Changes in Oxidative Stress Following Two Different Interval- Training Programs among Recreationally Active Males

The aim of the present study was to compare the effect of an increasing-distance interval-training program with a decreasing-distance interval-training program, matched for total distance and recovery times, on blood free radicals and total anti-oxidative capacity (TAC) at rest and following intense exercise. Forty physical education students were randomly assigned to either the increasing- or decreasing-distance interval-training group (ITG and DTG), and completed two similar relevant sets of tests before and after a six-week twicea- week training program. One training program consisted of increasing-distance interval training (100-200- 300-400-500 m) and the other decreasing-distance interval training (500-400-300-200-100 m). Following training, free radical resting levels were significantly higher in the ITG compared to the DTG (7.94 ± 4.76 vs. 3.84 ± 1.49 μmole, respectively, p<0.05). In addition, following training the free radical response to a maximal exercise test was significantly higher in the ITG compared to the DTG (11.14 ± 6.77 vs. 4.43 ± 1.97 μmole, respectively, p<0.05). No significant changes were found in TAC following the exercise test before and after the training program in either group. Sport scientists, coaches, and athletes should be aware that, in spite of identical total work, an interval-training program might induce different oxidative stress responses if the order of intervals is not identical.