Combined aerobic and resistance training decreases inflammation markers in healthy men

Background and aims Our primary aim was to study the effects of 24 weeks of combined aerobic and resistance training performed on the same day or on different days on inflammation markers. Methods and results Physically active, healthy young men were randomly divided into three groups that performed: aerobic and resistance training consecutively in the same training session (SS) 2-3 d·wk−1 or on alternating days (AD) 4-6 d·wk−1 as well as control (C). The total training volume was matched in the training groups. The control group was asked to maintain their habitual physical activity and exercise level. Maximal leg press strength (1RM) and peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) were measured. Abdominal fat mass was estimated with dual-energy absorptiometry (DXA). High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin 6 (IL6), monocyte chemo attractant protein 1 (MCP-1), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and adipocytokines resistin, adiponectin and leptin were analyzed from plasma samples. Training significantly reduced circulating hs-CRP, leptin and resistin in both training groups (P<0.05), whereas MCP-1 and TNF-α decreased only in AD (P<0.05). Significant correlations were observed between changes in abdominal fat mass and corresponding changes in MCP-1, leptin, adiponectin and resistin. Conclusion Long-term combined aerobic and resistance training reduced markers of subclinical inflammation in healthy young men. The results indicate that a higher frequency of individual exercise sessions might be more beneficial with respect to the anti-inflammatory effects of physical activity. The decreases in inflammation markers seem to be related to decreases in abdominal fat mass. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.