Tuğba GÖNEN, Elif DİNLER, Yavuz YAKUT
İnönü Üniversitesi Sağlık Hizmetleri Meslek Yüksek Okulu Dergisi - 2026;14(1):196-207
This study aimed to investigate the effects of combined aerobic and respiratory exercise training on the physiological cost index, physical activity, functional capacity, fatigue, and daytime sleepiness in healthy young adults. A total of 107 healthy young adults (aged 19-37 years) participated in the study. Participants engaged in moderate-intensity aerobic exercise at 60% of their maximal heart rate for 150 minutes per week over eight weeks. To enhance the effectiveness of the aerobic exercise program, respiratory training was provided prior to its commencement. The physiological cost index was calculated as(heart rate during walking - resting heart rate) / walking speed (m/min). Physical activity levels were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form. Functional capacity was evaluated with the 6-Minute Walk Test, fatigue levels with the Fatigue Severity Scale, and daytime sleepiness levels with the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. No statistically significant changes were observed in the physiological cost index or overall physical activity level following the intervention, although favorable shifts in the distribution of physical activity categories were noted; these shifts were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Functional capacity increased significantly after the intervention (p = 0.001). Fatigue levels decreased (p = 0.004), and daytime sleepiness levels also changed significantly (p = 0.020). Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise training was associated with higher functional capacity, lower fatigue levels, and reduced daytime sleepiness among healthy young adults.
