Effects of low-frequency High-Intensity Interval training combined with L-Citrulline supplementation on myostatin and some physiological parameters in inactive elderly men

Aging is often associated with a progressive loss of muscle strength and an increase in fat mass. High-intensity interval training may improve muscle strength, but remains largely unstudied in ageing participants. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effects of eight weeks of low-frequency high-intensity interval and L-citrulline supplementation on myostatin, aerobic power, muscular strength and endurance and body fat in older men. 30 inactive old men randomly divided into three groups: high-intensity interval training (HIT), citrolin (CIT) and high-intensity interval training+citrolin (HIT+CIT). HIIT was performed for 8 weeks and 2 sessions per week that included 30 seconds cycling exercise on ergometer (intensity of 85-90% HR reserve). CIT supplement consumed in single 8 g-dose alternateve day. Results showed that there was significant decrease for myostatin in HIT+CIT and for body fat in HIT+CIT and HIT than CIT. Muscular strength and aerobic power significant increase in HIT+CIT and HIT than CIT. HIT+CITgroup showed significant increase compared to CIT. In conclusion, low-frequency HIIT alone and combined with L-citrulline seems to induce greater improvements in muscular strength and mass factors and aerobic performance in inactive elderly men. Therefore, low-frequency HIIT+CIT can be considered as effective program to prevent or reduce sarcopenia among elderly.