12-week intervention

The exercise intervention consisted of 12-weeks of supervised aerobic and resistance training at a moderate-vigorous intensity for 40–60 min, four days per week by a trained facilitator. Aerobic exercises included dancing, running, skipping, and stepping at a moderate-vigorous intensity (75–80% peak heart rate; HR_peak). Resistance exercises at a prescribed intensity of 60–70% HR_peak, included upper and lower-body exercises at body weight that progressed to the use of equipment (i.e. bands and free weights). A heart rate monitor (Polar A300, Kempele, Finland) was worn to ensure the prescribed exercise intensity was maintained. Both groups were instructed to maintain their usual dietary intake and physical activity patterns, which was objectively quantified at baseline, weeks 4, 8 and 12. Following post-intervention testing, the control participants were provided with the opportunity to participate in the 12-week supervised exercise program.