Effect of resistance training on aplein and inflammatory indicators in obese sedentary men

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of resistance training on apelin and inflammatory indicators (Interleulin-6 and C-reactive protein) in sedentary obese men. In this quasi-experimental study, 20 men aged between 48 to 60 years with BMI≥30 kg/m2, were randomly allocated to the resistance training (n=10), and control groups (n=10). The training program consists of 12 weeks of resistance training, 3 sessions a week, 3 sets with 12 to 10 reps per session and with the intensityof 75-50% of one repetition maximum and 60-90 seconds rest. The exercises include bench press, axillary rowing, behind the neck barbell shoulder press, leg press, front leg extension and behind leg curl. Before and 48 hours after the 12 weeks exercise, measurement of apelin and inflammatory, Interleukin-6 (IL-6), C - reactive protein (CRP) and insulin resistance index were performed. Paired t-test and Independent t-test were used for statistical analysis. Results revealed that after 12 weeks resistance training, significant reductions were observed in the levels of IL-6 (p= 0.036), CRP (p=0.011), weight (p=0.029), body mass index (p=0.021) and fat percent (p=0.005). apelin levels (p=0.06) and insulin resistance index (p=0.089) decreased in experimental group but it was not statistically significant. Generally, 12 weeks of resistance training, despite a significant decrease in inflammatory markers, apelin levels were not significantly decreased. It seems that the observed changes in inflammatory markers have been due to reduced body fat mass and anti-inflammatory nature of resistance trainings.