Effects of resistance training on matrix metalloproteinase-2 activity and biomechanical and physical properties of bone in ovariectomized and intact rats

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of resistance training on the activity of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2 and bone biomechanical properties in ovariectomized and intact rats. Forty‐eight female rats were divided into two distinct groups, ovariectomized (OVX) and intact (Int), which were subdivided into three similar subgroups: sedentary, acute exercise and chronic exercise. Rats performed a resistance training for 12 weeks in which animals climbed a vertical ladder of 1.1 m with weights attached to their tails. Sessions were performed with an interval of 3, 4–9 and 8–12 days scaled dynamic movements of climbing. Biomechanical and physical analyses were performed using a universal testing machine, and MMP‐2 activity analysis by zymography. Bone density (BD), mineral density (MD), maximum load and fracture load was reduced in sedentary and acute exercise OVX groups compared with the sedentary intact group (P