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Purpose: To investigate differences in athletes’ knowledge, beliefs, and training practices during COVID-19 lockdowns with reference to sport classification and sex. This work extends an initial descriptive evaluation focusing on athlete classification. Methods: Athletes (12,526; 66% male; 142 countries) completed an online survey (May–July 2020) assessing knowledge, beliefs, and practices toward training. Sports were classified as team sports (45%), endurance (20%), power/technical (10%), combat (9%), aquatic (6%), recreational (4%), racquet (3%), precision (2%), parasports (1%), and others (1%). Further analysis by sex was performed. Results: During lockdown, athletes practiced body-weight-based exercises routinely (67% females and 64% males), ranging from 50% (precision) to 78% (parasports). More sport-specific technical skills were performed in combat, parasports, and precision (∼50%) than other sports (∼35%). Most athletes (range: 50% [parasports] to 75% [endurance]) performed cardiorespiratory training (trivial sex differences). Compared to prelockdown, perceived training intensity was reduced by 29% to 41%, depending on sport (largest decline: ∼38% in team sports, unaffected by sex). Some athletes (range: 7%–49%) maintained their training intensity for strength, endurance, speed, plyometric, change-of-direction, and technical training. Athletes who previously trained ≥5 sessions per week reduced their volume (range: 18%–28%) during lockdown. The proportion of athletes (81%) training ≥60 min/session reduced by 31% to 43% during lockdown. Males and females had comparable moderate levels of training knowledge (56% vs 58%) and beliefs/attitudes (54% vs 56%). Conclusions: Changes in athletes’ training practices were sport-specific, with few or no sex differences. Team-based sports were generally more susceptible to changes than individual sports. Policy makers should provide athletes with specific training arrangements and educational resources to facilitate remote and/or home-based training during lockdown-type events.

International audience; This study aimed to investigate the effect of a walking football (WF) program during Ramadan fasting (RF) on heart rate variability (HRV) indices, body composition, and physical fitness in middle-aged males. Thirty-one healthy sedentary men were randomized to WF (n = 18) and control (n = 13) groups. Both groups participated in RF. The WF group were involved in a training program (small-sided games) of three sessions a week during RF. The time and frequency domains of HRV, body composition, handgrip, lumbar strength, Modified Agility Test (MAT), and 6-minute walk test (6MWT) were measured before Ramadan (BR), during Ramadan (DR), and after Ramadan (AR). We reported that RF has significantly altered some parameters of HRV DR; the mean HR decreased while the mean RR, LF, and HF increased. WF had a significant effect on HRV and mean HR DR compared with BR and AR decreased while mean RR, HF and LF increased. DR, body mass decreased in both groups, while body mass index (BMI) decreased and lean mass increased only in WF group. Lower body mass and BMI levels were reported AR only in WF group. Physical capacity improved AR, compared with BR, only in the WF group with longer distance in 6MWT, shorter time(s) in MAT, and higher lumbar strength levels. We conclude that RF increases parasympathetic system activity. WF practice during RF is safe and might improve body composition, physical fitness, autonomic cardiac function, and physical fitness in middle-aged males.

Nitric oxide (NO) is a vasodilator that plays an important role in blood pressure control. The purpose of the present study was to compare the effect of 8 weeks of resistance-interval and endurance-resistance trainings on plasma levels of adropin and NO in males with hypertension.Forty-five patients with hypertension were recruited and divided into 3 groups of control (age = 51.1 ± 6.4 years, body mass = 80.4 ± 9.2 kg), resistance-interval training (age = 50.7 ± 5.5 years, body mass = 78.1 ± 11 kg), and endurance-resistance training (age = 52.8 ± 6.1 years, body mass = 79.6 ± 9.2 kg). The resistance training program was performed in 2 sets, 10 to 15 repetitions, with 50% intensity of one repetition maximum. Increasing endurance training was performed for 30-40 min at 60-70% of maximum heart rate (HREight weeks of resistance-interval and endurance-resistance trainings increased plasma levels of adropin and NO and decreased blood pressure (P ≤ 0.05). Furthermore, plasma levels of adropin increased in both exercise groups, whereas NO levels increased only in the endurance-resistance training. Systolic blood pressure decreased in the resistance-interval training (P ≤ 0.05) while it remained unchanged in the endurance-resistance group.Resistance-interval and endurance-resistance trainings are effective in decreasing blood pressure by increasing cardiorespiratory capacity and plasma levels of adropin and NO.

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effect of Ramadan observance (RAM) on decision-making in Kung-Fu athletes. Fourteen male Kung-Fu athletes (mean age = 19 ± 3 years) completed two test sessions: before Ramadan (BR) and at the end of Ramadan (ER). In the afternoon of each session (between 16:00 h and 18:00 h), participants completed: Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Profile of Mood States (POMS), and Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Subjects also reported subjective fatigue, alertness, and concentration. Additionally, all participants performed video-based decision-making tasks (i.e., reaction time and decision-making). Results indicated that reaction time decreased by 30% at ER vs. BR (p &lt, 0.01). However, decision-making decreased by 9.5% at ER vs. BR (p &lt, 0.05). PSQI results indicated sleep quality score, sleep duration, and sleep efficiency were negatively affected at ER compared to BR (p &lt, 0.05). ESS was higher at ER compared to BR (p &lt, 0.05). In addition, fatigue scores, estimated by the POMS and current subjective feelings (i.e., fatigue, concentration, and alertness), were also negatively affected at ER compared to BR (p &lt, 0.05). In conclusion, Ramadan observance was associated with an adverse effect on sleep and decision making, as well as feelings of fatigue, alertness, and concentration.

The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of a nap opportunity during the daytime realized at different times of day on physical and mental performance. Eighteen physically active males (age: 20.5 ± 3.0 years, height: 175.3 ± 5.9 cm, body-mass: 70.0 ± 8.6 kg) were tested under four experimental conditions: no-nap condition, nap at 13h00, nap at 14h00 and nap at 15h00. All nap durations were of 25-min and all tests were performed at 17h00. They performed a 5-m shuttle run test, which generated measures of the highest distance (HD) and total distance (TD). The rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was recorded after each of the six sprints in the 5-m shuttle run test. Vigilance was measured using a digit cancellation test. The results showed that TD at 17h00 was 4% greater after a nap at 14h00 than in the no-nap condition (+28 m

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of Ramadan fasting on sleep quality and daytime sleepiness in team sport referees. Seventy-eight male amateur team sport referees (age: 31.1 ± 10.8 years) participated in this study. Participants responded to the Arabic version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) questionnaires before (10-days prior) and during (last 7-days) the month of Ramadan.PSQI and ESS scores increased significantly during Ramadan (both p .001, ES = 0.56 and 0.54, respectively) with 83.3% of participants scoring ≥5 in the PSQI. The percentage of participants suffering from severe excessive daytime sleepiness (ESS score ≥ 16) was 3.8% before

The effect of a 40-min nap opportunity was investigated during the day following a late evening simulated soccer match. Twelve male amateur soccer players (23 ± 3 years; 77.3 ± 5.3 kg; 1.76 ± 0.04 m) performed the Loughborough-intermittent-shuttle test at 21h00 and the following day they completed the sleepiness scale after either a nonap (N0) or 40-min nap (N40) opportunity that began at 14h00. At 17h00, participants performed the 5-m shuttle run test (5mSRT) (6 × 30-s with 35-s in-between; best distance (BD) and total distance (TD) were calculated). After performing the 5mSRT, they provided their rating of the perceived exertion (RPE) and rated their muscle soreness. Sleepiness scores were significantly lower in N40 in comparison with N0 (P

Physical training is considered as a low-cost intervention to generate cardioprotective benefits and to promote physical and mental health, while reducing the severity of acute respiratory infection symptoms in older adults. However, lockdown measures during COVID-19 have limited people’s opportunity to exercise regularly. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of eight weeks of Fitness and Dance training, followed by four weeks of COVID-19-induced detraining, on cardiac adaptations and physical performance indicators in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Twelve older adults (6 males and 6 females) with MCI (age, 73 ± 4.4 y, body mass, 75.3 ± 6.4 kg, height, 172 ± 8 cm, MMSE score: 24–27) participated in eight weeks of a combined Fitness-Dance training intervention (two sessions/week) followed by four weeks of training cessation induced by COVID-19 lockdowns. Wireless Polar Team Pro and Polar heart rate sensors (H10) were used to monitor covered distance, speed, heart rate (HR min, avg and max), time in HR zone 1 to 5, strenuousness (load score), beat-to-beat interval (max RR and avg RR) and heart rate variability (HRV-RMSSD). One-way ANOVA was used to analyze the data of the three test sessions (T1: first training session, T2: last training session of the eight-week training program, and T3: first training session after the four-week training cessation). Statistical analysis showed that eight weeks of combined Fitness-Dance training induced beneficial cardiac adaptations by decreasing HR (HR min, HR avg and HR max) with p &lt, 0.001, ES = 0.5–0.6 and Δ = −7 to−9 bpm, and increasing HRV related responses (max and avg RR and RMSSD), with p &lt, 0.01 and ES = 0.4. Consequently, participants spent more time in comfortable HR zones (e.g., p &lt, 0.0005, ES = 0.7, Δ = 25% for HR zone 1) and showed reduced strenuousness (p = 0.02, Δ = −15% for load score), despite the higher covered total distance and average speed (p &lt, 0.01, ES = 0.4). However, these changes were reversed after only four weeks of COVID-19 induced detraining, with values of all parameters returning to their baseline levels. In conclusion, eight weeks of combined Fitness-Dance training seems to be an efficient strategy to promote cardioprotective benefits in older adults with MCI. Importantly, to maintain these health benefits, training has to be continued and detraining periods should be reduced. During a pandemic, home-based exercise programs may provide an effective and efficient alternative of physical training.

Several studies report sleep deprivation negatively impacts post-cognitive and physical performance, and other functions. Recent findings indicate ingestion of melatonin prior to exercise enhances tolerance to training and improves competition. We investigated the effects of melatonin supplementation on psychomotor performance and selected physical fitness measures of collegiate student-athletes following 4 h and 24 h of sleep deprivation. The study employed a repeated-measures, double-blind, randomized controlled protocol with posttest control group design with six conditions [3 sleep conditions (without sleep deprivation, 4 h sleep deprivation (4SD) and 24 h sleep deprivation (24SD)) × 2 supplementation conditions (melatonin and placebo)]. Ten trained male collegiate student-athletes (mean ± SD; age: 20 ± 2 y) attended the laboratory on six occasions with 72 h between successive visits. Placebo or 6 mg of melatonin were administered orally in capsules 30 min before the tests of: static and dynamic balance, reaction time, and anaerobic power. Also, blood lactate was measured before and 3 min after the anaerobic power exercise. During the placebo session, the results indicated that 4SD and 24SD had negative effect on the measured parameters, with higher impacts of the 24SD condition. Compared to placebo and during both 4SD and 24SD conditions, melatonin had a positive effect on static and dynamic balance, anaerobic power, blood lactic acid, and reaction time (

The impact of intermittent circadian fasting (ICF) on skin disorders is far to be plenty deciphered. However, the circadian rhythm seems to exert a modulation on dermatoses severity, drug-response, and drug-related side effects. We aimed to evaluate ICF effect in the daily management of dermatological diseases. In this multicenter, prospective observational study we enrolled patients willing to undergo the 2018 ICF (from May 16 to June 14). Dermatoses severity were evaluated at the beginning of ICF (T0) and at the end of ICF (T1) by two independent board-certified dermatologists. Seventy-two patients suffering from different dermatoses volunteered to take part into the study. They displayed a mean age of 40.38 ± 12.46 years (median 41.0 years), 25 subjects were males (34.7% of the entire sample). The median weight change was 0 kg. The overall ICF effect size was -0.58 ([95% CI -0.83 to -0.33], P < .0001, medium effect size). Since in the present investigation no weight loss occurred, we could speculate that the impact of fasting in terms of improvements in the clinical symptoms could be rather due to the perturbation of the human biological clock. Despite our data remain preliminary, a chronobiological approach should be incorporated in the dermatological armamentarium.

(1) Background: The COVID-19 pandemic forced people from all around the globe to strongly modify their daily routines, putting a significant strain on the social aspects of daily lives. While the first wave of the pandemic was a very challenging time in all countries, it is still uncertain whether various lockdown intensities and infection rates differed regarding their psychosocial impact. This work therefore aimed to investigate (i) the psychosocial effects of home confinement in two European countries that underwent different lockdown intensities: Italy and the Netherlands and (ii) the role of communication technology in relation to feelings of loneliness. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional online survey inquiring about different psychosocial variables and the use of and satisfaction towards communication technology was circulated among the general public during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. In total, 629 participants (66% female, 68% from the Netherlands) answered each question twice, referring to “before” and “during” the pandemic. (3) Results: We found significant negative effects of COVID-19 home confinement on depressive feelings (p &lt, 0.001, %∆ = +54%), loneliness (p &lt, 0.001, %∆ = +37.3%), life satisfaction (p &lt, 0.001, %∆ = −19.8%) and mental wellbeing (p &lt, 0.001, %∆ = −10.6%) which were accompanied with a significantly increased need for psychosocial support (p &lt, 0.001, %∆ = +17.3%). However, the magnitude of psychosocial impact did not significantly differ between residents undergoing a more intense (Italy) versus a less intense (Netherlands) lockdown, although the decrease in social participation was found to be significantly different for both countries (z = −7.714, p &lt, 0.001). Furthermore, our findings demonstrate that the increase in loneliness was associated with the adoption of new digital communication tools (r = 0.21, p &lt, 0.001), and significantly higher for individuals who started to adopt at least one new digital communication tool during confinement than for those who did not (z = −4.252, p &lt, 0.001). (4) Conclusions: This study highlights that, although COVID-19 home confinement significantly impacted psychosocial wellbeing during the first wave of the pandemic, this impact did not differ based on lockdown intensity. Recognizing the increasing adoption of digital communication technology in an attempt to reduce lockdown loneliness, future studies should investigate what is needed from the technology to achieve this effect.

We investigated the effect of exergames and aquatic exercises on lung function and weight loss in obese children. Sixty-one obese male primary-school children were randomly allocated to video game, aquatic exercise, and control groups. Lung functions and anthropometric variables were measured before and after the intervention and after one month (follow-up). In the video game group, an Xbox Kinect game was played for 60 min during three sessions a week. The aquatic aerobic exercise was performed three times per week and consisted of a warm-up, main exercises, and a cool down phase. For the video game group, there was a significant reduction in body weight between (i) pre- and (ii) post-intervention and follow-up. In the aquatic exercise group, there was a significant reduction in body weight between pre- and post-intervention and between pre-intervention and follow-up. Both exercise groups improved the waist/hip ratio index compared to the control group. Forced vital capacity was significantly improved in the follow-up of the video game group and the aquatic exercise group compared to the control group. A significant improvement was found in forced expiratory volume in the first second at post-intervention and follow-up in the video game and the aquatic exercise groups. Exergames and aquatic exercises improved weight loss and lung function in obese children.

The study investigated the influence of hydrotherapy method-based McKenzie and Williams among patients with non-specific low back pain (NSLBP).Semi-experimental pretest-posttest with a control group design trial was conducted at Health Service Center, Qazvin, Iran. Twenty-eight NSLBP patients (16 men and 12 women, age: 42.5 ± 7 years) were recruited. Hydrotherapy program developed based on McKenzie and Williams therapy was performed individually 3 days per week for 20 sessions. Therefore, the study compared a hydrotherapy group (based on McKenzie and Williams therapy) to a control group. Participants attended a hydrotherapy program under the supervision of a hydrotherapist. The Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), and Straight Leg Raise Test (SLRT) were measured at the beginning, middle, and at the end of the 20 sessions to determine pain and functionality of the patient's improvement.Overall, NPRS, RMDQ, and SLRT scores were improved in hydrotherapy group in the 10th session and 20th session compared with baseline (p ≤ 0.001) and control group (p ≤ 0.001). No difference in the treatment variables between the 10th session and the 20th session was observed (p 0.05).The results indicated that the NSLBP symptom was improved after 10 sessions of hydrotherapy program developed based on McKenzie and Williams therapy.

This study examined the effects of different nap durations on attention and physical performance as well as mood states, sleepiness, perceived exertion (RPE), recovery (PRS), and muscle soreness (DOMS) in trained men. Fourteen amateur team sport players (age: 20.3 &plusmn, 3.0 years, height: 173.1 &plusmn, 6.7 cm, body-mass: 68.1 &plusmn, 6.6 kg) performed a maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) test, 5-m shuttle run, and the digit-cancellation (i.e., attention) test after a no-nap (N0) and 40-min (N40) and 90-min (N90) of nap opportunities. Subjective measurement of mood states, RPE, PRS and DOMS were determined. Compared to N0, both nap durations enhanced attention, MVIC, total distance (TD), and higher distance (HD) (p &lt, 0.001), with a higher gain after N90 compared to N40 for attention (&Delta, = +3), MVIC (&Delta, = +30N) and TD (&Delta, = +35m) (p &lt, 0.001). Total mood scores were better after N40 and N90 compared to N0 (p &lt, 0.05), with lower scores after N90 compared to N40 (p &lt, 0.05). DOMS and RPE scores were significantly lower and PRS was significantly higher after N40 and N90 compared to N0 and after N90 compared to N40 (p &lt, 0.05). Although both nap opportunity durations were beneficial, N90 was better than N40 for improving physical performances and attention as well as the perception of recovery, reducing fatigue perception, muscle soreness, and negative mood states.

To evaluate the effects of Ramadan observance on dietary intake, body mass and body composition of adolescent athletes (design: systematic review and meta-analysis; data sources: PubMed and Web of Science; eligibility criteria for selecting studies: single-group, pre-post, with or without control-group studies, conducted in athletes aged th, 2020). Studies assessing body mass and/or body composition and/or dietary intake were deemed eligible. The methodological quality was assessed using ‘QualSyst’. Of the twelve selected articles evaluating body mass and/or body composition, one was of strong quality and eleven were rated as moderate. Ten articles evaluated dietary intake; four were rated as strong and the remaining moderate in quality. Continuation of training during Ramadan did not change body mass from before to the first week (trivial effect size (ES) = −0.011, p = 0.899) or from before to the fourth week of Ramadan (trivial ES = 0.069, p = 0.277). Additionally, Ramadan observance did not change body fat content from before to the first week (trivial ES = −0.005, p = 0.947) and from before to the fourth week of Ramadan (trivial ES = -0.057, p = 0.947). Lean body mass remained unchanged from before to the fourth week of Ramadan (trivial ES = −0.025, p = 0.876). Dietary data showed the intake of energy (small ES = -0.272, p = 0.182), fat (trivial ES = 0.044, p = 0.842), protein (trivial ES = 0.069, p = 0.720), carbohydrate (trivial ES = 0.075, p = 0.606) and water (trivial ES = −0.115, p = 0.624) remained essentially unchanged during as compared to before Ramadan. Continued training of adolescent athletes at least three times/week during Ramadan observance has no effect on body mass, body composition or dietary intake.

Public health recommendations and governmental measures during the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic have enforced numerous restrictions on daily living including social distancing, isolation, and home confinement. While these measures are imperative to mitigate spreading of COVID-19, the impact of these restrictions on psychosocial health is undefined. Therefore, an international online survey was launched in April 2020 to elucidate the behavioral and lifestyle consequences of COVID-19 restrictions. This report presents the preliminary results from more than one thousand responders on social participation and life satisfaction. Methods: Thirty-five research organizations from Europe, North-Africa, Western Asia, and the Americas promoted the survey through their networks to the general society, in 7 languages (English, German, French, Arabic, Spanish, Portuguese, and Slovenian). Questions were presented in a differential format with questions related to responses “before” and “during” confinement conditions. Results: 1047 participations (54% women) from Asia (36%), Africa (40%), Europe (21%), and others (3%) were included in the analysis. Findings revealed psychosocial strain during the enforced COVID-19 home confinement. Large decreases (p &lt, 0.001) in the amount of social activity through family (−58%), friends/neighbors (−44.9%), or entertainment (−46.7%) were triggered by the enforced confinement. These negative effects on social participation were also associated with lower life satisfaction (−30.5%) during the confinement period. Conversely, the social contact score through digital technologies significantly increased (p &lt, 0.001) during the confinement period with more individuals (+24.8%) being socially connected through digital technology. Conclusion: These preliminary findings elucidate the risk of psychosocial strain during the early COVID-19 home confinement period in 2020. Therefore, in order to mitigate the negative psychosocial effects of home confinement, implementation of national strategies focused on promoting social inclusion through a technology-based solution is strongly suggested.

Underweight and overweight are serious health concerns for many children and could be associated with low physical-fitness levels. This study aimed (i) to evaluate the prevalence of underweight and overweight and (ii) to examine its association with the physical fitness levels in primary male and female schoolchildren. Including 13 government primary-schools, a cross-sectional survey was conducted between 2014 and 2017. Anthropometric characteristics together with the physical-fitness level were measured in 931 schoolchildren aged between 6- and 11-years old. The prevalence of under- and overweight children were 8.49% and 24.06%, respectively. These proportions were not significantly different between males and females and were affected by age (p &lt, 0.001), with a higher prevalence of overweight and a lower prevalence of underweight at 9&ndash, 11 years, compared to 6&ndash, 8 years old. Concerning the physical fitness levels, statistical analysis showed a better performance among males compared to females, among participants aged 9&ndash, 8 years old, and among underweight and normal-weight, compared to overweight children (p &lt, 0.001). There was a higher prevalence of overweight and lower prevalence of underweight at 9&ndash, 11 years compared to 6&ndash, 8 years old. Physical fitness levels were better in (i) males, compared to females, (ii) schoolchildren aged 9&ndash, 8 years old, and (iii) underweight and normal-weight, compared to overweight children.

Background Public health recommendations and government measures during the COVID-19 pandemic have enforced restrictions on daily-living. While these measures are imperative to abate the spreading of COVID-19, the impact of these restrictions on mental health and emotional wellbeing is undefined. Therefore, an international online survey (ECLB-COVID19) was launched on April 6, 2020 in seven languages to elucidate the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on mental health and emotional wellbeing. Methods The ECLB-COVID19 electronic survey was designed by a steering group of multidisciplinary scientists, following a structured review of the literature. The survey was uploaded and shared on the Google online-survey-platform and was promoted by thirty-five research organizations from Europe, North-Africa, Western-Asia and the Americas. All participants were asked for their mental wellbeing (SWEMWS) and depressive symptoms (SMFQ) with regard to “during” and “before” home confinement. Results Analysis was conducted on the first 1047 replies (54% women) from Asia (36%), Africa (40%), Europe (21%) and other (3%). The COVID-19 home confinement had a negative effect on both mental-wellbeing and on mood and feelings. Specifically, a significant decrease (p < .001 and Δ% = 9.4%) in total score of the SWEMWS questionnaire was noted. More individuals (+12.89%) reported a low mental wellbeing “during” compared to “before” home confinement. Furthermore, results from the mood and feelings questionnaire showed a significant increase by 44.9% (p < .001) in SMFQ total score with more people (+10%) showing depressive symptoms “during” compared to “before” home confinement. Conclusion The ECLB-COVID19 survey revealed an increased psychosocial strain triggered by the home confinement. To mitigate this high risk of mental disorders and to foster an Active and Healthy Confinement Lifestyle (AHCL), a crisis-oriented interdisciplinary intervention is urgently needed.

Background: Public health recommendations and governmental measures during the COVID-19 pandemic have resulted in numerous restrictions on daily living including social distancing, isolation and home confinement. While these measures are imperative to abate the spreading of COVID-19, the impact of these restrictions on health behaviours and lifestyles at home is undefined. Therefore, an international online survey was launched in April 2020, in seven languages, to elucidate the behavioural and lifestyle consequences of COVID-19 restrictions. This report presents the results from the first thousand responders on physical activity (PA) and nutrition behaviours. Methods: Following a structured review of the literature, the &ldquo, Effects of home Confinement on multiple Lifestyle Behaviours during the COVID-19 outbreak (ECLB-COVID19)&rdquo, Electronic survey was designed by a steering group of multidisciplinary scientists and academics. The survey was uploaded and shared on the Google online survey platform. Thirty-five research organisations from Europe, North-Africa, Western Asia and the Americas promoted the survey in English, German, French, Arabic, Spanish, Portuguese and Slovenian languages. Questions were presented in a differential format, with questions related to responses &ldquo, before&rdquo, and &ldquo, during&rdquo, confinement conditions. Results: 1047 replies (54% women) from Asia (36%), Africa (40%), Europe (21%) and other (3%) were included in the analysis. The COVID-19 home confinement had a negative effect on all PA intensity levels (vigorous, moderate, walking and overall). Additionally, daily sitting time increased from 5 to 8 h per day. Food consumption and meal patterns (the type of food, eating out of control, snacks between meals, number of main meals) were more unhealthy during confinement, with only alcohol binge drinking decreasing significantly. Conclusion: While isolation is a necessary measure to protect public health, results indicate that it alters physical activity and eating behaviours in a health compromising direction. A more detailed analysis of survey data will allow for a segregation of these responses in different age groups, countries and other subgroups, which will help develop interventions to mitigate the negative lifestyle behaviours that have manifested during the COVID-19 confinement.

The functional significance of pomegranate (POM) supplementation on physiological responses during and following exercise is currently unclear. This systematic review aimed (i) to evaluate the existing literature assessing the effects of POM supplementation on exercise performance and recovery; exercise-induced muscle damage, oxidative stress, inflammation; and cardiovascular function in healthy adults and (ii) to outline the experimental conditions in which POM supplementation is more or less likely to benefit exercise performance and/or recovery. Multiple electronic databases were used to search for studies examining the effects of POM intake on physiological responses during and/or following exercise in healthy adult. Articles were included in the review if they investigated the effects of an acute or chronic POM supplementation on exercise performance, recovery and/or physiological responses during or following exercise. The existing evidence suggests that POM supplementation has the potential to confer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects during and following exercise, to improve cardiovascular responses during exercise, and to enhance endurance and strength performance and post-exercise recovery. However, the beneficial effects of POM supplementation appeared to be less likely when (i) unilateral eccentric exercise was employed, (ii) the POM administered was not rich in polyphenols (

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the lifestyles and training of elite athletes around the world. The detrimental effects of lockdown periods may vary among individuals, as well as among sports and sexes. This study investigated the changes in dietary habits, and the predictors of perceived stress during lockdown and a “bubble” training camp. This cross-sectional, online survey involved 76 elite and world-class athletes from six able-bodied sports and nine parasports, all of whom were involved in a 30-day “bubble” training camp. Questions were asked on socio-demographics, training routines and wellbeing, perceived stress, and dietary habits, pertaining to “normal” training (prelockdown), lockdown training, and “bubble” camp training periods. Changes in perceived stress were trivial to small during lockdown compared to “normal” training, and trivial to moderate during a “bubble” camp, compared to lockdown. Para-athletes, males, older athletes, less experienced athletes, married individuals, and specific ethnicities appeared to be more detrimentally affected (increased perceived stress) by lockdown. These negative experiences, however, were largely reversed during “bubble” camps. During lockdown, more athletes reported increased evening snack consumption (+8%), later meal-times (+6%), decreased fluid intake (−6%), and no breakfast (+7%). These changes were reversed during “bubble” camps (12–18% improvements). Sport classification accounted for 16% of the increased perceived stress (p = 0.001) during lockdown. Overall, socio-demographic factors, improvements in training routines, well-being, and dietary habits explained 28% of the decreased perceived stress during a “bubble” camp. In conclusion, better dietary habits, training routines and well-being have implications for reduced perceived stress. During lockdown, “bubble” camps may be beneficial, but this observation may be a case-by-case consideration, and short split “bubble” periods are recommended.

The specifics of short-term physical exercise are similar to the immediate reaction demands placed on police officers. Identifying the physiological predisposition to short-term high-intensity exercise in male law enforcement officers will assist in understanding their metabolism and make a significant contribution to a much more personal and individualized workout program. This will improve physical fitness of individual officers, improving their preparedness for such times of emergency. This cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the responses of hematological (erythrocytes, hemoglobin, hematocrit, leucocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes), hormonal (testosterone, cortisol, melatonin), biochemical (glucose, uric-acid, lactate, creatine-phosphokinase) data to short-term maximal exercise in male police officers ( n = 20). Blood samples were collected before- and after- the running-based anaerobic sprint test (RAST), and biological values were corrected for fluid shifts. Data were mean ± standard deviation of differences (= after minus before RAST). After the RAST, values of cortisol, lactate, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes increased significantly by 7.01 ± 37.36 mmol/l, 7.55 ± 1.67 mmol/l, 0.17 ± 0.26 103/µl, 0.61 ± 0.28 103/µl, and 0.10 ± 0.13 103/µl, respectively. After the RAST, values of melatonin, uric-acid, creatine-phosphokinase, hemoglobin, and hematocrit decreased significantly by −13.24 ± 4.60 pg/ml, −13.28 ± 14.35 µmol/l, −10.23 ± 10.13 IU/l, −2.01 ± 0.81 g/dl, and −4.46 ± 0.59%, respectively. Biological data of male police officers were affected by sprint test. Understanding changes in biological data following short-term maximal exercise can further assist in a better understanding of anaerobic metabolism, which will be helpful to find available methods for coaches to quantify training loads.

The fear of falling (FOF) limits the movements of the older adults, which, in turn, might impair postural mobility. An aquatic environment has a relatively low risk of falling and can improve motor abilities. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of aquatic exercise on postural mobility of the healthy endomorph elderly somatotype. Therefore, 37 healthy endomorphic older adults with an average age of 64.38 &plusmn, 4.12 years participated in this study. Participants were randomly divided into four groups (i.e., Aquatic exercise, Dry-land exercise, Aquatic control, and Dry-land control). The Heath-Carter method was used to estimate the criterion somatotype, and the Tinetti method was used to determine postural mobility. Covariance analysis was used to examine the mean differences at a significance level of p &lt, 0.05. The results showed that there was a significant difference between the aquatic exercise group and the two control groups (p &lt, 0.01), and the dry-land exercise group was significantly different from the aquatic control (p &lt, 0.05) and dry-land control groups (p &lt, 0.01). The results indicate that the design of aquatic exercise programs, especially for endomorphic older adults with inappropriate body shape, for whom dry-land exercises are not appropriate, likely, has a positive effect on the motor control and both the balance and gait and provide appropriate postural mobility without FOF in older adults.

The current study examined the relationships between the effects of consuming a caffeine-containing &ldquo, energy drink&rdquo, upon (i) short-term maximal performance, (ii) reaction times, and (iii) psychological factors (i.e., mood state, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), and affective load) and on physiological parameters (i.e., blood pressure and blood glucose). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, counterbalanced crossover design was implemented in this study. Nineteen male physical-education students (age: 21.2 &plusmn, 1.2 years, height: 1.76 &plusmn, 0.08 m, body-mass: 76.6 &plusmn, 12.6 kg) performed two test sessions: after drinking the &ldquo, Red Bull&rsquo, beverage (RB) and after drinking a placebo (PL). One hour after ingestion of each drink, resting blood glucose and blood pressure were measured and the participants completed the Profile of Mood States questionnaire. Then, after a 5-min warm-up, simple visual reaction time and handgrip force were measured, and the 30-s Wingate test was performed. Immediately after these tests, the RPE, blood glucose, and blood pressure were measured, and the affective load was calculated. Differences between treatments were assessed using two-way repeated measures analyses of variance and paired t-tests, as appropriate. Relationships between the test variables were assessed using Bland&ndash, Altman correlations. Significant (i) improvements in peak and mean power output, handgrip force, pre- and post-exercise blood glucose, blood pressure, and vigor and (ii) reductions in reaction times, depression, confusion, fatigue, anger, anxiety, RPE, and affective load scores were observed after RB compared to PL. There were significant correlations of (i) physical performances and reaction times with (ii) RPE, affective load, and pre- and post-exercise blood glucose levels. Gains in peak and mean power were significantly correlated with reductions in fatigue, anxiety (peak power only), and anger (mean power only). The reduction of reaction times was significantly correlated with decreases in confusion and anger and with increases in vigor. Handgrip force and reaction times were significantly correlated with pre- and post-exercise blood pressures. We conclude that RB ingestion has a positive effect on physical performance and reaction times. This effect is related to ergogenic responses in both psychological (i.e., RPE, affective load, and mood state) and physiological (i.e., blood glucose and blood pressure) domains.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of 3- vs. 2-minute inter maximal-repetition rest period (IMRRP) on maintaining jerk technical efficiency and power production during...

The aims of the present study were to: (1) investigate the effect of a weightlifting training session and time-of-day (TOD) upon biological parameters (i.e., oral temperature, hematological, C-reactive protein (CRP), and oxidative stress) and (2) assess their possible link with muscle damage responses. Nine weightlifters (21 ± 0.5 years) performed, in a randomized order, three Olympic-Weightlifting sessions (i.e., at 08:00, 14:00, and 18:00). Blood samples were collected at rest, 3 min and 48 h after each training session. Between pre- and post-training session, ANOVA showed significant increases in oxidative stress markers at the three TODs (p

Physical exercise is often associated with increases in muscle damage markers and inflammation. However, biomarkers of muscle damage and inflammation responses to the 5-m shuttle run test (5mSRT) have not yet been evaluated. The aim of the present study was to investigate effects of the 5mSRT on muscle damage markers, inflammation, and perception of fatigue and recovery in healthy male athletes. Fifteen male amateur team sports players (age: 20 &plusmn, 3 yrs, height: 173 &plusmn, 7 cm, body-mass: 67 &plusmn, 7 kg) participated in this study. Blood biomarkers were collected at rest, 5 min after, and 72 h after the 5mSRT to measure muscle damage (i.e., creatinine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), and alanine aminotransferase (ALAT)) and inflammation (i.e., C-reactive protein (CRP)). Best distance (BD), total distance (TD), fatigue index (FI), and percentage decrement (PD) during the 5mSRT were assessed. Perceived recovery (PRS) and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) were recorded before, 5 min after, and 72 h after the 5mSRT, perceived exertion (RPE) was recorded before, during, and 72 h after the 5mSRT. Muscle damage biomarkers post 5mSRT showed a significant increase compared to pre 5mSRT (p &lt, 0.001) levels ((i.e., CK (190.6 &plusmn, 109.1 IU/L vs. 234.6 &plusmn, 113.7 IU/L), LDH (163.6 &plusmn, 35.1 IU/L vs. 209.9 &plusmn, 50.8 IU/L), ASAT (18.0 &plusmn, 4.4 IU/L vs. 21.7 &plusmn, 6.2 IU/L), and ALAT (10.2 &plusmn, 3.4 IU/L vs. 12.7 &plusmn, 3.8 IU/L)) and 72 h post 5mSRT (p &lt, 0.001) levels ((CK (125.3 &plusmn, 80.5 IU/L vs. 234.6 &plusmn, 113.7 IU/L), LDH (143.9 &plusmn, 36.6 IU/L vs. 209.9 &plusmn, 50.8 IU/L), ASAT (15.0 &plusmn, 4.7 IU/L vs. 21.7 &plusmn, 6.2 IU/L), and ALAT (8.6 &plusmn, 2.4 IU/L vs. 12.7 &plusmn, 3.8 IU/L)). CRP was also significantly higher post 5mSRT compared to pre 5mSRT (2.1 &plusmn, 2.5 mg/L vs. 2.8 &plusmn, 3.3 mg/L, p &lt, 0.001) and 72 h post 5mSRT (1.4 &plusmn, 2.3 mg/L vs. 2.8 &plusmn, 0.001). Significant correlations were reported between (i) physical performance parameters (i.e., PD, FI, TD, and BD), and (ii) markers of muscle damage (i.e., CK, LDH, ASAT, and ALAT) and inflammation (i.e., CRP). Similarly, DOMS and RPE scores were significantly higher post 5mSRT compared to pre 5mSRT (2.4 &plusmn, 1.0UA vs. 6.7 &plusmn, 1.1UA and 2.1 &plusmn, 0.6 UA vs. 8.1 &plusmn, 0.6 UA, respectively p &lt, 0.001) and 72 h post 5mSRT (1.9 &plusmn, 0.7 UA vs. 6.7 &plusmn, 1.1 UA and 1.5 &plusmn, 0.001). PRS scores were significantly lower post 5mSRT as compared to pre 5mSRT (6 &plusmn, 1 UA vs. 3 &plusmn, 1 UA, p &lt, 0.001) and 72 h post 5mSRT (7 &plusmn, 0.001). Significant correlations existed between (i) performance parameters (PD, FI, TD, and BD) and (ii) RPE, PRS, and DOMS. The 5mSRT increased biomarkers of muscle damage and inflammation, as well as the DOMS and RPE and reduced the PRS. Seventy-two hours was sufficient for fatigue recovery induced by the 5mSRT. PD is better than FI for the calculation of performance decrements during the 5mSRT to represent fatigue.

Ammar, A, Riemann, BL, Abdelkarim, O, Driss, T, and Hökelmann, A. Effect of 2- vs. 3-minute interrepetition rest period on maximal clean technique and performance. J Strength Cond Res 34(9): 2548-2556, 2020-Currently, it is widely accepted that adopting a long rest period (3-5 minutes) during maximal strength and power exercise is of importance in reducing acute fatigue and maintaining power and technique proficiency. However, despite the fact that weightlifting is an example of maximal strength exercise, only 2 minutes are officially allowed when athletes attempt 2 successive lifts. The purpose of this study was to compare 3- vs. 2-minute intermaximal repetition rest periods (IMRRPs) on performance, rate of perceived exertion (RPE), technical efficiency, and power production during 2 successive maximal repetitions of cleanjerk (CJ). Nine elite weightlifters (age: 24.4 ± 3.6 years, body mass: 77.2 ± 7.1 kg, height 176.0 ± 6.4 cm, and 1 repetition maximum CJ: 170.0 ± 5.0 kg) performed 2 separate testing sessions using 2-minute IMRRP (IMRRP-2) and 3-minute IMRRP (IMRRP-3), in a randomized order, while barbell kinematics and kinetics were recorded. Results showed that the longer IMRRP-3 minutes led to the maintenance of clean technique (from the first to the second repetition) evidenced by a 1.86% lower decline in peak vertical displacement (p = 0.03) and attenuation of increased peak horizontal displacements with a 1.74% (p = 0.03) less backward movement during the first pull, a 3.89% (p = 0.008) less forward movement during the second pull, and a 4.7% (p = 0.005) less backward movement during the catch phase. In addition, attenuation of peak velocity (2.22%; p = 0.02), peak vertical ground reaction force (1.70%; p = 0.03), and peak power (2.14%; p = 0.02) declines were shown using IMRRP-3 compared with IMRRP-2. Increasing IMRRP from 2 to 3 minutes was also shown to decrease RPE values (8.02%; p = 0.008) and to enhance supramaximal CJ performance (1.55%; p = 0.003). The results of this study suggest 3 minutes to be the most advantageous IMRRP in terms of maintaining technical efficiency, power output, reducing fatigue perception, and enhancing performance in elite weightlifters.

BACKGROUND The present study aimed to investigate the effect of time-of-days (TOD) on some biochemical and hormonal responses after resistance training sessions. METHODS Ten trained subjects (22±2 years) performed, in randomized order, three resistance-training-sessions at 7 a.m., 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Each training-session included six upper and lower body resistance exercises with 3×10 repetitions. Blood lactate (Lac), creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), cortisol (C) and testosterone (T) were collected at rest, 3 min and 48 h after each-session. RESULTS At rest, steroidal hormones were higher in the morning compared to the evening (P

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of an Olympic-Weightlifting-session followed by 48-h recovery period on the oxidative and antioxidant parameters' diurnal variation. Nine weightlifters (21 ± 0.5 years) performed, in randomized order, three Olympic-Weightlifting-sessions at 08 h:00, 14 h:00 and 18 h:00. Blood samples were collected: at rest and 3 min and 48 h after each session. C-reactive protein (CRP), rate of lipid peroxidation and antioxidant activities were assessed. At rest, analysis of variance showed a significant time of day (TOD) effect (p

The aim of the present study was to investigate loading effects on kinematic and kinetic variables among elite-weightlifters in order to identify an optimal training load to maximize power production for clean-movement. Nine elite-weightlifter (age: 24 ± 4years, body-mass: 77 ± 6.5kg, height: 176 ± 6.1cm and 1RM clean: 170 ± 5kg) performed 2 separate repetitions of the clean using 85, 90, 95% and 100%, in a randomized order, while standing on a force platform and being recorded using 3D-capture-system. Differences in kinematics (barbell displacement, velocity and acceleration) and kinetics (power, vertical ground reaction force (vGRF), rate of force development (RFD), and work) across the loads were statistically assessed. Results revealed significant load effects for the majority of the studied parameters (p0.01) and showed that typical bar-displacement, greatest bar-velocity and peak-power were achieved at 85 and 90% 1RM (p0.001). Additionally greater average power was shown for 90 and 95% (p0.01) and greater work and vGRF were shown for 90, 95 and 100% than 85% 1RM (p0.05). Load had no significant effect on peak-vGRF and peak-RFD (p0.05). The results of this study, suggest 90% 1RM to be the most advantageous load to train explosive-force and to enhance power-outputs while maintaining technical efficiency in elite-weightlifters.

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that pomegranate juice supplementation would blunt acute and delayed oxidative stress responses after a weightlifting training session. Nine elite weightlifters (21.0 ± 1 years) performed two Olympic-Weightlifting sessions after ingesting either the placebo or pomegranate juice supplements. Venous blood samples were collected at rest and 3 min and 48 h after each session. Compared to the placebo condition, pomegranate juice supplementation attenuated the increase in malondialdehyde (−12.5%; p < 0.01) and enhanced the enzymatic (+8.6% for catalase and +6.8% for glutathione peroxidase; p < 0.05) and non-enzymatic (+12.6% for uric acid and +5.7% for total bilirubin; p < 0.01) antioxidant responses shortly (3 min) after completion of the training session. Additionally, during the 48 h recovery period, pomegranate juice supplementation accelerated (p < 0.05) the recovery kinetics of the malondialdehyde (5.6%) and the enzymatic antioxidant defenses compared to the placebo condition (9 to 10%). In conclusion, supplementation with pomegranate juice has the potential to attenuate oxidative stress by enhancing antioxidant responses assessed acutely and up to 48 h following an intensive weightlifting training session. Therefore, elite weightlifters might benefit from blunted oxidative stress responses following intensive weightlifting sessions, which could have implications for recovery between training sessions.

The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of different nap opportunity durations on short-term maximal performance, attention, feelings, muscle soreness, fatigue, stress and sleep. Twenty physically active men (age: 21.1 ± 3.6 years, height: 176.4 ± 5.7 cm, body-mass: 72 ± 10.8 kg) performed the 5-jump and the digit-cancellation (i.e., attention) tests after four randomized nap opportunity conditions: no-nap opportunity (N0), 25 min of nap opportunity (N25), 35 min of nap opportunity (N35) and 45 min of nap opportunity (N45). Subjective measurement of feelings, muscle soreness, fatigue, stress and sleep were performed during each test session. Compared to N0, there was a significant improvement of the 5-jump performance during N35 (Δ = +3.5%, p

Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of natural Pomegranate juice supplementation on performance and acute and delayed responses of muscle soreness and biomarkers of muscle damage after a weightlifting training session. Methods Nine elite weightlifters (21±0.5 years) performed two Olympic-Weightlifting-sessions after either placebo (PLA) or natural pomegranate juice (POMj) supplementations. Heart rate, blood pressure and blood samples (hematological parameters, muscle damage and C-reactive protein (CRP)) were collected at rest, 3min and 48h after each session. Weightlifting performance, RPE, and DOMS were also assessed after each training session. Results T-test showed higher performance (+8.30%) and lower RPE values (-4.37%) using POMj supplementation (p0.05). Additionally, during the 48h following the training session, POMj improved the recovery kinetic of SBP (p

To compare the effects of two small-sided game (SSG) training formats (4 × 4 min (SSG-S) and 2 × 8 min (SSG-L)) conducted during Ramadan on Hoff and five-jump (5JT) tests' performances and session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE).Three group, case-control.Field tests.Twenty-four male soccer players were divided into 3 groups: 2 groups undertaking 4 weeks of SSG-S (n = 8) or SSG-L (n = 8) during Ramadan and a control group (n = 8).The Profile of Mood States (POMS) and Hooper questionnaires' scores and 5JT and Hoff test's performances were measured before (BR) and at the end of Ramadan (R4).Compared to BR, fatigue estimated by POMS and Hooper questionnaires was higher at R4 in all groups (ES = 0.77-1.57, p 0.05). Hoff test distance increased to the same extent in SSG-S and SSG-L groups (+7.38-7.39%, ES = 1.49-1.93, p 0.001). Mean sRPE scores measured during Ramadan were higher after SSG-L (6.49 ± 0.38) than SSG-S (5.61 ± 0.14) sessions (+15.58%, ES = 2.79, p 0.001).SSG training can be implemented as an efficient intervention to avoid detraining and equally improve soccer-specific physical performance during Ramadan. Given the lower perceptual responses associated with shorter SSG sequences, this modality would be better tolerated during the fasting month, and therefore is recommended.

The aim of this study was to investigate the performance of an Olympic-Weightlifting session training at three times of the day on the performance related to biochemical responses. Nine weightlifters (21 ± 0.5 years) performed, in randomised order, on three Olympic-Weightlifting training (snatch, clean and jerk) sessions (08:00 a.m., 02:00 p. m., 06:00 p. m.). Blood samples were collected: before, 3 min and 48 h after each training session. Haematological parameters and markers of muscle injury were assessed. Resting oral temperature and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were also assessed during each session. ANOVA showed that the performance was better (P0.001) at 02:00 p. m. with a less RPE (P0.01) compared to the morning and the evening sessions while there was higher (P0.05) oral temperature at 06:00 p. m. versus 08:00 a.m. and 02:00 p. m. Muscle damage changed immediately (without significant effect after 48 h) after the training sessions with lower values ​​in the evening compared to the morning. In conclusion, the afternoon training is more effective than morning or evening sessions for weightlifters. Therefore, coaches and weightlifters should be advised to schedule their training session in the afternoon hour.