This study aimed to evaluate the changes in the erythropoietin level and hematological variables in wrestlers after intermittent hypoxic exposure (IHE). Twelve wrestlers were assigned into two groups: hypoxia (sports training combined with IHE, n=6) and control (sports training, n=6). An IHE was performed for 10 days, with one day off after 6 days, once a day for about an hour. The concentrations of hydrogen peroxide ( H(2)O(2) ), nitric oxide (NO), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and erythropoietin (EPO), as well as total creatine kinase activity (CK) were measured. Also, the hematological markers (Hb - hemoglobin, Ht - hematocrit, RBC - red blood cell, WBC - white blood cell, Ret - reticulocytes) were analyzed. The 6-day IHE caused an increase in the levels of H(2)O(2), NO and VEGF. Similarly, the EPO level and WBC count reached the highest value after 6 days of IHE. The total Ret number increase constantly during 10 days of IHE. The hypoxia group showed a higher CK activity compared to the control. In conclusion, 10-day IHE in combination with wrestling training elevates levels of H(2)O(2), NO and VEGF, and improves the oxygen transport capacity by the release of EPO and Ret in circulation.

• MeSH
• Exercise physiology   MeSH
• Adult MeSH
• Erythropoietin blood   MeSH
• Erythropoiesis physiology   MeSH
• Hypoxia blood   MeSH
• Blood Cell Count methods   MeSH
• Humans MeSH
• Young Adult MeSH
• Random Allocation MeSH
• Athletes * MeSH
• Oxygen Consumption physiology   MeSH
• Wrestling physiology   MeSH
• Check Tag
• Adult MeSH
• Humans MeSH
• Young Adult MeSH
• Male MeSH
• Publication type
• Journal Article MeSH
• Names of Substances
• Erythropoietin MeSH