Effects of Exercise Training under Hyperbaric Oxygen on Oxidative Stress Markers and Endurance Performance in Young Soccer Players: A Pilot Study

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of three weeks of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO₂) training on oxidative stress markers and endurance performance in young soccer players. Participants (18.6 ± 1.6 years) were randomized into hyperbaric-hyperoxic (HH) training (n = 6) and normobaric normoxic (NN) training (n = 6) groups. Immediately before and after the 5th, 10th, and 15th training sessions, plasma oxidative stress markers (lipid hydroperoxides and uric acid), plasma antioxidant capacity (6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic acid [TROLOX]), arterial blood gases, acid-base balance, bases excess (BE), and blood lactate analyses were performed. Before and after intervention, maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max) and peak power output (PPO) were determined. Neither HH nor NN experienced significant changes on oxidative stress markers or antioxidant capacity during intervention. VO₂max and PPO were improved (moderate effect size) after HH training. The results suggest that HBO₂ endurance training does not increase oxidative stress markers and improves endurance performance in young soccer players. Our findings warrant future investigation to corroborate that HBO₂ endurance training could be a potential training approach for highly competitive young soccer players.

Figure 1

Schematic representation of training intervention. NN = normobaric normoxia; HH = hyperbaric hyperoxia. ATA = absolute atmosphere.

Figure 2

Effects of 3 weeks of NN and HH endurance training on VO₂max (a) and peak power output (b) in young soccer players. ES: effect size. NN = normobaric normoxia; HH = hyperbaric hyperoxia.