Research Article
Khalid Mohammadzadeh Salamat,
Abstract
Although a number of studies have been previously undertaken on the effect of training on cardiovascular diseases risk factors, there has been a recent focus on its effect on new cardiovascular diseases risk factors including preinflammatory cytokines and C reactive proteins. The present study attempted to investigate the effect of endurance training on pre-inflammatory cytokines and cardiovascular diseases risk factors in healthy men. Accordingly, as part of a semi-experimental research, 24 healthy non-athletic students (21-27 yr) were volunteered to participate and randomly divided into two groups: Endurance training group (n=12) and non-exercising control group (n=12). The training group performed a progressive 8-week training (3 days a week) at about 50 to 80 % of HRR which included running around the track. Also, prior to and after the training, a blood sample was collected from the subjects in order to measure pre-inflammatory cytokines, C reactive proteins, lipoproteins and blood cholesterol. Following an 8-week training, a significant difference was found in IL-6, hs-CRP, LDL, HDL and the subjects’ Systolic blood pressure (p<0.05) compared to baseline. However, this was not the case with the other variables despite reported increases after training. Furthermore, between groups comparisons showed significant difference in IL-6, TNF-α, LDL, HDL and Systolic blood pressure (p<0.05). Generally, it can be concluded that endurance training has a positive effect on pre-inflammatory cytokines and some cardiovascular diseases risk factors. It is suggested that young individuals take aerobic exercises in order to prevent the gradual trend of inflammatory disorders.