The effect of ۸ weeks of circuit training on serum levels of nerve growth factor (NGF) and physical fitness factors in elderly women [In Persian]

چکیده مقاله

Abstract

Aim:  Nerve cell growth factors such as nerve growth factor (NGF) cause neuronal plasticity and survival in the brain. The survival of neurons can delay the effects of aging. Improving physical fitness factors can increase the risk of falling down and the treatment cost. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of 8 weeks of circuit training on serum levels of NGF and physical fitness factors in elderly females. Method: This present study was a quasi-experimental research design with pre-test and post-test, among 23 elderly women (age: 64.84±3.2 years, weight: 72.71±7.45 kg and height: 157.09±3.61cm) that were divided into training (n=12) and control (n=11) groups. The training group performed selected circuit training, including 12 aerobic and resistance exercise for the lower and upper torso and central muscles of the body for three sessions per week with an intensity of 40 to 60% of 1RM for an hour and 8 weeks. Physical fitness factors has been measured and fasting blood sampling were taken 48 hours before the after the training protocol. Nerve growth factor was assessed by ELISA method. Shapiro-wilk test was used for normal data distribution, analysis of variance (ANOVA) 2 × 2 and independent t-test were used at a significance level of α <0.05 in data analysis. Result:  Inter-group comparison of the results showed that eight weeks of circular training significantly increased NGF level (p≥0.001) as well as improved cardiovascular endurance (p = 0.004), muscle endurance (p≥0.001), performance ( P = 0.009) and physical reduction (p = 0.005).. Conclusion: Regular circuit training could improve the physical fitness factors and also delay the neurological index in elderly women.

Keywords

• Circuit base exercise
• physical fitness
• NGF
• aging