sedentary middle-aged men. Metabolism 1983; 32: 31–9

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  90. Schwartz R, Cain K, Shuman W, et al. Effect of intensive endurance training on lipoprotein profiles in young and older men. Metabolism 1992; 41: 649–54

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  91. Weltman A, Matter S, Stamford B. Caloric restriction and /or mild exercise: effects on serum lipids and body composition. Am J Clin Nutr 1980; 33: 1002–9

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  92. Vermeulen A. Plasma lipid and lipoprotein levels in obese postmenopausal women: effects of a short-term low-protein diet and exercise. Maturitas 1990; 12: 121–6

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  93. Warner J, Ullrich I, Albrink M, et al. Combined effects of aerobic exercise and omega-3 fatty acids in hyperlipidemic persons. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1989; 21: 498–505

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  94. Coon P, Bleecker E, Crinkwater D, et al. Effects of body composition and exercise capacity on glucose tolerance, insulin, and lipoprotein lipids in healthy older men: a cross-sectional and longitudinal intervention study. Metabolism 1989; 38: 1201–9

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  95. Blumenthal J, Rejeski J, Walsh-Riddle M, et al. Comparison of high- and low-intensity exercise training early after acute myocardial infarction. Am J Cardiol 1988; 61: 26–30

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  96. Gaesser G, Rich R. Effects of high- and low-intensity exercise training on aerobic capacity and blood lipids. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1984; 16: 269–74

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  97. King A, Haskell W, Young D, et al. Long-term effects of varying intensities and formats of physical activity on participation rates, fitness, and lipoproteins in men and women aged 50 to 65. Circulation 1995; 91: 2596–604

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  98. Savage M, Petratis M, Thompson W, et al. Exercise training effects on serum lipids of prepubescent boys and adult men. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1986; 18: 197–204

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  99. Stein R, Michielli D, Glantz M, et al. Effects of different exercise training intensities on lipoprotein cholesterol fractions in healthy middle-aged men. Am Heart J 1990; 119: 277–83

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  100. Smutok A, Reece C, Kokkinos P, et al. Aerobic versus strength training for risk factor intervention in middle-aged men at high risk for coronary heart disease. Metabolism 1993; 42: 177–84

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  101. Blumenthal J, Matthews K, Fredrikson M, et al. Effects of exercise training on cardiovascular function and plasma lipid, lipoprotein, and apolipoprotein concentrations in premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Arterioscler Thromb 1991; 11: 912–7

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  102. Kokkinos P, Hurley B, Smutok A, et al. Strength training does not improve lipoprotein-lipid profiles in men at risk for CHD. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1991; 23: 1134–9

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  103. Kokkinos P, Hurley B, Vaccaro P, et al. Effects of low- and high-repetition resistive training on lipoprotein-lipid profiles. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1988; 20: 50–4

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  104. Manning J, Dooly-Manning C, White K, et al. Effects of a resistive training program on lipoprotein-lipid levels in obese women. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1991; 23: 1222–6

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  105. Goldberg L, Elliot D, Schutz R, et al. Changes in lipid and lipoprotein levels after weight training. JAMA 1984; 252: 504–6

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  106. Hurley B, Hagberg J, Goldberg A, et al. Resistive training can reduce coronary risk factors without altering V̇O2max or percent body fat. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1988; 20: 150–4

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  107. Goldberg L, Eliot D. The effect of exercise on lipid metabolism in men and women. Sports Med 1987; 4: 307–21

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  108. Williams P, Stefanick M, Vranizan K, et al. The effects of weight loss by exercise or by dieting on plasma high density lipoprotein (HDL) levels in men with low, intermediate, and normal to- high HDL at baseline. Metabolism 1994; 43: 917–24

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  109. Zmuda J, Yurgalevitch S, Flynn M, et al. Exercise training has little effect on HDL levels and metabolism in men with initially low HDL cholesterol. Atherosclerosis 1998; 137: 215–21

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  110. Nicklas B, Katzel L, Busby-Whitehead J, et al. Increases in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol with endurance exercise training are blunted in obese compared with lean men. Metabolism 1997; 46: 556–61

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  111. Duncan J, Gordon N, Scott C. Women walking for health and fitness: how much is enough? JAMA 1991; 266: 3295–9

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  112. Hardman A, Hudson A, Jones P, et al. Brisk walking and high density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration in previously sedentary women. BMJ 1989; 299: 1204–5

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  113. Taskinen M-R, Nikkila E. High density lipoprotein subfractions in relation to lipoprotein lipase activity of tissues in man — evidence for reciprocal regulation of HDL2 and HDL3 levels by lipoprotein lipase. Clin Chem Acta 1981; 112: 325–32

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  114. Taskinen M-R, Nikkila E, Rehunen S, et al. Effect of acute vigorous exercise on lipoprotein lipase activity of adipose tissue and skeletal muscle in physically active men. Artery 1980; 6: 471–83

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  115. Lithell H, Hellsing K, Lundquist G, et al. Lipoprotein lipase activity of human skeletal muscle and adipose tissue after intensive physical exercise. Acta Physiol Scand 1979; 105: 312–5

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  116. Huttunen J, Lansimies E, Voutilainen E, et al. Effect of moderate physical exercise on serum lipoproteins: a controlled clinical trial with special reference to serum high-density lipoproteins. Circulation 1979; 60: 1220–9

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  117. Wynne T, Bassett-Frey M, Laubach L, et al. Effect of a controlled exercise program on serum lipoprotein levels in women on oral contraceptives. Metabolism 1980; 29: 1267–71

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  118. Aellen R, Hollmann W, Boutellier U. Effects of aerobic and anaerobic training on plasma lipoproteins. Int J Sports Med 1993; 14: 396–400

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  119. Dressendorfer R, Wade C, Hornick C, et al. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol in marathon runners during a 20-day road race. JAMA 1982; 247: 1715–7

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  120. Higuchi M, Hashimoto I, Yamakawa K, et al. Effect of exercise training on plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level at constant weight. Clin Physiol 1984; 4: 125–33

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  121. Pollock M, Tiffany J, Gettman L, et al. Effects of frequency of training on serum lipids, cardiovascular function and body composition. In: Franks BD, editor. Exercise and fitness. Vol 1. New York (NY): Athletic Institution, 1969: 161–77

    Google Scholar 

  122. Sutherland W, Nye E, Woodhouse S. Red blood cell cholesterol levels, plasma cholesterol esterification rate and serum lipids and lipoproteins in men with hypercholesterolaemia and normal men during 16 weeks physical training. Atherosclerosis 1983; 47: 145–57

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  123. Thompson P, Cullinane E, Sady S, et al. Modest changes in high-density lipoprotein concentrations and metabolism with prolonged exercise training. Circulation 1988; 78: 25–34

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  124. Thompson P, Yurgalevitch S, Flynn M, et al. Effect of prolonged exercise training without weight loss on high-density lipoprotein metabolism in overweight men. Metabolism 1997; 46: 217–23

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  125. Weintraub M, Rosen Y, Otto R, et al. Physical exercise conditioning in the absence of weight loss reduces fasting and postprandial triglyceride-rich lipoprotein levels. Circulation 1989; 79: 1007–14

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  126. Blumenthal J, Emery C, Madden D. Effects of exercise training on cardiorespiratory function in men and women >60 years of age. Am J Cardiol 1991; 67: 633–9

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  127. Sopko G, Jacobs D, Jeffery R, et al. Effects of blood lipids and body weight in high risk men of a practical exercise program. Atherosclerosis 1983; 49: 219–29

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  128. Stefanick M, Mackey S, Sheehan M, et al. Effects of diet and exercise in men and postmenopausal women with low levels of HDL cholesterol and high levels of LDL cholesterol. N Engl J Med 1998; 339: 12–20

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  129. Sunami Y, Motoyama M, Kinoshita F, et al. Effect of low-intensity aerobic training on the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration in healthy elderly subjects. Metabolism 1999; 48: 984–8

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  130. Krummel D, Etherton T, Peterson S, et al. Effects of exercise on plasma lipids and lipoproteins of women. Proc Soc Ex Biol Med 1993; 204: 123–37

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  131. Taylor P, Ward A. Women, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and exercise. Arch Intern Med 1993; 153: 1178–84

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  132. Gordon T, Castelli W, Hjortland M, et al. High density lipoprotein as a protective factor against coronary heart disease. Am J Med 1977; 62: 707–14

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  133. Gordon D, Knoke J, Probstfeld J, et al. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol and coronary heart disease in hypercholesterolemic men: the lipid research clinics coronary primary prevention trial. Circulation 1986; 74: 1217–25

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  134. Sutherland W, Woodhouse S, Nye E, et al. Post-heparin hepatic lipase activity and plasma high density lipoprotein levels in men during physical training. Biochem Med 1984; 31: 31–5

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  135. Pollock M, Gaesser G, Butcher J, et al. The recommended quantity and quality of exercise for developing and maintaining cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness and flexibility in healthy adults. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1998; 30: 975–91

    Article  Google Scholar 

  136. Ready E, Naimark B, Ducas J, et al. Influence of walking volume on health benefits in women post-menopause. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1996; 28: 1097–105

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  137. Fonong T, Toth M, Ades P, et al. Relationship between physical activity and HDL-cholesterol in healthy older men and women: a cross-sectional and exercise intervention study. Atherosclerosis 1996; 127: 177–83

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  138. Thomas T, Adeniran S, Etheridge G. Effects of different running programs on V̇O2max, percent fat and plasma lipids. Can J Appl Sport Sci 1984; 9: 55–62

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  139. Marti B, Suter E, Riesen W, et al. Effects of long-term, self-monitored exercise on the serum lipoprotein and apolipoprotein profile in middle-aged men. Atherosclerosis 1990; 81: 19–31

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  140. Cauley J, Kriska A, Laporte R, et al. A two-year randomized exercise trial in older women: effects on HDL cholesterol. Atherosclerosis 1987; 66: 247–58

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  141. Farrell P, Barboriak J. The time course of alterations in plasma lipid and lipoprotein concentrations during eight weeks of endurance training. Atherosclerosis 1980; 37: 231–8

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  142. Hinkleman L, Nieman D. The effects of a walking program on body composition and serum lipids and lipoproteins in overweight women. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 1993; 33: 49–58

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  143. Nieman D, Warren B, O’Donnell K, et al. Physical activity and serum lipids and lipoproteins in elderly women. J Am Geriatr Soc 1993; 41: 1339–44

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  144. Santiago M, Alexander J, Stull G, et al. Physiologic responses of sedentary women to a 20 week conditioning program of walking or jogging. Scand J Sports Sci 1987; 9: 33–9

    Google Scholar 

  145. Santiago M, Leon A, Serfass R. Failure of 40 weeks of brisk walking to alter blood lipids in normolipemic women. Can J Appl Physiol 1995; 20: 417–28

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  146. Suter E, Marti B. Little effect of long-term, self-monitored exercise on serum lipid levels in middle-aged women. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 1992; 32: 400–11

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  147. Szmedra L, Lemura L, Shearn W. Exercise tolerance, body composition and blood lipids in obese African-American women following short-term training. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 1998; 38: 59–65

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  148. Williford H, Blessing D, Barksdale J, et al. The effects of aerobic dance training on serum lipids, lipoproteins and cardiovascular function. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 1988; 28: 151–7

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  149. Woods N, Graham T. Effect of menstrual cycle phase and exercise training on serum lipids. Can J Appl Physiol 1986; 11: 88–93

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  150. Holloszy J, Skinner J, Toro G, et al. Effects of a six month program of endurance exercise on lipids in middle aged men. Am J Cardiol 1964; 14: 753–60

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  151. Despres J-P, Tremblay A, Moorjani S, et al. Long-term exercise training with constant energy intake: effects on plasma lipoprotein levels. Int J Obesity 1990; 14: 85–94

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  152. Lapman R, Santinga J, Savage P, et al. Effects of exercise training in glucose tolerance, in vivo insulin sensitivity, lipid and lipoprotein concentrations in middle-aged men with mild hypertriglyceridemia. Metabolism 1985; 34: 205–11

    Article  Google Scholar 

  153. Allison T, Iammarino R, Metz K, et al. Failure of exercise to increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. J Cardiac Rehab 1981; 1: 257–65

    Google Scholar 

  154. Stubbe I, Hansson P, Ehle-Nilsson E. Plasma lipoproteins and lipolytic enzyme activities during endurance training in sedentary men: changes in high density lipoprotein subfraction and composition. Metabolism 1983; 32: 1120–8

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  155. el-Sayed M. Effects of high and low-intensity aerobic conditioning programs on blood fibrinolysis and lipid profile. Blood Coagul Fibrinolysis 1996; 7: 484–90

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  156. Svendsen O, Hassager C, Christiansen C. Six months follow-up on exercise added to a short-term diet in overweight postmenopausal women - effects on body composition, resting metabolic rate, cardiovascular risk factors and bone. Int J Obes 1994; 18: 692–8

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  157. Thomas T, Adeniran S, Iltis P, et al. Effect of interval and continuous running on HDL-cholesterol, apoproteins A-I and B, and LCAT. Can J Appl Sport Sci 1985; 10: 52–9

    PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

Download references

Acknowledgements

The authors have no conflicts of interest.

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

Authors

Appendix

Appendix

Appendix I
figure Apx1figure Apx1figure Apx1figure Apx1figure Apx1figure Apx1figure Apx1figure Apx1figure Apx1figure Apx1figure Apx1figure Apx1

Blood lipid and lipoprotein changes from 100 selected exercise-training studies in men and womena

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Cite this article

Durstine, J.L., Grandjean, P.W., Davis, P.G. et al. Blood Lipid and Lipoprotein Adaptations to Exercise. Sports Med 31, 1033–1062 (2001). https://doi.org/10.2165/00007256-200131150-00002

Download citation

  • Published:

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.2165/00007256-200131150-00002

Keywords

Navigation