A Comparative Analysis of Two Agonist Muscle Superset Training Variations on Muscle Damage and Oxidative Stress Markers in Resistance-Trained Men

Abstract

Background: Evidence suggests that heavy resistance activities can damage muscle cell membranes by increasing free radical production. However, the specific type of resistance activity and the adaptations made by resistance-trained men can influence oxidative stress indicators and muscle damage. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the acute impact of two agonist muscle superset resistance training protocols on malondialdehyde (MDA), creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and catalase (CAT) in resistance-trained men. Methods: A quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest design was conducted. Ten resistance-trained men (age: 24.25 ± 4.92 years; height: 175.12 ± 19.6 cm; weight: 74.75 ± 8.44 kg) participated in one of two superset agonist muscle resistance training protocols (post-exhaustion supersets and pre-exhaustion supersets). Subjects performed three sets of ten repetitions at an intensity of 80% of their 1-repetition maximum (1RM). Blood samples were taken immediately before and 24 hours after each session, and serum levels of MDA, CK, LDH, TAC, and CAT were evaluated. Results: Both types of superset resistance training significantly increased MDA, CK, LDH, TAC, and CAT levels, with no significant difference in the effects on MDA, CK, and LDH. However, a significant difference was observed between the two training protocols in terms of TAC and CAT, with post-exhaustion supersets showing a greater increase in these antioxidant indices. Conclusions: A single session of both protocols can induce oxidative stress and muscle damage in resistance-trained men. Additionally, post-exhaustion superset training of agonist muscles may have a greater impact on enhancing antioxidant capacity.