Abstract
Bone mineral density (BMD) is used as an indirect indicator of risk of osteoporosis and bone fracture. Both swimming and running have been found to have a positive effect on bone mineral density. A comparison of the effects of swimming and running on bone mineral density in humans has not yet been performed. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of running and swimming on bone mineral density in young individuals versus mature individuals and to compare intrinsic variables of body weight, height, gender, years swimming or running, distance ran or swam per week, and hours of physical activity per week.