The Combined Effects of Cordyceps and Fartlek Training on Muscle Recovery and Bone Health in Soccer Players

Purpose of the Study:This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of combining Cordyceps supplementation and fartlek training as a recovery and performance enhancement strategy for soccer players. Muscle injuries often occur when athletes train intensely without adequate recovery. Cordyceps contains bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, while Fartlek training is designed to improve cardiovascular endurance. This study analyses how this combination affects both the physiological recovery and physical performance of soccer players. Research Question: Does the combination of Cordyceps supplementation and Fartlek training effectively reduce muscle damage, decrease oxidative stress, promote bone metabolism, and improve cardiorespiratory fitness in soccer players? Methodology and Biomarkers: To answer this question, the study evaluates specific physiological indicators from the participants' blood samples and physical tests. Muscle damage and recovery are assessed through creatine kinase (CK), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-10 (IL-10). Oxidative stress levels are monitored using superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Bone metabolism and health are measured via bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP) and osteocalcin (OST). Additionally, improvements in the athletes' aerobic capacity and overall physical performance are determined by measuring their maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂max).

Kriteria Inklusi: * Status saat ini sebagai atlet sepak bola kompetitif aktif. * Berusia antara 18 dan 20 tahun. * Memiliki asupan oksigen maksimal (VO2max) dasar minimal 44 mL·kg-¹·min-¹. * Dinyatakan sehat secara fisik dan mental berdasarkan pemeriksaan medis. * Bersedia mematuhi protokol pelatihan Fartlek dan jadwal suplementasi kapsul yang telah ditentukan. * Memberikan persetujuan tertulis untuk berpartisipasi dalam penelitian. Kriteria Eksklusi: * Berusia di bawah 18 tahun. * Terdaftar aktif di klub profesional pada saat penelitian. * Riwayat cedera muskuloskeletal atau fisik yang mengganggu performa pelatihan maksimal. * Saat ini mengonsumsi suplemen makanan, alat bantu ergogenik, atau obat-obatan lain dalam 4 minggu sebelum pengukuran awal. * Memiliki alergi atau hipersensitivitas terhadap Cordyceps sinensis atau komponen kapsul apa pun.