We evaluated the eVect of cold ice-pack application following a brief sprint-interval training on the balance between anabolic mediators [growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), testosterone], catabolic markers (cortisol, IGFBP-1), and circulating pro [Interlukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-1 ]-and anti-inXammatory cytokines [IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra)]. Twelve males, elite junior handball players performed 4 £ 250 m treadmill run, at 80% of each individual's maximal speed, followed by a rest period with and without local cold-pack application. Pre, immediately post, and 60-min post-exercise blood samples were drawn. Exercise was associated with a signiWcant increase in IL-6, GH, IGFBP-3, and testosterone levels. Local cold-pack application was associated with signiWcant decreases in IL-1 , IL-1ra, IGF-I, and IGFBP-3 and a greater increase of IGFBP-1 during recovery. Local ice therapy immediately following sprint-interval training was associated with greater decreases in both pro-and antiinXammatory cytokines and anabolic hormones supporting some clinical evidence for possible negative eVects on athletic performance.