Combined aerobic and resistance exercise training for improving reproductive function in infertile men: a randomized controlled trial
Behzad Hajizadeh Maleki Physiologie appliquée, nutrition et métabolisme Reçu avril 13, 2017.
This randomized controlled trial was conducted to examine the effects of 24 weeks of combined aerobic and resistance exercise training on seminal markers of inflammation and oxidative stress as well as markers of male reproductive function and reproductive performance in infertile patients. Of a total of 1296 infertile patients (aged 25-40 years) who were screened, 556 were randomly assigned to exercise (EX, n = 278) and non-exercise (NON-EX, n = 278) groups. Semen samples were taken before, 12 and 24 weeks as well as 7 and 30 days post intervention. The training program reduced seminal proinflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α] and markers of oxidative stress [reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and 8-Isoprostane] (P < 0.05). Additional improvements were also achieved in seminal antioxidant defense system [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC)] (P < 0.05). Training-induced changes in inflammation and oxidative stress status correlated with favorable improvements in semen parameters, sperm DNA integrity, and pregnancy rate (P < 0.05).
In conclusion, these results support the evidence for the favorable effects of combined aerobic and resistance exercise training in male factor infertility.