Twice-weekly exercise training reduces oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokine levels in elder women

Abstract Aim: Reactive oxygen species and high concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines are related to diseases that are often triggered during the aging process. This study aimed to investigate the effect of moderate-intensity physical exercise, twice a week, on oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers. Methods: Participants were older women aged 60-70 years, engaged in a moderate-intensity exercise program carried out in 60 minutes sessions, twice a week, for 24 weeks. Exercise sessions consisted of step, resistance and stretch exercises. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), serum iron and cytokines IL-6, IL-1β and IL-1ra were determined using specific kits. Physical fitness was assessed using tests provided by AAPHERD. A paired t test was performed. Results: Moderate-intensity exercise program provided a reduction in lipid peroxidation (27%) and in the serum release of prooxidant iron ions (40%). Cytokine levels were reduced by 37% for IL-6, 16% for IL-1β and 32% for IL-1ra. Improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness (13%), muscular endurance (11%) and flexibility (12%) were also observed. Conclusion: Diminished redox state and inflammation were obtained using a twice-weekly exercise program. These results have important implications for older adults who are unable or unwilling to attend exercise programs more than twice a week. Moreover, these results could re-establish the minimum exercise activity necessary for obtaining health benefits in the elderly population.