We evaluated the effect of group training on endothelial function as measured by
arterial reactivity to the cold pressor test (CPT). Eighteen elderly women were divided
into the training (n=8， age=67.0+-2.7yrs) and control group (n=10， age=69.2+-6.5yrs).
Subjects in the training group performed 90-min group training twice a week for 12 weeks.
Each training program consisted of recreational activities，circuit training，and chair-based
exercise. Brachial systolic and diastolic blood pressure were obtained in the supine
position. CPT was performed by submersion of the left foot up to the ankle in ice slush
for 90 seconds. In order to measure the percentage change in artery diameter (△CA)
between baseline and end of CPT，the left side of the common carotid artery was imaged
using an ultrasound system. After the training program， △CA was significantly
increased (-0.4% to 1.4%，p< 0.05) without any changes in systolic/diastolic blood pressure.
In control group，however，there were no significant differences during same duration.
These finding suggest that short term group training improves the endothelial function in
elderly women
