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Heart rate variability declines significantly in postmenopausal women compared to perimenopausal women, indicating reduced autonomic function, while BMI and aerobic capacity show only a weak inverse correlation. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.INCREMENTAL. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.NEUTRAL.

February 22, 2026

Relationship of Body Mass Index, Aerobic Capacity, and Heart Rate Variability in Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Women in Surat City: A Correlational Study

Key Result

Heart rate variability declined significantly in postmenopausal women (44.79 ms vs 51.51 ms, P=0.0026) indicating reduced autonomic function; BMI and aerobic capacity showed weak opposite correlation.

Key Points

To explore the relationships between body mass index, aerobic capacity, and heart rate variability in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.
Correlational analysis involving 100 women aged 45-60 years
BMI assessed using standard procedures
Aerobic capacity evaluated with the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT)
Heart rate variability parameters recorded using Polar H10 chest strap
Statistical analysis with independent t-tests and Pearson’s correlation
Mean HRV in perimenopausal women was 51.51 ms, while in postmenopausal women it was 44.79 ms (P = 0.0026)
Weak negative correlation found between BMI and 6MWT (−0.233, P = 0.087)
No significant correlation between 6MWT and HRV (r = −0.072, P = 0.601)
Higher BMI and reduced aerobic capacity show moderate association, with HRV declining in postmenopausal women
Minimal correlation between aerobic capacity and HRV suggests separate interventions needed

Structured PICO

Population

100 women aged 45–60 years, distributed equally between perimenopausal and postmenopausal groups, in Surat city.

Outcome

Associations between body mass index (BMI), aerobic capacity (assessed via 6-Minute Walk Test), and heart rate variability (HRV)surrogate

Postmenopausal women exhibit significantly reduced heart rate variability compared to perimenopausal women, indicating diminished autonomic function with advancing menopause.

Main Result

Absolute Event Rate: 0% vs 0%

Abstract

Abstract Overview: The gradation menopause is associated with significant physiological changes that affect cardiovascular and autonomic health. The present study was guided by the aim of associations between body mass index (BMI), aerobic capacity, and heart rate variability (HRV) in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women of Surat city, emphasizing their potential impact on well-being and quality of life. Aims: The major intention of this work is to study the relations of BMI, aerobic capacity, and HRV in peri- and postmenopausal women, interpreted as insights into their circulatory and autonomic function activity during this transitional stage. Methodology: This correlational analysis covered 100 subjects distributed equally between peri- and postmenopausal groups, falling within 45–60 years of age. Body mass index (BMI) was assessed using standard procedures, aerobic capacity was evaluated with the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), and heart rate variability (HRV) parameters were recorded using a Polar H10 chest strap. Data were explored by imposing descriptive statistics, a normality test done by the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, and as the data distributed normally, independent t -tests, and Pearson’s correlation to appraise connections between the variables. Results: The mean standard deviation normal to normal in perimenopausal women was 51.51 ms, and in postmenopausal women, it was 44.79 ms ( P = 0.0026). This clearly depicts that with the advancement of menopause, thereby aging, autonomic function dwindles. There is a feeble opposite correlation between BMI and 6MWT (−0.233, P = 0.087). No significant correlation between 6MWT and HRV ( r = −0.072, P = 0.601). These conclusions highlight the specific physiological factors that are influenced by the menopausal state. Conclusion: The study concludes that higher BMI and reduced aerobic capacity are moderately associated, while HRV shows a marked decline in postmenopausal women, reflecting diminished autonomic function. The minimal correlation between aerobic capacity and HRV suggests that each requires targeted, independent interventions. Tailored strategies focusing on BMI control, improved fitness, and autonomic regulation may offer significant benefits for women in the peri- and postmenopausal phases.

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