The Influence of Resistance, Endurance, and Combined Resistance-endurance Exercise Training on Interleukin-۱۸ and C-reactive Protein Level in Inactive Female Adolescents

Background & Objectives: Regular exercise training has considerable effects on improving the function of the immune system. In this regard, the type of exercise training is of pivotal importance. The purpose of the present study was to compare the effects of resistance, endurance, and combined resistance/endurance (RE) exercise training on serum interleukin-۱۸ (IL-۱۸) and C-reactive protein (CRP) level among female adolescents. Materials and Methods: This semi-experimental study was performed on female adolescents studying in Pakdasht high schools. In total, ۲۷ subjects with the mean age of ۱۶.۹۲ years, mean weight of ۶۲.۵۶ kg, and mean height of ۱۶۰.۳۳ cm were randomly allocated to four groups: control (n=۶), endurance exercise (n=۷), resistance exercise (n=۷), and RE exercise (n=۷). The exercises included endurance, resistance, and RE training, performed during eight weeks (three times per week). Measurements were performed at baseline and four and eight weeks after training. Results: The findings showed that the amount of IL-۱۸ was lower in the RE group at four and eight weeks following training. The same finding was reported in the endurance exercise group after eight weeks in comparison with the resistance group (P<۰.۰۵). A significant decline was detected in the CRP level in the endurance group at four and eight weeks after training, compared to the baseline. Also, a similar finding was reported in the ER group at eight weeks, compared to the baseline and four weeks after training (P<۰.۰۵). Conclusion: According to the findings of the present study, incorporation of resistance exercise into endurance training (combined ER training) not only does not interrupt the function of the immune system, but also can lead to improvements