Search

Purpose: Without appropriate standardization of exercise doses, comparing high- (HI) and low-intensity (LI) training outcomes might become a matter of speculation. In athletic preparation, proper quantification ensures an optimized stress-to-recovery ratio. This review aims to compare HI and LI doses by estimating theoretically the conversion ratio, 1:x, between HI and LI: How many minutes, x, of LI are equivalent to 1 minute of HI using various quantification methods? A scrutinized analysis on how the dose increases in relation to duration and intensity was also made. Analysis: An estimation was conducted across 4 categories encompassing 10 different approaches: (1) "arbitrary" methods, (2) physiological and perceptual measurements during exercise, (3) postexercise measurements, and comparison to (4a) acute and (4b) chronic intensity-related maximum dose. The first 2 categories provide the most conservative estimation for the HI:LI ratio (1:1.5–1:10), and the third, slightly higher (1:4–1:11). The category (4a) provides the highest estimation (1:52+) and (4b) suggests 1:10 to 1:20. The exercise dose in the majority of the approaches increase linearly in relation to duration and exponentially in relation to intensity. Conclusions: As dose estimations provide divergent evaluations of the HI:LI ratio, the choice of metric will have a large impact on the research designs, results, and interpretations. Therefore, researchers should familiarize themselves with the foundations and weaknesses of their metrics and justify their choice. Last, the linear relationship between duration and exercise dose is in many cases assumed rather than thoroughly tested, and its use should be subjected to closer scrutiny. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This pilot study assessed the safety and effects of progressive functional high-intensity training in a group setting for adolescents with unilateral cerebral palsy (CP) on daily function indicators. Methods: Nine adolescents (mean age 16.9 years, GMFCS levels I–II) participated in 12 weeks of training (2x/week). Evaluations included 3D gait analysis, the 6-min walking test (6MWT), clinical exams, and the Gross Motor Function Measure-66 (GMFM-66). Results: No adverse events occurred, and GMFM-66 scores significantly improved (p =.031, Δ = 2.19%). Although increases in 6MWT (p =.09, Δ = 29.8 m) performance and propulsion ratio (p =.067, Δ = 5.4%) for the affected leg were observed, they were not statistically significant. Discussion: The study suggests that this training is safe and may enhance gross motor function, endurance, and gait asymmetry in unilateral CP. Future research should include upper limb evaluations and out-of-clinic motion analysis with wearable inertial measurement units (IMUs) to provide a more comprehensive assessment of functional movements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stroke survivors commonly face challenges such as reduced physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) as well as balance and gait impairments, exacerbating their disability. While high-intensity exercise interventions have demonstrated some potential, their effects on these items remain uncertain. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the impact of high-intensity training protocols on CRF, gait ability, and balance in stroke survivor populations. Two independent investigators systematically searched five databases for relevant RCTs following the PICO model. Through a systematic review of 25 RCTs published up to 31 May 2023, including adult first-stroke survivors, comparing high-intensity exercise training versus low-to-mild or no exercises, we evaluated outcomes such as the Six-Minute Walking Test (6 MWT), peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), Ten-Meter Walk Test (10 MWT), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and Timed Up and Go test (TUG). The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (registration number CRD42023456773). Meta-analyses indicated significant enhancements in CRF, as measured by 6 MWT and VO2peak, following high-intensity exercise interventions. However, no significant differences were observed in BBS, 10 MWT, and TUG. Our findings underscore the potential of high-intensity exercise interventions in ameliorating CRF among stroke survivors, although further research involving standardized protocols and long-term follow-ups is imperative to optimize rehabilitation outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AIM: Our goal was to examine the effect of high-intensity physical activity on changes in the lipid profile, complete blood count (CBC), iron metabolism, and kidney and liver function tests of professional water polo players. METHODS: This study included twenty professional male water polo players. Blood sampling was carried out at the beginning of the season and during periods of high-intensity training. CBCs were determined with a Siemens Advia 2120i hematology analyzer. A Beckman CoulterAU680 chemistry analyzer was used to determine the serum concentrations/activities of lipid profiles and liver and kidney function test analytes. The lipid athlete scores were also determined. RESULTS: The mean corpuscular volume (p = 0.006), platelet count (p = 0.008), and mean platelet volume (p < 0.001) significantly decreased during the high-intensity period, compared with the beginning of the season. The total iron-binding capacity increased (p = 0.001), and ferritin concentrations significantly declined (p = 0.017). The lipid profiles revealed a significant difference between phases, with slight increases in serum total (p = 0.025) and LDL cholesterol (p = 0.002) levels and a decrease in triglyceride concentrations (p = 0.040) in the high-intensity period. During the high-intensity period, the liver and kidney function tests showed a substantial positive effect on lactate dehydrogenase levels (p < 0.001), aspartate aminotransferase (p = 0.028) serum activity, and total protein concentrations (p = 0.033), compared with the beginning of the season. CONCLUSIONS: Water polo players might exhibit a decrease in some CBC parameters, an increase in LDL cholesterol, and a decrease in liver function biomarkers due to intense training at the peak of the competitive season. Kidney function biomarkers remain unchanged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) on acute recovery after a single high-intensity training day. Twelve elite professional male rowers from the national aquatic training base. They were randomly divided into a WBC group (n = 6) and a control group (CON group, n = 6). They performed a high-intensity training program, with a single session immediately followed by WBC (-110°C, 3 min) or recovered naturally for 3 min (CON group). Rowing performance, skin temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and blood lactate concentrations were recorded before training, immediately, 5 min, and 15 min after the intervention. Blood samples were collected early in the morning of the day of intervention and that of the following day. The results indicated that 1) the blood lactate concentrations after WBC were significantly lower than pre-training (p < 0.05); 2) the maximum power significantly decreased immediately after WBC compared to pre-training (p < 0.05); 3) a significant main effect of time was observed for average speed, which significantly decreased after WBC (p < 0.05); 4) a significant main effect of time for blood parameters was observed. Specifically, hematocrit, cortisol, and hemoglobin were significantly lower after WBC than pre-intervention, whereas testosterone/cortisol was significantly higher than pre-intervention (p < 0.05). The results of this study showed that a single session of WBC had a positive effect on accelerating the elimination of blood lactate after HIT, but did not significantly change rowing performance and physiological parameters. A single session of WBC was not an effective strategy for elite rowers for acute recovery after HIT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaerobic training in high-level athletes is of considerable interest to practitioners aiming to optimize performance. This study compared the impact of interval anaerobic training (IAT) sessions consisting of either high-intensity running or throwing that were performed twice a week together with regular judo training on the anaerobic and aerobic performance of experienced judo athletes. Employing a repeated-measures, counterbalancing, research design, 12 national team judo athletes (7 women and 5 men; mean age, 20.4 ± 0.95 years; mean judo training experience, 13.4 ± 1.4 years; competitive level, black belt first and second Dan) performed each IAT modality for 6 weeks, for a full training cycle of 12 weeks. Assessments of their anaerobic fitness (Cunningham and Faulkner Anaerobic Treadmill Test), sport-specific anaerobic fitness (Special Judo Fitness Test [SJFT]), and aerobic capacity (maximal incremental treadmill running test) were performed before, after 6 weeks, and after 12 weeks of training. The uphill running performance improved by 13.1% over the 12-week period (p = 0.047). Simultaneously, there was a 9.0% improvement in the SJFT index and a 6.9% increase in the number of throws (p = 0.011 and p = 0.017, respectively). Although a trend for throwing drills being more effective than interval sprint running was observed, the interaction effect lacked statistical significance (p = 0.074). Moreover, no substantial changes were noted in aerobic endurance markers. In conclusion, this study suggests that incorporating specific and nonspecific high-intensity drills into a routine training regimen may enhance anaerobic capacity among well-trained judo athletes, potentially leading to favorable competitive outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of two long-term reduced concurrent training modalities, in which participants performed one training session every either 7 or 14 days, after 12 weeks of systematic concurrent resistance and aerobic training, on lower extremities' muscle strength, power, and morphology in young females. After the 12-week training period, participants were assigned into three groups and performed either one training session every 7 days (G7) or once every 14 days (G14), or detraining (GD), for 12 weeks, followed by 12 additional weeks of detraining. The following were measured before, after the systematic training period, after the end of the reduced training frequency period, and after the end of complete detraining: body composition, leg press 1-RM, countermovement jump, quadriceps cross-sectional area (CSA), vastus lateralis muscle architecture, and maximum aerobic power. Performance and muscle mass increased after the initial 12-week training period. Thereafter, leg press 1-RM, quadriceps CSA, and aerobic power remained unchanged in the G7 group, but decreased in G14 (−4.4 ± 3.5%; −5.9 ± 1.8%; −9.0 ± 7.8%, respectively, p < 0.05), maintaining 95.6 ± 3.5%, 94.1 ± 1.8%, and 91.0 ± 7.8% of the initial training adaptations, respectively. In conclusion, performing one training session every 2 weeks for 3 months may preserve 90 to 95% of the muscle mass/strength and aerobic power adaptations achieved with systematic concurrent training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The main purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) intervention in the context of moderate alcohol consumption on cognitive performance in healthy young adults. Methods. We conducted a 10-week HIIT program along with four types of beverages with/without alcohol content. A total of 75 healthy adults (18–40 years old; 46% female) were allocated to either a control Non-Training group or an HIIT program group (2 days/week). Using block randomization, participants in the HIIT group were further allocated to an HIIT-Alcohol group (alcohol beer or sparkling water with vodka added, 5.4%) or an HIIT-NonAlcohol group (sparkling water or non-alcohol beer, 0.0%). The control group was instructed to maintain an active lifestyle but did not undergo any regular training. A comprehensive neuropsychological battery was used to evaluate cognitive performance (i.e., memory, working memory, processing speed, inhibitory control, and verbal fluency). Changes from baseline to week 10 were included in the main analyses. Results. All groups improved in all neuropsychological measures (all p ≤ 0.001), independent of sex and alcohol consumption, with no statistical differences between groups (all p > 0.05). Furthermore, larger increases in maximal oxygen uptake were associated with greater improvements in processing speed, inhibitory control, and verbal fluency (all p < 0.050). Conclusions. Although the improvements found in cognitive performance cannot be attributed to the HIIT intervention, no significant impairments in cognitive functions were noted due to moderate alcohol intake. Furthermore, our results confirmed that exercise-induced physical fitness improvements were associated with cognitive performance enhancements in young healthy adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate whether high-intensity lower extremity constraint-induced movement therapy can improve balance, leg strength, and dual-task ability. Design: A longitudinal cohort study in a real-world outpatient clinic. Patients: 147 community-dwelling participants in the subacute and chronic poststroke phases. Methods: Participants received lower extremity constraint-induced movement therapy for 6 hours/day during 2 consecutive weeks, including balance, strength, and functional training. The Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Single-Leg-Stance (SLS) bilaterally, one Repetition Maximum (1RM) in a leg press, symmetry of leg strength (Diff-1RM), Timed Up and Go (TUG), and the TUG Manual test were assessed before, after, and 3 months after lower extremity constraint-induced movement therapy. Results: Compared with preintervention data, statistically significant improvements after lower extremity constraint-induced movement therapy (p

Purpose: We investigated whether 4 weeks of intensified training consisting of speed endurance training (SET) enhanced high-intensity exercise performance in youth national-team ice hockey players. Methods: Utilizing a randomized crossover design, we subjected 17 players to 4 weeks of SET, comprising 6 to 10 × 20 seconds at maximal effort (>95% maximum ice skating speed) with 120-second recovery performed 3 times weekly, or maintenance of regular training (control period). Before and after each period, players completed ice-hockey-specific tests on ice, including a Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Level 1 test, a 30-m sprint test, and an agility test. On a separate day, players were assessed for body composition with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and performed countermovement jump, maximal voluntary isometric knee extensor contraction, a 15-second maximal sprint test, and a submaximal and incremental test on a bike ergometer in which pulmonary oxygen consumption was determined. Results: Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Level 1 test performance increased (P <.001) by 14% (95% CI, 201–496 m) during the SET period. Maximal pulmonary oxygen consumption (P <.05) and time to exhaustion (P <.05) were 4.8% and 6.5% higher, respectively, after the SET period than before. Fat-free mass increased (P <.01) during the SET period by 1.7 kg (95% CI, 1.0–2.5), whereas fat mass remained unchanged. These effects were superior to the control period. Conclusions: These findings underpin the effectiveness of SET for improving on-ice high-intensity performance and highlight that elite ice hockey players can benefit from implementing SET. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study aim: The aim of our study was to determine whether six weeks of CrossFit training, a popular form of high-intensity training, improves the atherogenic index of plasma and blood lipid profile indicators in young healthy men.

Study aim: Dietary and non-dietary weight loss methods are highly prevalent among combat sports athletes (CSA). Most CSA undergo rapid weight loss (RWL) usually a week before the competition to reduce their body mass and thus compete in the lowest weight category possible. The objective of the study was to distinguish the impact of high-intensity sport-specific training (HISST) combined with RWL (phase 1 – P1) on muscle damage markers as well as the effects of HISST alone (phase 2 – P2).

AIM: Our goal was to examine the effect of high-intensity physical activity on changes in the lipid profile, complete blood count (CBC), iron metabolism, and kidney and liver function tests of professional water polo players. METHODS: This study included twenty professional male water polo players. Blood sampling was carried out at the beginning of the season and during periods of high-intensity training. CBCs were determined with a Siemens Advia 2120i hematology analyzer. A Beckman CoulterAU680 chemistry analyzer was used to determine the serum concentrations/activities of lipid profiles and liver and kidney function test analytes. The lipid athlete scores were also determined. RESULTS: The mean corpuscular volume (p = 0.006), platelet count (p = 0.008), and mean platelet volume (p < 0.001) significantly decreased during the high-intensity period, compared with the beginning of the season. The total iron-binding capacity increased (p = 0.001), and ferritin concentrations significantly declined (p = 0.017). The lipid profiles revealed a significant difference between phases, with slight increases in serum total (p = 0.025) and LDL cholesterol (p = 0.002) levels and a decrease in triglyceride concentrations (p = 0.040) in the high-intensity period. During the high-intensity period, the liver and kidney function tests showed a substantial positive effect on lactate dehydrogenase levels (p < 0.001), aspartate aminotransferase (p = 0.028) serum activity, and total protein concentrations (p = 0.033), compared with the beginning of the season. CONCLUSIONS: Water polo players might exhibit a decrease in some CBC parameters, an increase in LDL cholesterol, and a decrease in liver function biomarkers due to intense training at the peak of the competitive season. Kidney function biomarkers remain unchanged.

This study aimed to examine the impact of sexual maturation on the anaerobic performance of male adolescent wrestlers. Methods: We included a sample of 29 freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestlers from various clubs in Barinas, Venezuela. Their physical characteristics were as follows (mean ± SD): age, 14.99 ± 1.83 years; body mass, 54.68 ± 16.80 kg; height, 161.06 ± 12.78 cm; body fat, 12.09 ± 4.11%; body mass index (BMI), 20.58 ± 3.79 kg/m²; and training experience, 3.66 ± 2.27 years. Sexual maturation was evaluated using Tanner's criteria, while anaerobic performance was assessed with the 30-second Wingate test for both lower and upper body. Results: There were moderate to strong significant correlations between maturation development and both peak power (PP) and average power (AP) — for both absolute and relative measures — for the lower and upper body. The fatigue index (%FI) for the lower body did not show any correlation with maturation development or with the pubescent and postpubescent maturation categories. Conversely, the %FI for the upper body demonstrated a significant moderate correlation with maturation development and with the postpubescent maturation category. Additionally, a strong significant correlation was observed between the pubescent maturation category and both PP and AP (absolute and relative) for the lower body. A moderate correlation was found between the postpubescent category and PP (absolute) for the upper body. PP (absolute) and AP (relative) for the upper body had a moderate correlation with the pubescent maturation category, while the postpubescent category showed a strong correlation with PP (absolute), AP (absolute), and AP (relative). Conclusion: The stages of sexual maturation significantly influence the anaerobic capacity of adolescent wrestlers, potentially affecting their training adaptations for peak performance. Future research should explore the physiological responses to training protocols tailored to specific stages of maturation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background This study aimed to evaluate the physiological and metabolic adaptations to an eight-week running intervention with whole-body electromyostimulation (wbEMS) compared to running without wbEMS. Methods In a randomized controlled trial (RCT), 59 healthy participants (32 female/ 27 male, 41 ± 7 years, rel.V̇O2max 40.2 ± 7.4 ml/min/kg) ran twice weekly à 20 min for eight weeks either with a wbEMS suit (EG) or without wbEMS (control group, CG). Before and after the intervention, (i) rel.V̇O2max, heart rate and time to exhaustion were recorded with an incremental step test with an incremental rate of 1.20 km/h every 3 min. They were interpreted at aerobic and (indirect) anaerobic lactate thresholds as well as at maximum performance. (ii) Resting metabolic rate (RQ) as well as (iii) body composition (%fat) were assessed. Results Following the intervention, V̇O2max was significantly enhanced for both groups (EG ∆13 ± 3%, CG ∆9 ± 3%). Velocity was elevated at lactate thresholds and maximum running speed (EG ∆3 ± 1%, CG ∆2 ± 1%); HRmax was slightly reduced by -1 beat/min. No significant changes were observed for time until exhaustion and lactate. RQ was significantly enhanced following both trainings by + 7%. %fat was reduced for both groups (EG ∆-11 ± 3%, CG ∆-16 ± 5%), without any changes in body mass. Results did not differ significantly between groups. Conclusions Both interventions had a positive impact on aerobic power. The rightward shift of the time-velocity graph points towards improved endurance performance. The effects of wbEMS are comparable to those after high-intensity training and might offer a time-efficient alternative to affect physiological and metabolic effects. Trial registration German Clinical Trials Register, ID DRKS00026827, date 10/26/21.

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of two long-term reduced concurrent training modalities, in which participants performed one training session every either 7 or 14 days, after 12 weeks of systematic concurrent resistance and aerobic training, on lower extremities’ muscle strength, power, and morphology in young females. After the 12-week training period, participants were assigned into three groups and performed either one training session every 7 days (G7) or once every 14 days (G14), or detraining (GD), for 12 weeks, followed by 12 additional weeks of detraining. The following were measured before, after the systematic training period, after the end of the reduced training frequency period, and after the end of complete detraining: body composition, leg press 1-RM, countermovement jump, quadriceps cross-sectional area (CSA), vastus lateralis muscle architecture, and maximum aerobic power. Performance and muscle mass increased after the initial 12-week training period. Thereafter, leg press 1-RM, quadriceps CSA, and aerobic power remained unchanged in the G7 group, but decreased in G14 (−4.4 ± 3.5%; −5.9 ± 1.8%; −9.0 ± 7.8%, respectively, p < 0.05), maintaining 95.6 ± 3.5%, 94.1 ± 1.8%, and 91.0 ± 7.8% of the initial training adaptations, respectively. In conclusion, performing one training session every 2 weeks for 3 months may preserve 90 to 95% of the muscle mass/strength and aerobic power adaptations achieved with systematic concurrent training.

Background. The main purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) intervention in the context of moderate alcohol consumption on cognitive performance in healthy young adults. Methods. We conducted a 10-week HIIT program along with four types of beverages with/without alcohol content. A total of 75 healthy adults (18–40 years old; 46% female) were allocated to either a control Non-Training group or an HIIT program group (2 days/week). Using block randomization, participants in the HIIT group were further allocated to an HIIT-Alcohol group (alcohol beer or sparkling water with vodka added, 5.4%) or an HIIT-NonAlcohol group (sparkling water or non-alcohol beer, 0.0%). The control group was instructed to maintain an active lifestyle but did not undergo any regular training. A comprehensive neuropsychological battery was used to evaluate cognitive performance (i.e., memory, working memory, processing speed, inhibitory control, and verbal fluency). Changes from baseline to week 10 were included in the main analyses. Results. All groups improved in all neuropsychological measures (all p ≤ 0.001), independent of sex and alcohol consumption, with no statistical differences between groups (all p > 0.05). Furthermore, larger increases in maximal oxygen uptake were associated with greater improvements in processing speed, inhibitory control, and verbal fluency (all p < 0.050). Conclusions. Although the improvements found in cognitive performance cannot be attributed to the HIIT intervention, no significant impairments in cognitive functions were noted due to moderate alcohol intake. Furthermore, our results confirmed that exercise-induced physical fitness improvements were associated with cognitive performance enhancements in young healthy adults.

High-intensity exercise training is one of the effective strategies to improve the performance of athletes to achieve excellent physical fitness. In the meantime, a look at the history of sports immunology reveals the idea of window theory, which has been of great concern. According to the history of exercise immunology, high-intensity exercise training can suppress the immune system leading to respiratory infections. It has recently been shown that high-intensity exercise training has no effect on suppressing the immune system. In this review, a new perspective on the immune system and high-intensity exercise training was presented to readers. Moreover, a new look at the history of high-intensity exercise training and the immune system and recent review studies was provided and some suggestions are offered.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the physiological and metabolic adaptations to an eight-week running intervention with whole-body electromyostimulation (wbEMS) compared to running without wbEMS. Methods: In a randomized controlled trial (RCT), 59 healthy participants (32 female/ 27 male, 41 ± 7 years, rel.V̇O2max 40.2 ± 7.4 ml/min/kg) ran twice weekly à 20 min for eight weeks either with a wbEMS suit (EG) or without wbEMS (control group, CG). Before and after the intervention, (i) rel.V̇O2max, heart rate and time to exhaustion were recorded with an incremental step test with an incremental rate of 1.20 km/h every 3 min. They were interpreted at aerobic and (indirect) anaerobic lactate thresholds as well as at maximum performance. (ii) Resting metabolic rate (RQ) as well as (iii) body composition (%fat) were assessed. Results: Following the intervention, V̇O2max was significantly enhanced for both groups (EG ∆13 ± 3%, CG ∆9 ± 3%). Velocity was elevated at lactate thresholds and maximum running speed (EG ∆3 ± 1%, CG ∆2 ± 1%); HRmax was slightly reduced by -1 beat/min. No significant changes were observed for time until exhaustion and lactate. RQ was significantly enhanced following both trainings by + 7%. %fat was reduced for both groups (EG ∆-11 ± 3%, CG ∆-16 ± 5%), without any changes in body mass. Results did not differ significantly between groups. Conclusions: Both interventions had a positive impact on aerobic power. The rightward shift of the time-velocity graph points towards improved endurance performance. The effects of wbEMS are comparable to those after high-intensity training and might offer a time-efficient alternative to affect physiological and metabolic effects. Trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register, ID DRKS00026827, date 10/26/21. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: To investigate fluctuations in speed, work rate, and heart rate (HR) when cross-country ski skating across varying terrains at different endurance-training intensities. Methods: Seven male junior Norwegian skiers performed maximal-speed (V'max) tests in both flat and uphill terrains. Thereafter, 5-km sessions at low (LIT), moderate (MIT), and high intensity (HIT) were performed based on their own perception of intensity while monitored by a global navigation satellite system with integrated barometry and accompanying HR monitor. Results: Speed, HR, and rating of perceived exertion gradually increased from LIT to MIT and HIT, both for the total course and in Hat and uphill terrains (all P < .05). Uphill work rates (214 [24] W, 298 [27] W, and 350 [54] W for LIT, MIT, and HIT, respectively) and the corresponding percentage of maximal HR (79.2% [6.1]%, 88.3% [2.4]%, and 91.0% [1.7]%) were higher than in flat terrain (159 [16] W, 206 [19] W, and 233 [72] W vs 72.3% [6.3]%, 83.2% [2.3]%, and 87.4% [2.0]% for LIT. MIT, and HIT, respectively) (all P< .01). In general, -13% point lower utilization of maximal work rate was reached in uphill than in flat terrain at all intensities (all P< .01). Conclusions: Cross-country ski training across varying terrains is clearly interval based in terms of speed, external work rate, and metabolic intensity for all endurance-training intensities. Although work rate and HR were highest in uphill terrain at all intensities, the utilization of maximal work rate was higher in flat terrain. This demonstrates the large potential for generating external work rate when uphill skiing and the corresponding downregulation of effort due to the metabolic limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Zdravotnicke listy is the property of Alexander Dubcek University in Trencin, Faculty of Nursing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: Exercise proved to reduce cancer-related symptoms and prolong survival in some cancer types. However, brain tumor patients are often advised against strenuous exercise. Here, we summarize our experience with a submaximal exercise program for glioma patients: ActiNO (Active in Neuro-Oncology). Methods: Glioma patients were invited to participate in the program. Since 2011, a sports scientist individualized two one-hour sessions per week adapted to the patients' symptoms. One session consisted of bicycle ergometry (average workload: 75% of maximum heart rate), the other of whole-body resistance training. Both sessions were further complimented by coordinative elements. Cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed using the "Physical Work Capacity" procedure. Patients were followed up regularly to assess adherence to the program and disease activity. Results: Until December 2019, 45 glioma patients, median-aged 49 years (IQR 42–59), were included in the analysis. Most patients suffered from glioblastoma (58%), followed by diffuse lower-grade astrocytoma (29%). In overall 1828 training sessions, two minor epileptic events occurred (1 speech arrest; 1 focal seizure). During fitness assessment, all patients achieved at least 75% of their age-adjusted maximum heart rate. Peak workload averaged 172 W (95% CI 156–187). Median survival of participating glioblastoma patients was 24.1 months (95% CI 8.6–39.5). Conclusion: This supervised training program with submaximal exertion was feasible and safe in glioma regardless of WHO grading. Based on these experiences, we initiated a prospective multicenter study to objectify improvements in physical performance and quality of life in patients with glioblastoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Bushen Yiyuan recipe (BYR) is an effective Chinese prescription with antifatigue and antioxidation effects.Objective The effects of BYR on testosterone synthesis in rat Leydig cells with exercise-induced low serum testosterone levels (EILST) are assessed.Materials and methods Thirty-two Sprague-Dawley rats were chronically trained for 6 weeks to establish an EILST model. EILST rats were divided into model (physiological saline), EFE (700 mg/kg ethanol extract of Epimedii folium, the dried leaves of Epimedium brevicornu Maxim [Berberidaceae]), and BYR groups (350 and 700 mg/kg) for 6 weeks. Expression of HMG-CoA, LDL-R, SR-BI, STAR and CYP11A1 were quantified by RT qPCR and Western blots.Results Compared with the model group (115.52 ± 13.05 μg/dL; 67.83 ± 14.29; 0.32 ± 0.04; 0.33 ± 0.02; 0.38 ± 0.01), serum testosterone, testosterone/cortisol ratio, HMG-CoA, STAR and CYP11A1 relative protein expression significantly increased in low-dose BYR (210.60 ± 5.08 μg/dL; 119.38 ± 13.02; 0.47 ± 0.01; 0.46 ± 0.03; 0.46 ± 0.02), high-dose BYR (220.57 ± 14.71 μg/dL; 124.26 ± 14.79; 0.49 ± 0.02; 0.42 ± 0.03; 0.51 ± 0.02), and EFE groups (206.83 ± 5.54 μg/dL; 119.53 ± 25.04; 0.45 ± 0.02; 0.42 ± 0.02; 0.41 ± 0.02) (all p

Introduction: During exercise, angiogenesis occurs in active skeletal muscle; however, little is known about potential mechanisms for improving this adaptation. This study aimed to investigate a period of interval training on chemokine gene expression and its effect on vascular endothelial growth factors in male adult rats. Material & Methods: In this study, 24 rats were divided into three groups (n=8 in each): high-intensity training (HIT), low-intensity training (LIT), and control groups. HIT and LIT groups were trained for eight weeks (five days per week). The exercise program in the HIT group consisted of running on a treadmill for 8 min with 85-90% VO2max intensity and 2 min with 50-60% VO2max intensity. The LIT group exercise program consisted of running on a treadmill for 8 min with 55-60% VO2max intensity and 2 min with 45-50% VO2max intensity. The control group had no training. The expression of chemokine and vascular endothelial growth factor genes was measured in soleus muscle. The data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test. Statistical differences were considered significant at P

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 12 weeks of high-intensity training with astaxanthin supplementation on adipokine levels, insulin resistance and lipid profiles in males with obesity. Sixty-eight males with obesity were randomly stratified into four groups of seventeen subjects each: control group (CG), supplement group (SG), training group (TG), and training plus supplement group (TSG). Participants underwent 12 weeks of treatment with astaxanthin or placebo (20 mg/d capsule daily). The training protocol consisted of 36 sessions of high-intensity functional training (HIFT), 60 min/sessions, and three sessions/week. Metabolic profiles, body composition, anthropometrical measurements, cardio-respiratory indices and adipokine [Cq1/TNF-related protein 9 and 2 (CTRP9 and CTRP2) levels, and growth differentiation factors 8 and 15 (GDF8 and GDF15)] were measured. There were significant differences for all indicators between the groups (p < 0.05). Post-hoc analysis indicated that the levels of CTRP9, CTRP2, and GDF8 were different from CG (p < 0.05), although levels of GDF15 were similar to CG (p > 0.05). Levels of GDF8 were similar in the SG and TG groups (p > 0.05), with reductions of GDF15 levels in both training groups (p < 0.05). A total of 12 weeks of astaxanthin supplementation and exercise training decreased adipokines levels, body composition (weight, %fat), anthropometrical factors (BMI), and improved lipid and metabolic profiles. These benefits were greater for men with obesity in the TSG group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated whether high-intensity exercise training alters the effect of N-acetylcysteine (a precursor of antioxidant glutathione) on exercise-related muscle ionic shifts. We assigned 20 recreationally-active men to 6 weeks of high-intensity exercise training, comprising three weekly sessions of 4–10 × 20-s all-out bouts interspersed by 2 min recovery (SET, n = 10), or habitual lifestyle maintenance (n = 10). Before and after SET, we measured ionic shifts across the working muscle, using leg arteriovenous balance technique, during one-legged knee-extensor exercise to exhaustion with and without N-acetylcysteine infusion. Furthermore, we sampled vastus lateralis muscle biopsies for analyses of metabolites, mitochondrial respiratory function, and proteins regulating ion transport and antioxidant defense. SET lowered exercise-related H+, K+, lactate−, and Na+ shifts and enhanced exercise performance by ≈45%. While N-acetylcysteine did not affect exercise-related ionic shifts before SET, it lowered H+, HCO3−, and Na+ shifts after SET. SET enhanced muscle mitochondrial respiratory capacity and augmented the abundance of Na+/K+-ATPase subunits (α1 and β1), ATP-sensitive K+ channel subunit (Kir6.2), and monocarboxylate transporter-1, as well as superoxide dismutase-2 and glutathione peroxidase-1. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that high-intensity exercise training not only induces multiple adaptations that enhance the ability to counter exercise-related ionic shifts but also potentiates the effect of N-acetylcysteine on ionic shifts during exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Prehabilitation is a promising modality for improving patient-related outcomes after major surgery; however, very little research has been done for those who may need it the most: the elderly and the frail. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of a short course multimodal prehabilitation prior to primary surgery in high-risk, frail patients with colorectal cancer and WHO performance status I and II. Methods The study was conducted as a single-center, prospective one-arm feasibility study of eight patients with colon cancer between October 4, 2018, and January 14, 2019. The intervention consisted of a physical training program tailored to the patients with both high-intensity interval training and resistance training three times a week in sessions of approximately 1 h in length, for a duration of at least 4 weeks, nutritional support with protein and vitamins, a consultation with a dietician, and medical optimization prior to surgery. Feasibility was evaluated regarding recruitment, retention, compliance and adherence, acceptability, and safety. Retention was evaluated as the number of patients that completed the intervention, with a feasibility goal of 75% completing the intervention. Compliance with the high-intensity training was evaluated as the number of sessions in which the patient achieved a minimum of 4 min > 90% of their maximum heart rate and adherence as the attended out of the offered training sessions. Results During the study period, 64 patients were screened for eligibility, and out of nine eligible patients, eight patients were included and seven completed the intervention (mean age 80, range 66–88). Compliance to the high-intensity interval training using 90% of maximum heart rate as the monitor of intensity was difficult to measure in several patients; however, adherence to the training sessions was 87%. Compliance with nutritional support was 57%. Half the patients felt somewhat overwhelmed by the multiple appointments and six out of seven reported difficulties with the dosage of protein. Conclusions This one-arm feasibility study indicates that multimodal prehabilitation including high-intensity interval training can be performed by patients with colorectal cancer and WHO performance status I and II. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov : the study current feasibility study was conducted prior to the initiation of a full ongoing randomized trial registered by NCT04167436; date of registration: November 18, 2019. Retrospectively registered. No separate prospectively registration of the feasibility trial was conducted but outlined by the approved study protocol (Danish Scientific Ethical Committee SJ-607).

Brocherie, F, Perez, J, and Guilhem, G. Effects of a 14-day high-intensity shock microcycle in high-level ice hockey players' fitness. J Strength Cond Res 36(8): 2247–2252, 2022—Elite athletes face congested schedules with increased competition frequency and restricted time for training periods. Therefore, time is lacking to design long-term sport-specific block periodization. This study aimed to investigate the effects of adding a 14-day off-ice high-intensity training (HIT) shock microcycle to the usual training content of the pre-season preparation of high-level male ice hockey players' fitness. Fourteen players were randomly assigned to off-ice HIT (n = 7) or usual pre-season training (control, n = 7). For the HIT group, additional off-ice training content included 2 sessions of repeated-maximal resistance training, 2 sessions of repeated-sprint training, and 2 sessions of high-intensity intermittent training. Control group performed equal number of off-ice sessions using traditional strength and conditioning training. Off-ice Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 2 (YYIR2) and on-ice repeated-sprint ability test (RSA) were conducted before (pre-test) and 3 days after the intervention (post-test). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Significant group × time interactions were found for off-ice YYIR2 performance (p < 0.05) and on-ice RSA-cumulated skating time (RSATT; p < 0.05). Compared with pre-test, off-ice YYIR2 distance covered significantly increased (from 708.6 ± 97.2 to 885.7 ± 118.7 m, p < 0.01; +25.8 ± 16.9%, p < 0.05) and on-ice RSATT significantly decreased (from 28.35 ± 0.87 to 28.14 ± 0.84 seconds; −1.7 ± 2.1%, both p < 0.05)] for HIT group. No significant pre-test to post-test changes were found for the control group (+2.7 ± 20.0% for YYIR2 and +0.9 ± 2.2% for RSATT). The implementation of a 14-day shock microcycle (including 6 HIT sessions) significantly improved fitness performance in high-level male ice hockey players. Such HIT block periodization offers a promising way to deal with congested schedules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) on acute recovery after a single high-intensity training day. Twelve elite professional male rowers from the national aquatic training base. They were randomly divided into a WBC group (n = 6) and a control group (CON group, n = 6). They performed a high-intensity training program, with a single session immediately followed by WBC (-110°C, 3 min) or recovered naturally for 3 min (CON group). Rowing performance, skin temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and blood lactate concentrations were recorded before training, immediately, 5 min, and 15 min after the intervention. Blood samples were collected early in the morning of the day of intervention and that of the following day. The results indicated that 1) the blood lactate concentrations after WBC were significantly lower than pre-training ( p < 0.05); 2) the maximum power significantly decreased immediately after WBC compared to pre-training ( p < 0.05); 3) a significant main effect of time was observed for average speed, which significantly decreased after WBC ( p < 0.05); 4) a significant main effect of time for blood parameters was observed. Specifically, hematocrit, cortisol, and hemoglobin were significantly lower after WBC than pre-intervention, whereas testosterone/cortisol was significantly higher than pre-intervention ( p < 0.05). The results of this study showed that a single session of WBC had a positive effect on accelerating the elimination of blood lactate after HIT, but did not significantly change rowing performance and physiological parameters. A single session of WBC was not an effective strategy for elite rowers for acute recovery after HIT., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Huang, Dan, Wang, Ren, Liu and Li.)

Background: Temporomandibular joint disorders affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), masticatory muscles, and associated structures. Symptoms include TMJ pain, limited jaw movement, muscle tenderness, and referred pain. Physical activity can alleviate musculoskeletal pain. This study explored the link between physical fitness (high and low intensity) and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) incidence., Methodology: Sixty patients were divided into three groups in this comparative study. Group I underwent 30 minutes of high-intensity aerobic training. Group II had 30 minutes of low-intensity yoga sessions weekly. Group III received health education. TMD was diagnosed using the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI). Pain intensity was measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ)., Results: Of the participants, 38.1% were males and 61.9% were females. TMD severity was mild (25.0%), moderate (55.0%), and severe (20.0%). High-intensity training groups had higher TMD symptom severity than low-intensity groups (p = 0.001). VAS scores increased in group I and decreased in group II (significant). PSEQ scores decreased in group I and increased significantly in group II. Group III showed no significant differences in PSEQ scores., Conclusion: High-intensity training resulted in moderate TMD symptoms. Low-intensity training was beneficial for TMD pain. The study recommends combining low-intensity physical workouts with medications to alleviate TMD., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. People's College of Dental Sciences and Research Centre, Bhopal issued approval EC244224. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Verma et al.)

Introduction: During exercise, angiogenesis occurs in active skeletal muscle; however, little is known about potential mechanisms for improving this adaptation. This study aimed to investigate a period of interval training on chemokine gene expression and its effect on vascular endothelial growth factors in male adult rats. Material & Methods: In this study, 24 rats were divided into three groups (n=8 in each): high-intensity training (HIT), low-intensity training (LIT), and control groups. HIT and LIT groups were trained for eight weeks (five days per week). The exercise program in the HIT group consisted of running on a treadmill for 8 min with 85-90% VO2max intensity and 2 min with 50-60% VO2max intensity. The LIT group exercise program consisted of running on a treadmill for 8 min with 55-60% VO2max intensity and 2 min with 45- 50% VO2max intensity. The control group had no training. The expression of chemokine and vascular endothelial growth factor genes was measured in soleus muscle. The data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test. Statistical differences were considered significant at P<0.05. (Ethic code: 141/370299) Findings: The results of this study, showed that the expression levels of chemokine and vascular endothelial growth factor gene in the HIT group were significantly higher than that in the control group (P=0.01, P=0.04), while the levels of chemokine and vascular endothelial growth factor in the LIT group were not significantly different from those in the control group (P=0.2, P=0.1). Discussion & Conclusion: According to the results of the present study, it seems that high-intensity exercises can be more effective than low-intensity exercises in increasing angiogenesis caused by the increase of chemokine that in turn depends on vascular endothelial growth factor levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista de Investigación e Innovación en Ciencias de la Salud (RIICS) is the property of Fundacion Universitaria Maria Cano and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study aims to find the effectiveness of different exercise intensities (high-, moderate-, and low-intensity) on the dynamic and static balance of elderly women. A single-blinded factorial design study was conducted in healthy older adults (>65 years) in 12 weeks. The authors have assessed the Forward Reach Test (FRT), Lateral Reach Test (LRT), One Leg Stand (OLS), Tandem Stand Test (TST) in 60 healthy older women at a gym centre, Fit House located in Bukit Rimau, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Participants were randomly assigned to a High-Intensity Training (HIT) group; (n=15) (Mean age 69.60 ± 3.68) who performed four exercises [Leg Press (LP), Leg Extension (LE), Leg Curl (LC), and Calf Raises (CR)] at 80 to 90% of One-Repetition Maximum (1RM); Moderate-Intensity Training (MIT) group (n=15) (Mean age 69.27 ± 3.41) performed at 65 to 75% of 1RM; Low-Intensity Training (LIT) group (n=15) (Mean age 69.27 ± 1.94) performed at 50 to 60% of 1 RM; and a Control Group (CG) (n = 15) (Mean age 68.67 ± 2.38) with no training. Data was collected at pre-test, 4th, 8th, and 12th weeks of intervention. 60 participants were analysed and the main effect of time showed a statistically significant difference in the mean of all variables (all p < 0.001), and also there was a statistically significant interaction between intervention and time on all variables (all p < 0.001). Different levels of intensity on only the lower extremities muscles had a significant effect on the dynamic balance and static balance of the elderly population. After four weeks of training HIT, MIT, and LIT illustrated significant improvement in dynamic balance, as well as static balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: The expression of adhesion molecule such as the intercellular adhesion molecule- I (ICAM-I) and vascular adhesion molecule- I (VCAM-I) in obese people may increase atherosclerosis phenomena and cardiovascular diseases. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the effects of 10-week high-intensity and moderate-intensity aerobic trainings on plasma levels of ICAM-I and VCAM-I in obese boys. Methods: The statistical population of the present study was obese boys of Baharestan city. The sample included 36 obese student boys aged 13.4±0.69 years old, height: 163.06±7.88 cm; weight; 85.72±8.42 kg) who were randomly assigned to three groups: high-intensity training (n=‌12), moderate-intensity training (n=‌12), and control (n=12). The training was performed at 50%-65% maximal heart rate (moderate-intensity training group) and 70%-85% maximal heart rate (high-intensity training group), three days per week for 10 weeks. The blood sample was collected 48 h before and 48 h after the last session of exercise training. The ICAM-I and VCAM-I were measured via ELISA. Data were analyzed using two-way repeated ANOVA in SPPS, version 18.Results: The results indicated that body weight and BMI decreased significantly after moderate- and high-intensity training (p < 0.05). VO2max value significantly increased following 10 weeks of exercise training in both groups. No significant different was observed between exercise groups for plasma levels of ICAM-I. Moreover, the plasma levels of VCAM-I decreased significantly in the high-intensity training compared to the moderate-intensity training and control groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: It seems that intensity of training may decrease plasma levels of ICAM-I and VCAM-I through decrease of body weight and BMI and increase of VO2max.

To investigate the impact of high-intensity walking training (HIWT) on prefrail and frail older adults, five assisted living residents underwent a supervised 12-session intervention. The intervention consisted of 30 min of HIWT at 70–80% of heart rate reserve or ratings of 15 to 17 (hard to very hard) on the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion scale. Training included walking at fast speeds, multi-directions, stairs, and outdoor surfaces with and without an assistive device. Training significantly reduced frailty using the SHARE-FI (p = .008), increased fast gait speed (p = .01), improved 6-min walk test distance (p = .03), and enhanced Berg Balance Scale scores (p = .03). There were no adverse events and all participants reached target training intensity in all 12 sessions. Participants viewed the walking intervention as highly satisfactory (9.6/10 on a Likert scale) and 100% recommended that the assisted living facility should offer HIWT as part of routine programming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resistance training provides many benefits to the older population, and it is considered one of the most effective ways to counter-attack age-related sarcopenia and dynapenia disorders. This article evaluates the impacts of high, moderate, and low training intensities on muscle strength and functional mobility of older adults. A single-blinded factorial design for 12 weeks was conducted among 60 healthy older Malaysian women (>65 years). The authors assessed the Five times Sit to Stand (5STS), the Timed Up and Go test (TUG), and the 6 Minutes Walking Test (6MWT). The participants were randomly divided to the High-Intensity Group (HIT; n=15) (69.60 ± 3.68); Moderate-Intensity Group (MIT; n=15) (69.27 ± 3.41); Low-Intensity Training (LIT; n=15) (69.27 ± 1.94); and Control Group (CG; n=15) (68.67 ± 2.38). In terms of time, there is a statistically noticeable difference in the means of all the variables (p< .001). Moreover, a statistically significant connection between the intervention and time was seen on all the variables (p< .001). However, there was a statistically significant difference between the means of 5STS (P< .001) and TUG (P= .025) in the intervention groups, there was no statistically significant difference observed in 6MWT (P= .90). The results suggested that all of these intensities training are beneficial for improving muscle strength and functional mobility. In addition, the HIT is more effective in improving the 5STS, TUG, and 6MWT, as compared to the MIT, LIT, and CG. These findings revealed that HIT tends to result in greater improvement of muscle strength and mobility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In various sports, high-intensity training reduces the oral immune function of the player. The effect of volleyball training camp on salivary immune function is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of pre-season training on salivary immune function in elite collegiate volleyball players. Twenty-one elite collegiate volleyball players (mean age: 19.6 ± 1.1 years, mean height: 185.2 ± 7.8 cm) participated in this observational study. Saliva samples were taken on Day-1 (First day) and Day-11 (Final day) during pre-season training camp. Fatigue was measured using a VAS (visual analog scale) every day during the training camp period. Oral immune function was assessed in terms of secretory immunoglobulin A (s-SIgA) secretion rate and nitric oxide (s-NO) secretion rate. The s-NO secretion rate showed no significant change from Day-1 (0.69 ± 0.49 µmol/min) to Day-11 (0.56 ± 0.33 µmol/min). However, the s-SIgA secretion rate on Day-11 (28 ± 16 µg/min) was significantly lower (P < 0.05) than that on Day-1 (35 ± 18 µg/min). Changes in fatigue scale scores positively correlated with changes in s-NO secretion rate (rs = .591, P < 0.01), but not with changes in s-SIgA secretion rate (rs = .411, P = 0.06). In this study, the concentration of s-NO stored frozen was determined, but the effect of the storage method on s-NO should be investigated in future studies. In conclusion, pre-season volleyball training camp may affect oral immune function as in other sports.

Background & Aims: The liver is one of the main and major organs of the body, which with the help of various enzymes is of special importance in regulating hormonal activities and metabolism, during rest, training, and returning to the original state of sports activities. Under normal circumstances, the liver and kidneys receive 27% and 22% of circulating blood, respectively, but as a result of heavy training, the blood flow to the liver and kidneys decreases to 5% and 3%, respectively. Prolonged reduction in blood flow to the liver and kidneys may have detrimental consequences, of which fatigue observed as a result of the constant sub-maximal activity is part of it. The liver is also one of the most sensitive tissues targeted by training-induced oxidative stress. Sports science coaches and professionals are working to find ways to reduce the effects of strenuous training and increase the effectiveness of training programs over a limited period. The liver has different functions in the body and different roles are considered for it. Metabolism, control of glycolysis, glycogenesis, and lipogenesis are the main functions of liver tissue. Many factors and proteins play a role in these processes, and two factors have recently been identified called E2F1 and E2F4. Methods: The present study was approved by the ethics committee of Payame Noor University with the code IR.PNU.REC.1398.059. In terms of purpose, it is fundamentalapplied, which was implemented experimentally. In the present study, 32 8-week-old male Wistar rats with an average weight of 237 ±33 g were purchased from the Pasteur Institute. After being transferred to the animal laboratory environment, these animals are housed in transparent polycarbonate cages in an environment with a temperature of 22 ± 1.4 °C, the humidity of 45 to 55%, four heads in each cage with free access to water and closed. Foods were maintained according to a 12-hour sleep-wake cycle. Animals were randomly divided into 5 groups: control group (Co) (8 heads), moderate intensity training (MIT) (8 heads), high-intensity training (HIT) (8 heads), and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) (8 heads) were divided. The MIT protocol was performed in such a way that in the first week, 5 minutes of warm-up, 5 minutes of cooling, and 20 minutes of the main body of the exercise, including running at 65% VO2max at a speed of 20 m/min, was added to the training time every week. In the sixth week, the training time reached 37 minutes and remained constant until the end of the eighth. Also, the training speed was unchanged from the first week to the eighth week and was equal to 20 meters per minute. The HIT protocol in the first week included: 5 minutes of warm-up, 5 minutes of cooling, and 20 minutes of running training with 65% VO 2max at a speed of 20 m/min and an increasing slope of the treadmill. The training time was increased every week, so that in the sixth week the training time reached 30 minutes and remained constant until the end of the eighth. On the other hand, the slope of the strip was 2% in the first and second weeks and 2% was added to the slope every 2 weeks to reach 8% in the seventh and eighth weeks. Also, the training speed from the first week to the eighth week was 20 meters per minute and was kept constant. The HIIT protocol also included 10 minutes of warm-up before the workout, in the first to fourth weeks including 3 intense intermittent runs with an intensity of 90 to 100% VO 2max and a speed of 30 meters per minute in 4 minutes and 3 low-intensity intermittent runs. With 50 to 60% VO 2max and at a speed of 20 meters per minute in 3 minutes. From the fifth to the eighth week, it also includes 4 intense intermittent runs with an intensity of 90 to 100% VO2max at a speed of 30 meters per minute in 4 minutes and 3 low-intensity intermittent runs with 50 to 60% VO 2max at a speed of 20 meters per minute. It took 3 minutes. The main body time of the exercise was 28 minutes per repetition. Mice in the control group did not participate in any exercise program but were placed on a stationary treadmill for 10 to 15 minutes per session to adapt to the environment to create the same conditions. After in vitro analysis of the samples, descriptive statistics including standard mean and standard deviation and inferential statistics were used to quantitatively describe the data. First, the Shapirovilk test was used to determine the normality of data distribution, and the Leven test was used to determine the homogeneity of variance. Due to the normal distribution of data, parametric tests including one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test were used at a significance level of p≥0.05. Results: The results showed that there was a significant difference in the expression of the E2F1 gene in the liver tissue of male Wistar rats between the HIT group compared to the control group. There was also a significant difference between MIT and control groups (P = 0.003). Comparison between groups with post hoc test showed that there was no significant difference between HIT groups and MIT, HIIT, and control groups (P = 0.977, P = 0.917, P = 0.093, respectively). Post hoc tests in training groups showed that there was no significant difference in E2F4 gene expression between MIT and HIT, HIIT, and control groups (P = 0.977, P = 0.721, P = 0.202, respectively). On the other hand, a significant difference was observed between the HIIT group and the control group (P = 0.022, respectively). Conclusion: In general, the results showed that there was no significant difference between IT MIT, HIT, and HIIT methods on E2F1 and E2F4 gene expression in liver tissue of male Wistar rats. However, there is a significant difference between training groups with control of differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prehabilitation is a promising modality for improving patient-related outcomes after major surgery; however, very little research has been done for those who may need it the most: the elderly and the frail. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of a short course multimodal prehabilitation prior to primary surgery in high-risk, frail patients with colorectal cancer and WHO performance status I and II. Methods: The study was conducted as a single-center, prospective one-arm feasibility study of eight patients with colon cancer between October 4, 2018, and January 14, 2019. The intervention consisted of a physical training program tailored to the patients with both high-intensity interval training and resistance training three times a week in sessions of approximately 1 h in length, for a duration of at least 4 weeks, nutritional support with protein and vitamins, a consultation with a dietician, and medical optimization prior to surgery. Feasibility was evaluated regarding recruitment, retention, compliance and adherence, acceptability, and safety. Retention was evaluated as the number of patients that completed the intervention, with a feasibility goal of 75% completing the intervention. Compliance with the high-intensity training was evaluated as the number of sessions in which the patient achieved a minimum of 4 min > 90% of their maximum heart rate and adherence as the attended out of the offered training sessions. Results: During the study period, 64 patients were screened for eligibility, and out of nine eligible patients, eight patients were included and seven completed the intervention (mean age 80, range 66–88). Compliance to the high-intensity interval training using 90% of maximum heart rate as the monitor of intensity was difficult to measure in several patients; however, adherence to the training sessions was 87%. Compliance with nutritional support was 57%. Half the patients felt somewhat overwhelmed by the multiple appointments and six out of seven reported difficulties with the dosage of protein. Conclusions: This one-arm feasibility study indicates that multimodal prehabilitation including high-intensity interval training can be performed by patients with colorectal cancer and WHO performance status I and II. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov: the study current feasibility study was conducted prior to the initiation of a full ongoing randomized trial registered by NCT04167436; date of registration: November 18, 2019. Retrospectively registered. No separate prospectively registration of the feasibility trial was conducted but outlined by the approved study protocol (Danish Scientific Ethical Committee SJ-607). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Exercise plays an essential role in managing cardiovascular disorders, and high-intensity training (HIT) exercise is a potential, time-effective alternative to traditional aerobic exercise. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of HIT program on the time and frequency domains of heart rate variability (HRV) in sports professionals and healthy young adults (18–30 years of age) through a systematic review. METHODS: Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), PubMed, ScienceDirect, Taylor and Francis Online, and Google Scholar were searched for relevant studies. PEDro scale was used to assess internal validity, exclude risk bias, and assess the methodological quality of studies. RESULTS: A total of 4430 search results were obtained by searching for specific keywords, out of which, only 7 studies met the inclusion criteria after removing all the duplicate articles. Our results showed that HIT programs have significant effect on HRV (root mean square of successive difference [RMSSD], mean difference [MD] =13.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] =1.73, 24.97), high-frequency (HF, MD = 381.7, 95% CI = 321.54, 441.86) power, and low- to high-frequency power (MD = -0.10, CI = -0.73, 0.53) ratio in young adult athletes and healthy young adults. No significant difference was found in other HRV variables. CONCLUSION: HIT is an effective exercise program that can cause improvement in parasympathetic and sympathetic cardiac modulation depending on the duration of the HIT program. HIT program can be given for 2–4 weeks to improve HRV in young adults.

This study aims to find the effectiveness of different exercise intensities (high-, moderate-, and low-intensity) on the dynamic and static balance of elderly women. A single-blinded factorial design study was conducted in healthy older adults (>65 years) in 12 weeks. The authors have assessed the Forward Reach Test (FRT), Lateral Reach Test (LRT), One Leg Stand (OLS), Tandem Stand Test (TST) in 60 healthy older women at a gym centre, Fit House located in Bukit Rimau, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Participants were randomly assigned to a High-Intensity Training (HIT) group; (n=15) (Mean age 69.60 ± 3.68) who performed four exercises [Leg Press (LP), Leg Extension (LE), Leg Curl (LC), and Calf Raises (CR)] at 80 to 90% of One-Repetition Maximum (1RM); Moderate-Intensity Training (MIT) group (n=15) (Mean age 69.27 ± 3.41) performed at 65 to 75% of 1RM; Low- Intensity Training (LIT) group (n=15) (Mean age 69.27 ± 1.94) performed at 50 to 60% of 1 RM; and a Control Group (CG) (n = 15) (Mean age 68.67 ± 2.38) with no training. Data was collected at pre-test, 4th, 8th, and 12th weeks of intervention. 60 participants were analysed and the main effect of time showed a statistically significant difference in the mean of all variables (all p < 0.001), and also there was a statistically significant interaction between intervention and time on all variables (all p < 0.001). Different levels of intensity on only the lower extremities muscles had a significant effect on the dynamic balance and static balance of the elderly population. After four weeks of training HIT, MIT, and LIT illustrated significant improvement in dynamic balance, as well as static balance.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 12 weeks of high-intensity training with astaxanthin supplementation on adipokine levels, insulin resistance and lipid profiles in males with obesity. Sixty-eight males with obesity were randomly stratified into four groups of seventeen subjects each: control group (CG), supplement group (SG), training group (TG), and training plus supplement group (TSG). Participants underwent 12 weeks of treatment with astaxanthin or placebo (20 mg/d capsule daily). The training protocol consisted of 36 sessions of high-intensity functional training (HIFT), 60 min/sessions, and three sessions/week. Metabolic profiles, body composition, anthropometrical measurements, cardio-respiratory indices and adipokine [Cq1/TNF-related protein 9 and 2 (CTRP9 and CTRP2) levels, and growth differentiation factors 8 and 15 (GDF8 and GDF15)] were measured. There were significant differences for all indicators between the groups (p < 0.05). Post-hoc analysis indicated that the levels of CTRP9, CTRP2, and GDF8 were different from CG (p < 0.05), although levels of GDF15 were similar to CG (p > 0.05). Levels of GDF8 were similar in the SG and TG groups (p > 0.05), with reductions of GDF15 levels in both training groups (p < 0.05). A total of 12 weeks of astaxanthin supplementation and exercise training decreased adipokines levels, body composition (weight, %fat), anthropometrical factors (BMI), and improved lipid and metabolic profiles. These benefits were greater for men with obesity in the TSG group.

This study investigated whether high-intensity exercise training alters the effect of N-acetylcysteine (a precursor of antioxidant glutathione) on exercise-related muscle ionic shifts. We assigned 20 recreationally-active men to 6 weeks of high-intensity exercise training, comprising three weekly sessions of 4–10 × 20-s all-out bouts interspersed by 2 min recovery (SET, n = 10), or habitual lifestyle maintenance (n = 10). Before and after SET, we measured ionic shifts across the working muscle, using leg arteriovenous balance technique, during one-legged knee-extensor exercise to exhaustion with and without N-acetylcysteine infusion. Furthermore, we sampled vastus lateralis muscle biopsies for analyses of metabolites, mitochondrial respiratory function, and proteins regulating ion transport and antioxidant defense. SET lowered exercise-related H+, K+, lactate−, and Na+ shifts and enhanced exercise performance by ≈45%. While N-acetylcysteine did not affect exercise-related ionic shifts before SET, it lowered H+, HCO3−, and Na+ shifts after SET. SET enhanced muscle mitochondrial respiratory capacity and augmented the abundance of Na+/K+-ATPase subunits (α1 and β1), ATP-sensitive K+ channel subunit (Kir6.2), and monocarboxylate transporter-1, as well as superoxide dismutase-2 and glutathione peroxidase-1. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that high-intensity exercise training not only induces multiple adaptations that enhance the ability to counter exercise-related ionic shifts but also potentiates the effect of N-acetylcysteine on ionic shifts during exercise.