Effects of 12-Week Combined Exercise on Semen Quality and Metabolic Health in Healthy Men

This study evaluated whether a 12-week combined aerobic and resistance exercise program could improve semen quality and metabolic health in healthy adult men. A total of 34 men aged 18-24 years participated in the study. Participants were assigned to either an exercise group or a passive control group based on their willingness and ability to attend the exercise program; assignment was not randomized. Participants in the exercise group completed supervised combined exercise sessions three times per week for 12 weeks. Each session included aerobic and resistance exercises. Participants in the control group were asked to maintain their usual daily activities and not begin a structured exercise program during the study. Semen quality, metabolic biomarkers, and body composition were assessed before and after the 12-week study period. Semen assessments included semen volume, pH, sperm concentration, motility, and normal sperm morphology. The study aimed to determine whether regular combined exercise was associated with changes in reproductive and metabolic health compared with no structured exercise program.

Inclusion Criteria: * Male participants aged 18-24 years. Being generally healthy and able to participate safely in an aerobic and resistance exercise program. Voluntarily agreeing to participate and providing written informed consent. Being willing and able to provide semen and blood samples at baseline and after the 12-week study period. Being able to complete the study assessments and comply with the study procedures. Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of a diagnosed reproductive system disorder or a medical condition known to affect semen quality. Presence of a chronic, cardiovascular, metabolic, musculoskeletal, or other medical condition that could prevent safe participation in exercise. Current use of medication, hormonal treatment, or nutritional supplementation known to influence reproductive or metabolic outcomes. Presence of an acute illness or injury during the assessment or intervention period that prevented participation. Failure to complete the baseline or post-intervention assessments. Failure to comply with the prescribed exercise program or study procedures.