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Context: Adductor longus muscle strains are one of the most common injuries occurring in intermittent sports such as soccer. Objective: The purpose of this study was to know the effect of a specific rehabilitation and reconditioning program, which was previously validated, after adductor longus injury in professional soccer players. Methods: A specific rehabilitation and reconditioning program was applied to 11 injured male professional soccer players. Participants: Eleven male professional soccer players (age = 29.18 [4.45] y; height = 179.64 [4.97] cm; mass = 75.33 [3.84] kg). Interventions: In the first place, the days taken to return to full team training and to return to competition (RTP) was analyzed; second, the most important performance parameters were analyzed and compared in the preinjury match (PRE) and after the return to competition at 2 different points in time (RTP1–RTP2). Results: The return to full team training recorded was 11.91 (1.92) days and the RTP was 15.36 (3.04) days. Match performance parameters showed significant improvements after injury. Significant improvements were observed during RTP2, in the variables of high-speed running (P =.002), very high-speed running (P =.006), acceleration (>3 m/s2; P =.048), and high metabolic load distance (P =.009). Conclusion: The results allow us to conclude that this program was very effective, as it allowed the players to obtain similar and/or higher performance values in a reduced period of time after the injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To profile the training characteristics of an elite team pursuit cycling squad and assess variations in training intensity and load accumulation across the 36-week period prior to a world-record performance at the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Methods: Training data of 5 male track endurance cyclists (mean [SD]; age 21.9 [3.52] y; 4.4 [0.16] W·kg−1 at anaerobic threshold; 6.2 [0.28] W·kg−1 maximal oxygen uptake 68.7 [2.99] mL kg·min−1) were analyzed with weekly total training volume and heart rate, power output, and torque intensity distributions calculated with reference to their 3:49.804 min:s.ms performance requirements for a 4-km team pursuit. Results: Athletes completed 543 (37) h−1 of training across 436 (16) sessions. On-bike activities accounted for 69.9% of all training sessions, with participants cycling 11,246 (1139) km−1 in the training period of interest, whereas 12.7% of sessions involved gym/strength training. A pyramidal intensity distribution was evident with over 65% and 70% of training, respectively, performed at low-intensity zone heart rate and power output, whereas 5.3% and 7.7% of training was performed above anaerobic threshold. The athletes accumulated 4.4% of total training volume at, or above, their world-record team pursuit lead position torque (55 N·m). Conclusions: These data provide updated and novel insight to the power and torque demands and load accumulation contributing to world-record team pursuit performance. Although the observed pyramidal intensity distribution is common in endurance sports, the lack of shift toward a polarized intensity distribution during taper and competition peaking differs from previous research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study explored the effects of 4 bench-press (BP) training programs with different velocity-loss (VL) thresholds (0%, 15%, 25%, and 50%) on strength gains and neuromuscular adaptations. Methods: Forty-six resistance-trained men (22.8 [4.4] y) were randomly assigned into 4 groups that differed in the VL allowed within the set: 0% (VL0), 15% (VL15), 25% (VL25), and 50% (VL50). Training loads (40%–55% 1-repetition maximum), frequency (2 sessions/wk), number of sets (3), and interset recovery (4 min) were identical for all groups. Participants completed the following tests before and after an 8-week (16-session) BP training program: (1) maximal isometric test, (2) progressive loading test, and (3) fatigue test in the BP exercise. During all tests, triceps brachii muscle electromyography was assessed. Results: After completing the resistance-training program, no significant group × time interactions were noticed for isometric and dynamic BP strength variables. The dose–response relationship exhibited an inverted U-shaped relationship pattern, with VL25 showing the greatest effect sizes for almost all strength variables analyzed. The total number of repetitions performed during the training program increased as the VL magnitude increased. Conclusions: The group that trained with high VL threshold (50%), which performed a total of 876 repetitions, did not experience additional strength gains compared with those experienced by the 0%, 15%, and 25% of VL groups, which performed significantly fewer repetitions (48, 357, and 547, respectively). These findings suggest that when light loads (40%–55% 1-repetition maximum) are used, low and moderate VL thresholds (0%–25%) provide a higher training efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Maximal speed is an important physical-fitness attribute for female Australian footballers. The effects of sprint training, maximal strength, and technical training have been reported in laboratory studies. However, no study has determined the combined effect and relative contribution of these training modalities on maximal speed adaptation in situ. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the training factors affecting maximal speed adaptation during a preseason in subelite female Australian Rules footballers. Methods: Maximal speed during field training, predicted 1-repetition maximum (1RM) for box squat and hip thrust, and sprint biomechanics were assessed during early and late preseason (∼9 wk apart) in 15 female subelite Australian Rules Football players (age 20 [3] y). On-field training volume and intensity (total distance, high-speed running, very-high-speed running, and maximal speed) were determined using a Global Positioning System. A multivariate regression model was used to determine the factors associated with changes in maximal speed across the preseason. Results: The preseason training program had a small effect on maximal speed and large to very large effects on strength and sprint biomechanics. The multivariate regression with the greatest fit (P <.001, R2 =.939) included change in estimated 1RM box squat (β = −0.63), total distance per week (β = −0.55), and change in hip projection (β = 0.16) as factors. Multivariate regression of biomechanical factors (P =.044, R2 =.717) and maximal strength factors (P =.003, R2 =.676) were also significant. Conclusion: The development of maximal speed across a preseason is dependent on (1) total distance per week, (2) maximal strength adaptation, and (3) sprint technique adaptation in female subelite Australian rules football players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 8-week ballistic-strength-training program using a validated specific throwing device (ie, Arm/Shoulder Specific Strength Device), on isokinetic shoulders' rotation muscle-torques and ratios as well as range of motion in team handball players. Design: A repeated-measures experimental design with a randomized controlled trial was used. Methods: Twenty-six high-level competitive male U-19 team handball players were randomly assigned into training (TG, n = 15) and control (n = 11) groups. The TG undertook a twice a week for 8-week periodized throws program with an individually predetermined optimal load. The program incorporated shackled eccentric and concentric exercises using the Arm/Shoulder Specific Strength Device. Peak torques, functional, and conventional ratios for both arms at different angular velocities (60°·s−1, 180°·s−1, and 300°·s−1) were assessed over time and between groups, using an isokinetic dynamometer. Results: A significant improvement for TG (P <.01; d = 1.13 [moderate]; +20.2%) of the concentric peak torques for dominant arm in external rotation was observed at 300°·s−1. Significant (P <.05–.01) increases were also noted for nondominant arm at the 3 studied angular velocities. In addition, 300°·s−1 eccentric peak torques of the dominant arm and nondominant arm have significantly improved for both external and internal rotations (P <.05; d =.99 [moderate] and d = 1.21 [large]; +15.7% and + 17.9%, respectively) with small changes at the other angular assessed velocities. Posttraining, TG's dominant arm showed significant improvements (P <.05–.01) in functional and conventional ratios at all velocities. Notably, significant differences (P <.05–.01) were observed at 60°·s−1 and across all velocities when comparing the TG with the control group. TG showed significant increase for internal rotation and external rotation shoulder range of motions (P <.05; d = 1.22–1.27 [large]), +5.0% and +7.7%, respectively). Conclusions: The specific 8-week throwing training program on the Arm/Shoulder Specific Strength Device showed significant performance improvements in almost all assessed isokinetic concentric and eccentric peak torques as well as internal and external range of motion increase for both arms while ensuring rotator cuff torque ratios and shoulder mobility in team handball real sport-specific condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individuals with intellectual disabilities often face unique challenges in physical capabilities, making traditional training methods less effective for their specific needs. This study aimed to investigate the effect of combining balance, plyometric, and strength (CBPS) training with sprint training on physical performance in male athletes with intellectual disabilities. Twenty-seven participants were randomly assigned to either a CBPS group or a control group that only maintained their regular sprint training. Participants underwent pre- and posttraining tests, including measures of balance, jumping, agility, and sprinting ability. The results showed that the CBPS group demonstrated significant improvements (p <.05) in one-leg stance, crossover-hop jump, squat jump, countermovement jump, and 10- and 30-m sprint at posttraining compared with pretraining. CBPS training combined with sprinting significantly improves physical performance in male athletes with intellectual disabilities, suggesting implications for tailored training programs to enhance their physical fitness and overall health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs) is a condition that is associated with negative health and performance outcomes in athletes. Insufficient energy intake relative to exercise energy expenditure, resulting in low energy availability, is the underlying cause, which triggers numerous adverse physiological consequences including several associated with musculoskeletal (MSK) health and neuromuscular performance. Purpose: This commentary aims to (1) discuss the health and performance implications of REDs on the skeletal and neuromuscular systems and (2) examine the role that MSK training (ie, strength and plyometric training) during treatment and return to performance following REDs might have on health and performance in athletes, with practical guidelines provided. Conclusions: REDs is associated with decreases in markers of bone health, lean body mass, maximal and explosive strength, and muscle work capacity. Restoration of optimal energy availability, mainly through an increase in energy intake, is the primary goal during the initial treatment of REDs with a return to performance managed by a multidisciplinary team of specialists. MSK training is an effective nonpharmacological component of treatment for REDs, which offers multiple long-term health and performance benefits, assuming the energy needs of athletes are met as part of their recovery. Supervised, prescribed, and gradually progressive MSK training should include a combination of resistance training and high-impact plyometric-based exercise to promote MSK adaptations, with an initial focus on achieving movement competency. Progressing MSK training exercises to higher intensities will have the greatest effects on bone health and strength performance in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been an increase in the use of commercially available multi-ingredient preworkout supplements (MIPS); however, there are inconsistencies regarding the efficacy of MIPS in resistance-trained women. Purpose: To determine the effect of varying doses of MIPS compared with caffeine only (C) and a placebo (PL) on resistance-training performance in trained women. Methods: Ten women (21.5 [2.3] y) completed 1-repetition-maximum tests at baseline for leg press and bench press. A within-group, double-blind, and randomized design was used to assign supplement drinks (ie, PL, C, MIPS half scoop [MIPS-H], and MIPS full scoop [MIPS-F]). Repetitions to failure were assessed at 75% and 80% to 85% of 1-repetition maximum for bench and leg press, respectively. Total performance volume was calculated as load × sets × repetitions for each session. Data were analyzed using a 1-way repeated-measures analysis of variance and reported as means and SDs. Results: There were no differences in repetitions to failure for bench press (PL: 14.4 [3.2] repetitions, C: 14.4 [2.9] repetitions, MIPS-H: 14.2 [2.6] repetitions, MIPS-F: 15.1 [3.1] repetitions; P =.54) or leg press (PL: 13.9 [7.8] repetitions, C: 10.8 [5.9] repetitions, MIPS-H: 13.1 [7.1] repetitions, MIPS-F: 12.4 [10.7] repetitions; P =.44). Furthermore, there were no differences in total performance volume across supplements for bench press (PL: 911.2 [212.8] kg, C: 910.7 [205.5] kg, MIPS-H: 913.6 [249.3] kg, MIPS-F: 951.6 [289.6] kg; P =.39) or leg press (PL: 4318.4 [1633.6] kg, C: 3730.0 [1032.5] kg, MIPS-H: 4223.0 [1630.0] kg, MIPS-F: 4085.5 [2098.3] kg; P =.34). Conclusions: Overall, our findings suggest that caffeine and MIPS do not provide ergogenic benefits for resistance-trained women in delaying muscular failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to compare the preliminary effects of movement pattern training (MoveTrain) versus strengthening/flexibility (standard) treatment on hip and pelvic biomechanics in patients with chronic hip-related groin pain. This is a secondary analysis of data collected during a pilot randomized clinical trial. Thirty patients with hip pain, between the ages of 15 and 40 years, were randomized to MoveTrain or standard. Both groups completed 10 treatment sessions over 12 weeks along with a daily home exercise program. Three-dimensional motion analysis was used to collect kinematic and kinetic data of the pelvis and hip during a single-leg squat task at pretreatment and immediately posttreatment. Compared with the standard group, the MoveTrain group demonstrated smaller hip adduction angles (P =.006) and smaller hip external adduction moments (P =.008) at posttreatment. The desired changes to hip joint biomechanics, as found in this study, may require specificity in training that could allow health care professionals to better customize the rehabilitation of patients with hip pain. These findings can also be applied to the design and implementation of future clinical trials to strengthen our understanding of the long-term implications of different rehabilitation techniques for patients with hip pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few mobile health resistance-based physical activity interventions have targeted community-dwelling adults. "Ecofit" is a multicomponent intervention that promotes resistance and aerobic activities using smartphone technology, outdoor gyms, and social support. This study evaluated process evaluation outcomes of the ecofit randomized controlled trial: (1) the acceptability and usability of the ecofit smartphone app and app user workouts; (2) perceptions of factors influencing outdoor gym use; and (3) the fidelity, reach, recruitment, and dose received of the ecofit program. Methods: Process data were collected through program evaluation surveys at 3 months, and app usage data were collected via the intervention platform for up to 3 months. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The survey was completed by 57% (n = 69) of eligible participants. The majority (93%) believed the app provided them with sufficient information to perform muscle-strengthening activities. Approximately half (51%) agreed that the goal-setting function encouraged them to complete their workouts, and 42% agreed that the self-assessment helped them monitor progress. "Proximity" to outdoor gyms emerged as the most important factor for choosing locations to workout (mean = 5.5, SD = 1.1). Participants logged a median of 5.5 (interquartile range = 19) workouts and 1 (interquartile range = 1) upper- and lower-body muscular fitness self-assessment. Conclusions: The ecofit app provided participants with sufficient skills to perform unsupervised resistance training exercises using mobile health. Only half of the participants regarded self-assessments and goal setting as useful, suggesting a need for modifications to how these are implemented. Mobile health remains a promising delivery platform to promote unsupervised resistance training, although more research is needed to improve uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) forms the cornerstone in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. However, by suppressing testosterone ADT results in a decrease of skeletal muscle mass. In this narrative review, we explore the magnitude and mechanisms of ADT-induced muscle mass loss and the consequences for muscle strength and physical performance. Subsequently, we elucidate the effectiveness of supervised resistance exercise training as a means to mitigate these adverse effects. Literature shows that resistance exercise training can effectively counteract ADT-induced loss of appendicular lean body mass and decline in muscle strength, while the effect on physical performances is inconclusive. As resistance exercise training is feasible and can be safely implemented during ADT (with special attention for patients with bone metastases), it should be incorporated in standard clinical care for prostate cancer patients (starting) with ADT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine the effects of 4 programming models (linear [LP], undulating [UP], reverse [RP], and constant [CP]) on physical performance. Methods: Forty-eight moderately strength-trained men were randomly assigned to LP, UP, RP, and CP groups according to their 1-repetition maximum (1RM) in the full-squat exercise (SQ) and followed an 8-week training intervention using the SQ and monitoring movement velocity for every repetition. All groups trained with similar mean relative intensity (65% 1RM), number of repetitions (240), sets (3), and interset recovery (4 min) throughout the training program. Pretraining and posttraining measurements included, in the SQ, 1RM load, the average velocity attained for all absolute loads common to pretests and posttests (AV), and the average velocity for loads that were moved faster (AV > 1) and slower (AV < 1) than 1 m·s−1 at pretraining tests. Moreover, countermovement jump height and 20-m running sprint time were measured. Results: A significant time effect was found for all variables analyzed (P <.05), except for 20-m running sprint time. Significant group × time interactions were observed for 1RM, AV > 1, and AV (P <.05). After training, all groups attained significant strength gains on 1RM, AV, AV > 1, and AV < 1 (P <.001–.01). LP and RP groups improved their countermovement jump height (P <.01), but no significant changes were observed for UP and CP. No significant improvements were achieved in 20-m running sprint time for any groups. Conclusions: These different programming models are all suitable for improving physical performance. LP and RP induce similar or greater gains in physical performance than UP and CP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Plantar intrinsic foot muscle strength training is difficult to master to a degree sufficient to elicit muscle hypertrophy in most individuals. It is possible that combining neuromuscular electrostimulation (NMES) and blood flow restriction (BFR) can elicit plantar intrinsic foot muscle hypertrophy regardless of the individual's technique. This study aimed to determine the effects of NMES training with BFR on acute muscle swelling in the abductor hallucis. Design: Randomized, controlled, single-blind trial design. Methods: Forty-eight participants were randomly allocated to the NMES + BFR, NMES, or Sham NMES + BFR groups. All participants received abductor hallucis NMES for 15 minutes. Participants in the NMES + BFR and Sham NMES + BFR groups received NMES with BFR. The intensity of NMES was the sensory threshold in the Sham NMES + BFR group. The cross-sectional area of the abductor hallucis was measured pretraining and posttraining using ultrasonography by a single investigator blinded to the participants' allocations. Results: After 15 minutes of training, the cross-sectional area of the abductor hallucis was significantly increased in the NMES + BFR (P<.001) and the Sham NMES + BFR (P = .004) groups. Moreover, the rate of increase was significantly higher in the NMES + BFR group than in the NMES or the Sham NMES + BFR groups (P<.001 and P = . 001, respectively). Conclusions: Since it is possible that the amount of muscle swelling immediately after training correlates with muscle hypertrophy when training is continued, the results of this study suggest that NMES training with BFR is a training method that can be expected to produce plantar intrinsic foot muscle hypertrophy. Further studies are needed to confirm the long-term effects of NMES training with BFR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the global implementation of flywheel training (FT) by basketball strength and conditioning (S&C) coaches in various contexts, encompassing daily practice, games, and sessions. Methods: Survey data were collected from 117 basketball S&C coaches who participated in a 24-question online survey. The survey was structured into 6 key areas, including country and competition, S&C coach context, training methodology, flywheel and competition, postactivation performance enhancement, and recovery. Results: Notably, all respondents emphasized the necessity of a familiarization period with flywheel technology, with a substantial 96% indicating that FT yielded improved player performance on the court. The predominant mention was the conical pulley system. During the season, the prevalent approach involved integrating FT into training twice a week, allocating <15 minutes per session, often in conjunction with traditional strength training. A diverse array of lower-body closed kinetic chain exercises were reported, encompassing squats, decelerations, and backward lunges. Intriguingly, FT implementation on match days was unlikely (77%), with the primary aims cited as injury prevention (34%) and enhancing players' strength levels during various phases of the regular season (27%). Conclusions: Recognizing its inherent limitations, this descriptive study provides valuable contextual insights and practical applications for professional basketball practitioners grappling with the utilization of FT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical Scenario: Injuries that affect the groin region are among the most common in football players. To prevent this condition, studies have focused on strengthening the adductors, hip flexors, or abdominal muscles. Recent investigations have used an eccentric-biased exercise (Copenhagen Adduction Exercise [CAE]) that promotes functional and architectural adaptations in the muscle tissue, though its effect on injury risk reduction is unknown. Clinical Question: Can the Copenhagen Adduction Exercise prevent groin injuries in soccer players? Summary of Key Findings: The literature was searched for studies investigating the potential groin injury risk reduction effect of the CAE. (1) Three studies met the inclusion criteria and were used for this appraisal; (2) one study observed a significantly lower injury rate ratio favoring the group that used the CAE program; and (3) 2 studies found similar or higher injury rates in the intervention groups, not supporting the inclusion of the CAE as a preventative tool. Clinical Bottom Line: There is conflicting evidence that usage of the CAE is superior to not performing adductor strengthening exercises in mitigating the risk of sustaining groin injuries. Given the evidence supporting these findings, it is advisable to exercise caution when contemplating the incorporation of the CAE into training regimens aimed at preventing groin injuries. Strength of Recommendation: There is Grade B evidence to suggest that inclusion of the CAE may not be associated with reduced injury rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exercise is the single most effective strategy to reduce the risk of falls. Online classes have grown in popularity, but the benefits of online classes remain unknown. Zoomers on the Go is a peer-led 12-week exercise program offered twice weekly to adults 50+ years old. The main outcome was lower body strength measured by the 30-s chair stand test. Other outcomes included dropout, attendance, balance, cardiorespiratory fitness, and perceived health. A total of 74 participants (age 66.3 ± 7.1 years) in the online group and 84 participants in the in-person group (age 67.3 ± 7.2 years) completed the program, with attendance for the online group. Both groups significantly improved their 30-s chair stand, cardiorespiratory fitness, and balance (p <.001) with no difference in functional benefits between groups. The in-person group improved their perceived health and significantly reduced levels of stress and depression, while no such changes were observed in the online group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To verify whether training the iron cross (IC) with assistive devices (herdos; HIC) and added external load (LHIC) to equate the moments of force developed on the rings could be considered an intermediate step between the nonoverloaded herdos situation (HIC) and the IC performed on the rings. Methods: Relative levels of surface electromyography (sEMG) activity were normalized with respect to a standing IC before comparing gymnasts who can perform the IC on the rings (achievers) and gymnast who cannot (nonachievers) in the 2 herdos conditions (HIC and LHIC). Seven muscles were chosen for sEMG analysis, namely, pectoralis major (PM), latissimus dorsi, teres major, lower trapezius, serratus anterior, biceps brachii (BB), and triceps brachii. Additionally, 3 indices were calculated to measure levels of coactivation: Elbowidx, Scapulaidx, and Shoulderidx. Results: The bigger magnitude of differences in sEMG activity among situations was found for the PM and BB (F ≥ 30.7; P <.001). When comparing the global and the PM, teres major, BB, and triceps brachii activity across groups, nonachievers activated their musculature to a greater extent than the achievers independently of the herdos situation (P ≤.046). Achievers' Elbowidx was the only index that was significantly higher (P ≤.005) in the IC in comparison to LHIC and HIC. Conclusion: sEMG activity of PM and BB was particularly sensitive between situations, independently of the level of achievement. We recommend training the IC by adding external load in the herdos situation to increase muscle activity to levels closer to the rings situation but avoiding the potential factor of injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The study examined the longitudinal interplay of anthropometric, metabolic, and neuromuscular development related to performance in adolescent national-level swimmers over 12 months. Methods: Seven male and 12 female swimmers (14.8 [1.3] y, FINA [International Swimming Federation] points 716 [51]) were tested before (T0) and after the preparation period (T1), at the season's peak (T2), and before the next season (T3). Anthropometric (eg, fat percentage) and neuromuscular parameters (squat and bench-press load-velocity profile) were assessed on dry land. Metabolic (cost of swimming [C], maximal oxygen uptake [ V ˙ O 2 peak ], and peak blood lactate [bLapeak]) and performance (sprinting speed [vsprint] and lactate thresholds [LT1 and 2]) factors were determined using a 500-m submaximal, 200-m all-out, 20-second sprint, and incremental test (+0.03 m·s−1, 3 min), respectively, in front-crawl swimming. Results: vsprint (+0.6%) and LT1 and 2 (+1.9–2.4%) increased trivially and slightly, respectively, from T0 to T2 following small to moderate strength increases (≥+10.2%) from T0 to T1 and V ˙ O 2 peak (+6.0%) from T1 to T2. Bench-press maximal strength and peak power correlated with vsprint from T0 to T2 (r ≥.54, P <.05) and LT2 at T1 (r ≥.47, P <.05). Changes in fat percentage and V ˙ O 2 peak (T2–T1 and T3–T2, r ≤ −.67, P <.01) and C and LT2 (T2–T0, r = −.52, P =.047) were also correlated. Conclusions: Increases in strength and V ˙ O 2 peak from preparation to the competition period resulted in improved sprint and endurance performance. Across the season, upper-body strength was associated with vsprint and LT2, although their changes were unrelated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine whether a 12-week, lower body-targeted aqua-plyometric (AquaPlyo) exercise program could improve muscle strength, bone mineral properties, and physical fitness in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was adopted and included 48 patients with polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (age: 12–18 y). Patients were assigned to undergo either AquaPlyo exercises (AquaPlyo group, n = 24) or standard exercises (control group, n = 24). The outcome measures were assessed pretreatment and posttreatment and included concentric quadriceps peak torque, bone mineral properties (areal bone mineral density [BMD], volumetric BMD, bone mineral content, and BMD Z score), and physical fitness. Results: A significant posttreatment increase in the concentric quadriceps peak torque was detected in the AquaPlyo group compared with the control group (either at an angular velocity of 90°/s [right side: P =.016, left side: P =.025] or 180°/s [right side: P =.007, left side: P =.029]). Besides, a considerably greater improvement in the areal BMD (P =.0006), volumetric BMD (P =.027), bone mineral content (P =.002), and BMD Z score (P =.0004) was observed in the AquaPlyo group. Moreover, a remarkably greater rise in the physical fitness (P <.001) was revealed in the AquaPlyo group. Conclusion: AquaPlyo training can efficiently enhance muscle strength, improve bone mineral properties, and boost physical fitness in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resistance training alongside proper protein intake is an important tool to mitigate the deleterious effects of the aging process on skeletal muscle tissue. However, it is not completely elucidated whether adding protein supplementation provides further improvements on body composition outcomes of older adults during resistance training programs. The present narrative review aimed to describe the most recent evidence regarding the effects of protein supplementation on both lean body mass and fat mass of older adults and to provide insight into how health professionals may use this information to properly design nutritional programs for this population. While individuals with previous training experience, not meeting daily protein requirement, or displaying frailty symptoms may experience some benefits, protein supplementation does not seem to provide further improvements in untrained and healthy subjects. Aspects such as the age of the individuals and the different characteristics of the supplementation protocols must be considered when making evidence-based decisions regarding this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The osteoclastogenesis RANKL gene plays a key role in bone remodeling. The hypomethylation of its promoter region may cause osteoporosis. The present study aimed to elucidate the influence of physical activity on DNA methylation changes of RANKL promoter cytosine-phosphate-guanine (CpG)-rich region in active and sedentary adults and to assess the effect of aerobic and strength training on RANKL DNA methylation changes among Tunisian-North African adults. Methods: A total of 104 participants including 52 adults (58% males and 42% females) and 52 adults (31% males and 69% females) were recruited for the observational and interventional part of the study, respectively. The intervention consisted of 12 weeks of aerobic training (30 min/session) followed by 10 minutes of strengthening exercises. All participants completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and provided blood samples for quantitative methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. Results: The study revealed a significant difference (P = 6 × 10−10) in the methylation level of the RANKL promoter region between active and sedentary adults, with a 6.68-fold increase observed in the active group. After the intervention, both the trained (P = 41 × 10−5) and untrained (P =.002) groups displayed high methylation levels in the RANKL promoter region. In addition, the trained group exhibited significant improvements in heart rate (P = 2.2 × 10−16), blood pressure (P = 39 × 10−3), maximal oxygen uptake (P = 1.5 × 10−7), and fat mass (P = 7 × 10−4). Conclusion: Exploring epigenetic modifications in the RANKL promoter region may contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the complexity of osteoporosis. This suggests that aerobic/strength training could potentially improve the bone system, reducing its vulnerability to osteoporosis by increasing RANKL DNA methylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Low-intensity resistance exercise therapy (LIRET) based on myofascial chains, applied to both affected and nonlocal joints, is an effective method for knee osteoarthritis (OA) rehabilitation. This study applied LIRET in a comparison of prevalues and postvalues of lower-limb tension in female patients with knee OA and asymptomatic participants. Methods: Twenty-four female participants with knee OA and 20 asymptomatic women took part in a 3-month long application of LIRET. Participants' ankle passive torque and ankle range of motion in the sagittal plane were assessed with an isokinetic dynamometer. The collected values were used to estimate the sagittal-plane lower-limb tension. Results: Compared with the asymptomatic group, participants with knee OA presented decreased maximum ankle dorsiflexion (P <.001), decreased ankle plantar flexion range (P =.023), ankle resting position more inclined to dorsiflexion (P =.017), increased ankle dorsiflexion stiffness (P =.005), and lower ankle plantar flexion stiffness (P =.034). After exercise intervention, the knee OA group self-reported less knee pain (P <.001), improved physical function (P <.001), increased maximum dorsiflexion (P =.021), and increased plantar flexion range (P <.001). While plantar flexion stiffness increased (P =.037), dorsiflexion stiffness decreased (P =.015) and ankle resting position moved toward dorsiflexion (P =.002). Results suggest possible decreased anterior leg tension and possible increased posterior leg tension in patients with knee OA. Conclusions: The results supported that knee OA patients present imbalanced myofascial tension of lower limbs. LIRET based on myofascial chains appears to decrease pain, and stiffness, and improve physical function of patients with knee OA and change their lower-limb tension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Different resistance exercise determinants modulate the musculotendinous adaptations following eccentric hamstring training. The Nordic Hamstring Exercise (NHE) can be performed 2-fold: the movement velocity irreversibly increases toward the end of the range of motion or it is kept constant. Design: This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate if the downward acceleration angle (DWAangle) can be used as a classification parameter to distinguish between increasing and constant velocity NHE execution. Furthermore, the kinetic and kinematic differences of these 2 NHE execution conditions were examined by analyzing the DWAangle in relation to the angle of peak moment. Methods: A total of 613 unassisted NHE repetitions of 12 trained male sprinters (22 y, 181 cm, 76 kg) were analyzed. Results: The majority of analyzed parameters demonstrated large effects. NHEs with constant velocity (n = 285) revealed significantly higher impulses (P <.001; d = 2.34; + 61%) and fractional time under tension (P <.001; d = 1.29; +143%). Although the generated peak moments were significantly higher for constant velocity (P =.003; d = 0.29; +4%), they emerged at similar knee flexion angles (P =.167; d = 0.28) and revealed on average just low relationships to the DWAangle ( R mean 2 = 22.4 %). DWAangle highly correlated with the impulse ( R mean 2 = 60.8 %) and δ (DWAangle–angle of peak moment; R mean 2 = 83.6 %). Conclusions: Relating DWAangle to angle of peak moment assists to distinguish between significantly different NHE execution, which will potentially elicit different musculotendinous adaptations. These insights are essential for coaches and athletes to understand how to manipulate eccentric hamstring training to change its purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to develop prediction equations for the one repetition maximum (1RM) Bench Press (BP) in resistance-trained men based on muscle thickness and simple anthropometric parameters. 83 men (age: 26.2 ± 4.9y, height: 175.9 ± 6.3 cm, body mass: 82.9 ± 11.2 kg) participated in the present investigation and were assessed for anthropometric measurements and for muscle thickness of pectoral major (MTP). Then, the participants performed the 1RM BP test. A very large correlation was detected between MTP and 1RM BP (r = 0.83–0.88). A prediction equation based on MTP and body mass (EQ1) was developed: 1RM BP = –15.2460565 + (32.0751388 * MTP) + (0.6364405 * Body Weight) with R2 = 0.79. Another prediction equation was developed using MTP only (EQ2): 1RM BP = 20.36167 + (39.36532 * MTP) with R2 = 0.69. Bland-Altman analysis and paired sample t test provided insufficient evidence to support differences between the predicted and the measured 1RM BP in both the equations (p > 0.05). This study showed that both MTP based (EQ2) and MTP and body mass based (EQ1) methods can be used to predict 1RM BP and may represent important tools for the evaluation of maximal strength. These findings support the potential use of non-performance-based parameters to predict maximal dynamic strength in trained individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Greater side-to-side asymmetry can indicate impaired skill, reduced power production, and an increased risk of injury. Bilateral differences highlight the presence of asymmetries that should be assessed to understand their impact on both injury risk and performance enhancement. Objective: This study aimed to assessment muscle activation and bilateral asymmetry in major trunk and shoulder muscles during a two-armed kettlebell swing exercise. Methods: Twenty-seven participants (age: 24.2 ± 2.6 years; body mass: 82.9 ± 7.7 kg; height: 176.9 ± 7.0 cm) were included in the study. Electromyographic (EMG) data were collected bilaterally from twelve muscles (six muscles per side: anterior deltoid [AD], posterior deltoid [PD], erector spinae longissimus [ESL], erector spinae iliocostalis [ESI], external oblique [EO], and rectus abdominis [RA]). Results: Results indicated that asymmetry indices for the AD, ESL, ESI, and RA muscles during the upward propulsion phase fell within the determined threshold of 15%. However, the asymmetry indices for the PD and EO muscles exceeded this threshold by 3.36% and 2.62%, respectively. The findings suggest that trunk muscle asymmetries during the kettlebell swing are generally less pronounced than those of the shoulder muscles, particularly during the float phase. Conclusion: These results provide valuable insights into bilateral muscle asymmetry during a two-armed kettlebell swing, which can inform the development of targeted training programs. The methods and findings of this study may further contribute to understanding the effects of muscle balance, symmetry, and injury mechanisms in dynamic movements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous studies have investigated the impact of resistance training (RT) and plyometric training (PT) set configurations (cluster sets [CS] and traditional sets [TS]) on lower body performance adaptations. However, the effects of these training modalities on upper body physical performance, particularly among Table Tennis (TT) players, remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effects of an 8-week RT and PT using CS and TS configurations on the physical performance attributes of male TT players. Forty young male players were recruited from a local academy and after determining their dominant hand, divided into CS-PT, TS-PT, CS-RT, TS-RT, and active control (CON) groups, each of eight. Pre- and post-interventions, the upper body muscular power (medicine ball throw), maximal strength (bench press), reaction time, and arm crank anaerobic power test were measured. Following the intervention, the CON group exhibited no changes; however, the CS-PT, TS-PT, CS-RT, and TS-RT groups displayed significant (p = 0.001) improvements in muscular power (effect size [ES] = 1.21 [large], 1.02 [medium], 0.81 [medium], 0.64 [medium]), strength (ES = 0.40 [small], 0.43 [small], 0.62 [medium], 0.63 [medium]), reaction time (ES = − 0.71 [medium], − 0.68 [medium], − 0.83 [medium], − 0.61 [medium]), peak power (ES = 1.83 [large], 1.66 [large], 0.90 [medium], 0.67 [medium]), and mean power (ES = 0.89 [medium], 0.89 [medium], 0.57 [small], 0.59 [small]), respectively. The PT groups indicated significantly greater changes than the RT groups in both muscular (CS, p = 0.021; TS, p = 0.018) and anaerobic power (peak power: CS, p = 0.017; TS, p = 0.011; mean power: CS, p = 0.024; TS, p = 0.042) performance, while the RT groups showed greater adaptive responses than the PT groups in maximal strength (CS, p = 0.033; TS, p = 0.048). In conclusion, PT is recommended for enhancing power performance, while RT is preferred for increasing strength. When various set configurations were incorporated, no further effects were noted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose was to determine whether the benefits of a muscle strength and power training program are superior to those achieved with muscle strength training alone in people with patellofemoral pain (PFP). Thirty-seven individuals with PFP (25.86 ± 7.62 years) were randomly assigned to a strength and power training group (n = 18) or strength training group (n = 19). Primary outcomes were pain intensity and physical functioning. Secondary outcomes were kinesiophobia, quality of life, maximal isometric torque and rate of torque development of the hip and knee and self-perception of recovery. Primary outcomes were measured at baseline, after six weeks, after 12 weeks and at three, six- and 12-months follow-ups. Secondary outcomes were measured at baseline and after 12 weeks. The significance level was 0.05. After interventions, no significant differences were found between groups for primary or secondary outcomes. No difference between groups were found for pain or physical functioning at the other assessment times. Results of this study indicated that addition of power exercises to strength training for hip and knee muscles did not result in superior benefits compared to strength training alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends minimum of 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity aerobic physical activity along with at least two sessions of muscle strengthening exercises per week. Compliance with these recommendations is classified as Health Enhancing Physical Activity (HEPA). The aim of this study was to analyze the association between the HEPA and the social factors, lifestyle and dietary characteristics. We conducted the secondary analyses of the data from the Serbian National Health Survey 2019, on 12067 adult participants classified in two groups: with HEPA and without HEPA based on the compliance with the WHO recommendations. Prevalence of HEPA was 3.3% (394/12067). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed positive association between HEPA and male sex (OR: 4.25, 95% CI: 2.68–6.73), average (OR: 3,01, 95% CI: 1.13–8.04), good (OR: 3.10, 95% CI: 1.21–7.94) and very good (OR: 4.64, 95% CI: 1.82–11.84) income quintile being single (OR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.16–2.95), the number of portions of fruits per day (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.09–1.53), the frequency fresh fruit/vegetable juice consumption (OR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.02–1.40), and being non-smoker (OR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.03–2.73). There was a negative association between HEPA and age (OR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.95–0.98), BMI (OR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.88–1.00), average self-rated health (OR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.12–0.60), and the frequency of non-alcoholic beverages consumption (OR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.62–0.89). Since only a small percentage of the adult population in Serbia meets the WHO recommendations for physical activity, action is required. This should involve creating future strategies and policies, as well as initiatives focused on education and raising awareness about the importance of physical activity and health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background In 2020, the American Society of Shoulder and Elbow Therapists (ASSET) published an evidence-based consensus statement outlining postoperative rehabilitation guidelines following anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). Purpose The purpose of this study was to (1) quantify the variability in online anatomic TSA rehabilitation protocols, and (2) assess their congruence with the ASSET consensus guidelines. Methods This study was a cross-sectional investigation of publicly available, online rehabilitation protocols for anatomic TSA. A web-based search was conducted in April 2022 of publicly available rehabilitation protocols for TSA. Each collected protocol was independently reviewed by two authors to identify recommendations regarding immobilization, initiation, and progression of passive (PROM) and active range of motion (AROM), as well as the initiation and progression of strengthening and post-operative exercises and activities. The time to initiation of various components of rehabilitation was recorded as the time at which the activity or motion threshold was permitted by the protocol. Comparisons between ASSET start dates and mean start dates from included protocols were performed. Results Of the 191 academic institutions included, 46 (24.08%) had publicly available protocols online, and a total of 91 unique protocols were included in the final analysis. There were large variations seen among included protocols for the duration and type of immobilization post-operatively, as well as for the initiation of early stretching, PROM, AROM, resistance exercises, and return to sport. Of the 37 recommendations reported by both the ASSET and included protocols, 31 (83.78%) were found to be significantly different between groups (p<0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Strength training (ST) is a strategy to enhance quality of life through increased strength, muscle hypertrophy, and functional capacity. Training systems are associated with manipulation of volume and intensity, generating different stimuli, such as Rest-Pause (RP) and Sarcoplasmic Stimulating Training (SST). These systems induce greater mechanical and physiological stress, leading to increased strength and muscle hypertrophy. However, the metabolic and psycho-affective effects of advanced systems in experienced practitioners remain inconclusive. The purpose of the study is to analyze the acute effects of RP, SST, and Traditional (TMS) systems on metabolic and psycho-affective responses in adult men. Methods: This experimental crossover study assessed 15 subjects (30.38 ± 2.06 years; 88.40 ± 6.50 kg; 1.74 ± 0.07 cm) experienced in ST, evaluated under TMS, RP, and SST during flat bench press and leg press 45° exercises. Body composition, muscular strength via 1-RM testing, lactate concentration (LAC), and psycho-affective measures (Rating of Perceived Exertion-RPE; Visual Analog Scale-VAS; Feeling Scale-FS) were determined. Statistical analysis was performed using the Minitab software, with p ≤ 0.05, IC-95%). Results: The finals results showed SST exhibited a 38.10% lower LAC concentration post-training session compared to TMS, while RP showed 37.20% lower LAC concentration than TMS post-session. Average RPE values for RP and SST were higher (8.50 ± 1.10 and 8.60 ± 0.90, respectively) than TMS (6.00 ± 1.10). VAS displayed higher average values for RP and SST (8.00 ± 2.00 and 8.00 ± 1.00, respectively) compared to TMS (5.00 ± 1.00), with affective ratings indicating positive values for TMS and values between 0 and −5 for RP (40%) and SST (60%) post-training sessions, suggesting that RP and SST induced less affective response than TMS. Discussion: The results lead to the conclusion that manipulation of training volume and intensity led to higher RPE and pain (VAS). The data suggest that inappropriate prescription of these systems could lead to greater displeasure, leading us to hypothesize that a higher likelihood of discontinuation from strength training programs would occur, suggesting that greater repetition volumes (RP and SST) should be targeted at individuals with a higher training level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Throwing velocity is an important research topic in sports science, and it is an essential performance variable for athletes in overarm-throwing sports like baseball, team handball, water polo, softball, and cricket. The aim of the present review was to investigate the effect of specific strength training on throwing velocity for overarm throws. Methods: The literature was analysed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses, searching in SPORTDiscus and MEDLINE. Seventeen studies were included in this review, and the training studies were divided into four categories: (a) overweight and underweight balls, (b) forearm loading, (c) pulley device training, and (d) strength training with a resistance band. Results: All strength training studies with resistance band and the forearm loading categories increased the throwing velocity, varying from 3.7 to 26%. However, only half of these studies found that training was associated with a significantly higher increase versus the control group. Findings were inconsistent in other categories. Conclusion: Based on the findings of the present review, no clear conclusion can be made on which of the specific strength training methods is best for increasing throwing velocity. However, some recommendations can be offered. Firstly, the throwing training period should be long enough (≥ 6 weeks) with a high enough workload. Throwing training with a resistance band increases throwing velocity significantly for junior and less experienced overarm-throwing athletes. Furthermore, throwing with underweighted balls of similar size will ensure a positive effect on throwing velocity. Also, throwing training with combined over- and underweighted balls can be used if the overweighted balls are carefully selected to ensure there is no negative impact on throwing kinematics and injuries. For the other categories, the results were conflicting. Furthermore, due to the low number of studies in the pulley device and forearm loading categories, more studies should be conducted to investigate their effects on throwing velocity. Key Points: • All strength training studies with resistance band and the forearm loading categories increased the throwing velocity, varying from 3.7 to 26%. • Only half of these studies found that training was associated with a significantly higher increase versus the control group, while findings were inconsistent in other categories. • Due to the low number of studies in the pulley device and forearm loading categories, more studies should be conducted to investigate their effects on throwing velocity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by widespread chronic pain. Although pain is the main symptom, approximately 90% of patients have depression. This study aimed to analyze the effects of Resistance Training (RT) with low and high intensity on depression in patients with FM. Methods: Thirty-eight women with FM and 31 healthy women were allocated to the low-intensity, high-intensity, preferred-intensity, and control groups. The patients underwent 8 weeks of supervised RT, with two sessions per week of approximately 1 h. The low-intensity resistance training group (LIRT) performed two sets of 12 maximum repetitions. The high-intensity resistance training group (HIRT) performed four sets with six maximum repetitions, and the preferred intensity group (PI) performed three sets, with eight to 12 repetitions, according to the patient's tolerance. The healthy control group did not perform any type of exercise. Depression was assessed using the Beck depression inventory before the start of the intervention, after 4 and 8 weeks. Results: FM patients have higher levels of depression than women without the disease. After 4 weeks, there was a difference in depressive symptoms between the HIRT and LIRT (p = 0.048), and the PI and LIRT (p = 0.048). Conclusion: Prescribing RT with low or high intensity did not significantly reduce depression in patients with FM after 8 weeks, however, analyses between groups after 4 weeks indicated that low-intensity training is more effective than high-intensity training. The prescription of RT exercise to FM could vary among low, high, and preferred intensity, following the patient's tolerance for pain. Clinical trial registration: https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-74pcmw, RBR-74pcmw. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigates whether transcranial direct current stimulation applied during physical training increases muscle strength in comparison with sham tDCS combined with physical training. Methods: Randomized controlled trials of the effects of tDCS combined physical training intervention on muscle strength and cortical excitability were collected by searching Web of Science, Pubmed, EBSCO, CNKI. The retrieval date ends in April 2024. 11 randomized controlled trials are finally included. The total sample size of the study is 338. The experimental group was subjected to tDCS combined with physical training intervention, and the control group was physical training combined with sham tDCS intervention. Results: There is a significant increase in maximal strength (SMD = 0.38; 95% CI: 0.09, 0.67; p = 0.01) and lower limb explosive strength (MD = 2.90; 95% CI: 1.06, 4.74; p = 0.002) when physical training was performed with tDCS, but not following physical training combined with sham tDCS. Subgroup analysis of the subject population showed an increase in muscle strength in those with training experience following tDCS combined with physical training (SMD = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.08, 0.70; p = 0.01), but not for those without training experience (SMD = 0.29; 95% CI: −0.06, 0.63; p = 0.10). Motor evoked potential (MEP) wave amplitude increased significantly following physical training with tDCS (SMD = 0.71; 95% CI: 0.18, 1.24; p = 0.008), but was not different between groups (SMD = 0.16; 95% CI: −0.33, 0.65; p = 0.52). Conclusions: tDCS combined with physical training intervention can improve muscle strength, lower limb explosive strength and cerebral cortex excitability. Compared to tDCS combined with training of small muscle groups, tDCS combined with training of large muscle groups was more effective in improving muscle strength. Muscle strength was more likely to improve after tDCS combined with physical training in people with physical training experience compared with people without physical training experience. The combination of tDCS with physical training intervention and the sham-tDCS with physical training intervention both increased cortical excitability. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/ , PROSPERO, identifier (CRD42024550454). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to study the effect of low-intensity muscle strength training on postoperative rehabilitation of patients with knee osteoarthritis over 55 years of age and the incidence of adverse events by a meta-analysis. Methods: We searched China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WanFang, China Science and Technology Journal Database (VIP), PubMed, Web of science, and Embase databases for articles on the effect of low-intensity muscle strength training on the recovery of patients with knee arthritis. And meta-analysis combined effect was performed in R 4.2.2 software. Quantitative analysis and risk of bias were assessed by Begg's and Eegger's test. Results: Meta-analysis showed that the effect of low-intensity muscle strength training on postoperative knee range of motion in patients with knee arthritis was mean difference (MD) = 5.20, 95% CI=[4.00, 6.40], τ2 = 0.43, P = 0.34; the effect on postoperative muscle strength was standard mean difference (SMD) = 1.24, 95% CI=[0.86, 1.61], τ2 = 0.07, P < 0.01; the effect on postoperative knee joint score was MD = 5.88, 95%CI=[2.09, 9.67], τ2 = 16.60, P < 0.01; the effect on postoperative knee visual analogue scale (VAS) score was MD=-1.12, 95%CI =[-1.43, -0.81], τ2 = 0.09, P < 0.001; the effect on the incidence of adverse events was RR = 0.85, 95%CI= [0.52 1.39], τ2 = 0.79, P = 0.04. Conclusion: Low-intensity muscle strength training can improve the muscle strength of the affected limb and knee joint score, reduce the VAS score and the incidence of adverse events in patients with knee osteoarthritis over 55 years of age after surgery, but it has no effect on the postoperative knee range of motion, so it can be considered as appropriate in clinical selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study explored the effects of 6 weeks of variable resistance training (VRT) and constant resistance training (CRT) within complex training, on muscle strength and punch performance. Methods: Twenty-four elite female boxers from the China National team were divided randomly between an experimental group (VRT) and a control group (CRT). Maximum strength of the upper and lower limbs, countermovement jump (CMJ) performance, and punch performance (single, 10s and 30s continuous) were assessed pre- and post- intervention. Results: VRT and CRT showed significant increases (p < 0.001) in the bench press (ES = 1.79 and 1.07, respectively), squat (ES = 1.77 and 1.10, respectively), and CMJ (ES = 1.13 and 0.75, respectively). The bench press (p < 0.05) and squat (p < 0.05) improved significantly more following VRT compared to CRT. Additionally, single punch performance (speed, force, and power) increased significantly in the experimental group (ES = 1.17–1.79) and in the control group (ES = 0.58–1.32), except for the lead punch force in the control group (p > 0.05, ES = 0.20). 10s continuous punch performance (number, speed, force, and power) increased significantly (both p < 0.05) in the experimental group (ES = 0.52–1.65) and in the control group (ES = 0.32–0.81). 30s continuous punch performance (number, force, and power) increased significantly increased significantly (both p < 0.05). However, no statistically significant differences were found between groups for punch performance. Conclusion: These findings provide evidence that VRT may improve maximum muscle strength in both upper and lower limbs, vertical jump and punch performance in elite amateur boxers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resistance exercise (RE) increases collagen synthesis in young and older men, whereas hydrolyzed collagen (HC) ingestion improves this response to RE in a dose-response manner in young men. However, the collagen synthesis response to RE with and without HC in middle-aged men is unknown. Eight resistance-trained men (age: 49 ± 8 yr; height: 1.78 ± 0.02 m; mass: 90 ± 4 kg) took part in this double-blind, crossover design study and undertook 4 × 10 repetitions of lower-limb RE at maximum load, after consuming 0 g, 15 g, or 30 g vitamin C-enriched HC. We analyzed venous blood samples for N-terminal propeptide of type 1 pro-collagen (PINP), β-isomerized C-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen (β-CTx), and 18 collagen amino acids throughout all three interventions. The serum PINP concentration × time area-under-the-curve (AUC) was higher following 30 g (169 ± 28 µg/mL × h) than 15 g (134 ± 23 µg/mL × h, P < 0.05) HC ingestion, and both 15 g and 30 g were higher than 0 g HC (96 ± 23 µg/mL × h, P < 0.05). RE with 0 g HC showed no change in serum PINP concentration. The AUCs for glycine, proline, hydroxyproline, alanine, arginine, lysine, serine, leucine, valine, and isoleucine were greater with 30 g than 15 g and 0 g HC ingestion (P < 0.05) and greater with 15 g than 0 g HC ingestion (P < 0.05). Plasma β-CTx concentration decreased after RE independently of HC dose. Our study suggests connective tissue anabolic resistance to RE in middle-aged men but ingesting 15 g HC rescues the collagen synthesis response and 30 g augments that response further. This dose response is associated with the increased bioavailability of collagen amino acids in the blood, which stimulate collagen synthesis. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: This study is the first to document the dose-response effect of hydrolyzed collagen (HC) ingestion before resistance exercise (RE) on collagen turnover in middle-aged, resistance-trained men. Strikingly, RE alone did not increase collagen synthesis (suggesting connective tissue anabolic resistance), but ingesting 15 g HC rescued the collagen synthesis response and 30 g augmented that response further. These results were associated with the increased bioavailability of collagen amino acids in the blood, which stimulate collagen synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Athletes have used altitude training for many years as a strategy to improve endurance performance. The use of resistance training in simulated altitude (normobaric hypoxia) is a growing strategy that aims to improve the hypertrophy and strength adaptations to training. An increasing breadth of research has characterized the acute physiological responses to resistance training in hypoxia, often with the goal to elucidate the mechanisms by which hypoxia may improve the training adaptations. There is currently no consensus on the overall effectiveness of hypoxic resistance training for strength and hypertrophy adaptations, nor the underlying biochemical pathways involved. There are, however, numerous interesting physiological responses that are amplified by performing resistance training in hypoxia. These include potential changes to the energy system contribution to exercise and alterations to the level of metabolic stress, hormone and cytokine production, autonomic regulation, and other hypoxia-induced cellular pathways. This review describes the foundational exercise physiology underpinning the acute responses to resistance training in normobaric hypoxia, potential applications to clinical populations, including training considerations for athletic populations. The review also presents a summary of the ideal training parameters to promote metabolic stress and associated training adaptations. There are currently many gaps in our understanding of the physiological responses to hypoxic resistance training, partly caused by the infancy of the research field and diversity of hypoxic and training parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the current research was to analyze the loadvelocity relationship in the Bulgarian split-squat (BSS) exercise and to compare these relationships between the dominant and nondominant legs. Twenty-one strength-trained men (age: 27.3 6 7.3 years) performed a progressive loading test in the BSS exercise using a Smith machine for each leg. The protocol began with a load of 30 kg, incrementally adding 10 kg until the mean propulsive velocity (MPV) fell below 0.4 m·s21. At that point, 5 kg increments were employed, with a final addition of 2.5 kg for the last estimated attempt one-repetition maximum (1RM). A total of 324 lifts were analyzed. Subjects exhibited a relative strength ratio of 1.23 6 0.10, a 1RM of 91.3 6 14.2 kg, and a mean range of motion of 44.7 6 3.7 cm. Polynomial regression analysis showed a robust relationship with an R2 value of 0.945 (r # 0.001) between the relative load (%1RM) and MPV. Despite the differences in 1RM between the dominant and nondominant legs, there were no significant differences in MPV at the %1RM between both legs. These findings suggest that training intensity can be prescribed via the MPV during the BSS exercise. Moreover, the load-velocity relationship is stable between limbs despite the potential differences in absolute strength levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of the study is to investigate the association between adherence to spinal cord injury-specific physical activity guidelines in manual wheelchair users with spinal cord injury and shoulder pain prevalence. Design: This is a cross-sectional analysis of the SwiSCI Community Survey 2022 data, assessing aerobic activity and muscle strength training adherence in manual wheelchair users with spinal cord injury and shoulder pain prevalence. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the association between meeting the physical activity guidelines and shoulder pain. Results: Low adherence to aerobic activity and strength training guidelines are observed, with 46% and 64% of the study sample not meeting the respective guidelines. The low adherence to physical activity guidelines contrasts with the general Swiss population from which around 75% is physically active for more than 2.5 hrs a week. Manual wheelchair users present a high prevalence of shoulder pain (40%) and nonadherence to aerobic guidelines in the study sample correlates with 1.55-1.97 higher odds of having shoulder pain. Conclusions: Aerobic activity adherence is associated with lower shoulder pain prevalence, emphasizing its potential for injury prevention. Overall, the presented findings necessitate further longitudinal studies and interventions for a comprehensive understanding and effective management of shoulder pain in manualwheelchair users with spinal cord injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to examine the efficacy of an intervention, based on the Health Belief Model (HBM) and social support, in promoting strength training (ST) among older adults. A two‐arm clustered randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted among 235 older adults from eight elderly centers in Hong Kong. The intervention group engaged in a 6‐month intervention comprising ST sessions, exercise consultations, social gatherings, and a buddy program, while the control group participated in social gatherings. Assessments were conducted at baseline (Month 0), post‐intervention (Month 6), and 3‐month follow‐up (Month 9), with primary outcome being the prevalence of meeting the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommendations of ST. Results showed that the intervention group reported significantly higher prevalence of meeting ACSM recommendations for ST at both post‐intervention and follow‐up. Linear mixed models showed significant interaction effect between condition and time on perceived susceptibility of sarcopenia and muscle strength and significant condition effect on self‐efficacy for ST, perceived severity of sarcopenia, perceived barriers of ST, and intention to perform ST. Findings suggest that the intervention, guided by HBM and social support, improves older adults' ST participation, muscle strength, perceptions on sarcopenia, and self‐efficacy for ST, which offers great potential for broader application in other settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The beneficial impact of physical training in lowering cancer risk is well known. However, the precise mechanisms linking physical training and cancer are not fully understood. Skeletal muscle releases various myokines that seem to possess a direct anti-tumor effect. Although breast cancer (BC) is the prevalent form of cancer among women on a global scale, only limited data are available about the secretion of myokines following exercise in patients with BC. To study the effects of exercise on BC, the blood samples of patients with varied stages of BC were analyzed after 12 weeks of resistance training with whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS). Following the training period, we observed that resistance training helps these patients to improve their physical characteristics and performance function by increasing skeletal muscle mass and strengthening their hand grip. Notably, the patient's serum was found to inhibit the growth and promote the apoptosis of BC cells in vitro. Moreover, the conditioned medium collected from in vitro stimulated human myotubes using electric pulse stimulation (EPS), an in vitro simulation of WB-EMS training, induced the cell death of BC cells. These results highlighted the direct cancer-protective effects of activated skeletal muscle. In line with our observed effects of serum from exercise-trained pancreatic and prostate cancer patients, the growth of BC cells was notably inhibited when supplemented directly with recombinant myokines C-X-C motif ligand 1 (CXCL1), Interleukin 10 (IL10), and C-C motif chemokine ligand 4 (CCL4). Notably, treatment with these myokines also increased the expression of caspase 3/7 (Casp3/7), resulting in enhanced BC cell death. Our data strongly suggest that physical exercise has a positive impact on skeletal muscle mass and hand grip strength in BC patients, along with a significant anti-tumor effect in BC cells. This shows promising potential for considering sports and physical training as supportive therapies for achieving more impactful cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess reticulospinal tract excitability, high‐intensity transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has been used to elicit ipsilateral motor‐evoked potentials (iMEPs). However, there is no consensus on robust and valid methods for use in human studies. The present study proposes a standardized method for eliciting and analysing iMEPs in the biceps brachii. Twenty‐four healthy young adults participated in this study. Electromyography (EMG) electrodes recorded contralateral MEPs (cMEPs) from the right and iMEPs from the left biceps brachii. A dynamic preacher curl task was used with ~15% of the subject's one‐repetition maximum load. The protocol included maximal compound action potential (M‐max) determination of the right biceps brachii muscle, TMS hotspot determination, and four sets of five repetitions where 100% stimulator output was delivered at an elbow angle of 110° of flexion. We normalized cMEP amplitude by M‐max (% M‐max) and iMEP by cMEP amplitude ratio (ICAR). Clear iMEPs above background EMG were observed in 21 subjects (88%, ICAR =.31 ±.19). Good‐to‐excellent agreement (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] =.795–1.000) and low bias (.01–.08 mV and.60–1.11 ms) were demonstrated when comparing two different analysis methods (i.e. fixed time‐window vs. manual onset detection) to determine the cMEP and iMEP amplitude and latency, respectively. Most subjects demonstrated clear iMEPs above background EMG triggered at a pre‐determined joint angle during a light‐load dynamic preacher curl exercise. Similar results were obtained when comparing a single‐trial manual identification of iMEP and a semi‐automated time‐window data analysis approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: A recent study was designed to ascertain the impact of extracorporeal shock wave therapy on upper trapezius trigger points in cervicogenic headaches patients. Design: A double-blinded randomized controlled trial study, in which 50 participants (11 male and 39 female) aged between 20–40 with cervicogenic headache were subdivided with randomization to group (A), which received traditional physical therapy and sham shock wave therapy, and group (B), which received traditional physical therapy and actual shock wave therapy. All assessments were performed by a therapist before and after the treatment program (4 wks). Results: There was a significant difference of headache disability index, visual analog scale scores, and upper trapezius electromyographic characteristics with P value <0.05 in both groups, in favor of the shock wave group. Conclusions: Extracorporeal shock wave therapy could be used for clinical and research concerns because its positive effects on pain suppression, reduction of headache intensity, and restoration of muscle regular activity in cervicogenic headache patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Head and neck cancer (HNC) patients often have dysphagia following surgical and/or chemoradiation treatment, which can lead to reduced quality of life. Some patients suffer from decreased tongue strength and mobility that may cause discomfort and difficulty with swallowing. Our group has developed a patented genioglossus muscle strength trainer (GMST) to increase tongue protrusive force that has been used in patients with sleep apnea. We hypothesized that the GMST device would increase tongue strength in the HNC population. Methods: We conducted an IRB approved, non-randomized, interventional clinical trial of HNC patients with dysphagia to determine the effect of GMST on tongue strength. Our secondary objective was to assess dysphagia quality of life, as determined by questionnaires. Genioglossus muscle strength measurements (measured in Newtons, N) and dysphagia quality of life scores (SWAL-QoL questionnaire) were obtained from enrolled patients at baseline and following 4 weeks of intervention. Treatment was at-home GMST exercise regimen 3 times daily, 5 days per week. Compliance was assessed via review of training logs. Two-sided paired t -tests at significance level α =.05 were performed to assess difference in mean GG muscle strength pre- and post-treatment. Results: Out of 10 patients initially enrolled, 7 patients completed the trial. Eighty-six percent were male and the average age was 60. About 5 patients had surgery plus adjuvant radiation and 2 patients had primary radiation. All patients had baseline dysphagia as determined by patient complaint and/or objective measurement (prior modified barium swallow). No adverse events were reported. We observed a statistically significant increase in genioglossus muscle strength (mean change: 4.0 N, 95% CI 1.1-6.9, P =.015) after 4 weeks of treatment. Patients reported reduced swallowing burden and feeling of stigma around eating based on SWAL-QoL results. Conclusions: Our data suggest that protrusive tongue-training exercises utilizing a novel tongue trainer device is well-tolerated and increases genioglossus muscle strength in treated HNC patients complaining of dysphagia. Patient-reported outcomes based on the SWAL-QoL survey indicate improvements in quality-of-life post-treatment, although our results are limited by small sample size. Larger studies are needed to see if this device could have clinically meaningful results for this difficult-to-treat patient population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tongue‐strengthening exercises may be used at home to strengthen swallowing‐related oropharyngeal muscles in community‐dwelling older adults with sarcopenic dysphagia; however, evidence of their effectiveness remains unclear. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of a home‐based tongue‐strengthening exercise (hTSE) using portable tool on swallowing‐related oropharyngeal muscles in community‐dwelling older adults with sarcopenic dysphagia. Methods: Forth community‐dwelling older adults with sarcopenic dysphagia were enrolled in the study. The participants were randomly assigned to the experimental and control groups. 1‐Repetition Maximum (1‐RM) of tongue muscle was measured in the experimental group using the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument, and hTSE was performed using a portable tool with an intensity corresponding to approximately 70%–80% of the range based on the 1‐RM value (90 times/day, 5 days/week, for 8 weeks). The control group did not perform any tongue exercises. The primary outcome measures were tongue strength and thickness. The secondary outcome measure was suprahyoid muscle strength (digastric and mylohyoid muscles). Results: The experimental group showed significantly greater increases in suprahyoid muscle (mylohyoid and digastric) thickness (p =.01 and.011, d = 1.0 and.55), as well as tongue strength and thickness (p <.001 and.029, d = 2.2 and.6) than the control group. Conclusion: This study confirmed that hTSE using a portable tool is effective in increasing swallowing‐related oropharyngeal muscle activity in older adults with sarcopenic dysphagia. Therefore, hTSE is recommended as an inexpensive, safe, and easy‐to‐use therapy for sarcopenic dysphagia in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Increased thermogenic activity has shown to be a promising target for treating and preventing obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Little is known about the muscular influence on nonshivering thermogenesis (NST), and it remains unclear whether physical training and potential metabolic improvements could be associated with changes in this type of thermogenic activity. Objective: The present study aimed to assess muscular NST activity in overweight and T2DM before and after a combined training period (strength training followed by aerobic exercise). Methods: Nonshivering cold‐induced 18‐fluoroxyglucose positron emission computed tomography (18F‐FDG PET/CT) was performed before and after 16 weeks of combined training in 12 individuals with overweight and T2DM. The standard uptake value (SUV) of 18F‐FDG was evaluated in skeletal muscles, the heart and the aorta. Results: Muscles in the neck region exhibit higher SUV pre‐ and posttraining. Furthermore, a decrease in glucose uptake by the muscles of the lower and upper extremities and in the aorta was observed after training when adjusted for brown adipose tissue (BAT). These pre–post effects are accompanied by increased cardiac SUV and occur concurrently with heightened energy expenditure and metabolic improvements. Conclusions: Muscles in the neck region have greater metabolic activity upon exposure to cold. In addition, combined training appears to induce greater NST, favoring the trunk and neck region compared to limbs based on joint work and adaptations between skeletal muscles and BAT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores the benefits of science-informed practice in voice teaching, emphasizing the value of systematic approaches for vocal conditioning. Topics include the historical development of vocal techniques through various national schools of singing, the adoption of evidence-based practice (EBP) in voice pedagogy, and the role of the NATS Science-Informed Voice Pedagogy Institute in educating voice teachers about voice science.

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the validity of the HandyGym portable flywheel device with an integrated rotary encoder in measuring force and power during iso-inertial exercises compared to a traditional reference system. Methods: In total, 10 trained volunteers (3 women, 7 men; age 25.2 ± 3.8 years) performed half-squats with five different load configurations using the HandyGym device. Concurrent measurements were obtained from HandyGym's rotary encoder and a criterion system (MuscleLab 6000 strain gauge and linear encoder). Five load configurations were tested, with 15 repetitions recorded per condition. The validity of the HandyGym measurements was assessed through mean bias, typical error of estimation (TEE), and Pearson correlation coefficients, with Bland–Altman plots used to analyze the agreement between the two systems. Results: The HandyGym showed high correlations with the reference system for both force (r = 0.76–0.90) and power (r = 0.60–0.94). However, systematic biases were observed, with the HandyGym consistently underestimating force and power at lower loads and overestimating power at higher loads. The TEE values indicated moderate to large errors, particularly in power measurements. Conclusion: The HandyGym provides valid force measurements with moderate bias, suitable for general monitoring. However, power measurements are less consistent, especially at higher loads, limiting the device's utility for precise assessments. Adjustments or corrections may be necessary for accurate application in professional contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: It is possible to improve punches' impact force both chronically and acutely. Before fights or sparring sessions, maximal isometric exercises can be integrated with punching techniques (e.g., three repetitions of 3 s), resistance band exercises with punching techniques (e.g., two sets of 5 reps), medicine ball throws with 10% of 5RM bench press (e.g., three sets of 8 reps), SJ with 30% of 1RM (e.g., four sets of 8 reps) and traditional exercises such as bench press and back squat with 80% of 1RM (e.g., three sets of 5 reps) with an improvement window in punches' impact force between 6 and 15 min after the exercises. The aim of this scoping review was to compile the current evidence and provide a summary of the acute and chronic effects of muscle strength training on the physical fitness of amateur boxers and provide recommendations to optimize their physical performance. This scoping review was developed using guidance from the Joanna Briggs Institute and PRISMA-ScR. The search was conducted in the Scopus, PubMed and Web of Science databases between December 2023 and June 2024. In total, 50 full-text articles were assessed to determine eligibility, while 15 studies met the inclusion criteria and were subjected to detailed analysis and assessment of their methodological quality. Our findings indicate that muscular strength training interventions can improve punching performance in amateur boxers acutely and chronically, in addition to improving their physical fitness and generating increases in the capacity to generate maximum force and improvements in RFD and the power production of the upper and lower limbs of boxers. However, this scoping review only included one study in female boxers, so we recommend that future studies contain muscular strength training interventions in females to analyze their adaptations in punching force and physical fitness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a clinical challenge, with limited success from current therapeutic strategies. This study aimed to assess the impact of combined exercise (CE) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on key biomechanical parameters during the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) in HFpEF patients. (2) Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in 76 sedentary HFpEF patients, divided into three groups as follows: the CE, HIIT, and control groups. CE involves aerobic and strength training, whereas HIIT includes high-intensity intervals. Cadence (steps per minute), distance, maximum heart rate (HRmax), and exercise intensity were measured pre- and postintervention. (3) Results: The results revealed significant improvements in cadence in the CE group compared with the control group (p = 0.009) for intention-to-treat analysis, and in the control and HIIT groups (p = 0.002) for per-protocol analysis. CE also significantly improved HRmax and exercise intensity, suggesting an enhanced cardiovascular response. In contrast, HIIT did not significantly affect these parameters. The correlation between cadence and distance covered during the 6MWT was strong in the overall group (r = 0.762, p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: These findings suggest that CE is an effective intervention to improve gait efficiency, cardiovascular response, and functional capacity in HFpEF patients, whereas HIIT may require further investigation in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]