Neuromuscular indices adaptation of sarcopenic elderly men to high-intensity interval training and L-citrulline supplementation

Aging causes the decreased of muscle mass, strength, and or limited activity known as sarcopenia in the elderly. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effects of eight weeks of high-intensity interval and L-citrulline supplementation on serum CAF and neuromuscular indices in elderly men with sarcopenia.

In this randomized clinical trial, 41 elderly men with sarcopenia randomly divided into four groups: high-intensity interval training+placebo (HIIT), citrolin (CIT) and high-intensity interval training+citrolin (HIIT+CIT) and placebo (P). HIIT was performed for 8 weeks and 2 sessions per week that included 30 seconds cycling exercise on ergometer (intensity of 85-90% HR reserve). CIT supplement consumed in single 6 g-dose alternative day. Pre and post-training intervention, neuromuscular indices (muscle quality, chair sitting-standing time, timed up and go) were measured and blood sample (CAF) were taken. Repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc tests was used for data analysis.

Results showed that there was significant decrease for CAF and significant increase for muscle quality and sitting-standing time in HIIT+CIT and HIIT than P (P<0.05). Lean mass index and walking speed significantly improved in HIIT+CIT and HIIT than P (P<0.05).

In conclusion, HIIT with two sessions per week frequency improved neuromuscular indices in sarcopenic elderly men and therefore, can be considered an effective method to prevent or reduce sarcopenia.