Altered metabolic states, such as obesity and resistance exercise, may affect bone health either in a negative or positive manner. In clinical practice, bone health may be easily understood as a synonym for bone mineral density or osteoporosis, which is defined as a skeletal disorder resulting from decreased bone strength. In addition, bone glucose metabolism and bone marrow adiposity may contribute to bone overall health status.

The aims of this thesis were to investigate the effects of obesity and resistance exercise on bone glucose metabolism, bone marrow adiposity and bone mineral density using modern imaging methods, such as positron emission tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and quantitative computed tomography, in various study settings. It was found that obesity did not alter bone glucose metabolism or bone marrow adiposity. However, resistance exercise resulted in improved bone glucose metabolism and bone mineral density.

In conclusion, resistance exercise, but not obesity, had an impact on bone health studied with modern imaging methods. The obtained results may offer new insights into quantification and into the follow-up of bone health during altered metabolic conditions. In addition, more individualized and accurately allocated lifestyle interventions may be administered in the treatment or prevention of diseases associated with obesity or insulin resistance.