The Physiological Oxidative Stress Response to Cold Water Immersion Following a Repeated Sprint Activity in Trained Men

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to measure the changes in malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl (PC) after repeated-sprint activity (RSA), as the indicators of physiological oxidative stress response, followed by cold water immersion (CWI). Materials and Methods : Twenty trained men were assigned to take part in this study. After performing repeated-sprint activity, 10 participants immersed in the cold water (14°C), and 10 participants passively sat on a chair at room temperature. Blood sampling was performed before and after repeated-sprint activity, after cold water immersion or passive rest, and after 24 hours. Result : The repeated-sprint activity increased the serum levels of protein carbonyl (t = 3.97, P = 0.001) and malondialdehyde (t = 9.54, P < 0.001). Cold water immersion had a significant effect on serum protein carbonyl levels after repetitive activities; and the results of mean differences indicated a significant reduction immediately (5.92) and 24 hours after recovery (12.93), compared to before recovery. Moreover, the results indicated a significant reduction in protein carbonyl 24 hours after recovery (7.01), compared to immediately after recovery. However, the results of repeated measures analysis of variance on the measurement stages showed that only the time effect (P < 0.001) was significant; but the group effect (P = 0.572), and the interaction of the measurement steps with the group (P = 0.915) were not significant. Conclusion : The results of this study showed that repeated-sprint activity resulted in increased oxidative stress, but cold water immersion did not have more impact than passive rest.