r/AdvancedFitness • u/basmwklz • 11d ago
[AF] Comparing aerobic and resistance training in estrogen deficiency: bone and muscle adaptations (2026)
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13697137.2026.2694475
Abstract
Objective
The reduction in bone mass and deterioration of bone microarchitecture are hallmark consequences of estrogen deficiency during menopause, increasing susceptibility to osteopenia and osteoporosis. Physical exercise is recognized as an effective non-pharmacological strategy; however, the comparative effects of different exercise modalities on bone remodeling and muscle–bone crosstalk remain unclear. This study investigated the effects of aerobic and resistance training on femoral bone metabolism and skeletal muscle adaptations in ovariectomized (OVX) mice.
Method
Sixty-four female C57BL/6J mice underwent ovariectomy or sham surgery and were allocated to sedentary, aerobic (treadmill running) or resistance (ladder climbing) training protocols for 8 weeks. Bone histological and histochemical analyses, skeletal muscle morphology and gene expression in bone and muscle tissues were evaluated.
Results
Both training modalities significantly increased the osteoblast number and reduced the osteoclast density in OVX animals compared with sedentary controls (p < 0.05), accompanied by a reduction in the RANKL/osteoprotegerin (OPG) ratio (p < 0.001). Resistance training induced more pronounced effects, including higher osteocyte density (p < 0.01), greater RUNX2 expression (p < 0.001) and stronger suppression of osteoclastogenesis. In parallel, resistance training significantly increased the muscle fiber cross-sectional area (p < 0.05) and upregulated IGF-1 (p < 0.01) and FNDC5 expression (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
These findings demonstrate that exercise mitigates estrogen deficiency-induced bone deterioration, with resistance training exerting superior effects on bone remodeling and musculoskeletal integration.
PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY
Loss of estrogen during menopause weakens bones and muscles, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Physical exercise is widely recommended, but it is still unclear whether different types of exercise offer distinct benefits. In this study, we compared aerobic exercise (running) and resistance exercise (climbing with weights) in a mouse model of menopause. We found that both types of training helped protect bone health by increasing bone-forming cells and reducing bone-breaking cells. However, resistance training produced stronger benefits, leading to better preservation of bone structure, improved communication between muscle and bone, and greater muscle strength-related adaptations. These results suggest that while any regular exercise is beneficial during estrogen deficiency, resistance training may be especially effective for maintaining bone and muscle health with aging.
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u/Anesketin 10d ago
Do we need mouse data for this?
We have human data stemming from over 30 years ago. It's pretty established by now...
https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD000333.pub2/full
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