Effect of Soybean Milk in Conjunction with Aerobic Exercise on VO2 Max and Body Composition of College Students

Abstract

This study explores the effects of soybean milk combined with aerobic exercise on VO2 max and body composition in male college students aged 18-21, majoring in fitness instruction and management. Thirty participants were selected, and their VO2 max and body composition were measured using the Harvard Step Test and Body Composition Test. Based on their Harvard Step Test scores, participants were paired from best to worst and randomly assigned to three groups of 10: Group 1 (soy milk + aerobic exercise) consumed 500 ml of soy milk mixed with 4 g of stevia 30 minutes before exercise, Group 2 (placebo + aerobic exercise) consumed 500 ml of water mixed with 4 g of stevia 30 minutes before exercise, and Group 3 performed aerobic exercise without supplementation. The experiment lasted 8 weeks, with three sessions per week. Data were collected before and after the experiment, and statistical analysis was conducted using paired-samples t-tests and one-way ANOVA, with pairwise comparisons made when statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed. The results showed that the soy milk + aerobic exercise group had significant improvements in skeletal muscle, muscle content, and protein levels after 8 weeks. The placebo group exhibited significant weight reduction, while the aerobic exercise group experienced significant decreases in weight, BMI, and body fat percentage. Additionally, one-way ANOVA with Bonferroni testing revealed significant differences between the groups, with the soy milk + aerobic exercise group showing the most pronounced increases in skeletal muscle mass, muscle content, and protein levels.

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