Aim. It has been reported that exercise induces oxidative stress and causes adaptations in antioxidant defenses. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of regular long term training on antioxidant enzymatic activities consisting of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathion peroxidase (GPX) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) in a group of basketball players engaged in a physical training program. Methods. SOD, GPX and GST activities were measured as an indicator of antioxidant defenses in long term trained basketball players and compared with non-sporting age matched controls. Independent samples t test was used to compare the data between the two groups. Results. SOD, GPX and GST levels were significantly higher in basketball players than sedentary controls (P<0.05, P<0.05 and P<0.01, respectively). Conclusion. Data suggest that regular long term training can induce antioxidant response to the oxidative stress. These results support the possibility that the beneficial effect of physical exercise on oxidative stress might be associated with increased antioxidant defenses.
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