Comparing the Effects of Different Intensities of Functional Training on BDNF and NGF Factors in Volleyball

Authors
Arif Arif Akram Arif Alnaseri
Farzaneh Taghian
Ibtisam Haider Bektash Bulbul
Khosro Jalali Dehkordi
Department of Sports Physiology, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.
Abstract
Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of high-intensity functional training (HIFT) and moderate-intensity functional training (MIFT) on serum concentrations of brain-derived growth factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) in volleyball players. BDNF and NGF play key roles in cellular, neural, and metabolic processes, and understanding how they change under the influence of different types of exercise training can help in designing more effective and targeted training programs for the prevention and management of sports injuries and for improving sports performance. By examining these factors, this study aims to clarify this relationship.

Methods: Participants were randomly divided into three groups: a control group, a HIFT group, and a MIFT group. MIFT training included multi-joint movements such as squats, deadlifts, and Olympic exercises performed at an intensity of 50-70% of heart rate reserve for 3 days per week for approximately 60 minutes each session. HIFT training consisted of eight exercises performed for a duration of 30 seconds for each exercise and a 30-second rest period between exercises. Serum BDNF and NGF concentrations were measured before and after the training period (in the morning, while fasting, and at least 12 hours after the last intense exercise) using standard ELISA methods. Data analysis was performed using ANOVA with a significance level of 0.05.

Results: The results showed that both training protocols had a significant effect on BDNF and NGF concentrations. Furthermore, compared to moderate intensity training, high intensity training significantly increased BDNF and NGF concentrations.

Conclusion: HIFT training is recommended to coaches to improve the physiological and cognitive performance of volleyball athletes. These results indicate that training intensity plays a decisive role in regulating factors related to neuroplasticity. The practical application of these findings emphasizes the need to include high-intensity training in athletes' training programs to optimize neuromuscular performance.
Keywords
BDNF
Exercise training
High-Intensity Training
Neurotrophic
NGF
Volleyball
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