The synergistic effect of protein complex supplementation combined with 12 weeks of resistance training on isokinetic muscular function in untrained young males.

Purpose: Resistance exercise training (RET) and an additional intake of dietary protein supplements may improve muscle mass and muscular function, and reduce inflammatory markers. The types, amount, and timing of dietary protein supplements are important for the synergistic effects of resistance training and dietary protein supplements. We hypothesized that a 25.1 g protein complex supplement taken for 12 weeks, immediately before and after resistance exercise, would enhance fat free mass and isokinetic muscular function in young untrained males.

Methods: Eighteen participants were randomly assigned to a placebo (n=8) or protein complex supplement groups (n=10). The RET was a supervised progressive program, 3 times per week for 12-weeks, and was performed progressing 80% of their one repetition maximum (1-RM). Body composition, blood pressure, plasma inflammatory markers, lipid level and isokinetic muscular function were assessed before and after the study period.

Results: There was a significant interaction effect in C-reactive protein (CRP) (p =0.044) among blood vessel inflammatory markers. The protein complex supplement group had shown more effective improvement at 12 weeks intervention compared to the placebo group in isokinetic muscular function. There was a significant interaction effect in peak torque at 60 degrees/sec leg extension (p =0.044), total work at 240 degrees/sec leg extension (p =0.025), and total work at 240 degrees/sec leg flexion (p =0.011).

Conclusion: Protein complex supplementation during RET appears more effective than RET alone in improving isokinetic muscular function for 12 weeks in untrained young men.