This study examined the effects of different weekly frequencies (2 vs three sessions) of combined aquatic training on anthropometric, functional fitness, hemodynamic, and psychosocial outcomes in adults and older adults. A pragmatic non-randomized trial (RBR-2txw8zy) included participants aged 30-80 years allocated to twice-weekly (2G) and three-times-weekly (3G) groups. Training lasted 12 weeks, organized into 3 4-week mesocycles (36-42 min/session). Aerobic training was prescribed by RPE (6-20), progressing from 11 to 15 for 21 minutes, while resistance training progressed from 2 × 30 to 4 × 15 seconds at maximal speed. Outcomes were assessed pre- and post-intervention using generalized estimating equations (α = 5%) with ITT and PP analyses. ITT showed similar functional improvements in the 30-second sit-to-stand, 30-second arm curl, and 6MWT. In PP, significant group*time interactions were observed for TUGmax and 6MWT, with 3G increasing TUGmax time 0.28 (0.00; 0.55) and 6MWT distance 55.54 (33.12; 77.96). DBP increased (ITT and PP), whereas HR and quality of life improved in both groups (ITT). SBP increased in 2G ITT: 2.15 (−3.01; 7.32); PP: 5.58 (0.03;11.82) but decreased in 3G ITT: −6.55 (−12.78;−0.32); PP: −6.61 (−13.11;−0.11). Combined aquatic training improves strength and endurance, and quality of life, while 3 weekly sessions yield greater benefits for aerobic capacity and SBP.
LEONEL et al. (Thu,) studied this question.