Effect of resistance exercise on peripheral inflammatory biomarkers in healthy adults: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Y.-H. Wang, H.-C. Jiang, D.-L. Luo, B.-G. Jiang, Y.-J. Shen, H.-H. Zhou, X.-D. Liu, Z.-B. Nie

College of Arts and Physical Education, Nanchang Normal College of Applied Technology, Nanchang, China. nmu_lxd@163.com

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• Sports Medicine

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of resistance exercise on peripheral inflammatory biomarkers in healthy adults.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and SPORTDiscus, were searched from inception until April 1st, 2022. A meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model, followed by sensitivity analysis, subgroup analysis, meta-regression analysis, and publication bias analysis.

RESULTS: 15 randomized controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled results showed that resistance exercise significantly decreased TNF-α levels (SMD = -0.81, 95% CI: -1.42 to -0.20, p = 0.009) but did not affect IL-6 and CRP levels. Individuals with BMI 18.5-24.9 exhibited significantly decreased IL-6 levels, while moderate strength resistance exercise could significantly decrease TNF-α levels. Finally, age might be a confounding factor influencing the effect of resistance exercise on IL-6.

CONCLUSIONS: Resistance exercise could reduce TNF-α levels in healthy adults, and resistance exercise with moderate intensity could reduce TNF-α levels more effectively.

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