A Comparative Study on the Effects of Nonlinear Resistance Training With and Without Curcumin Supplementation on IL-6, TNF-α, Muscle Strength, and Perceived Pain in Male Bodybuilders from Isfahan

Background: Some studies have highlighted the effects of resistance training on inflammatory factors. This study aimed to compare the effects of non-linear resistance training with and without curcumin supplementation on certain inflammatory markers, muscular strength, and perceived pain in male bodybuilders. Methods: The study population included male bodybuilders aged 20–30 in Isfahan with at least one year of bodybuilding experience. Thirty participants were selected by convenience sampling and randomly assigned to two groups: non-linear resistance training with curcumin supplementation (n=15) and non-linear resistance training alone (n=15). Exercises were performed three non-consecutive days per week for 12 weeks. The curcumin group received one capsule daily. Blood samples (5 mL) were collected 24 hours before and after the intervention. Variables measured included IL-6, TNF-α, perceived pain, and muscle strength. Data were analyzed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) with significance set at p<0.05. Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups in TNF-α (p=0.132) or IL-6 (p=0.421). Perceived pain differed significantly between groups (p=0.005), with greater improvement observed in the training plus curcumin group. No significant differences were found between groups in one-repetition maximum (1RM) for chest press (p=0.296) or leg press (p=0.188). Conclusion: Non-linear resistance training combined with curcumin supplementation can reduce muscular pain, body weight, and fat percentage. However, further research is needed to clarify effects on inflammatory markers.