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The aims of this study were to assess (i) the load–velocity relationship during the box squat exercise in women survivors of breast cancer, (ii) which velocity variable (mean velocity [MV], mean propulsive velocity [MPV], or peak velocity [PV]) shows stronger relationship with the relative load (%1RM), and (iii) which regression model (linear [LA] or polynomic [PA]) provides a greater fit for predicting the velocities associated with each %1RM. Nineteen women survivors of breast cancer (age: 53.2 ± 6.9 years, weight: 70.9 ± 13.1 kg, and height: 163.5 ± 7.4 cm) completed an incremental load test up to one‐repetition maximum in the box squat exercise. The MV, MPV, and the PV were measured during the concentric phase of each repetition with a linear velocity transducer. These measurements were analyzed by regression models using LA and PA. Strong correlations of MV with %1RM (R2 = 0.903/0.904; the standard error of the estimate (SEE) = 0.05 m.s−1 by LA/PA) and MPV (R2 = 0.900; SEE = 0.06 m.s−1 by LA and PA) were observed. In contrast, PV showed a weaker association with %1RM (R2 = 0.704; SEE = 0.15 m.s−1 by LA and PA). The MV and MPV of 1RM was 0.22 ± 0.04 m·s−1, whereas the PV at 1RM was 0.63 ± 0.18 m.s−1. These findings suggest that the use of MV to prescribe relative loads during resistance training, as well as LA and PA regression models, accurately predicted velocities for each %1RM. Assessing and prescribing resistance exercises during breast cancer rehabilitation can be facilitated through the monitoring of movement velocity. Highlights: Movement velocity allows to precisely determine the relative load during the box squat exercise without submitting the patient to excessive mechanical and metabolic stress.From a practical perspective, we suggest using the mean velocity and a linear adjustment.This approach could provide an advantage over traditional assessment methods, enabling the efficient evaluation and prescription of resistance training intensity in exercise rehabilitation programs for women survivors of breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving peak oxygen uptake (V̇O2peak) and maximal strength are key objectives of rehabilitation for patients with unspecific musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Although high‐intensity training yield superior outcomes for these factors, patients with MSDs may not tolerate high‐intensity due to pain and fear. Therefore, we examined the effect and feasibility of incorporating aerobic high‐intensity intervals (HIITs) and maximal strength training (MST) in a standard clinical rehabilitation program for patients with unspecific MSDs. 73 patients (45 ± 10 years) with MSDs partaking in a standard, public, and 4‐week rehabilitation program were randomized to high‐intensity training (HG: 4 × 4 minutes intervals at ∼90% of maximal heart rate; HRmax, and 4 × 4 repetitions leg press at ∼90% of 1 repetition maximum; 1RM, with maximal intended velocity) or keep todays treatment of low‐to moderate‐intensity training (MG: various cycling, walking, and/or running activities at ∼70%–80% of HRmax and 3 × 8 − 10 repetitions leg press at ∼75% of 1RM without maximal intended velocity). HG improved V̇O2peak (12 ± 7%) and leg press 1RM (43 ± 34%) more than moderate‐intensity group (V̇O2peak; 5 ± 6%, 1RM; 19 ± 18%, both p < 0.001). We observed that no adverse events and no between‐group differences in dropout rate or self‐reported quality of life (both p > 0.05). There were positive correlations between improved V̇O2peak and improved physical (p = 0.024) and emotional (0.016) role functioning. We conclude that both high‐intensity interval training and MST are feasible and improve V̇O2peak and maximal strength more than standard low‐to moderate‐intensity treatment of patients with unspecific MSDs. Our findings suggest that high‐intensity training should be implemented as a part of standard clinical care of this patient population. Highlights: Implementing aerobic high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) and maximal strength training (MST) induce a twofold effect on V̇O2peak and 1 repetition maximum compared to standard public short‐term rehabilitation in patients with unspecific musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).Concurrent HIIT and MST are as feasible as moderate exercise for patients with unspecific MSDs and should be implemented as a component in standard clinical care for these patients.An improved V̇O2peak is associated with improved physical and emotional role functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knee osteoarthritis is associated with deficits in muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical functioning. These muscle‐related deficits are acutely exacerbated following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and persist long after surgery, despite the application of standardized rehabilitation programs that include physical/functional training. Resistance exercise training (RET) has been shown to be a highly effective strategy to improve muscle‐related outcomes in healthy as well as clinical populations. However, the use of RET in traditional rehabilitation programs after TKA is limited. In this narrative review, we provide an updated view on whether adding RET to the standard rehabilitation (SR) in the recovery period (up to 1 year) after TKA leads to greater improvements in muscle‐related outcomes when compared to SR alone. Overall, research findings clearly indicate that both muscle strength and muscle mass can be improved to a greater extent with RET‐based rehabilitation compared to SR. Additionally, measures of physical functioning that rely on quadriceps strength and balance (e.g., stair climbing, chair standing, etc.) also appear to benefit more from a RET‐based program compared to SR, especially in patients with low levels of physical functioning. Importantly though, for RET to be optimally effective, it should be performed at 70%–80% of the one‐repetition maximum, with 3–4 sets per exercise, with a minimum of 3 times per week for 8 weeks. Based upon this narrative review, we recommend that such high‐intensity progressive RET should be incorporated into standard programs during rehabilitation after TKA. Highlights: Following standard rehabilitation (SR) protocols, patients recovering from total knee replacement still have deficits in muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical functioning compared to their healthy counterparts.Rehabilitation involving high‐intensity resistance exercise training (RET) following total knee replacement leads to greater improvements in muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical functioning compared to SR.We recommend incorporating high intensity RET in the SR following total knee arthroplasty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous cross‐sectional studies have attempted to identify the muscle morphology required to achieve high sprint velocity. Our longitudinal study addressed an unanswered question of cross‐sectional studies: whether hypertrophy of the individual trunk and thigh muscles induced by daily training (e.g., sprint, jump, and resistance training) is linked to an improvement in sprint performance within well‐trained sprinters. Twenty‐three collegiate male sprinters (100‐m best time of 11.36 ± 0.44 s) completed their daily training for 1 year without our intervention. Before and after the observation period, the sprint velocities at 0–100 m, 0–10 m, and 50–60 m intervals were measured using timing gates. The volumes of 14 trunk and thigh muscles were measured using magnetic resonance imaging. Muscle volumes were normalized to the participants' body mass at each time point. Sprint velocities increased at the 0–100 m (p < 0.001), 0–10 m (p = 0.019), and 50–60 m (p = 0.018) intervals after the observation period. The relative volumes of the tensor fasciae latae, sartorius, biceps femoris long head, biceps femoris short head, semitendinosus, and iliacus were increased (all p < 0.050). Among the hypertrophied muscles, only the change in the relative volume of the semitendinosus was positively correlated with the change in sprint velocity at the 50–60 m interval (p = 0.018 and ρ = 0.591). These findings suggest that semitendinosus hypertrophy seems to be associated with sprint performance improvement within well‐trained sprinters during the maximal velocity phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic resistance exercise may produce reductions in pain locally at the exercising muscle and systemically at non‐exercising sites. However, limited research has examined these changes with multiple noxious stimuli. This study examined changes in heat pain threshold (HPT) and pressure pain threshold (PPT) on different musculature after an upper and lower body exercise to compare local and systemic effects. A crossover design with 28 participants (mean age: 21 ± 4 years, 21 female) completed three sessions. Visit one included baseline quantitative sensory testing and 5‐repetition maximum (RM) testing for upper (shoulder press) and lower (leg extension) body. In subsequent sessions, participants performed upper or lower body exercises using an estimated 75% 1‐RM with pre/post assessment of HPT and PPT at three sites: deltoid, quadriceps, and low back. A significant three‐way interaction was observed for HPT (F (1.71, 3.80) = 2.19, p = 0.036, η2p = 0.12) with significant increases in HPT over the quadriceps (p = 0.043) after leg extension and over the deltoid (p = 0.02) after shoulder press. Significant systemic changes were not observed for HPT or PPT. Local but not systemic effects were demonstrated after an acute bout of exercise. Peripheral pain sensitivity may be more responsive to heat stimuli after resistance exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of white meat, such as chicken, intake combined with resistance training on muscle mass and strength in the elderly women, and whether the underlying mechanism involves changes in the gut microbiota. Ninety‐three volunteers (age 59–79 years) were randomly allocated to sedentary control with placebo (Sed + PL) or chicken meat (Sed + HP) and resistance training with placebo (RT + PL) or chicken meat (RT + HP). Resistance training sessions were performed 3 d/week for 12 weeks using leg extensions and curls. Boiled chicken meat (110 g, containing 22.5 g protein) was ingested 3 d/week for 12 weeks. Maximal muscle strength and whole‐body lean mass increased significantly in the RT + PL group compared to the Sed + HP group, and the RT + HP group showed a significantly greater increase than the Sed + HP and RT + PL groups. Additionally, the gut microbiota composition did not change before or after the interventions in any of the four groups. Moreover, the individual comparison of gut bacteria using false discovery rate‐based statistical analysis showed no alterations before or after the interventions in the four groups. Resistance training combined with chicken meat intake may effective have increased muscle mass and strength without drastically modifying the gut microbiota composition in elderly women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low‐load resistance exercise (LLRE) to failure can increase muscle mass, strength, endurance, and mitochondrial oxidative capacity (OXPHOS). However, the impact of adding blood flow restriction to low‐load resistance exercise (LLBFR) when matched for volume on these outcomes is incompletely understood. This pilot study examined the impact of 6 weeks of single‐legged LLBFR and volume‐matched LLRE on thigh bone‐free lean mass, strength, endurance, and mitochondrial OXPHOS. Twenty (12 males and 8 females) untrained young adults (mean ± SD; 21 ± 2 years, 168 ± 11 cm, 68 ± 12 kg) completed 6 weeks of either single‐legged LLBFR or volume‐matched LLRE. Participants performed four sets of 30, 15, 15, and 15 repetitions at 25% 1‐RM of leg press and knee extension with or without BFR three times per week. LLBFR increased knee extension 1‐RM, knee extension endurance, and thigh bone‐free lean mass relative to control (all p < 0.05). LLRE increased leg press and knee extension 1‐RM relative to control (p = 0.012 and p = 0.054, respectively). LLRE also increased mitochondrial OXPHOS (p = 0.047 (nonparametric)). Our study showed that LLBFR increased muscle strength, muscle endurance, and thigh bone‐free lean mass in the absence of improvements in mitochondrial OXPHOS. LLRE improved muscle strength and mitochondrial OXPHOS in the absence of improvements in thigh bone‐free lean mass or muscle endurance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the evidence for the effect of strength and conditioning on physical qualities and aesthetic competence in dance populations, three electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus) were searched (until September 2022) for studies that met the following criteria: (i) dancers aged >16 years; (ii) structured strength and conditioning intervention; and (iii) with physical qualities and aesthetic competence as outcome measures. Methodological quality and risk of bias of the included studies were assessed through the systematic review tool "QualSyst". Meta‐analyses of effect sizes (Hedges' g) with forest plots explored the effects of the strength and conditioning interventions. Thirty‐six studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Meta‐analysis indicated strength and conditioning significantly (p < 0.05) improved lower body power (g = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.53–1.27), upper body strength (g = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.39–1.57), lower body strength (g = 1.59, 95% CI: 0.97–2.22), and flexibility (g = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.05–1.66). Strength and conditioning interventions were found to be effective at improving physical qualities in dancers, recommending their participation in additional sessions to enhance overall fitness and ultimately dance performance. It is recommended that future strength and conditioning intervention research should include sample size calculations, with participants recruited from a specific dance genre and skill level in order to evaluate how strength and conditioning influences dance performance. Highlights: Resistance training, plyometric training, whole body vibration training, and combined training are the most common strength and conditioning interventions in dance.Strength and conditioning, regardless of modalities, are found effective at improving some physical qualities in dancers.Dancers are recommended to participate in additional strength and conditioning for overall dance performance enhancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While significant progress has been made in understanding the resistance training (RT) strategy for muscle hypertrophy increase, there remains limited knowledge about its impact on fat mass loss. This study aimed to investigate whether full‐body is superior to split‐body routine in promoting fat mass loss among well‐trained males. Twenty‐three participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: full‐body (n = 11, training muscle groups 5 days per week) and split‐body (n = 12, training muscle groups 1 day per week). Both groups performed a weekly set volume‐matched condition (75 sets/week, 8–12 repetition maximum at 70%–80 % of 1RM) for 8 weeks, 5 days per week with differences only in the routine. Whole‐body and regional fat were assessed using DXA at the beginning and at the end of the study. Full‐body RT elicited greater losses compared to split‐body in whole‐body fat mass (−0.775 ± 1.120 kg vs. +0.317 ± 1.260 kg; p = 0.040), upper‐limb fat mass (−0.085 ± 0.118 kg vs. +0.066 ± 0.162 kg; p = 0.019), gynoid fat mass (−0.142 ± 0.230 kg vs. +0.123 ± 0.230 kg; p = 0.012), lower‐limb fat mass (−0.197 ± 0.204 kg vs. +0.055 ± 0.328 kg; p = 0.040), and a trend in interaction in android fat mass (−0.116 ± 0.153 kg vs. +0.026 ± 0.174 kg; p = 0.051), with large effects sizes (η2p ≥ 0.17). This study provides evidence that full‐body is more effective in reducing whole‐body and regional fat mass compared to split‐body routine in well‐trained males. Highlights: For strength and conditioning professionals, as well as practitioners aiming to optimize fat mass loss while minimizing delayed onset muscular soreness induced by training, the full‐body routine should be considered and recommended.Our findings shed new light on the manipulation of resistance training variables, particularly training routines, to optimize fat mass loss in the late stages of resistance training.This strategy appears to be particularly relevant for individuals aiming for esthetic physique performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perception of Velocity (PV) is the ability to estimate single repetition velocity during resistance training (RT) exercises. The main purpose of the study was to evaluate the effects of Mental Fatigue (MF) on the accuracy of barbell PV. The secondary aims were to evaluate whether MF affected RT performance and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE; OMNI‐RES) in the back squat. Twenty‐four (14 Females, 10 Males) resistance‐trained participants underwent 2 familiarization sessions and 1RM test for the back squat. In two separate sessions, PV was tested for light, medium, and heavy loads in 2 conditions in random order: at rest (REST) and in MF condition (POST‐MF) induced by previous incongruent Stroop color‐word task. MF and Motivation were assessed through visual analog scales (VAS; 0–100) before and after the Stroop task. For each load subjects performed 2 repetitions and reported the RPE value. Mean propulsive velocity (Vr) of the barbell was recorded with a linear encoder, while the perceived velocity (Vp) of the subjects was self‐reported using the Squat‐PV scale. The PV accuracy was calculated through the delta score (ds: Vp–Vr). Following the Stroop task MF increased significantly (p < 0.001; F (1, 23) = 52.572), while motivation decreased (p < 0.05; F (1, 23) = 7.401). Ds, Vr, and RPE did not show significant differences between conditions (p > 0.05) for the three loads analyzed. MF induced by previous demanding cognitive task did not affect PV accuracy. Furthermore, subjects maintained unchanged both RT performance and RPE values associated with each load, even when mentally fatigued. Highlights: Prior demanding cognitive task such as 45‐min of incongruent Stroop color‐word task induces MF.The perception of barbell velocity is a stable subjective parameter that remains unchanged even if the practitioners are mentally fatigued.MF does not affect the ability to achieve target velocities and the RPE values experienced for a given load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sedentary lifestyle and Olympic participation are contrary risk factors for global mortality and incidence of cancer and cardiovascular disease. Extracellular vesicle miRNAs have been described to respond to exercise. No molecular characterization of young male sedentary people versus athletes is available; so, our aim was to identify the extracellular vesicle miRNA profile of chronically trained young endurance and resistance male athletes compared to their sedentary counterparts. A descriptive case–control design was used with 16 sedentary young men, 16 Olympic male endurance athletes, and 16 Olympic male resistance athletes. Next‐generation sequencing and RT‐qPCR and external and internal validation were performed in order to analyze extracellular vesicle miRNA profiles. Endurance and resistance athletes had significant lower levels of miR‐16‐5p, miR‐19a‐3p, and miR‐451a compared to sedentary people. Taking all together, exercise‐trained miRNA profile in extracellular vesicles provides a differential signature of athletes irrespective of the type of exercise compared to sedentary people. Besides, miR‐25‐3p levels were specifically lower in endurance athletes which defines its role as a specific responder in this type of athletes. In silico analysis of this profile suggests a role in adaptive energy metabolism in this context that needs to be experimentally validated. Therefore, this study provides for the first time basal levels of circulating miRNA in extracellular vesicles emerge as relevant players in intertissue communication in response to chronic exercise exposure in young elite male athletes. Highlights: An extracellular vesicle miRNA profile defined by next‐generation sequencing differentiates athletes compared to sedentary young males.Extracellular vesicle miR‐16‐5p, miR‐19a‐3p, and miR‐451a were lower in athletes irrespective of their sport disciplines compared to sedentary young males.Extracellular vesicle miR‐25‐3p was specifically lower in endurance athletes compared to sedentary young males.Energy metabolism and structural pathways are the main regulated ones based on extracellular vesicle miRNA profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At a given exercise intensity, blood flow restriction (BFR) reduces the volume of exercise required to impair post‐exercise neuromuscular function. Compared to traditional exercise, the time course of recovery is less clear. After strenuous exercise, force output assessed with electrical muscle stimulation is impaired to a greater extent at low versus high stimulation frequencies, a condition known as prolonged low‐frequency force depression (PLFFD). It is unclear if BFR increases PLFFD after exercise. This study tested if BFR during exercise increases PLFFD and slows recovery of neuromuscular function compared to regular exercise. Fifteen physically active participants performed six low‐load sets of knee‐extensions across four conditions: resistance exercise to task failure (RETF), resistance exercise to task failure with BFR applied continuously (BFRCONT) or intermittently (BFRINT), and resistance exercise matched to the lowest exercise volume condition (REVM). Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) force output, voluntary activation and a force–frequency (1–100 Hz) curve were measured before and 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 24 h after exercise. Exercise to task failure caused similar reductions at 0 h for voluntary activation (RETF = 81.0 ± 14.2%, BFRINT = 80.9 ± 12.4% and BFRCONT = 78.6 ± 10.7%) and MVC force output (RETF = 482 ± 168 N, BFRINT = 432 ± 174 N, and BFRCONT = 443 ± 196 N), which recovered to baseline values between 4 and 24 h. PLFFD occurred only after RETF at 1 h supported by a higher frequency to evoke 50% of the force production at 100 Hz (1 h: 17.5 ± 4.4 vs. baseline: 15 ± 4.1 Hz, P = 0.0023), BFRINT (15.5 ± 4.0 Hz; P = 0.03), and REVM (14.9 ± 3.1 Hz; P = 0.002), with a trend versus BFRCONT (15.7 ± 3.5 Hz; P = 0.063). These findings indicate that, in physically active individuals, using BFR during exercise does not impair the recovery of neuromuscular function by 24 h post‐exercise. What is the central question of this study?Does the addition of blood flow restriction (BFR) during resistance exercise impaired recovery of neuromuscular function in physically active individuals?What is the main finding and its importance?While BFR during exercise increased fatiguability compared to exercise without BFR, it did not further impair the 24‐h recovery in neuromuscular function compared to exercise without BFR. These findings are relevant for applying BFR exercise in the training and/or rehabilitation of physically active populations such that it does not appear to further exacerbate muscle contractile function compared to regular strenuous exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the acute hypoalgesic and neurophysiological responses to low‐load resistance exercise with and without blood flow restriction (BFR), and free‐flow, high‐load exercise. Participants performed four experimental conditions where they completed baseline measures of pain pressure threshold (PPT), maximum voluntary force (MVF) with peripheral nerve stimulation to determine central and peripheral fatigue. Corticospinal excitability (CSE), corticospinal inhibition and short interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) were estimated with transcranial magnetic stimulation. Participants then performed low‐load leg press exercise at 30% of one‐repetition maximum (LL); low‐load leg press with BFR at 40% (BFR40) or 80% (BFR80) of limb occlusion pressure; or high‐load leg press of four sets of 10 repetitions at 70% one‐repetition maximum (HL). Measurements were repeated at 5, 45 min and 24 h post‐exercise. There were no differences in CSE or SICI between conditions (all P > 0.05); however, corticospinal inhibition was reduced to a greater extent (11%–14%) in all low‐load conditions compared to HL (P < 0.005). PPTs were 12%–16% greater at 5 min post‐exercise in BFR40, BFR80 and HL compared to LL (P ≤ 0.016). Neuromuscular fatigue displayed no clear difference in the magnitude or time course between conditions (all P > 0.05). In summary, low‐load BFR resistance exercise does not induce different acute neurophysiological responses to low‐load, free‐flow exercise but it does promote a greater degree of hypoalgesia and reduces corticospinal inhibition more than high‐load exercise, making it a useful rehabilitation tool. The changes in neurophysiology following exercise were not related to changes in PPT. What is the central question of this study?Does low‐load, blood flow restricted, resistance exercise promote greater hypoalgesic and neurophysiological changes in the 24 h period post‐exercise, in comparison to high‐load resistance exercise?What is the main finding and its importance?Blood flow restriction exercise augments hypoalgesia compared to free‐flow, low‐load exercise and induces similar hypoalgesia to high‐load exercise, but does not result in any different alterations to corticospinal excitability or inhibition. However, corticospinal inhibition was reduced to a greater extent with low‐load exercise, compared to high‐load exercise. Therefore, low‐load BFR resistance exercise is a suitable method for exercise rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the effects of a weekly lower body resistance‐training program divided into low frequency (LOW, one long session) versus high frequency (HIGH, four shorter sessions) in resistance‐trained individuals. Twenty‐two adults with more than 6 months resistance training experience were randomized to either the LOW or HIGH intervention group. Both groups completed an 8‐week training program consisting of four multi‐joint exercises targeting the hip and knee extensors. The program progressed from 12‐repetition maximum (RM) to 6‐RM, with 4–5 sets per exercise performed throughout the intervention. The four exercises were conducted either in one session or four sessions (one exercise per session) per week. 1‐RM in the squat, muscle thickness of the vastus lateralis, muscle mass of the lower body (measured using bioelectrical impedance), and jump height were assessed pre‐ and post‐intervention. The HIGH group demonstrated a statistically significant increase in 1‐RM compared to the LOW group (7 kg, p = 0.01), while no statistically significant differences were found between the groups for the other outcomes (p = 0.26–0.63). Both interventions resulted in statistically significant increases in 1‐RM squat (8 and 15 kg), muscle thickness (2.3 and 2.8 mm), and jump height (1.5 and 1.9 cm) from pre‐to post‐test. There were no statistical changes in lower‐body muscle mass for either group (p = 0.16–0.86). In conclusion, a weekly training protocol of four multi‐joint lower‐limb exercises distributed over four sessions resulted in greater increases in maximal strength compared to one session in resistance‐trained adults. Both frequencies were similarly effective in improving muscle hypertrophy and jump height. Highlights: Both high and low resistance training frequencies are viable options for increasing maximal strength, hypertrophy, and jump height.High resistance training frequency seems to favor lower limb muscle strength in trained adults.High and low resistance training frequencies lead to similar improvement in muscle hypertrophy and jump height in trained adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concurrent resistance and endurance exercise training (CET) has well‐studied benefits; however, inherent hormonal and genetic differences alter adaptive responses to exercise between sexes. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are factors that contribute to adaptive signaling. Our purpose was to test if EV characteristics differ between men and women following CET. 18 young healthy participants underwent 12‐weeks of CET. Prior to and following CET, subjects performed an acute bout of heavy resistance exercise (AHRET) consisting of 6 × 10 back squats at 75% 1RM. At rest and following AHRET, EVs were isolated from plasma and characteristics and miRNA contents were analyzed. AHRET elevated EV abundance in trained men only (+51%) and AHRET‐induced changes were observed for muscle‐derived EVs and microvesicles. There were considerable sex‐specific effects of CET on EV miRNAs, highlighted by larger variation following the 12‐week program in men compared to women at rest. Pathway analysis based on differentially expressed EV miRNAs predicted that AHRET and 12 weeks of CET in men positively regulates hypertrophy and growth pathways more so than in women. This report highlights sex‐based differences in the EV response to resistance and concurrent exercise training and suggests that EVs may be important adaptive signaling factors altered by exercise training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sleep disorders are often complained by cancer patients and can last years after the end of therapies, leading to different negative consequences. Non‐pharmacological strategies such as exercise interventions may be considered to counteract this phenomenon. The literature supports the beneficial effects of aerobic training (AT), while evidence on resistance training (RT) is scarce. Accordingly, our systematic review aims to investigate the potential novel effect of RT on sleep outcomes in cancer survivors. Methods: The literature search was conducted on MEDLINE (Pubmed), Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases, including only randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The screening procedure was conducted using the web‐based software COVIDENCE. Sleep outcomes assessed through self‐reported questionnaires or objective sleep measurements were extracted from RCTs recruiting cancer survivors of any age and gender, on or off treatment. The risk of bias (RoB) for each study was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool for RCTs. Meta‐analytic syntheses were performed on sleep quality and insomnia. Results: A total of 21 studies were included in the review. Considering the mean percentage differences of all studies combined, promising positive results were found after combined aerobic and resistance exercise program (COMB) for sleep quality (−19%) and sleep disturbance (−17.3%). The meta‐analysis results showed significant improvement for both sleep quality and insomnia (d = 0.28, SE: 0.11, Z = 2.51, p < 0.01, 95% CI: 0.07–0.49 and d = 0.43, SE: 0.20, Z = 2.18, p = 0.029, 95% CI: 0.07–0.49, respectively). Conclusion: RT interventions of 60 minutes per session, performed 2–3 times a week for 12 weeks, with exercise intensity ranging from 60% to 80% of one‐repetition maximum can be administered to cancer survivors, aiming to improve sleep outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to analyze the acute effect of mental fatigue on the maximum number of repetitions in a resistance exercise session with different intensities in resistance‐trained adults. Eighteen young men aged between 18 and 25 years old (age, 22.1 ± 2.0 years; body weight, 82.5 ± 6.6 kg; height, 177.4 ± 5.2 cm; half‐back squat 1‐RM, 106.7 ± 21.9 kg) were recruited for the study. Each participant performed two trials (i.e., control and mental fatigue) in a random and balanced order for 30‐min. The participants performed three sets of half back‐squat exercise to failure, with intensities of 50%, 70%, and 90% of 1RM with a passive recovery interval of 5‐min between sets. The intensity was randomized and counterbalanced, and the order was maintained in both conditions for the same subject. We assessed resistance training using the number of repetitions to failure and perceived effort and checked the mental fatigue subjectively and objectively. The participants in the mental fatigue condition presented a significantly increased perception of mental fatigue (p < 0.05) and reduced pupil diameter (p < 0.05). The number of repetitions were significantly lower for the 50 (p < 0.05) and 75% 1RM (p < 0.05) in the mental fatigue condition, but the 90% 1RM remained similar (p > 0.05). Also, the perceived effort showed significantly higher results for the 50 (p < 0.05) and 75% 1RM (p < 0.05) in the mental fatigue condition, but the 90% 1RM remained similar (p > 0.05). Then, this study showed that mental fatigue reduced resistance exercise performance for low‐ and mid‐intensity but not for high‐intensity. Highlights: Mental fatigue reduces the number of repetitions to failure during low‐ and moderate‐intensity resistance exercise.Mentally fatigued individuals experience a higher‐than‐normal perception of effort during low‐ and moderate‐intensity resistance exercise.Measuring mental fatigue immediately before a resistance exercise session might be a rapid and valuable tool to autoregulate the exercise intensity and/or volume of resistance training sessions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skeletal muscle mass is critical for activities of daily living. Resistance training maintains or increases muscle mass, and various strategies maximize the training adaptation. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells with differential potency in skeletal muscle cells and the capacity to secrete growth factors. However, little is known regarding the effect of intramuscular injection of MSCs on basal muscle protein synthesis and catabolic systems after resistance training. Here, we measured changes in basal muscle protein synthesis, the ubiquitin‐proteasome system, and autophagy‐lysosome system‐related factors after bouts of resistance exercise by intramuscular injection of MSCs. Mice performed three bouts of resistance exercise (each consisting of 50 maximal isometric contractions elicited by electrical stimulation) on the right gastrocnemius muscle every 48 h, and immediately after the first bout, mice were intramuscularly injected with either MSCs (2.0 × 106 cells) labeled with green fluorescence protein (GFP) or vehicle only placebo. Seventy‐two hours after the third exercise bout, GFP was detected only in the muscle injected with MSCs with concomitant elevation of muscle protein synthesis. The injection of MSCs also increased protein ubiquitination. These results suggest that the intramuscular injection of MSCs augmented muscle protein turnover at the basal state after consecutive resistance exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the structural and cellular skeletal muscle factors underpinning adaptations in maximal strength, power, aerobic capacity, and lean body mass to a 12‐week concurrent resistance and interval training program in men and women. Recreationally active women and men completed three training sessions per week consisting of high‐intensity, low‐volume resistance training followed by interval training performed using a variety upper and lower body exercises representative of military occupational tasks. Pre‐ and post‐training vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were analyzed for changes in muscle fiber type, cross‐sectional area, capillarization, and mitochondrial biogenesis marker content. Changes in maximal strength, aerobic capacity, and lean body mass (LBM) were also assessed. Training elicited hypertrophy of type I (12.9%; p = 0.016) and type IIa (12.7%; p = 0.007) muscle fibers in men only. In both sexes, training decreased type IIx fiber expression (1.9%; p = 0.046) and increased total PGC‐1α (29.7%, p < 0.001) and citrate synthase (11.0%; p < 0.014) content, but had no effect on COX IV content or muscle capillarization. In both sexes, training increased maximal strength and LBM but not aerobic capacity. The concurrent training program was effective at increasing strength and LBM but not at improving aerobic capacity or skeletal muscle adaptations underpinning aerobic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbohydrate mouth rinsing has been reported to enhance exercise performance although individual variation exists. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of habitual dietary carbohydrate intake on the efficacy of rinsing a 6% carbohydrate solution on the number of bench press repetitions to failure at 60% of 1‐RM. Twenty‐one recreationally active male participants (Mean ± SD) (age: 24 ± 4 years, height: 177.8 ± 7.8 cm, body mass: 78.6 ± 8.1 kg; bench press 1‐RM: 73.3 ± 20.5 kg) performed bench press repetitions to failure at 60% 1‐RM following rinsing with 25 mL of a 6% carbohydrate (CHO), an artificially sweetened solution (PLA) and a non‐rising control condition (CON) in a randomised cross‐over design. A 7‐day dietary record was completed prior to the first session and subsequently analysed for daily carbohydrate consumption. The number of repetitions performed during CHO (24 ± 4) was higher than CON [21 ± 4; p < 0.001; 95% CI: 1, 4; d = 0.64], as was PLA [23 ± 4; p = 0.002; 95% CI: 1, 3; d = 0.48]. However, there was a large, negative relationship [r = −0.68 (95% CI: −0.86, −0.36), p < 0.001] between daily relative carbohydrate intake (g kg−1) and the difference in the number of repetitions between CHO and PLA. The present study suggests the existence of an inverse relationship between daily carbohydrate ingestion and the efficacy of carbohydrate mouth rinsing; participants who consumed the most daily carbohydrate were generally less likely to see an increase in performance with carbohydrate rinsing. Highlights: The use of either carbohydrate or artificially sweetened mouth‐rinses are possible strategies to improve resistance exercise performance without the ingestion of energy, which can be helpful when trying to create a caloric deficit.Those who regularly consume larger amounts of carbohydrate in their diet may not report the same positive effects compared with those who generally consume less.Rinsing with an artificially sweetened solution reduces the exposure of teeth to sugar and potentially be beneficial for those with a history of dental problems such as sensitive teeth and/or enamel erosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to assess whether lifting velocity (MV) can provide accurate estimations of the maximum number of repetitions that can be performed to failure (RTF) during the parallel back‐squat exercise performed in a Smith machine. Thirty male wrestlers from the Turkey Olympic preparation center (age = 22.6 ± 2.2 years) completed four testing sessions: a session to determine the back‐squat one‐repetition maximum [1RM], two sessions consisting of single sets to failure against three loads (90%‐80%‐70%1RM), and one session consisting of four sets to failure against the 75%1RM. The goodness‐of‐fit of the generalized RTF‐MV relationship was strong (r2 = 0.838), but the individualized RTF‐MV relationships were stronger (r2 = 0.957 ± 0.058). Only 3 out of 60 individualized RTF‐MV relationships revealed a r2 lower than the r2 of the generalized RTF‐MV relationship (r2 = 0.685, 0.779 and 0.810). The reliability of the fastest MV associated with each RTF ranged from acceptable (4 out of 15 RTFs) to high (11 out of 15 RTFs). The raw and absolute errors in the prediction of RTF did not increase under fatigue and were comparable for both generalized (raw errors: −1.0–0.3 repetitions; absolute errors: 1.1–1.7 repetitions) and individualized (raw errors: −0.8 to 0.1 repetitions; absolute errors: 1.2–1.8 repetitions) RTF‐MV relationships. These results indicate that RTF can be predicted with acceptable precision from MV recordings in resistance‐trained skilled wrestlers during the parallel back‐squat exercise performed in a Smith machine. Highlights: The maximum number of repetitions completed to failure (RTF) can be predicted with acceptable precision from mean velocity (MV) recordings in resistance‐trained skilled wrestlers during the parallel back‐squat exercise performed in a Smith machine.The raw and absolute errors in the prediction of RTF is not influenced by the fatigue levels experienced at the beginning of the set.For more accurate RTF‐MV relationships, familiarity with lifting at maximal intended velocity and performing sets to failure seems beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the acute effects of wearable resistance forearm (WRf) loading versus shank (WRs) loading on change of direction (COD) performance in netball athletes. Ten elite female netball athletes (age: 24.9 ± 5.0 years, height: 180.1 ± 6.5 cm, weight: 81.3 ± 15.0 kg) participated in this within‐subject repeated measures study under three conditions: (1) no load (NL), (2) WRs and (3) WRf, both wearable resistance conditions loaded with 1% body mass on each limb. Athletes performed a modified 5‐0‐5 COD test with additional timing splits and inertial measurement units placed in their shoes. Total time was significantly longer for both WR conditions with a small effect compared to NL (p < 0.05, ES = 0.22–0.25). The greatest differences between WRs and WRf as compared to NL were in the acceleration phase with moderate effect sizes (0–2 m) (p < 0.05, ES = −0.67–0.79). Both loading conditions had moderate to large significant effects on peak deceleration (ES = 0.56–0.82) and maximum speed (ES = −0.50–0.60). No significant differences were observed between WR conditions. It appeared that WRs and WRs acutely affected COD performance and therefore might provide a potential training stimulus to elicit positive COD performance adaptations if used over an extended period of time. The choice of overload depended on the musculature that needed training. Highlights: Both WRs and WRf significantly affected the total time and acceleration as compared to no load during a modified 5‐0‐5 COD test.Only WRs loading affected the deceleration split time compared to NL and WRf.No significant differences were observed during the COD phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Resistance training may offer several unique advantages within breast cancer (BC) survivorship care; however, safety concerns have limited the application of high‐intensity compound movements necessary to elicit optimal changes in body composition, strength, and quality of life in this population. The EXERT‐BC trial assesses the safety and feasibility of an evidence‐based, dose‐escalated resistance training regimen among BC survivors, with the goal of improving physical and metabolic function, mobility, muscle mass, and body composition. Methods: Participants included women with breast cancer underwent a 3‐month thrice weekly exercise regimen involving dose escalation of high‐intensity compound exercises. Coprimary outcomes included safety and adherence. Pre‐ and post‐regimen assessment included body composition testing, functional mobility and balance, total load (weight × repetitions × sets) across compound exercises, and patient reported quality of life. Pairwise comparison was performed via the paired t test. Results: Fourty participants completed a 3‐month exercise regimen, with a median age of 57 years (range, 27–74 years) and 73% having stage 0–2 BC. BC therapies concurrent with exercise included anti‐estrogen therapy (80%), radiotherapy (30%), and non‐hormonal systemic therapy (15%). No adverse events were observed aside from a single case of self‐limited knee pain. Session attendance exceeded a prespecified threshold of 75%, and 98% patients reported ongoing compliance to an exercise regimen following regimen completion. Significant reductions in percent body fat (p < 0.001) and increases in percent muscle mass (p = 0.011) were observed. Significant increases in resting metabolic rate (p = 0.023), bilateral grip strength (p < 0.001), functional movement screen (p < 0.001), bilateral Y‐Balance testing (p < 0.001), and Godin questionnaire scores (p < 0.001) were observed. Conclusion: A 3‐month dose‐escalated resistance training regimen comprising high‐intensity compound movements appears safe with a high degree of adherence among breast cancer survivors, resulting in demonstrable improvements in body composition, metabolic parameters, strength increases, and patient‐reported quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Establishing a relationship between repetitions left in reserve and the mean absolute velocity (RIR-velocity relationship) during resistance training (RT) could allow for objective monitoring, prescription, and real- time adjustment of the training load and set-volume. Therefore, we examined the goodness of fit and prediction accuracy of general and individual RIR-velocity relationships in the free-weight back squat exercise. The effects of sex, training status and history, as well as personality traits, on the goodness of fit and the accuracy of these relationships were also investigated. Forty-six resistance-trained people (15 females and 31 males) performed a one-repetition maximum (1RM) test, and two repetitions to failure (RTF) tests 72 h apart. We found greater goodness of fit of individual RIRvelocity relationships compared to general RIR-velocity relationships. Individual, but not general RIR-velocity relationships established in the first testing session yielded acceptable prediction accuracy of RIR (mean error <2 repetitions) in the subsequent testing session, regardless of the load used. Similar results were obtained when both general and individual RIR-velocity relationships were averaged across the loads, suggesting that a single RIR- velocity relationship covering a range of loads can be used instead of traditional RT methods, potentially allowing for better fatigue management and more efficient adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate how squat protocols performed at maximal and submaximal intended velocities during interset periods of paired upper‐body exercises that impact the mechanical performance of these multijoint upper‐body exercises. Twenty‐one young and healthy adults (seven women) completed three experimental sessions, each comprising four sets of five repetitions at 75% of their 1‐repetition maximum, with a 4‐min break between sets using the bench press and bench pull exercises. The experimental sessions differed in the protocol utilized during the interset periods: (i) Passive—no physical exercise was performed; (ii) SQfast—5 repetitions of the squat exercise at maximal intended velocity against the load associated with a mean velocity (MV) of 0.75 m s−1; and (iii) SQslow—5 repetitions of the squat exercise at submaximal velocity (intended MV of 0.50 m s−1) against the load associated with an MV of 0.75 m s−1. Level of significance was p ≤ 0.05. The main findings revealed negligible differences (effect size [ES] < 0.20) among the exercise protocols (passive vs. SQfast vs. SQslow) for all mechanical variables during the bench pull, whereas during the bench press, small differences (ES from 0.23 to 0.31) emerged favoring the passive protocol over SQfast and SQslow in terms of mean set velocity and fastest MV of the set. The absence of significant differences between the SQfast and SQslow protocols, irrespective of the particular upper‐body exercise, implies that the intended lifting velocity does not influence the potential interference effect during paired set training procedures. Highlights: Supersets with the squat exercise appear to exert minimal influence on bench pull mechanical performance but modest interference arises concerning the bench press exercise.The intended lifting velocity utilized in lower‐body exercises does not exert an influence on mechanical performance within paired upper‐body exercise sets.Exercise selection holds greater significance than intended lifting velocity when striving to mitigate interference in superset training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of low‐load resistance exercise combined with external limb compression (ELC) to augment post‐activation performance enhancement during countermovement jumps have yet to be examined. We assessed the separate and combined effects of ELC and sets of low‐load (back squats) resistance exercise (both compared with controls) during conditioning routines, and determine their subsequent neuromechanical consequences during countermovement jumps. On separate days, twenty strength‐trained men completed a familiarization session followed by four experimental trials in a randomized design that included one of the following conditioning routines: passive rest (Control [CON], no occlusion/standing), exercise (sets of low‐intensity resistance exercise [RE] with 30% 1RM, no occlusion/exercise), ELC ([ELC] at 80% of the individual arterial occlusion pressure, occlusion/standing), and combined ELC and exercise ([ELC + RE], occlusion/exercise). Countermovement jump performance (jump height, relative peak power output, vertical impulse, and rate of force development) was assessed at baseline, immediately after, and at the third, sixth, ninth and twelfth minute following each conditioning routine. Compared to baseline, jump height, relative peak power output and vertical impulse values were lower at 0 min for [RE] (−3.5%–8.2%; p ≤ 0.014) and higher at +3 min for [ELC] (+2.0%–3.8%; p ≤ 0.013). Regarding [ELC + RE], values for these three variables were lower at 0 min (−4.8%–8.0%; p < 0.001) but higher at +12 min (+2.9%–5.5%; p < 0.001) versus baseline. In strength‐trained men, using ELC either alone (while standing) or combined with low‐load resistance exercise sets (during back squats) can be a useful way to improve CMJ mechanics. However, the duration and magnitude of post‐activation potentiation performance benefits varied depending on the type of ELC protocol used. Highlights: Athletes can incorporate external limb compression while standing into their conditioning routine, yet they should be aware that the enhancement may take up to 3 min to manifest.Another effective solution is to combine external limb compression and low‐load resistance exercise sets but enhancement would not appear until after 12 minutes.Low‐load resistance exercise alone does not yield any positive effects and led to an immediate decrease in countermovement jump performance, thus it is not recommended.Athletes should monitor their own countermovement jump performance data to assess the individual nature of post‐activation performance enhancement responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mammary carcinoma, a pervasive and potentially lethal affliction, is conjectured to be profoundly influenced by physical exercise, both in prophylaxis and therapeutic contexts. This study endeavors to explore the repercussions of exercise training on the progression of mammary carcinoma, particularly the mechanisms by which the amalgamation of an exercise regimen and doxorubicin induces tumor cell apoptosis. Methods: Female BALB/c mice were categorized into four distinct groups: A sedentary group (SED), an exercise group (Ex), a doxorubicin group (Dox, 5 mg/kg), and a combined treatment group (Dox + Ex). The exercise training lasted for 21 days and included aerobic rotarod exercise and resistance training. The impact of exercise training on tumor growth, immune cell proportions, inflammatory factor levels, and cell apoptosis pathway was assessed. Results: Exercise training significantly curtailed tumor growth in a mouse model of breast cancer. Both the Ex and Dox groups exhibited significant reductions in tumor volume and weight (p < 0.01) in comparison to the SED group, while the Dox + Ex group had a significantly lower tumor volume and weight than the Dox group (p < 0.01). Exercise training also significantly increased the proportion of NK and T cells in various parts of the body and tumor tissue, while decreasing tumor blood vessels density. Exercise training also increased IL‐6 and IL‐15 levels in the blood and altered the expression of apoptosis‐related proteins in tumor tissue, with the combined treatment group showing even more significant changes. Conclusions: Physical training improves the effectiveness of doxorubicin in treating breast cancer by activating cytotoxic immune cells, releasing tumor suppressor factors, and initiating mt‐apoptosis, all while mitigating the adverse effects of chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inspiratory resistance training (IRT) yields significant reductions in resting blood pressure and improves vascular endothelial function. Our objective was to quantify the acute effects of IRT on brachial artery flow‐mediated dilation (FMD) and shear rates (SRs) in healthy men and women. Twenty young adults (22.9 ± 3.4 years; 10 male, 10 female) completed a single bout of IRT or Rest condition in a randomized crossover design. Brachial artery FMD was performed before, 10 min after, and 40 min after the assigned condition. Brachial artery blood flow velocities were collected during IRT, separated by breathing cycle phase, and converted into SRs. FMD improved 10 min post‐IRT (+1.86 ± 0.61%; p = 0.025) but returned to baseline by 40 min post‐IRT (p = 0.002). Anterograde SR decreased by 10% and retrograde SR increased 102% during resisted inspiration, relative to baseline SR (p < 0.001). Anterograde SR increased by 7% in men and women (p < 0.001) and retrograde SR decreased by 12% in women but not men (p = 0.022) during unresisted expiration, relative to baseline SR. A single bout of IRT elicits a transient enhancement in FMD in both men and women. Acute IRT‐related enhancements in SRs may contribute to sustained improvements in FMD that have been reported previously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipofuscin (LF) is an intracellular aggregate associated with proteostatic impairments, especially prevalent in nondividing skeletal muscle fibers. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) drive LF‐formation. Resistance training (RT) improves muscle performance but also increases ROS production, potentially promoting LF‐formation. Thus, we aimed to investigate if RT of a mesocycle duration increases LF‐formation in type‐I and II muscle fibers and whether RT increases the antioxidant capacity (AOC) in terms of SOD1 and SOD2 content. An intervention group (IG) performed 14 eccentrically accented RT‐sessions within 7 weeks. Vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were collected before and after the intervention from IG as well as from a control group (CG) which refrained from RT for the same duration. LF was predominantly found near nuclei, followed by membrane‐near and a minor amount in the fiber core, with corresponding spot sizes. Overall, LF‐content was higher in type‐I than type‐II fibers (p < 0.05). There was no increase in LF‐content in type‐I or IIA fibers, neither for the IG following RT nor for the CG. The same is valid for SOD1/2. We conclude that, in healthy subjects, RT can be safely performed, without adverse effects on increased LF‐formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weight‐bearing physical activity can stimulate bone adaptation. This investigation explored the effect of an acute bout of resistance exercise before and after resistance+interval training on circulating biomarkers of bone metabolism and muscle‐bone crosstalk. Healthy young male and female participants (n = 21 male, 28 ± 4 years; n = 17 female, 27 ± 5 years) performed a 6 × 10 squat test (75% 1RM) before and after a 12‐week resistance+interval training program. Before and after completion of the training program, blood samples were collected at rest, immediately postexercise, and 2 h postexercise. Blood samples were analyzed for βCTX, P1NP, sclerostin, osteocalcin, IGF‐1, and irisin. Significant effects of acute exercise (main effect of time) were observed as increases in concentrations of IGF‐1, irisin, osteocalcin, and P1NP from rest to postexercise. A sex*time interaction indicated a greater decline in βCTX concentration from rest to 2 h postexercise and a greater increase in sclerostin concentration from rest to immediately postexercise in male compared with female participants. Sex differences (main effect of sex) were also observed for irisin and P1NP concentrations. In summary, changes in concentrations of biochemical markers of bone metabolism and muscle‐bone crosstalk were observed in males and females after an acute bout of resistance exercise and following 12 weeks of resistance+interval training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Exercise has significant health benefits and can enhance learning. A single bout of high‐intensity resistance training may be sufficient to improve memory. This study aimed to assess memory enhancement by a single bout of high‐intensity resistance training and to examine the neural underpinnings using resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Methods: Sixty young adults (34 men and 26 women), divided into the training and control groups, participated. The first session included verbal memory recall tests (cued‐ and free‐recall), resting‐state functional MRI (rs‐fMRI), and a single‐bout high‐intensity resistance training for the training group. Two days later, they underwent post‐intervention memory tests and rs‐fMRI. The study design was 2 groups × 2 sessions for memory tests, and within training group comparisons for rs‐fMRI. Results: Compared to the control group without resistance training, the training group showed higher cued‐recall performance 2 days after the brief resistance training (training: +0.27, control: −0.13, interaction: p =.01), and their free‐recall scores were associated with enhanced left posterior hippocampal connectivity (r =.64, p <.001). Conclusions: These results suggest that brief high‐intensity resistance exercise/strength training could enhance memory without repeated exercising. The quick effect of resistance training on memory and hippocampal connectivity could be revealed. A focused and one‐shot exercise may be sufficient to enhance memory performance and neural plasticity in a few days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, and antiretroviral therapy modify the epigenetic profile and function of cells and tissues, including skeletal muscle (SkM). In some cells, accelerated epigenetic aging begins very soon after the initial HIV infection, potentially setting the stage for the early onset of frailty. Exercise imparts epigenetic modifications in SkM that may underpin some health benefits, including delayed frailty, in people living with HIV (PWH). In this first report of exercise‐related changes in SkM DNA methylation among PWH, we investigated the impact of 24 weeks of aerobic and resistance exercise training on SkM (vastus lateralis) DNA methylation profiles and epigenetic age acceleration (EAA) in older, virally suppressed PWH (n = 12) and uninfected controls (n = 18), and associations of EAA with physical function at baseline. We identified 983 differentially methylated positions (DMPs) in PWH and controls at baseline and 237 DMPs after training. The influence of HIV serostatus on SkM methylation was more pronounced than that of exercise training. There was little overlap in the genes associated with the probes most significantly differentiated by exercise training within each group. Baseline EAA (mean ± SD) was similar between PWH (−0.4 ± 2.5 years) and controls (0.2 ± 2.6 years), and the exercise effect was not significant (p = 0.79). EAA and physical function at baseline were not significantly correlated (all p ≥ 0.10). This preliminary investigation suggests HIV‐specific epigenetic adaptations in SkM with exercise training but confirmation in a larger study that includes transcriptomic analysis is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lack of exercise contributes to systemic inflammation and is a major cause of chronic disease. The long‐term impact of initiating and sustaining exercise in late life, as opposed to sustaining a sedentary lifestyle, on whole‐body health measures such as physical performance is not well known. This is an exploratory study to compare changes in physical performance among older adults initiating exercise late in life versus inactive older adults. Data from two observational cohorts were included in this analysis, representing two activity groups. The Active group cohort comprises older adults (n = 318; age 72.5 ± 7.2 years) enrolled in a supervised exercise program, "Gerofit." The inactive group comprises older adults (n = 146; age 74.5 ± 5.5 years) from the Italian study "Act on Ageing" (AOA) who self‐reported being inactive. Participants in both groups completed physical performance battery at baseline and 1‐year including: 6‐min walk test, 30‐s chair stand, and timed up‐and‐go. Two‐sample t‐tests measured differences between Gerofit and AOA at baseline and 1‐year across all measures. Significant between‐group effects were seen for all performance measures (ps = 0.001). The AOA group declined across all measures from baseline to 1 year (range −18% to −24% change). The Gerofit group experienced significant gains in function for all measures (range +10% to +31% change). Older adults who initiated routine, sustained exercise were protected from age‐related declines in physical performance, while those who remained sedentary suffered cumulative deficits across strength, aerobic endurance, and mobility. Interventions to reduce sedentary behaviors and increase physical activity are both important to promote multi‐system, whole‐body health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incretins (glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide [GIP] and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 [GLP‐1]), along with amylin/islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) and insulin‐degrading enzyme (IDE), are hormones/enzymes that have been pharmacological targets, such as dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitors, due to their insulinotropic actions. Physical training is recommended as a treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM); however, its effects on the concentrations of these hormones/enzymes are not well known. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of combined training (CT) on the concentrations of hormones/enzymes with insulinotropic actions in individuals with T2DM and overweight. Individuals of both sexes with T2DM (age 51.73 ± 4.19 years; body mass index [BMI] 29.46 ± 3.39 kg/m2) were randomly distributed in the control group (CG, n = 17) and the combined training group (CTG, n = 17). The CT consisted of strength followed by erobic training, 3 times/week, for 16 weeks. Functional variables, body composition, and serum biochemical analyses (clinical markers, GLP‐1, GIP, DPP‐4, amylin/IAPP, and IDE) were evaluated. The CTG showed a decrease in GLP‐1 (pre: 32.8 ± 12.1, post: 28.4 ± 13.5, and p = 0.04) in the group/time analysis. In the evaluation of the Δ% of variation, CTG presented a decrease for GLP‐1 (−9.3%; p = 0.03) and amylin/IAPP (−13.4%; p < 0.01), in addition to an increase for DPP‐4 (6.2%; p = 0.04) enzyme. CT decreases the baseline levels of important hormones with insulinotropic actions in individuals with T2DM and overweight. The improvement in overall metabolism provided by CT must be the main reason for these effects. These results broaden the understanding of the effects and relationships between CT and glucose metabolism. Highlights: In addition to the well‐known effects of exercise training on glycemic control, trained type 2 diabetes patients can obtain positive effects on other hormones and enzymes with insulinotropic actions.Global metabolic benefits provided by combined training induce different effects on GLP1 and DPP4 those induced by the widely used drugs that act on these hormone/enzymes.The combined training model applied proves to be an important tool for the treatment of type 2 diabetes even with a relatively low weekly frequency (3 times a week). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resistance exercise training is effective to counteract the adverse effects of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) on body composition, muscle mass and leg strength in prostate cancer patients (PCa). However, it is unknown whether these effects can be autonomously maintained after cessation of the supervised program. Sixty‐eight PCa patients on ADT were included. The exercise intervention group (EX, n = 37) performed 20 weeks of supervised resistance exercise training. Thereafter, patients were advised to autonomously continue exercise training. The control group (CON, n = 31) only received usual care. Outcome measures were compared between baseline and after 1 year. Changes during the intervention (baseline vs. 20 weeks) and follow‐up period (20 weeks vs. 1 year) were descriptively explored. In EX, 83% reported to have continued exercise training themselves. After 1 year, fat mass gains were attenuated in EX compared to CON (1.2 ± 2.6 and 2.8 ± 1.9 kg, respectively; time × treatment effect p = 0.032). The fat percentage increased, and lean mass and quadriceps muscle cross‐sectional area decreased over time, with no differences between groups (overall 1.6 ± 2.1%, −0.7 ± 2.3 kg and −2.2 ± 2.9 cm2, respectively; time effects, all p < 0.05). For muscle strength, an increase of ∼5% in EX was observed, significantly different from the ∼10% decrease in CON (p < 0.001). Subsequent analyses showed that the initial exercise training‐obtained gains in lean mass, muscle mass and strength in EX compared to CON, declined during the follow‐up period. In conclusion, PCa patients on ADT are not capable to autonomously maintain the exercise‐obtained gains of a 20‐week supervised training program over a subsequent 1‐year period. Highlights: ADT for prostate cancer results in many side effects, including muscle mass lossA supervised resistance exercise training program can counteract many side effectsAfter cessation of the supervised program, exercise benefits are not effectively preservedMore focus on sustainability of exercise programs during ADT is required [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to analyze the effect of combined training with linear and non‐periodized periodization and a control group on the perception of barriers to physical activity in adults with obesity. A randomized, controlled, and blinded clinical trial was conducted, comprising the control (CG), non‐periodized (NG), and linear periodization (PG) groups. Combined training was prescribed for 16 weeks. The NG kept the relative training intensity fixed (50%–59% of the heart rate reserve [HRres] and 10 to 12 repetition maximums [RMs]), while the PG linearly progressed (40%–49% HRres to 60%–69% HRres and 12 to 14 RMs to 8 to 10 RMs). The 19 barriers were obtained through a questionnaire. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) were used, adopting p ≤ 0.05 as a significant result, and individual responsiveness analyses. The CG significantly increased the score of lack of space (Δ = 0.6) and lack of equipment (Δ = 1.1) barriers. The NG (Δ = −0.4 and −0.6, respectively) and PG (Δ = −0.1 and −0.2, respectively) reduced their scores, showing a group*time interaction (p = 0.019 and 0.011, respectively). Through the individual responses, we verified a reduction in the number of barriers, notably in the groups with combined training (CG: 4 of 14; NG: 12 of 18; and PG: 10 of 17 individuals). Regardless of the form of periodization, the training groups reduced the score of some analyzed barriers. From a clinical point of view, individuals submitted to different forms of combined training periodization showed more expressive reductions in their total scores, when compared to the CG. Highlights: The organization of training variables through periodization does not seem to significantly impact perceptions of barriers to physical activity.The combined training, regardless of periodization, was effective in reducing the perception of barriers to physical activity in adults with obesity.The reduction of obstacles to the practice of physical activity goes beyond the intrinsic motivations of the subjects, passing through the available infrastructure and its organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fat oxidation capacity is higher in young compared to elderly subjects and higher in premenopausal compared to postmenopausal women, but the influence of age on maximal fat oxidation (MFO) is not clear. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate MFO (g/min) across the lifespan of trained adult women. In total, 36 healthy trained women were recruited into three groups: (n = 12), young (27 ± 3 years, mean ± SD) premenopausal, middle‐aged (57 ± 3 years), and older (71 ± 2 years) postmenopausal women and all had a body mass index <25 kg/m2. After an overnight fast, body composition was determined by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry, and blood samples were obtained. A FATmax‐test was performed on a cycle ergometer, and MFO was calculated from the pulmonary V̇O2 and V̇CO2 measured by indirect calorimetry. The absolute MFO was significantly higher in young (0.40 ± 0.07 g/min) compared to both middle‐aged (0.33 ± 0.07 g/min) (p = 0.035) and old (0.25 ± 0.05 g/min) women (p < 0.001). Absolute MFO was higher in middle‐aged compared to old women (p = 0.018). Relative MFO (MFO/LBM, mg/min/LBM) was higher in young (8.39 ± 1.62 mg/min/LBM) compared to old (6.16 ± 1.14 mg/min/LBM) women (p = 0.004). A significant linear relationship was observed between absolute MFO and age (R2 = 0.41; p < 0.001), V̇O2max (R2 = 0.40; p < 0.001), and LBM (R2 = 0.13; p = 0.033), respectively, and between relative MFO and fat mass (R2 = 0.12; p = 0.04). In conclusion, the maximal capacity to oxidize fat is attenuated with age in trained women. Furthermore, postmenopausal middle‐aged women have higher absolute MFO compared to older women, and this implies that it is age per se and not a change in estrogen availability that leads to lower absolute MFO. Highlights: In trained women, the maximal fat oxidation was lowered with age when comparing young, middle‐aged, and older groups implying an attenuating effect of age.In postmenopausal women, the maximal fat oxidation was lower in older than middle‐aged groups, and this implies that age and not estrogen availability leads to a lower absolute maximal fat oxidation rate.In trained women, the FATmax was similar when comparing young, middle‐aged, and older groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the capacity of high‐repetition giant‐set resistance training (HGRT) and high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) to decline C‐reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)‐6, soluble IL‐6 receptor (SIL‐6R), IL‐18, and insulin resistance markers in long‐ (5–10 years) and short‐term (1–4 years) overweight men. Another purpose was to compare these markers between the two populations. Firstly, eligible participants were matched based on age, body mass index, and aerobic fitness and then divided into a long‐ (n = 37) or short‐term (n = 32) overweight population. After that, the participants in each category were randomly assigned to HGRT (2 giant sets of 4‐exercise × 2 circuits at 30%–50% of one‐repetition maximum with a novel periodization), HIIT (4‐set × 4‐min of running at 80%–90% of HRmax), and control (CON, non‐exercising) groups. The well‐balanced training programs were performed in three weekly sessions for 12 weeks. This study showed that individuals with a longer history of being overweight have elevated baseline concentrations of CRP, SIL‐6R, and IL‐18 (all, p ≤ 0.04, effect size [ES] ≥0.65). Both training programs led to a similar reduction in insulin and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance versus CON (all p ≤ 0.03, ES ≥ 0.49) regardless of the duration of being overweight, although SIL‐6R was significantly reduced after HIIT versus pretest (both, p ≤ 0.03, ES = 0.17). The two exercises caused a significant decline in IL‐18 in the long‐term population versus CON, while HIIT was the only program that decreased CRP (all, p ≤ 0.04, 0.21 ≤ ES ≤ 0.34). Thus, it seems that overweight history plays a crucial role in deteriorating some of the biomarkers, and the two exercises have greater potential to attenuate IL‐18. However, HIIT might have a greater anti‐inflammatory effect (as indicated by CRP and SIL‐6R) than HGRT. Key points: Participants with a longer history of being overweight had significantly higher C‐reactive protein (CRP), soluble IL‐6 receptor (SIL‐6R), and interleukin (IL)‐18, although there was no significant difference for IL‐6 and insulin resistance markers.The 12 weeks of high‐repetition giant‐set resistance training (HGRT) and high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) had equal effect on insulin resistance markers and obesity indices regardless of the duration of being overweight.The HGRT and HIIT led to a reduction of IL‐18 in the long‐term overweight population.HIIT was the only program that declined CRP and SIL‐6R. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasound‐derived measurements of muscle fascicle length (FL) are often used to infer increases (chronic stretch or training) or decreases (muscle disuse or aging) in serial sarcomere number (SSN). Whether FL adaptations measured via ultrasound can truly approximate SSN adaptations has not been investigated. We casted the right hindlimb of 15 male Sprague–Dawley rats in a dorsiflexed position (i.e., stretched the plantar flexors) for 2 weeks, with the left hindlimb serving as a control. Ultrasound images of the soleus, lateral gastrocnemius (LG), and medial gastrocnemius (MG) were obtained with the ankle at 90° and full dorsiflexion for both hindlimbs pre and post‐cast. Following post‐cast ultrasound measurements, legs were fixed in formalin with the ankle at 90°, then muscles were dissected and fascicles were teased out for measurement of sarcomere lengths via laser diffraction and calculation of SSN. Ultrasound detected an 11% increase in soleus FL, a 12% decrease in LG FL, and an 8–11% increase in MG FL for proximal fascicles and at full dorsiflexion. These adaptations were partly reflected by SSN adaptations, with a 6% greater soleus SSN in the casted leg than the un‐casted leg, but no SSN differences for the gastrocnemii. Weak relationships were observed between ultrasonographic measurements of FL and measurements of FL and SSN from dissected fascicles. Our results showed that ultrasound‐derived FL measurements can overestimate an increase in SSN by ∼5%. Future studies should be cautious when concluding a large magnitude of sarcomerogenesis from ultrasound‐derived FL measurements, and may consider applying a correction factor. New Findings: What is the central question of this study?Measurements of muscle fascicle length via ultrasound are often used to infer changes in serial sarcomere number, such as increases following chronic stretch or resistance training, and decreases with ageing: does ultrasound‐derived fascicle length accurately depict adaptations in serial sarcomere number?What is the main finding and its importance?Ultrasound detected an ∼11% increase in soleus fascicle length, but measurements on dissected fascicles showed the actual serial sarcomere number increase was only ∼6%; therefore, measurements of ultrasound‐derived fascicle length can overestimate serial sarcomere number adaptations by as much as 5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We recently reported that vastus lateralis (VL) cross‐sectional area (CSA) increases after 7 weeks of resistance training (RT, 2 days/week), with declines occurring following 7 weeks of subsequent treadmill high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) (3 days/week). Herein, we examined the effects of this training paradigm on skeletal muscle proteolytic markers. VL biopsies were obtained from 11 untrained college‐aged males at baseline (PRE), after 7 weeks of RT (MID), and after 7 weeks of HIIT (POST). Tissues were analysed for proteolysis markers, and in vitro experiments were performed to provide additional insights. Atrogene mRNAs (TRIM63, FBXO32, FOXO3A) were upregulated at POST versus both PRE and MID (P < 0.05). 20S proteasome core protein abundance increased at POST versus PRE (P = 0.031) and MID (P = 0.049). 20S proteasome activity, and protein levels for calpain‐2 and Beclin‐1 increased at MID and POST versus PRE (P < 0.05). Ubiquitinated proteins showed model significance (P = 0.019) with non‐significant increases at MID and POST (P > 0.05). in vitro experiments recapitulated the training phenotype when stimulated with a hypertrophic stimulus (insulin‐like growth factor 1; IGF1) followed by a subsequent AMP‐activated protein kinase activator (5‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxamide ribonucleotide; AICAR), as demonstrated by larger myotube diameter in IGF1‐treated cells versus IGF1 followed by AICAR treatments (I+A; P = 0.017). Muscle protein synthesis (MPS) levels were also greater in IGF1‐treated versus I+A myotubes (P < 0.001). In summary, the loss in RT‐induced VL CSA with HIIT coincided with increases in several proteolytic markers, and sustained proteolysis may have driven this response. Moreover, while not measured in humans, we interpret our in vitro data to suggest that (unlike RT) HIIT does not stimulate MPS. New Findings: What is the central question of this study?Determining if HIIT‐induced reductions in muscle hypertrophy following a period of resistance training coincided with increases in proteolytic markers.What is the main finding and its importance?Several proteolytic markers were elevated during the HIIT training period implying that increases in muscle proteolysis may have played a role in HIIT‐induced reductions in muscle hypertrophy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold water immersion (CWI) following intense exercise is a common athletic recovery practice. However, CWI impacts muscle adaptations to exercise training, with attenuated muscle hypertrophy and increased angiogenesis. Tissue temperature modulates the abundance of specific miRNA species and thus CWI may affect muscle adaptations via modulating miRNA expression following a bout of exercise. The current study focused on the regulatory mechanisms involved in cleavage and nuclear export of mature miRNA, including DROSHA, EXPORTIN‐5, and DICER. Muscle biopsies were obtained from the vastus lateralis of young males (n = 9) at rest and at 2, 4, and 48 h of recovery from an acute bout of resistance exercise, followed by either 10 min of active recovery (ACT) at ambient temperature or CWI at 10°C. The abundance of key miRNA species in the regulation of intracellular anabolic signaling (miR‐1 and miR‐133a) and angiogenesis (miR‐15a and miR‐126) were measured, along with several gene targets implicated in satellite cell dynamics (NCAM and PAX7) and angiogenesis (VEGF and SPRED‐1). When compared to ACT, CWI suppressed mRNA expression of DROSHA (24 h p = 0.025 and 48 h p = 0.017), EXPORTIN‐5 (24 h p = 0.008), and DICER (24 h p = 0.0034). Of the analyzed miRNA species, miR‐133a (24 h p < 0.001 and 48 h p = 0.007) and miR‐126 (24 h p < 0.001 and 48 h p < 0.001) remained elevated at 24 h post‐exercise in the CWI trial only. Potential gene targets of these miRNA, however, did not differ between trials. CWI may therefore impact miRNA abundance in skeletal muscle, although the precise physiological relevance needs further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Stanniocalcin‐2 (STC2) has recently been implicated in human muscle mass variability by genetic analysis. Biochemically, STC2 inhibits the proteolytic activity of the metalloproteinase PAPP‐A, which promotes muscle growth by upregulating the insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) axis. The aim was to examine if STC2 affects skeletal muscle mass and to assess how the IGF axis mediates muscle hypertrophy induced by functional overload. Methods: We compared muscle mass and muscle fiber morphology between Stc2−/− (n = 21) and wild‐type (n = 15) mice. We then quantified IGF1, IGF2, IGF binding proteins −4 and −5 (IGFBP‐4, IGFBP‐5), PAPP‐A and STC2 in plantaris muscles of wild‐type mice subjected to 4‐week unilateral overload (n = 14). Results: Stc2−/− mice showed up to 10% larger muscle mass compared with wild‐type mice. This increase was mediated by greater cross‐sectional area of muscle fibers. Overload increased plantaris mass and components of the IGF axis, including quantities of IGF1 (by 2.41‐fold, p = 0.0117), IGF2 (1.70‐fold, p = 0.0461), IGFBP‐4 (1.48‐fold, p = 0.0268), PAPP‐A (1.30‐fold, p = 0.0154) and STC2 (1.28‐fold, p = 0.019). Conclusion: Here we provide evidence that STC2 is an inhibitor of muscle growth upregulated, along with other components of the IGF axis, during overload‐induced muscle hypertrophy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dietary protein ingestion augments post (resistance) exercise muscle protein synthesis (MPS) rates. It is thought that the dose of leucine ingested within the protein (leucine threshold hypothesis) and the subsequent plasma leucine variables (leucine trigger hypothesis; peak magnitude, rate of rise, and total availability) determine the magnitude of the postprandial postexercise MPS response. Methods: A quantitative systematic review was performed extracting data from studies that recruited healthy adults, applied a bout of resistance exercise, ingested a bolus of protein within an hour of exercise, and measured plasma leucine concentrations and MPS rates (delta change from basal). Results: Ingested leucine dose was associated with the magnitude of the MPS response in older, but not younger, adults over acute (0–2 h, r2 = 0.64, p = 0.02) and the entire postprandial (>2 h, r2 = 0.18, p = 0.01) period. However, no single plasma leucine variable possessed substantial predictive capacity over the magnitude of MPS rates in younger or older adults. Conclusion: Our data provide support that leucine dose provides predictive capacity over postprandial postexercise MPS responses in older adults. However, no threshold in older adults and no plasma leucine variable was correlated with the magnitude of the postexercise anabolic response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New Findings: What is the central question of this study?How do free weight resistance training (RT) and body mass‐based RT for 8 weeks compare for isometric muscular strength, muscle size and intramuscular fat (IMF) content in the quadriceps femoris?What is the main finding and its importance?Free weight and body mass‐based RTs could induce muscle hypertrophy; however, decreased IMF content was observed following the body mass‐based RT alone. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of free weight and body mass‐based resistance training (RT) on muscle size and thigh intramuscular fat (IMF) in young and middle‐aged individuals. Healthy individuals (aged 30–64 years) were assigned to either a free weight RT group (n = 21) or a body mass‐based RT group (n = 16). Both groups performed whole‐body resistance exercise twice a week for 8 weeks. Free weight resistance exercises (squats, bench press, deadlift, dumbbell rows and back range) involved 70% one repetition maximum, with three sets of 8–12 repetitions per exercise. The nine body mass‐based resistance exercises (leg raise, squats, rear raise, overhead shoulder mobility exercise, rowing, dips, lunge, single‐leg Romanian deadlifts and push‐ups) included the maximum possible repetitions per session, which were performed in one or two sets. Mid‐thigh magnetic resonance images using the two‐point Dixon method were taken pre‐ and post‐training. The muscle cross‐sectional area (CSA) and IMF content in the quadriceps femoris were measured from the images. Both the groups showed significantly increased muscle CSA post‐training (free weight RT group, P = 0.001; body mass‐based RT group, P = 0.002). IMF content in the body mass‐based RT group significantly decreased (P = 0.036) but did not significantly change in the free weight RT group (P = 0.076). These results suggest that the free weight and body mass‐based RTs could induce muscle hypertrophy; however, in healthy young and middle‐aged individuals, decreased IMF content was induced following the body mass‐based RT alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considerable inter‐individual heterogeneity exists in the muscular adaptations to resistance training. It has been proposed that fast‐twitch fibres are more sensitive to hypertrophic stimuli and thus that variation in muscle fibre type composition is a contributing factor to the magnitude of training response. This study investigated if the inter‐individual variability in resistance training adaptations is determined by muscle typology and if the most appropriate weekly training frequency depends on muscle typology. In strength‐training novices, 11 slow (ST) and 10 fast typology (FT) individuals were selected by measuring muscle carnosine with proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Participants trained both upper arm and leg muscles to failure at 60% of one‐repetition maximum (1RM) for 10 weeks, whereby one arm and leg trained 3×/week and the contralateral arm and leg 2×/week. Muscle volume (MRI‐based 3D segmentation), maximal dynamic strength (1RM) and fibre type‐specific cross‐sectional area (vastus lateralis biopsies) were evaluated. The training response for total muscle volume (+3 to +14%), fibre size (−19 to +22%) and strength (+17 to +47%) showed considerable inter‐individual variability, but these could not be attributed to differences in muscle typology. However, ST individuals performed a significantly higher training volume to gain these similar adaptations than FT individuals. The limb that trained 3×/week had generally more pronounced hypertrophy than the limb that trained 2×/week, and there was no interaction with muscle typology. In conclusion, muscle typology cannot explain the high variability in resistance training adaptations when training is performed to failure at 60% of 1RM. Key points: This study investigated the influence of muscle typology (muscle fibre type composition) on the variability in resistance training adaptations and on its role in the individualization of resistance training frequency.We demonstrate that an individual's muscle typology cannot explain the inter‐individual variability in resistance training‐induced increases in muscle volume, maximal dynamic strength and fibre cross‐sectional area when repetitions are performed to failure.Importantly, slow typology individuals performed a significantly higher training volume to obtain similar adaptations compared to fast typology individuals.Muscle typology does not determine the most appropriate resistance training frequency. However, regardless of muscle typology, an additional weekly training (3×/week vs. 2×/week) increases muscle hypertrophy but not maximal dynamic strength.These findings expand on our understanding of the underlying mechanisms for the large inter‐individual variability in resistance training adaptations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The effects of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) with pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) on patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) receiving radiotherapy (RT) have not previously been reported. This pilot study aimed to determine the effectiveness of IMT with PR on respiratory muscles and exercise capacity of NSCLC patients receiving RT. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 20 patients who underwent RT for NSCLC. The rehabilitation included IMT, stretching, strengthening, and aerobic exercises three times a week for 4 weeks with concurrent RT. IMT training lasted 10 min, consisting of one cycle of 30 breaths using the Powerbreathe KH1 device in the hospital by a physical therapist. Patients underwent two IMT sessions at home daily at an intensity of approximately 30%–50% of the participant's maximum inspiratory muscle pressure (MIP) using the threshold IMT tool. We analyzed the results from the respiratory muscle strength test, pulmonary function test, 6‐min walk test (6MWT), cardiopulmonary function test, cycle endurance test (CET), Inbody test, grip measurement, knee extensor/flexor strength measurement, Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTCQ‐C30), and NSCLC 13 (EORTC‐LC13). Results: There were no adverse events during evaluation and IMT with PR. MIP (60.1 ± 25.1 vs. 72.5 ± 31.9, p = 0.005), 6MWT (439.2 ± 97.1 vs. 60.7 ± 97.8, p = 0.002), CET (181.39 ± 193.12 vs. 123.6 ± 87.6, p = 0.001), knee extensor (14.4 ± 5.3 vs. 17.4 ± 5, p = 0.012), and knee flexor (14.0 ± 5.2 vs. 16.9 ± 5.5, p = 0.004) significantly improved after IMT with PR. Conclusion: IMT with PR appears effective on respiratory muscles and exercise capacity without adverse events in NSCLC patients who underwent RT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exercise effectively promotes and preserves cardiorespiratory, neuromuscular, metabolic, and cognitive functions throughout life. The molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial adaptations to exercise training are, however, still poorly understood. To improve the mechanistic study of specific exercise training adaptations, standardized, physiological, and well‐characterized training interventions are required. Therefore, we performed a comprehensive interrogation of systemic changes and muscle‐specific cellular and molecular adaptations to voluntary low‐resistance wheel running (Run) and progressive high‐resistance wheel running (RR) in young male mice. Following 10 weeks of training, both groups showed similar improvements in body composition and peak oxygen uptake (V̇O2peak), as well as elevated mitochondrial proteins and capillarization markers in the M. plantaris. Run mice clearly outperformed RR mice in a forced treadmill running capacity test, while RR mice displayed increased grip strength as well as superior mass gains in the M. soleus, associated with distinct proteomic changes specifying the two paradigms. Thus, even though both training modalities induce overlapping adaptations, Run interventions preferably improve submaximal running performance, while progressive RR is a valid model to study training‐induced gains in grip strength and plantar flexor hypertrophy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exercise is painful and difficult to perform for patients with severe lower‐limb osteoarthritis; consequently, reduced physical activity contributes to increased cardiometabolic disease risk. The aim of this study was to characterize the acute and adaptive cardiovascular and metabolic effects of two low or no impact therapies in patients with severe lower‐limb osteoarthritis: passive heat therapy (Heat) and high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) utilizing primarily the unaffected limbs, compared to a control intervention of home‐based exercise (Home). Participants completed up to 12 weeks of either Heat (20–30 min immersed in 40°C water followed by ~15‐min light resistance exercise), HIIT (6–8 × 60‐s intervals on a cross‐trainer or arm ergometer at ~90–100% peak V̇$$ \dot{V} $$O2) or Home (~15‐min light resistance exercise); all 3 sessions/week. Reductions in systolic (12 & 10 mm Hg), diastolic (7 & 4 mm Hg), and mean arterial (8 & 6 mm Hg) blood pressure (BP) were observed following one bout of Heat or HIIT exposure, lasting for the duration of the 20‐min monitoring period. Across the interventions (i.e., 12 weeks), resting systolic BP and diastolic BP decreased with Heat (−9 & ‐4 mm Hg; p < 0.001) and HIIT (−7 & ‐3 mm Hg; p ≤ 0.011), but not Home (0 & 0 mm Hg; p ≥ 0.785). The systolic and diastolic BP responses to an acute exposure of Heat or HIIT in the first intervention session were moderately correlated with adaptive responses across the intervention (r ≥ 0.54, p ≤ 0.005). Neither intervention improved indices of glycemic control (p = 0.310). In summary, both Heat and HIIT induced potent immediate and adaptive hypotensive effects, and the acute response was moderately predictive of the long‐term response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited research exists examining how resistance training to failure affects applied outcomes and single motor unit characteristics in previously trained individuals. Herein, resistance‐trained adults (24 ± 3 years old, self‐reported resistance training experience was 6 ± 4 years, 11 men and 8 women) were randomly assigned to either a low‐repetitions‐in‐reserve (RIR; i.e., training near failure, n = 10) or high‐RIR (i.e., not training near failure, n = 9) group. All participants implemented progressive overload during 5 weeks where low‐RIR performed squat, bench press, and deadlift twice weekly and were instructed to end each training set with 0–1 RIR. high‐RIR performed identical training except for being instructed to maintain 4–6 RIR after each set. During week 6, participants performed a reduced volume‐load. The following were assessed prior to and following the intervention: (i) vastus lateralis (VL) muscle cross‐sectional area (mCSA) at multiple sites; (ii) squat, bench press, and deadlift one‐repetition maximums (1RMs); and (iii) maximal isometric knee extensor torque and VL motor unit firing rates during an 80% maximal voluntary contraction. Although RIR was lower in the low‐ versus high‐RIR group during the intervention (p < 0.001), total training volume did not significantly differ between groups (p = 0.222). There were main effects of time for squat, bench press, and deadlift 1RMs (all p‐values < 0.05), but no significant condition × time interactions existed for these or proximal/middle/distal VL mCSA data. There were significant interactions for the slope and y‐intercept of the motor unit mean firing rate versus recruitment threshold relationship. Post hoc analyses indicated low‐RIR group slope values decreased and y‐intercept values increased after training suggesting low‐RIR training increased lower‐threshold motor unit firing rates. This study provides insight into how resistance training in proximity to failure affects strength, hypertrophy, and single motor unit characteristics, and may inform those who aim to program for resistance‐trained individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA) describes the regulation of cerebral blood flow (CBF) in response to fluctuations in systemic blood pressure (BP). Heavy resistance exercise is known to induce large transient elevations in BP, which are translated into perturbations of CBF, and may alter dCA in the immediate aftermath. This study aimed to better quantify the time course of any acute alterations in dCA after resistance exercise. Following familiarisation to all procedures, 22 (14 male) healthy young adults (22 ± 2 years) completed an experimental trial and resting control trial, in a counterbalanced order. Repeated squat‐stand manoeuvres (SSM) at 0.05 and 0.10 Hz were used to quantify dCA before, and 10 and 45 min after four sets of ten repetition back squats at 70% of one repetition maximum, or time matched seated rest (control). Diastolic, mean and systolic dCA were quantified by transfer function analysis of BP (finger plethysmography) and middle cerebral artery blood velocity (transcranial Doppler ultrasound). Mean gain (p = 0.02; d = 0.36) systolic gain (p = 0.01; d = 0.55), mean normalised gain (p = 0.02; d = 0.28) and systolic normalised gain (p = 0.01; d = 0.67) were significantly elevated above baseline during 0.10 Hz SSM 10‐min post resistance exercise. This alteration was not present 45 min post‐exercise, and dCA indices were never altered during SSM at 0.05 Hz. dCA metrics were acutely altered 10 min post resistance exercise at the 0.10 Hz frequency only, which indicate changes in the sympathetic regulation of CBF. These alterations recovered 45 min post‐exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]