Cardiorespiratory fitness and body composition of stimulant users: A baseline analysis of the STRIDE cohort

Introduction Relatively little has been reported about the physical characteristics, such as cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and body composition, of stimulant users. Identifying risk factors associated with the physical health of stimulant users is an important public health issue as new treatments should better address the entire range of health concerns experienced by this population. Methods We examined cross-sectional data gathered at baseline from the STimulant Reduction Intervention using Dosed Exercise (STRIDE) study, a multisite randomized clinical trial that examined exercise as an adjunct to treatment as usual for individuals in residential treatment programs (RTPs). Clients were approached after intake to the RTP. Prior to randomization, eligible individuals underwent a comprehensive screening process that included medical screening, where CRF was assessed through a maximal exercise test (time on treadmill), and a series of baseline examinations assessing domains of substance use and mental health. Results Data from 295 individuals with recent stimulant use disorders were analyzed. The mean body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) and for all participants was 27.8 ± 5.7 kg/m² and 93.5 ± 14.2 cm, respectively, while the mean time on treadmill was 13.7 ± 2.9 min. Few significant associations were observed between CRF, BMI, or WC and substance use and mental health measures. Conclusions Stimulant users in this study presented with low CRF levels and would be considered overweight based on their BMI. These individuals would likely benefit from interventions that address both their stimulant use, as well as their physical health.