Effects of short-term high-intensity exercise on oxidative stress and antioxidant levels in healthy young males

Background and Study Aim. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has become a popular exercise choice for people who have limited time but aim to maximize their workout results. This study aims to compare the impacts of high-intensity running interval training (HIRIT) and high-intensity progressive resistance training (HIPRT) on oxidative stress biomarkers and antioxidant levels in healthy young males. Material and Methods. The study included 30 healthy male adolescents aged 20–23 years who participated in HIRIT and HIPRT interventions over a four-week period. Data were collected by measuring levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) as biomarkers of oxidative stress and antioxidants. These measurements were obtained before and after the intervention using Colorimetric Assay Kits. Data analysis was performed using paired sample t-tests and independent sample t-tests with a significance level set at 5%. Results. The results showed a significant decrease in MDA levels in both high-intensity training interventions. However, SOD levels increased significantly only in the high-intensity running interval training group (p ≤ 0.05). Additionally, comparisons between groups revealed a reduction in MDA levels and an increase in SOD levels (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusions. These findings suggest that both high-intensity running interval training and high-intensity progressive resistance training, conducted over a four-week period, are effective in reducing oxidative stress. Additionally, both types of training increase antioxidant levels in healthy young men. However, high-intensity running interval training proved to be more effective in reducing MDA levels and increasing SOD levels.