Insulin resistance (IR) increases the risk of adverse cardiovascular events. The triglyceride glucose index (TyG) is a simple IR marker. Low skeletal muscle mass is associated with IR. However, the relationship between muscle power and IR is not well known.PURPOSE: To investigate the relationship between TyG index and aerobic power in police officers. METHODS: Data from 716 police officers were analyzed (125 female and 617 men). They were classified by a TyG index >4.68 in IR (n= 417) and Control (n= 299) groups. All participants performed a graded exercise test in cycloergometer to determine maximal heart rate (HR max), peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak), and peak aerobic power (final watts obtained during GXT/ weight). Fasting blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides were determined. Anthropometric and body composition measurements were obtained using bioelectrical impedance analysis.
RESULTS: Blood pressure, metabolic, and anthropometric variables were higher in the IR group than in the control group, except that exercise capacity was lower in the IR than control group (Table 1). TyG was inversely related with aerobic power (r= - 0.22, p<0.01) and VO2peak (r = -0.23, p<0.01) but directly related with fat mass (r= 0.22, p<0.01).
CONCLUSIONS: Peak aerobic capacity and aerobic power are lower in individuals with IR. Aerobic power is negatively associated with metabolic control. Police officers need to improve aerobic power and fat mass in order to be metabolically healthier.