Abstract

Aims: The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of aerobic exercises in promotion of cardiopulmunary fitness in flight employees. Methods: In this randomized control trial, 30 members of flight staff from Mehrabad and Imam Khomeini Airport in Tehran- Iran were selected and randomized to include in intervention or control groups (15 in each group). Cardiopulmunary fitness was evaluated by measuring VO2max (using Step Test) and resting heart rate. A 15 week aerobic exercise program was considered for intervention group. The controls were advised to do stretching exercises as placebo. Then cardiopulmonary fitness was assessed again. Obtained data were analysed using relevant statistical methods. Results: Baseline mean VO2max and resting heart rate (RHR) had no differences between two groups. Performing 15-week exercise protocol in intervention group led to increasing VO 2max and decreasing RHR significantly and the control groups did not show any changes.There was no significant difference in BMI before and after trial. Conclusion: Approved aerobic exercise protocols result in promoting of Cardiopumonary fitness and aerobic capacity in flight personnel if they are designed properly and performed regularly for a long time.