No weight loss was recorded in any of the groups, and only the high-intensity training group showed a marked decrease in insulin resistance. Abdominal visceral fat decreased in the high-intensity group, but no such change was noted in the medium-intensity or the control groups. Exercise training programs in the elderly that do not result in weight or fat loss may only improve insulin action through short-term improvements in glycogen metabolism. Moderate- or high-intensity exercise training in the absence of weight loss appears not to normalize metabolic dysfunction in a short-term intervention. Lasting improvement may need additional dietary modifications that encourage weight loss.