Iranian Journal of Rehabilitation Research in Nursing

Introduction: Regular scheduled exercise can affect physical and mental health. Due to special working conditions, nurses are in strong need of having good physical and mental fitness. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of aerobic exercise training on aerobic fitness and self-esteem of nurses.

Methods: This study had a quasi-experimental pre-test post-test method with experimental and control groups. The program included three sessions a week for eight weeks, and each session included a 5- to 7-minute warm up, 12 minutes of continuous running with 60% - 80% of maximal heart rate, and 7-10 minutes to cool. The subjects included male (13 exp, 7 con) and female (10 exp, 3 con) nurses. Available sampling method was used for choosing participants and demographic information questionnaire, Eysenck self-esteem questionnaire and machine for analyzing breath gases were used to gather data. The data were analyzed using SPSS 20 statistical tests of covariance analysis, chi-square test 2, and independence t-tests.

Results: The results showed that aerobic exercise training meaningfully improved aerobic-fitness (P < 0.05) of nurses by controlling the pretest effect, while its effect on their self-esteem was not significant.

Conclusions: Aerobic exercise improved aerobic-fitness of nurses, while it was not effective on their self-esteem. According to the study, continued and regular participation in physical activity can make physical changes along with physiological benefits in individuals. The advantages of physiological changes include alterations in the aerobic capacity, respiratory system performance, endurance, muscle strength, flexibility, coordination and weight loss. Overall, the final effects are increased physical performance capacity and capability of learning and performing various skills.