The effect of concurrent training on BDNF and hormonal responses in young men

Pedro J. Flores-Moreno, Education and Science Faculty, Physical Education and Sports School, Universidad de Colima, Col., Mexico
José E. Del-Río-Valdivia, Medicine Faculty, Universidad de Colima, Col., México
Fabián Rojas-Larios, Medicine Faculty, Universidad de Colima, Col., Mexico
Gerardo Martínez-Aguilar, Biomedical Research Unit, IMSS, Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Claudia I. Gamboa-Gómez, Biomedical Research Unit, IMSS, Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Juan J.J. Palacios-Butchart, Fundación Movimiento es Salud A.C., Mexico State. Mexico

Background: Physical activity (PA) represents an effective strategy to prevent sedentary-related medical conditions such as obesity, diabetes, cognitive diseases, and others. Mental health benefits resulting from regular PA are partially explained by reducing anxiety and stress and strengthening social skills, self-concept, and resilience. Objective: The effect of a concurrent training (CT) program on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and hormonal responses in young men was determined. Method: Sixteen healthy, moderately active men (age = 21.2 ± 4.5 years, height = 171.9 ± 6.3 cm, weight = 72.3 ± 15.4 kg, body mass index = 24.7 ± 6.1 kg/ m2) completed a 12-week CT program consisting of three blocks of 4 weeks each. Baseline and final concentrations of BDNF, testosterone, and cortisol were obtained from participants and analyzed with Student’s t-test. Results: BDNF levels increased (pre = 225.8 ± 94.5 pg/mL versus post = 327.3 ± 72.7 pg/mL, p = 0.004, 95% confidence intervals [95% CI] = 39.0-164. 1 pg/mL, d = 0.87). No significant changes were found in testosterone (pre = 5.9 ± 1.8 ng/mL versus post = 5.9 ± 2.1 ng/mL, p = 0.946, 95% CI = −0. 58, 0.62, d = 0.00) and cortisol (pre = 12.7 ± 2.4 μg/dL versus post = 14.2 ± 4.1 μg/dL, p = 0.138, 95% CI = −3.5, 0.54, d = −0.45). Conclusion: CT increased BDNF, while testosterone and cortisol were maintained within normal parameters.

Keywords: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Concurrent training. Testosterone. Cortisol. Young men.