The effects of various strength training intensities on blood cardiovascular risk markers in healthy men

Abstract

Objectives: Regular physical exercise, especially aerobic exercise, is known to have a protective effect on cardiovascular health. The aim of this research is to look at the impact of two separate resistance training programs on blood biomarkers that are associated with the early detection of cardiac risk. Methods: Forty-five male participants (mean 41 years) were randomly divided into three groups: The low-intensity resistance exercise group (LIEG), the moderate-intensity resistance exercise group (MIEG), and the control group (CG). The programs were implemented three times a week and in two sets. MIEG consisted of 8–10 repeats at 70–80% density of one repetition maximum load (1RM), while LIEG consisted of 15–17 repeats at 50–60% density of 1RM. CG did not participate in any exercise program. Two-factor mixed-design ANOVA assessed the data. Results: Before, fourth week, and after the exercise program in repeated measurements, there was a significant decrease in body mass (−1.7%), body mass index (−1.7%), apelin (−44%), and pentraxin 3 (−39%) levels in MIEG (p < 0.05). Additionally, our study noted a decrease in pentraxin 3 (−25%, p < 0.05) and interleukin 6 (−21%) levels, while there was an increase in creatine kinase (18%), and lactate dehydrogenase (7.4%) levels in LIEG. Strength levels improved significantly in exercise groups. Conclusions: Eight weeks of moderate-resistance training can potentially reduce the cardiovascular risk in healthy men.