Effect of short-term sprint interval training (SIT) on sperm parameters and spermatogenesis indexes in adult male wistar rats

The effect of short-term sprint interval training (SIT) on the male reproductive system is one of the important issues that has not been studied so far. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of SIT on sperm parameters and spermatogenesis indices in adult, male Wister rats.

This was an experimental study in which 20male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups, control (n = 10) and SIT (n = 10). The training was performed thrice weekly for five weeks. Forty-eight hours after the last training session, four rats from each group were randomly selected and sacrificed, and then tissue, serum, and sperm evaluations were conducted. Data were analyzed by an independent t-test using SPSS software version 22 (p < 0.05).

In the SIT group, serum testosterone levels, testicular interstitial fat density and the number of Leydig cells were significantly higher compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The tubular differentiation index (TDI), spermiogenesis index (SI), repopulation indices (RI), and the number, mobility and sperm viability were significantly lower in the SIT group in comparison with the control group (p < 0.05). However, the number of seminiferous cells, the diameter of seminiferous tubules, the thickness of the seminiferous tubular epithelium, the sperm DNA damage, and the sperm chromatin quality were not significantly different between groups (P>0.05).  

Based on the findings of this study, it seems that short-term SIT training may improve aerobic capacity and some hormonal and reproductive indices. However, as it may reduce some sperm parameters and spermatogenesis indices more research is needed to determine the best intensity and duration of SIT for reproductive purposes.