Effect of high intensity interval training on elite athletes' antioxidant status

Objective: The effects of high intensity interval exercises on antioxidant defense system are not clear. Since there is an evident lack of studies focused on oxidative stress experienced following combat sports and high intensity interval training, we investigated oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde [MDA], catalase [CAT], glutathione peroxidase [GPX], superoxide dismutase [SOD]) by completing high intensity interval training program (HIITP) and following International Muay Thai Championship (IMTC). Methods: The study was carried out on 21 elite players (15 males and six females) who had regular exercising and training habits. The participants were subjected to a daily 3-hour HIITP during brief training camp (10-day) before IMTC. They were instructed to maintain their normal dietary practices throughout the camp and during the study to take no antioxidant containing vitamin tablets. Results: There was a significant increase in MDA levels and significant decrease in CAT activities of players (P<. 0.05). The differences in SOD and GPX activities were not significant. Conclusion: These results suggested that high intensity interval training and competition could affect the oxidative status of Muay Thai (MT) athletes. © 2012 Elsevier Masson SAS.