Effects of High-intensity Resistance Training and Creatine Supplementation on Muscle Quality and Cognition in Perimenopausal Women: a Pilot Study
Purpose: The aims of the study are to investigate the effects of high-intensity resistance training (HIRT) with or without creatine monohydrate (CM) supplementation on three key areas: muscle characteristics, brain health, and metabolism/protein dynamics. Participants: 51 healthy, perimenopausal women between 38-60 years old. Procedures: In a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled design, participants will either consume creatine (CM), a placebo (PL), or no supplement (CON). CM and PL groups will be assigned a HIRT protocol, and the CON will do no training.
• Women transitioning through perimenopause (defined by the North American Menopause Society Menopause Health Questionnaire), with or without hormone therapy or experiencing two or more perimenopause-related symptoms, as determined from the validated North American Menopause Society
• Women ≥38-60 yrs.
• Recreationally active \[(≥30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week and \<3 times per week of progressive resistance training, as defined by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)\]
• Body mass index of 18.5-34.9 kg/m\^2
• Is at risk or has a current chronic disease that is not contraindicated by exercise, and could be improved by resistance exercise (i.e. type 2 diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, hyperthyroidism, depression, osteoporosis, etc.)