No abstract

Background: Osteoporosis is the most common disorder of bone and mineral metabolism. This disease is associated with decreased bone density and loss of bone microstructure, leading to increased fragility and risk of bone fractures. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of eight weeks of aerobic interval training on the serum concentrations of alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and parathyroid hormone in middle-aged men. Methods: This was a quasi-experimental study of 24 men, who were divided into two groups of control (n = 12) and aerobic interval training (n = 12). Training performed during eight weeks, three times a week, each session for 45 to 60 minutes. Blood samples were analyzed for the concentrations of calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and parathyroid hormone before and after completion of the training program. Paired samples t-test and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) were run to analyze the data (P ≤ 0.05). Results: Weight and body mass index decreased significantly, and the maximum oxygen consumption at the end of the training program increased significantly in the experimental group. Eight weeks of aerobic exercise led to a significant increase in the amounts of calcium (P = 0.001), phosphorus (P = 0.001), alkaline phosphatase (P = 0.001), osteocalcin (P = 0.001), and parathyroid hormone (P = 0.001) in the experimental group. Conclusions: It can be stated that eight weeks of aerobic interval training may be effective in preventing osteoporosis by reducing body composition indices and increasing calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and serum parathyroid hormone in inactive men.