Increased erythrocyte aggregation following an acute bout of eccentric isokinetic exercise does not exceed two days

Isokinetic exercise is used to reduce strength imbalance and to enhance performance.

The aim of this study was to investigate the acute effects of a single bout of eccentric isokinetic exercise on hemorheology (erythrocyte deformability and aggregation), total oxidant/antioxidant status (TOS/TAS) and oxidative stress index (OSI) in active individuals.

The study comprises 11 active, healthy, male subjects (mean age of 19.45 ± 0.31 years, BMI 22.05 ± 0.51 kg/m2). They performed single, unilateral eccentric contractions of knee flexors and extensors with dominant leg on a dynamometer. Isokinetic hamstring, quadriceps strength were recorded at eccentric (30, 120° s-1) angular velocities. Eight active age-matched healthy male subjects were included as a control group, who did not receive exercise. Blood samples were obtained before, immediately after and two days after the exercise session. Hemorheological parameters were measured by an ektacytometer. TOS/TAS were determined using a commercial kit.

A session of eccentric isokinetic exercise did not affect erythrocyte deformability and oxidative stress indices, whereas red blood cell (RBC) aggregation was increased initially and returned to pre-exercise levels after two days following exercise.

Our results suggest that, increased RBC aggregation following an acute bout of isokinetic exercise may result in increased plasma skimming that augments tissue perfusion and clearance of metabolites within a period of two days following exercise.