Effects of a Selected Training Program on Motor Performance and Serum Levels of IL-4 and IL-6 in Elite Water Polo Players

In recent years, exercise immunology studies have focused on key components of immune function, such as immune cells, immunoglobulins, and messenger molecules, as well as the effects of environmental and exercise factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate effects of 8 weeks of selected training on serum levels of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, and motor performance in elite water polo players.

For this purpose, 20 male water polo players (mean age: 23 years) were randomly divided into an experimental group (n=10, selected water polo training) and a control group (n=10, traditional water polo training). The selected water polo training was performed for 8 weeks, 6 sessions per week. The intensity of training was controlled using maximum heart rate (80-100%) and increased by 5% every week. Water polo performance tests included a record of 50 meters swimming, 100 meters high swimming, 200 meters’ breaststroke, 6 ×50 meters swimming, and 400 meters swimming. To evaluate the serum levels of IL-6 and IL-4, venous blood (5 ml) was taken in the pretest and posttest stages. The serum levels of IL-4 and IL-6 were measured by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Mean values were compared using the t-test, at significant level of 0.05.

The selected water polo training significantly changed IL-4 levels in elite water polo players (p<0.05). However, IL-6 levels and performance of the subjects did not change significantly.

The selected swimming exercises could relatively improve swimming stagnation of water polo players. However, due to the limited knowledge in this regard, there is a need for further research.