Dyslipidaemia is a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). A large meta-analysis shows that exercise training (ExTr) yields modest but significant improvements across lipid outcomes.
ExTr reduced total cholesterol (−5.9 mg/dL), LDL (−7.2 mg/dL), triglycerides (−8.0 mg/dL), VLDL (−3.9 mg/dL), and increased HDL (+2.1 mg/dL). Combined aerobic training (AT) and resistance training (RT) produced the most consistent lipid improvements. AT alone improved all five markers, while RT primarily raised HDL.
Meta-regression showed dose–response effects: each additional AT session per week was associated with a reduction in TC of −7.7 mg/dL, and longer sessions (>30 minutes) improved HDL. These findings support tailoring exercise to lipid profiles.
ExTr alone may reduce LDL by ~6.3%, corresponding to a potential 4–5% reduction in ASCVD risk. When combined with pharmacologic therapy, total risk reduction may approach 30%.
However, up to 37% of included studies showed no benefit for certain lipid subtypes, underscoring individual variability. Still, 100% of studies reported benefit for VLDL. Exercise should remain a first-line strategy for dyslipidaemia, with tailored prescriptions using AT and RT. AT should be prioritized in cases of hyperlipidaemia.
How will you incorporate these exercise-specific insights into your dyslipidaemia counselling strategies?
