Aims: Based on the clinical studies, there are higher myostatin gene expression and serum level in cardiovascular patients than the healthy persons. In addition, based on some studies, regular resistance exercises is in line with a reduction in the myostatin gene expression. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 8-week resistance exercises on the myostatin gene expressions of myocardium in the healthy male Wistar rats. 

Materials & Methods: In the experimental study, 13 male adult Wistar rats, aged 15 weeks, were divided into experimental (n=7) and control (n=6) groups. In experimental group, 8-week exercises were done as climbing up a 26-step 1-meter ladder, inclined 85°, with a sinker. (There were 3 sessions a week exercises; each session consisted of 3 sets of 5 repetitions.) 24 hours after the last exercise session and after 12-hour fasting, the rats being dissected, muscle tissue samples were prepared to assess mRNA levels. Data was analyzed in SPSS 16 software using independent T test.

Findings: After 8-week resistance exercises, there was no significant difference in the myostatin mRNA expression level in the myocardium between experimental (1.56±0.44) and control (1.94±0.55) groups (p=0.197).

Conclusion: 8-week resistance exercises leads to no significant change in the myostatin gene expression of myocardium in the healthy Wistar male rats.