Resistance training in treatment of metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is comprised of risk factors associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease including insulin resistance, hypertension, cholesterol abnormalities, and an increased risk for clotting.  Patients with metabolic syndrome are often over weight or obese.

A recent meta-analysis on the effects of resistance training on components of metabolic syndrome concluded the following:

Based on our meta-analysis, RT (resistance training) has a clinically and statistically significant effect on metabolic syndrome risk factors such as obesity, HbA(1c)* levels and systolic blood pressure, and therefore should be recommended in the management of type 2 diabetes and metabolic disorders.

*hemoglobin A(1C) is a blood test which monitors long-term blood sugar control.

Reference:
Strasser B, Siebert U, Schobersberger W. Resistance training in the treatment of the metabolic syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of resistance training on metabolic clustering in patients with abnormal glucose metabolism.  Sports Med. 2010 May 1;40(5):397-415.