EFFECT OF AEROBIC DANCE ON VISCERAL FAT AMONG OBESE FEMALE STUDENTS IN THE UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR, CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The research investigated the effect of visceral fat among obese female students at the University of Calabar, Cross River
State, Nigeria. A one-group pre-test/post-test design was employed, and participants aged 19–25 were purposively selected
based on their BMI. Specifically, female students with a BMI ranging from 30.0 to 34.9kg/m2, aged 19 to 25, and students
whose visceral fat ranged from 10-14kg were included. Data collection utilized a body composition monitor (model BF 511,
made by OMRON, Japan), ensuring all selected participants met the inclusion criteria. These students were assigned to a
group-based aerobic dance programme with pre-test values at the baseline. The aerobic dance sessions, lasting 30 to 45
minutes with a cool-down, occurred on alternate days (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays) between 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
for twelve consecutive weeks. The training intensity ranged from 45-50% of the estimated maximum Heart Rate for the first
4 weeks, increased to 50–55% for weeks 5–8, and further increased to 55–60% from weeks 9-12 of the aerobic dance
protocol. Statistical analysis of the collected data, using SPSS version 20 and the independent t-test at a 0.05 alpha level,
indicated significant effects of visceral fat (P = 0.000). The study concluded that a 12-week aerobic dance programme had a
noteworthy impact on the visceral fat of obese female students at the University of Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.
Recommendations included encouraging obese female students to engage in regular physical activities, particularly aerobic
dance, to mitigate cardiovascular disease risks associated with obesity. Additionally, there was a suggestion for increased
awareness and a shift from sedentary lifestyles to an exercise-oriented attitude among obese female students at the University
of Calabar.