INTRODUCTION: The use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has improved the prognosis of HIV-infected individuals. However, HAART has been associated with the development of metabolic and fat distribution abnormalities, known as HIV-associated lipodystrophy syndrome (HIVALS). OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the impact of 24 weeks of resistance exercise with aerobic component (REAC) on anthropometric and functional parameters in HIV-infected patients undergoing HAART. METHODS: Ninety- nine HIV-infected patients were randomly allocated into four groups: exercise and lipodystrophy (n = 24; EX+LIP); exercise without lipodystrophy (n = 21; EX+NoLIP); control and lipodystrophy (n = 27; NoEX+LIP); control without lipodystrophy (n = 27; NoEX+NoLIP). Subjects from exercised groups (EX+LIP and EX+NoLIP) participated in a 24-week REAC program. Anthropometric, strength and cardiorespiratory fitness tests were assessed at baseline and 24 weeks after intervention. RESULTS: Body circumferences (p < 0.0001) and waist-hip ratio (p = 0.017) changed after 24 weeks of REAC in both exercised groups. The sum of seven skinfolds assessed, body fat percentage, body fat mass, total fat, central fat and peripheral subcutaneous fat reduced (p < 0.0001) in response to REAC. Lean body mass increased (p < 0.0001) in exercised groups, regardless of the outcome (LIP or NoLIP). Strength and cardiorespiratory fitness increased (p < 0.0001) in both exercised groups in response to REAC. CONCLUSION: 24 weeks of REAC prevented the manifestation of changes arising from HIVLDS and contributed to their reduction.

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