Evaluation the role of eight weeks of SAQ and sprint interval training on mitochondrial indices and cell-free DNA concentration in soccer players along with consumption of sports drinks.

The role of eight weeks of SAQ and sprint interval training on mitochondrial indices and cell-free DNA concentration in soccer players along with sports drink consumption

A randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, controlled clinical trial on 56 football players. The Excel RAND function will be used for randomization.

Study setting: Molecular and Cellular Physiology Laboratory, Medicinal Plants House, Isfahan; Study population: Male soccer players; Type of blinding: Double-blind; Method of blinding: Subjects and outcome assessor were unaware of the groups and supplement.

Inclusion criteria: male football players; aged 14–15 years; no musculoskeletal abnormalities; informed consent from parents/guardians; no consumption of supplements/medications (except standard multivitamins); completion of the PAR-Q questionnaire and normal pre-exercise ECG. Exclusion criteria: history of known cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases; presence of acute or chronic limb injuries within the past 6 months; tobacco or alcohol consumption; metabolic diseases such as diabetes.

Intervention group 1: SAQ group (agility/speed drills), Intervention group 2: SIT (interval sprints), Intervention group 3: SAQ group (agility/speed drills) with stretching recovery and Spirulina drink consumption, Intervention group 4: SIT (interval sprints) with stretching recovery and Spirulina drink consumption.

Changes in the expression levels of genes related to cell death and mitochondria, citrate synthase concentration, and cfDNA concentration

To use the random number table, the researcher will first determine the table's reading direction. Then the numbers will be considered for different groups. For example, numbers 14-00 for group A, numbers 15-29 for intervention B, numbers 44-30 for group C, and 45-59 for group D. Then, we will place our hands on one of the numbers and move in one of the predetermined directions. The numbers will be recorded and assigned to four groups: SAQ group (agility/speed drills); SIT (intermittent sprints) with stretching recovery and Spirulina drink consumption; SAQ group (agility/speed drills) with stretching recovery and Spirulina drink consumption; and SIT (intermittent sprints) with stretching recovery and Spirulina drink consumption. To conceal the random allocation, the coded-box method with random sequences will be used. This method uses several boxes numbered in a random sequence. It will be ensured that the boxes are sufficiently sealed, identical in appearance, and equal in weight.

In this study, the analyst, statistician, specialist assistant, coach and physiologist were unaware of the entire study process. The blinding process included allocation concealment through sealed envelopes and spirulina drink consumption, standardized exercise training protocols, and outcome assessment by an independent blinded team with automated digital devices coupled with an emergency controlled disclosure mechanism designed for emergencies. In order to blind the consumption of spirulina drink, all the participants in the recovery stage are given a simple drink in dark bottles so that the color of the drink is not clear.