Volume 28, Issue 6 (1-2026)                   J Arak Uni Med Sci 2026, 28(6): 485-493 | Back to browse issues page


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Parastesh M, Yasavoli Sharahi A, Moradi J, Aria B. Comparison of the Effects of Two Selected Training Protocols on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Working Memory, and Aerobic/Anaerobic power in Adolescent Futsal Players. J Arak Uni Med Sci 2026; 28 (6) :485-493
URL: http://jams.arakmu.ac.ir/article-1-7991-en.html
1- Department of Sports Physiology, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Research Institute of Applied Studies of Sports Sciences, Arak University, Arak, Iran , M-parastesh@Araku.ac.ir
2- Department of Sports Physiology, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Arak University, Arak, Iran
3- Department of Motor Behavior, Motor learning, Research Institute of Applied Studies of Sports Sciences, Motor Development, Sport Psychology, Arak University, Arak, Iran
4- Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran
Abstract:   (718 Views)
Introduction: Physical and cognitive fitness are crucial in futsal, making the identification of effective training methods essential. This study aimed to investigate the effects of two high-intensity interval training (HIIT) protocols on plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, working memory, and selected physical fitness factors (aerobic and anaerobic capacity) in adolescent futsal players.
Methods: This semi-experimental study was conducted on 15–16-year-old futsal players from Arak city with at least three years of club experience (approved by Arak University Ethics Committee, code: IR.ARAKU.RCE.1401.027). Twenty-four participants were randomly assigned to HIIT1 (10×1-minute intervals with 1-minute rest) or HIIT2 (3×4-minute intervals with 2-minute rest) groups, training for eight weeks. Aerobic capacity, anaerobic capacity, plasma BDNF levels, and working memory were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Data were analyzed using Paired and Independent T-tests (P <0.05).
Results: The HIIT1 group showed significant improvements in aerobic capacity (P = 0.001) and BDNF levels (P = 0.001). Similarly, HIIT2 demonstrated significant increases in aerobic capacity (P = 0.001), anaerobic capacity (P = 0.014), and BDNF levels (P = 0.001). Working memory showed no significant changes in either group (P = 0.780), with no between-group differences observed.
Conclusions: Both HIIT protocols significantly improved aerobic capacity and BDNF levels, while only HIIT2 enhanced anaerobic capacity. Neither protocol affected working memory. HIIT appears effective for enhancing physiological and physical fitness factors in adolescent futsal players.
 
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Type of Study: Original Atricle | Subject: General
Received: 2025/04/7 | Accepted: 2025/08/11

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