The Effect of Eight Weeks of Resistance and Sprint Interval Training Combined with Saffron Extract on Cardiovascular Indicators in the Elderly

GHolami, Hamed; Ghaedi, Hadi; Ghahramani, Mehran

doi:10.22059/jsb.2025.385405.1660

Document Type : Research Paper I Open Access I Released under CC BY-NC 4.0 license

Authors

¹ Department of Exercise Physiology, Lamerd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Lamerd, Iran.

² Department of Exercise Physiology, Ker.C., Islamic Azad University, Kermanshah, Iran

10.22059/jsb.2025.385405.1660

Abstract

Introduction: This research aimed to compare the effects of resistance training and sprint interval training combined with saffron extract on cardiovascular indicators of the elderly
Method: In this semi-experimental study, 30 sedentary elderly men over the age of 65 were selected as participants and assigned to three groups of resistance training + saffron supplement, sprint interval training + saffron supplement, and control group. The resistance training group participated in an 8-week resistance training program, while the sprint interval group completed an 8-week sprint interval training program. The control group continued with their daily activities during the intervention period. Participants in the supplement groups received 3 mg/kg of body weight of saffron extract three times per day for eight weeks. Resting heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and VO₂ max were measured before and after the intervention. Research data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA at a significance level of p < 0.05.
Findings: Neither 8 weeks of resistance training nor sprint interval training—both combined with saffron extract—had a significant effect on resting heart rate, VO₂ max, or systolic blood pressure in elderly individuals. Additionally, no significant differences were observed between the effects of resistance training and sprint interval training combined with saffron extract on resting heart rate, VO2max, and systolic blood pressure in elderly people.
Conclusion: Based on the findings of this research, it is likely that longer training periods are needed to observe the potential benefits of both resistance and sprint interval training methods combined with saffron supplementation.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Exercise Physiology

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