Effect of 30-min hot spring incubation on exercise-induced muscle damage folowing a two-day decathlon competition

Introduction

It is not known whether an elevation in the ambient temperature could attenuate exercise-induced muscle damage after post-exercise competition. Therefore, the present study was used to determine the effects of hot-spring incubation on blood creatine kinase and uric acid levels.

Methods

Eleven decathlon athletes that participated in a national level competition, were subdivided into two groups: competitor-hot spring (N= 7) and competitor-no hot spring (N=4). The levels of blood lactate, creatine kinase, and uric acid were measured before and after the competition. Two hours following the competition, the first group performed a 30-min hot spring incubation (41 degree C), and all variables were measured immediately after the incubation in all the subjects.

Results

The two-day decathlon competition significantly elevated blood lactate level in both groups. Blood lactate was significantly reduced to the pre-exercise levels in both groups within 2.5 hr, independent of hot spring incubation. In addition, blood creatine kinase significantly elevated by approximately 4 folds in both groups. No significant reductions in CK levels were observed in both groups. Both groups exhibited a significant elevation in blood uric acid levels during the post-competition period. This elevation was not affected by the hot spring treatment.

Discussion/Conclusion

Although it is generally suggested that increased ambient temperature can enhance metabolic rate, the extend of muscle damage, and uric acid production following a post-exercise competition, these parameters were not affected by hot spring incubation.