Physical activity can improve health as well as reduce stress and the risk of developing several widespread diseases. However, there exists no accepted standard biomedical examination-method for stress evaluation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of regular physical activity on stress and wellness as well as the evaluation of potential biomarkers in this field. This study included 105 people (mean age = 36.57 ± 1.4 years) who were randomly assigned into the exercise group 1 (EG-1) (n = 41), the exercise group 2 (EG-2) (n = 30), and the control group (CG) (n = 34). Measurements of stress and wellness were obtained by Multiscan BC-OXI before and after experimental period. This device presents a multifrequency segmental body composition 3D analyser with digital pulse oximeter. The key indicators of stress as well as for wellness were significantly improved in the EG-1. Parasympathetic activity showed significant changes as potential stress biomarker. Statistically significant gender differences were not observed in the comparable groups. The results suggest that the stress resistance and well-being significantly improved in the EG-1 due to regular physical activity. However, further research is necessary to determine effects of physical activity on integral health indicators.
Keywords: Autonomic nervous system; Physical fitness; Stress management; Well-being.
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