The Effects of Combined Exercises Intensity (Aerobics-Resistance) on Plasma Cortisol and Testosterone Levels in Active Males

Abstract

Background: Changes in hormone levels especially testosterone and cortisol occur as a result of exercise intensity. In other words, the exercise intensity significantly influences these changes. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of aerobics-resistance (concurrent) exercise intensities on the serum testosterone and cortisol levels in the active men. Methods: In this clinical trial, 10 healthy men were included in their combined activities in low, medium, and high levels. Different intensities (aerobic activity such as running on a treadmill at a speed of 8, 6.9, and 11.2 mph and resistance exercise on 45%, 65%, and 85% of maximum strange, maximum of six moves) were considered for all participants for unity. Blood samples were measured in three phases (baseline, immediately after exercise, and 24 hours after training contracts) at three levels. Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with repeated normal data and Bonferroni post hoc test were conducted. Results: The results showed that cortisol and plasma lactate concentration was declined immediately before and 24 hours after the combined exercise with the significant level of activity (P < 0.05). Joint action at different intensities resulted in significant changes not in testosterone level (P < 0.05). Conclusion: In this study, the intensity of training as an independent variable influencing the changes in the levels of testosterone and cortisol has been recommended; so highly sportaffected hormonal changes during the combined exercise should be considered more than that in one exercise.

Keywords

• Concurrent exercise
• Testosterone
• Cortisol
• Plasma lactate
• Exercise intensities