Tabari Biomedical Student Research Journal

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-18 (IL-18) 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, 27 subjects with the mean
age of 16.92 years, mean weight of 62.56 kg, and mean height of 160.33 cm
were randomly allocated to four groups: control (n=6), endurance exercise (n=7),
resistance exercise (n=7), and RE exercise (n=7). 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-18 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<0.05). 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<0.05).
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