Search

Purpose: To examine the test–retest reliability of countermovement jump (CMJ) and isometric strength testing measures in elite-level under-18 and under-23 academy football players. Methods: A total of 36 players performed 3 maximal CMJs and isometric abductor (IABS), adductor (IADS), and posterior chain (IPCS) strength tests on 2 separate test days using dual force plates (CMJ and IPCS) and a portable strength testing device (IABS and IADS). Relative (intraclass correlation coefficient) and absolute (coefficient of variation, standard error of the measurement, and minimal detectable change [MDC%]) reliabilities for 34 CMJ, 10 IABS, 10 IADS, and 11 IPCS measures were analyzed using between-sessions best, mean, and within-session methods. Results: For all methods, relative reliability was good to excellent for all CMJ and all IADS measures and poor to good for all IABS and IPCS measures. Absolute reliability was good (ie, coefficient of variation < 10%) for 27 (best) and 28 (mean) CMJ variables and for 6 (IABS and IADS) and 2 (IPCS) isometric measures. Commonly used CMJ measures (jump height, eccentric duration, and flight-time:contraction-time ratio) had good to excellent relative reliability and an MDC% range of 14.6% to 23.7%. Likewise, commonly used isometric peak force measures for IABS, IADS, and IPCS had good to excellent relative reliability and an MDC% range of 22.2% to 26.4%. Conclusions: Commonly used CMJ and isometric strength measures had good test–retest reliability but might be limited by their MDC%. Rate-of-force-development measures (for all isometric tests) and impulse measures (IPCS) are limited by poor relative and absolute reliability and high MDC%. MDC% statistics should be considered in the context of typical responsiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Existing literature indicates that females generally demonstrate higher fatigue resistance than males during isometric contractions. However, when it comes to single-limb dynamic exercises, the intricate interplay between performance fatigability (PF), cardiovascular responses, and muscle metabolism in relation to sex differences remains underexplored. Purpose: This study investigates how sex affects the relationship between muscle oxidative characteristics and the development of PF during dynamic single-leg exercise. Methods: Twenty-four young healthy participants (12 males vs 12 females) performed a constant-load single-leg knee extension task (85% peak power output; 60 rpm) to exhaustion (TTE). Neuromuscular assessments via transcranial magnetic and peripheral stimulations were conducted before and after exercise to evaluate central and peripheral factors of PF. Vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were obtained for mitochondrial respiration and immunohistochemistry analyses. Results: Participants performed similar total work (28 ± 7 vs 27 ± 14 kJ, P = 0.81) and TTE (371 ± 139 vs 377 ± 158 s, P = 0.98); after the TTE, females' maximal isometric voluntary contraction (MVIC: −36% ± 13% vs −24% ± 9%, P = 0.006) and resting twitch (RT; −65% ± 9% vs −40% ± 24%, P = 0.004) force declined less. No differences were observed in supraspinal neuromuscular factors (P > 0.05). During exercise, the cardiovascular responses differed between sexes. Although fiber type composition was similar (type I: 47% ± 13% vs 56% ± 14%, P = 0.11), males had lower mitochondrial net oxidative capacity (61 ± 30 vs 89 ± 37, P = 0.049) and higher Complex II contribution to maximal respiration (CII; 59% ± 8% vs 48% ± 6%, P < 0.001), which correlated with the decline in MVIC (r = −0.74, P < 0.001) and RT (r = −0.60, P = 0.002). Conclusions: Females display greater resistance to PF during dynamic contractions, likely due to their superior mitochondrial efficiency and lower dependence on mitochondrial CII activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to determine whether acute changes in neuromuscular performance can be detected through countermovement jumps (CMJs) conducted pre- and postpractice sessions in conditions of high or low intensity measured by microsensors technology. Using an observational repeated measures design, data were collected from 10 male collegiate basketball players. Countermovement jump data were collected before and after practice exposures over 4 weeks of preseason. Select CMJ kinetics were compared in conditions of high and low training load intensity to detect neuromuscular performance changes in displacement of the center of mass and kinetics. Kinetic measures were categorized as output, underpinning, and strategy-related variables. We investigated "output" defined as displacement (jump height [JH]), "underpinning" defined as force-related (mean eccentric force, mean concentric force, force at zero velocity), and "strategy" defined as time-related (countermovement depth [CMD], eccentric duration (EccDur), concentric duration [ConcDur]) variables. There were significant condition3time interactions in CMJ variables namely eccentric mean force (EccForce), force at zero velocity (Force@0), CMDepth, EccDur, and ConcDur. In conditions of high intensity, players had significant, but small decreases in EccForce and Force@0, with small increases in CMD, EccDur, and ConDur, respectively. However, there were no significant decreases in JH. High-intensity practice exposures did not impact neuromuscular performance specific to "output," suggesting that collegiate basketball athletes can maintain JH despite alterations in "underpinning" and "strategy-related" variables. This could have relevance in understanding how fatigue associated with higher-intensity training exposures may potentially alter jump strategy and force production capacities due to external load intensity in collegiate basketball athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Philipp, NM, Blackburn, SD, Cabarkapa, D, and Fry, AC. The effects of a low-volume, high-intensity pre-season micro-cycle on neuromuscular performance in collegiate female basketball players. J Strength Cond Res 38(12): 2136–2146, 2024—The use of stretch-shortening cycle (SSC)–based measures of vertical jump performance to monitor responses to training exposures is common practice in sport science. However, evidence is limited with regards to which assessments and metrics may be most sensitive toward changes in training volume and intensity. The aim of this study was to investigate how a reduction in training volume, paralleled with an increase in training intensity, affects neuromuscular performance as measured through a countermovement jump (CMJ) and 10-5 hop test over a preseason period in female collegiate basketball players. Over a 3-week baseline period, athletes completed CMJ and 10-5 hop tests to quantify baseline performance. Measures of neuromuscular response to the changes in training volume and intensity were performed 2 and 4 days into the intervention week, as well as post 72 hours, post 7 days, and post 10 days. External workload data and descriptive analyses of resistance training stimuli suggest that during the intervention week, athletes experienced significantly lower training volumes and increases in training intensity. In response to these changes in training stimulus, athletes showed depressed performance acutely in metrics derived from both the CMJ and 10-5 hop test. Authors also observed a supercompensation effect at post 72 h, post one week, and post 2 weeks for metrics related to lower-limb stiffness and braking rate of force development. These findings highlight that in response to a high-intensity, low-volume training phase, female basketball players experienced alterations in lower-limb function, reflected in both decreases and increases in SSC performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing descending drive needed to sustain submaximal isometric torque makes it difficult to isolate fatigue-related changes to neural excitability because evoked electromyography (EMG) responses are influenced by the relative activation of the motoneuron pool. Hence, it is becoming increasingly common to investigate fatigue using a sustained contraction with maintained output from the motoneuron pool; i.e., matched-surface EMG. Although this approach controls motoneuron pool output, it is unknown how cortical contributions to ongoing muscle activity or common modulation between muscles are altered during a matched-EMG contraction. During separate visits, 16 participants performed a sustained 10-min isometric elbow flexion contraction at 20% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) torque or the level of integrated biceps brachii EMG recorded at 20% MVC torque. Electroencephalographic and surface EMG recordings were obtained from the sensorimotor area and biceps and triceps brachii, respectively. The matched-torque contraction caused increased corticomuscular coherence for biceps brachii (∼75%) and intermuscular coherence (∼97%), but reduced MVC torque (∼33%), voluntary activation (∼9%), and torque steadiness (∼83%). In contrast, the matched-EMG contraction caused reduced MVC torque (∼21%), with no change in coherence, voluntary activation, or EMG steadiness. Furthermore, participants reported higher ratings of perceived effort scores by 6 min into the matched-torque compared with matched-EMG contraction. These findings indicate that, during a matched-torque contraction, the nervous system enhanced common oscillatory activity to continue the task, but this did not prevent degradation of performance (torque steadiness). In contrast, when motoneuron pool output was maintained, other neural strategies were used to preserve muscle output. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: Sustained electromyography (EMG) tasks offer valuable insights into fatigue-related changes to neural excitability, yet nothing is known about communication between the cortex and active muscles. A 10-min matched-EMG contraction reduced maximal torque-generating capacity but did not alter corticomuscular coherence (CMC), intermuscular coherence (IMC), or task performance (EMG steadiness). In contrast, a matched-torque contraction increased CMC and IMC yet further impaired maximal torque and compromised torque steadiness, which reveals unique neural strategies for the two tasks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In recent years, there has been significant advancement in the guidelines for recovery protocols involving heat or cold water immersion. However, comparison between the effects of hot and cold water immersion on key markers of neuromuscular recovery following exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) is lacking. Methods: Thirty physically active males completed an individualized and tailored EIMD protocol immediately followed by one of the following recovery interventions: cold water immersion (11°C, CWI11), hot water immersion (41°C, HWI41), or warm-bath control (36°C, CON36). Gastrointestinal temperature was tracked throughout HWI41. Knee extensors' maximal isokinetic strength (peak torque (T peak)) and explosive strength (late-phase rate of force development (RFD100–200)) were measured before EIMD (pre-), 24 h (post-24 h), and 48 h (post-48 h) post-EIMD. In addition, pressure pain threshold (PPT) was measured to quantify the recovery from muscle soreness. Surface electromyography signals (sEMG) from the vastus lateralis were captured to extract the rates of electromyography rise (REMGR) and the spectral power in the low-frequency band. Results: At post-48 h, T peak returned to baseline values following both CWI11 (−8.3% ± 6.8%, P = 0.079) and HWI41 (−1.4% ± 4.1%, P = 1). In contrast, RFD100–200 (−2.3% ± 29.3%, P = 1) and PPT (+5.6% ± 14.6%, P = 1) returned to baseline values at post-48 h only following HWI41. Spectral analysis of the sEMG signal revealed that the low-frequency band was significantly increased following CWI11 (+9.0% ± 0.52%, P = 0.012). REMGR was unchanged regardless of the condition (all P > 0.05). Conclusions: A single session of HWI41, rather than CWI11, improved the recovery of the late-phase rate of force development following EIMD in physically active males. This suggests that in athletic contexts where a rapid force development is a key performance determinant, hot bath should be preferred over cold bath. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Muscle fatigue is inevitable during resistance exercises, making its monitoring essential for maintaining athletic performance and reducing the risk of injury. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and velocity loss have been reported as reliable indicators of muscle fatigue during explosive resistance exercises. However, their validity has been assessed only indirectly. This study aimed to directly examine the validity of RPE and velocity loss as markers of muscle fatigue during explosive back squat (BS) exercises. Methods: Seventeen trained men performed three BS tasks with varying volumes (low, medium, high) at 65% of their one-repetition maximum. RPE, spectral fatigue index (SFI), and velocity loss were measured throughout the tasks. Results: Significant effects were observed across conditions for overall RPE (p < 0.001) and velocity loss (p < 0.001), while no significant effect was found for SFI. RPE and SFI increased significantly as the tasks progressed (p < 0.001), while velocity did not significantly decrease. Significant but weak correlations were found between RPE and SFI (r = 0.325, p < 0.001) and between velocity loss and SFI (r = 0.224, p < 0.001). Conclusions: These findings suggest that RPE and muscle fatigue levels increase correspondingly, indicating that RPE could serve as a practical, indirect fatigue marker for explosive BS exercises. However, velocity loss may not fully reflect muscle fatigue during lower-body explosive training and should not be used as the sole indicator. Additionally, caution is warranted when applying velocity-related parameters as indirect physiological markers for resistance exercises. The significant but weak correlations between RPE, velocity loss, and SFI suggest that assessing muscle fatigue in lower-body exercises remains challenging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objective: This study investigated the differences in acute fatigue following resistance training performed with low versus high loads in the bench press (BP). Methods: Trained males (n = 5, 21.2 ± 2.77 years; 81.86 ± 6.67 kg; 177 ± 7.52 cm) undertook three protocols with 50%RM and three with 85%RM with volume equalized between protocols: muscular failure protocols (TF, RTP1 and 2), half-maximum repetition protocols (RTP3 and 4), and cluster set protocols (RTP5 and 6). Mechanical performance, lactate, and perceptual responses were analyzed during protocols and at post 0, 24, and 48 h using frequentist (p < 0.05) and Bayesian approaches. Results: Moderate to large (ES ≥ 0.3) and trivial to moderate (ES < 0.3) effects were observed at 0 and 24 h post-session, respectively, across all protocols. TF protocols, particularly RTP1, showed the greatest impairments when compared to the other RTP (ES ≥ 0.3). The Bayesian analysis supported the frequentist results, showing strong-decisive evidence for our data under the model that included protocols as predictors for mechanical, metabolic, and perceptual variables during protocols. Inter-individual variability in responses was observed in the neuromuscular tests, potentially related to the strength level and perceptual responses. Conclusions: In summary, TF generates greater fatigue, while reducing set volume to half of maximum repetitions or including intra-set rest that helps to mitigate fatigue symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with hypertension (HTN) are characterized by exaggerated vascular resistance and mean arterial pressure (MAP) and a compromised leg blood flow (QL) response to exercise recruiting a small muscle mass. However, the impact of hypertension on peripheral hemodynamics and the development of neuromuscular fatigue during locomotor activities, which critically depends on QL, remain unknown. Eight HTN (143 ± 11 mmHg/95 ± 6 mmHg; 45 ± 13 yr) and eight matched (age and activity) controls (120 ± 6 mmHg/77 ± 7 mmHg; CTRL) performed constant-load cycling exercise at 25, 50, and 75 W (for 4 min each) and at 165 ± 41 W (for 5 min). Exercise-induced locomotor muscle fatigue was quantified as the pre- to postexercise change in quadriceps twitch-torque (ΔQtw, peripheral fatigue) and voluntary activation (ΔVA%, central fatigue). QL (Doppler ultrasound) and leg vascular conductance (LVC) were determined during cycling at 25, 50, and 75 W. Heart rate and ventilatory responses were recorded during all intensities. MAP during exercise was, on average, ∼21 mmHg higher (P = 0.002) and LVC ∼39% lower (P = 0.001) in HTN compared with CTRL. QL was consistently between 20 and 30% lower (P = 0.004), and heart rate was significantly higher in HTN. Exercise-induced peripheral (ΔQtw: −53 ± 19% vs. −25 ± 23%) and central (ΔVA%: −7 ± 5% vs. −3 ± 2%) fatigue was significantly greater in HTN compared with CTRL. In addition to an exaggerated MAP, LVC and QL were lower during exercise in HTN compared with CTRL. Given the critical role of QL in determining the development of neuromuscular fatigue, these hemodynamic impairments likely accounted for the faster development of neuromuscular fatigue characterizing hypertensive individuals during locomotor exercise. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: The impact of primary hypertension on the cardiovascular and neuromuscular fatigue response to locomotor exercise is unknown. We compared central and peripheral hemodynamics and the development of central and peripheral fatigue during cycling exercise in patients with stage I/II hypertension and age- and activity-matched healthy individuals. In addition to a significantly elevated blood pressure, hypertensive patients were, compared with their nonhypertensive counterparts, also characterized by considerable leg blood flow limitations and impaired neuromuscular fatigue resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of two protocols of high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) on performance fatigability and its neural and muscular determinants. On different days, 14 healthy males performed two HIIE protocols with different work and recovery durations (matched for total duration, work and recovery intensities, and density): 1) 4 × 4 min at 90% HRpeak,180-s recovery at 70% HRpeak; and 2) 16 × 1 min at 90% HRpeak, 45-s recovery at 70% HRpeak. Pre- to post-HIIE reduction in maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) was used as marker of performance fatigability, while voluntary activation (VA) and potentiated quadriceps twitch force (Qtw) as markers of the neural (i.e. central fatigue) and muscular (i.e. peripheral fatigue) determinants, respectively. In addition, pre- to post-HIIE reduction in twitch force stimulated at 100 Hz (Qtw100) and 10:100 Hz ratio (Qtw10:Qtw100) were used as markers of high- and low-frequency performance fatigability, respectively. The MVIC, VA, Tw, Qtw100, and Qtw10:Qtw100 ratio decreased similarly from pre- to post-HIIE in both HIIE protocols (p < .05). The rating of perceived effort, blood pH, and plasma lactate responses were similar between HIIE protocols (p > .05), but the heart rate was higher in the longer HIIE protocol (p < .05). In conclusion, performance fatigability and its neural and muscular determinants seemed to be independent of the work and recovery durations of the HIIE, at least when HIIE protocols were matched for total work duration, work and recovery intensities, and density. Further, HIIE with long work and recovery might be preferable when the intention is to stress the chronotropic response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In general, it has been suggested that females are more fatigue-resistant than males, with the magnitude of difference being most pronounced during low-intensity sustained contractions. However, the mechanisms for the apparent sex difference have not yet been fully elucidated in the literature. This study aimed to examine sex-related differences in fatigability and patterns of neuromuscular responses for surface electromyographic (sEMG) and mechanomyographic (sMMG) amplitude and frequency (MPF) characteristics during a sustained submaximal bilateral, isometric leg extension muscle action. Methods: A sample of 20 young recreationally active males and females with previous resistance training experience performed a sustained, submaximal, bilateral isometric leg extension until task failure. Time-to-task failure was compared using a nonparametric bootstrap of the 95% confidence interval for the mean difference between males and females. Additionally, patterns of response for sEMG and sMMG amplitude and MPF of the dominant limb were examined using linear mixed effect models. Results: There were no differences in time-to-task failure between males and females. Additionally, neuromuscular responses revealed similar patterns of responses between males and females. Interestingly, sEMG amplitude and sMMG amplitude and MPF all revealed non-linear responses, while sEMG MPF demonstrated linear responses. Conclusion: These data revealed that time-to-task failure was not different between males and females during sustained submaximal bilateral, isometric leg extension. Interestingly, the parallel, non-linear, increases in sEMG and sMMG amplitude may indicate fatigue induced increases in motor unit recruitment, while the parallel decreases in sMMG MPF may be explained by the intrinsic properties of later recruited motor units, which may have inherently lower firing rates than those recruited earlier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing evidence suggests that activation of muscle nerve afferents may inhibit central motor drive, affecting contractile performance of remote exercising muscles. Although these effects are well documented for metaboreceptors, very little is known about the activation of mechano- and mechanonociceptive afferents on performance fatigability. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to examine the influence of mechanoreceptors and nociceptors on performance fatigability. Eight healthy young males undertook four randomized experimental sessions on separate occasions in which the experimental knee extensors were the following: 1) resting (CTRL), 2) passively stretched (ST), 3) resting with delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), or 4) passively stretched with DOMS (DOMS+ST), whereas the contralateral leg performed an isometric time to task failure (TTF). Changes in maximal voluntary contraction (ΔMVC), potentiated twitch force (ΔQtw,pot), and voluntary muscle activation (ΔVA) were also assessed. TTF was reduced in DOMS+ST (−43%) and ST (−29%) compared with CTRL. DOMS+ST also showed a greater reduction of VA (−25% vs. −8%, respectively) and MVC compared with CTRL (−28% vs. −45%, respectively). Rate of perceived exertion (RPE) was significantly increased at the initial stages (20–40–60%) of the TTF in DOMS+ST compared with all conditions. These findings indicate that activation of mechanosensitive and mechanonociceptive afferents of a muscle with DOMS reduces TTF of the contralateral homologous exercising limb, in part, by reducing VA, thereby accelerating mechanisms of central fatigue. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: We found that activation of mechanosensitive and nociceptive nerve afferents of a rested muscle group experiencing delayed onset muscle soreness was associated with reduced exercise performance of the homologous exercising muscles of the contralateral limb. This occurred with lower muscle voluntary activation of the exercising muscle at the point of task failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: High-intensity long-interval training (long-HIIT; interval ≥ 1 min; intensity 85–100% of maximal oxygen uptake [V̇O2max]) is often applied for cardiorespiratory adaptations; however, long-HIIT can also challenge the anaerobic and neuromuscular systems. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of 4-week long-HIIT (11 sessions) on anaerobic capacity, repeated sprint ability (RSA), and neuromuscular function. Methods: Twenty active men (V̇O2max: 44.8 ± 5.3 mL.kg−1.min−1) performed an incremental running test (TINC), a supramaximal test consisting in running until the task failure at 115% of maximum velocity achieved in TINC (VINC) for anaerobic capacity determination, and an RSA test (2 × 6 × 35-m all-out sprints) pre- and post-HIIT. Before and after RSA, the neuromuscular function was assessed with counter movement jumps (CMJ) and knee extensors maximal isometric voluntary contractions (MVC) with femoral nerve electrical stimulation. Long-HIIT consisted of 10 × 1-min runs at 90% of VINC with 1-min recovery. Results: Long-HIIT induced significant increase in V̇O2max (P = 0.0001). Although anaerobic capacity did not change significantly, 60% of the participants improved above the smallest worthwhile change (0.2 × standard deviation of pre-HIIT). The changes in sprint performance over RSA was significantly less post-HIIT than pre (P = 0.01). RSA induced significant drop of MVC, high frequency doublet, voluntary activation and CMJ performance at pre- and post-HIIT (P < 0.01); however, the percentage of reduction from rest to fatigued conditions were not significantly altered at post-HIIT compared to Pre. Conclusions: 11 sessions of long-HIIT over 4-week improved maximal aerobic power but not anaerobic capacity, and neuromuscular function. Yet, neuromuscular fatigue was similar despite greater speeds reached during RSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is generally accepted that local muscular fatigue can negatively affect position sense. Interestingly, it has been proposed that in women, position sense and neuromuscular coordination may be affected by fluctuations of estrogen and progesterone levels. The aim of this study was to examine the possible effect of localized muscle fatigue on knee joint position sense at two phases of the menses: follicular and luteal. Twenty physically active females aged 19–30 years, with normal menses, volunteered for this study. An isokinetic dynamometer was used to evaluate proprioception and perform the fatigue protocol of the knee extensors and flexors. Knee proprioception at rest and after fatigue at three knee target angles (30°, 45°, 60°) was measured. A three-way ANOVA analysis with repeated measures was performed. The results showed that the main effect of fatigue was significant, but no main effect of the menstrual cycle phase was found. Additionally, a main effect was found for the target angle (more flexed target knee joint angles were associated with larger angular error deviations). In conclusion, localized muscle fatigue can significantly reduce the accuracy of active knee joint repositioning in both the luteal and the follicular menstrual phases in young, physically active healthy women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine if fatigue systematically effects the timing of swallowing events and to discuss underlying causes of fatigue other than peripheral neuromuscular fatigue. Design: Pre-post within-subject repeated-measures design. Setting: General acute care hospital and designated stroke center. Participants: Thirteen patients (10 males and 3 females) aged 52-80 years (mean 64.84±9.58 y) with acute stroke and clinically suspected dysphagia. Interventions: Under videofluoroscopy, each participant swallowed a pre- and post-study 1-mL liquid barium bolus and, in an attempt to fatigue the system, 30-45 additional bolus trials of varying amounts (ie, 5 mL, 10 mL, and bite-sized) and consistencies (ie, International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative Level 0-7). Main Outcome Measures: Six temporal sequences (ie, oral, pharyngeal, and pharyngeal delay transit times and durations of laryngeal vestibule closure, cricopharyngeal opening, and laryngeal elevation) for 1-mL liquid boluses were measured pre- and postvideofluoroscopic swallowing study and compared. Results: Findings indicated that only 2 of the 6 temporal factors yielded significant differences pre- to post fatigue. The postvideofluoroscopic 1-mL liquid swallow took longer than the pre-videofluoroscopic 1-mL liquid swallow in terms of pharyngeal transit (1,11=5.362, P=.046) and pharyngeal delay time (F1,11=5.228, P=.048). Conclusions: These findings indicate that peripheral neuromuscular fatigue is unlikely to be the primary cause of the observed changes, as only 2 of the 6 temporal measures—pharyngeal transit time and pharyngeal delay time—were affected. In cases of peripheral neuromuscular fatigue, one would expect increases across all 6 timing measures due to the integrated nature of the swallowing process. Instead, the results suggest that the inconsistencies may stem from a delayed excitatory response of neurons or a delay in synaptic transmission within the nucleus tractus solitarius, potentially associated with stroke. This delay likely contributes to the prolongation of both pharyngeal transit and pharyngeal delay times. Thus, a model focused solely on peripheral neuromuscular fatigue does not fully account for the findings, highlighting the importance of considering central neural mechanisms in the clinical evaluation of swallowing disorders.

Introduction: When an isometric contraction is sustained at a submaximal torque, activation of the motoneuron pool increases, making it difficult to interpret neural excitability alterations. Thus, more recently, isometric contractions with maintained electromyographic (EMG) activity (matched-EMG) are being used to induce fatigue; however, little is known about the neurophysiological adjustments that occur to satisfy the requirements of the task. Methods: For our study, 16 participants performed a 10-min sustained isometric elbow flexion contraction at 20% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) torque or the level of integrated biceps brachii EMG recorded at 20% MVC torque. Surface EMG was used to assess global median frequency, and four fine-wire electrode pairs were used to obtain motor unit (MU) discharge rate from biceps brachii. Torque or EMG steadiness was also assessed throughout the fatiguing contractions. Results: MU discharge rate increased and torque steadiness decreased during the matched-torque contraction; however, MU discharge rate decreased during thematched-EMG contraction, and no changes occurred for EMG steadiness. Data pooled for the two contractions revealed a decrease in global median frequency. Lastly, a greater loss of MVC torque was observed immediately after the matched-torque comparedwith matched-EMGcontraction. Conclusions: These findings indicate that, during amatched-torque fatiguing contraction, the nervous system increases MU discharge rates at the cost of poorer steadiness to maintain the requisite torque. In contrast, during a matched-EMG fatiguing contraction, a reduction of MU discharge rates allows for maintenance of EMG steadiness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extended overreaching without recovreported Overreachery carries risks of nonfunctional overreaching and overtraining. Coaches mitigate these risks by screening for overreaching, often using jump testing; however, many are uncertain about which jump variables to measure. A systematic review was conducted to identify jumping kinetic and kinematic variables associated with heightened training stress. Manuscripts were included if they monitored overreaching in healthy, adult athletes at National Level or above using an unloaded vertical jump test; and excluded if they did not report conmeasured kinetic/kinematic variables, did not include sufficient data to calculate effect sizes (ES) and confidence intervals (95% CD or were not available in English. Fourteen manuscripts met inclusion/exclusion criteria. Most studies had a low (71.4%) or moderate (21.4%) risk of bias. Twenty-nine unique outcome measures were recovreported with 11 reported in multiple studies. The most reported measures were the ratio of flight time to contraction time (15 ES reported), jump height (JH, 12 ES), mean power (7 ES), peak power (PP, 7 ES), mean velocity (5 ES), and peak force (PF, 5 ES). PP, PF, and JH demonstrated the most consistent negative alterations. Coaches should consider metrics that include changes in jump strategy alongside JH in jump screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We analyzed the effects of load magnitude and bar velocity variables on sensitivity to fatigue. Seventeen resistance-trained men (age=25.7±4.9 years; height=177.0±7.2 cm; body mass=77.7±12.3 kg; back-squat 1RM=145.0±33.9 kg; 1RM/body mass=1.86) participated in the study. Pre- and post-exercise changes in the mean propulsive velocity (MPV) and peak velocity (PV) in the back-squat at different intensities were compared with variations in the countermovement jump (CMJ). CMJ height decreased significantly from pre- to post-exercise (∆%=−7.5 to −10.4; p<0.01; ES=0.37 to 0.60). Bar velocity (MPV and PV) decreased across all loads (∆%=−4.0 to −12.5; p<0.01; ES=0.32 to 0.66). The decrease in performance was similar between the CMJ, MPV (40% and 80% 1RM; p=1.00), and PV (80% 1RM; p=1.00). The magnitude of reduction in CMJ performance was greater than MPV (60% 1RM; p=0.05) and PV (40% and 60% 1RM; p<0.01) at the post-exercise moment. Low systematic bias and acceptable levels of agreement were only found between CMJ and MPV at 40% and 80% 1RM (bias=0.35 to 1.59; ICC=0.51 to 0.71; CV=5.1% to 8.5%). These findings suggest that the back-squat at 40% or 80% 1RM using MPV provides optimal sensitivity to monitor fatigue through changes in bar velocity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of muscle mass in modulating performance and perceived fatigability across the entire intensity spectrum during cycling remains unexplored. We hypothesized that at task failure (Tlim), muscle contractile function would decline more following single- (SL) versus double-leg (DL) cycling within severe and extreme intensities, but not moderate and heavy intensities. After DL and SL ramp-incremental tests, on separate days, 11 recreationally active males (V_ O2max: 49.5 ± 7.7 mL·kg-1·min-1) completed SL and DL cycling until Tlim within each intensity domain. Power output for SL trials was set at 60% of the corresponding DL trial. Before and immediately after Tlim, participants performed an isometric maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) coupled with one superimposed and three resting femoral nerve stimulations [100 Hz; 10 Hz; single twitch (Qtw)] to measure performance fatigability. Perceived fatigue, leg pain, dyspnea, and effort were collected during trials. Tlim within each intensity domain was not different between SL and DL (all P > 0.05). MVC declined more for SL versus DL following heavy- (-42 ± 16% vs. -30 ± 18%; P = 0.011) and severe-intensity cycling (-41 ± 12% vs. -31 ± 15%; P = 0.036). Similarly, peak Qtw force declined more for SL following heavy- (-31 ± 12% vs. -22 ± 10%; P = 0.007) and severe-intensity cycling (-49 ± 13% vs. -40 ± 7%; P = 0.048). Except for heavy intensity, voluntary activation reductions were similar between modes. Similarly, except for dyspnea, which was lower for SL versus DL across all domains, ratings of fatigue, pain, and effort were similar at Tlim between exercise modes. Thus, the amount of muscle mass modulates the extent of contractile function impairment in an intensity-dependent manner. NEW & NOTEWORTHY We investigated the modulatory role of muscle mass on performance and perceived fatigability across the entire intensity spectrum. Despite similar time-to-task failure, single-leg cycling resulted in greater impairments in muscle contractile function within the heavy- and severe-intensity domains, but not the moderate- and extreme-intensity domains. Perceived fatigue, pain, and effort were similar between cycling modes. This indicates that the modulatory role of muscle mass on the extent of performance fatigability is intensity domain-dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Neuromuscular fatigue causes a transient reduction of muscle force, and alters the mechanisms of motor control. Whether these alterations increase the risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is still debated. Here we compare the biomechanics of single-leg drop jumps before and after the execution of a fatiguing exercise, evaluating whether this exercise causes biomechanical alterations typically associated with an increased risk of ACL lesion. The intensity of the fatiguing protocol was tailored to the aerobic capacity of each participant, minimizing potential differential effects due to inter-individual variability in fitness. Methods: Twenty-four healthy male volunteers performed single leg drop jumps, before and after a single-set fatiguing session on a cycle ergometer until exhaustion (cadence: 65-70 revolutions per minute). For each participant, the intensity of the fatiguing exercise was set to 110% of the power achieved at their anaerobic threshold, previously identified by means of a cardiopulmonary exercise test. Joint angles and moments, as well as ground reaction forces (GRF) before and after the fatiguing exercise were compared for both the dominant and the non-dominant leg. Results: Following the fatiguing exercise, the hip joint was more extended (landing: Δ=-2.17°, p = 0.005; propulsion: Δ=-1.83°, p = 0.032) and more abducted (landing: Δ=-0.72°, p = 0.01; propulsion: Δ=-1.12°, p = 0.009). Similarly, the knee joint was more extended at landing (non-dominant leg: Δ=-2.67°, p < 0.001; dominant: Δ=-1.4°, p = 0.023), and more abducted at propulsion (both legs: Δ=-0.99°, p < 0.001) and stabilization (both legs: Δ=-1.71°, p < 0.001) hence increasing knee valgus. Fatigue also caused a significant reduction of vertical GRF upon landing (Δ=-0.21 N/kg, p = 0.003), but not during propulsion. Fatigue did not affect joint moments significantly. Conclusion: The increased hip and knee extension, as well as the increased knee abduction we observed after the execution of the fatiguing exercise have been previously identified as risk factors for ACL injury. These results therefore suggest an increased risk of ACL injury after the execution of the participant-tailored fatiguing protocol proposed here. However, the reduced vertical GRF upon landing and the preservation of joint moments are intriguing, as they may suggest the adoption of protective strategies in the fatigued condition to be evaluated in future studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: The fastest velocity specific to each set should be recommended to obtain a more accurate estimation of the actual percentage of completed repetitions (%Rep) because the use of the fastest velocity of the first set could overestimate the %Rep when the successive sets are initiated in a fatigued condition. This study explored the goodness-of-fit and the effect of fatigue on the precision of both generalized and individualized relationships between the velocity loss (%VL) magnitude and the percentage of completed repetitions with respect to the maximal that can be performed to failure (%Rep) in the Smith machine parallel back-squat exercise. Twenty-nine resistance-trained males completed four sets to failure, with a rest period of 2 min, against 75% of the one-repetition maximum. Generalized and individualized %Rep-%VL equations determined in the first set were used to estimate %Rep when a 20%VL was achieved during the three successive sets. Individualized %Rep-%VL relationships (R2 = 0.84–0.99) showed a greater goodness-of-fit than the generalized %Rep-%VL relationship (R2 = 0.82). However, the accuracy in the %Rep estimation was always low (absolute errors > 10%) and comparable for both regression models (p = 0.795). %Rep was progressively overestimated when increasing the number of sets using the MVfastest of the first set (from 15% to 45%), but no meaningful overestimations were observed using the MVfastest of each set (~2%). In conclusion, neither the generalized nor the individual %Rep-%VL equations provide accurate estimations of %Rep during the parallel back-squat exercise executed under fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring athletes' well-being during the competitive season is a common practice in team sports, and countermovement jump (CMJ) is often introduced to monitor neuromuscular fatigue of the players. In this pilot observational study, we aimed to evaluate changes in jump performance in professional volleyball players during their two competitive seasons after introducing different executions of the jump test. Different execution of the flight phase of the jumps was introduced as a differentiating factor. Nine professional volleyball players (age: 23.3 ± 1.9 years; volleyball training experience: 10.4 ± 1.9 years; body height: 192.3 ± 8.3) performed CMJ measurements 1–2 times a week on a contact mat during two competitive seasons, and a total number of 1008 jumps (540 in season 1 and 468 in season 2) was collected. Players' CMJ height significantly decreased (p < 0.05) in season 2 by approximately 4%, and standard deviation of the data reduced by approximately 30%. Our study confirms that the testing procedures need to be rigorous as different execution of the jump may be associated with changes in CMJ height. Execution of the jump should not be interchangeable using the same measurement device, and the technique introduced in season 2 seems to be more appropriate for this measurement device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the effects of power loss (PL) autoregulated volume (PL10 and PL20) with standardized fixed-load (FL) prescription on strength, sports performance, and lean body mass (LBM). Thirty-five female basketball players from a sports college were randomly assigned to 3 experimental groups (PL10, n = 12; PL20, n = 12; and FL, n = 11, respectively) that performed a resistance training (RT) program with wave-like periodization for 10 weeks using the back squat exercise. Assessments performed before (Pre) and after (Post) intervention included assessed 1 repetition maximum (1RM), body composition, 20-m sprint (T20M), change of direction (COD), and jump performance, including countermovement jump with arm swing, maximum vertical jump, and reactive strength index. Three groups showed significant improvements in strength (effect size [ES]: PL10 = 2.98, PL20 = 3.14, and FL = 1.90; p < 0.001) and jump performance (ES: PL10 = 0.74, PL20 = 1.50, and FL = 0.50; p <0.05-0.001). However, PL10 and PL20 demonstrated different advantages in sports performance compared with FL (group x time interaction, p <0.05). Specifically, PL10 significantly improved COD performance (ES = -0.79 ~ -0.53, p <0.01), whereas PL20 showed greater improvements in sprint (ES = -0.57, p <0.05) and jump performance (ES = 0.67-1.64, p <0.01-0.001). Moreover, PL10 resulted in similar gains to PL20 and beneficial improvements compared with FL in LBM, despite performing the least repetitions. Overall, the study indicates that power loss-based autoregulation induces greater gains in LBM and sports performance, as well as eliciting a higher efficiency dose response than standardized FL prescriptions, particularly for PL10. Therefore, incorporating PL monitoring in training programs is recommended, and further studies on power-based RT would be worthwhile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to examine if peripheral fatigue is adjusted during knee extensor (KE) exercise in order not to surpass a critical threshold patient with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and the consequences of this mechanism on the force–duration relationship. Methods: Eleven T1D individuals randomly performed two different sessions in which they performed 60 maximum voluntary contractions (MVC; 3 s contraction, 2 s relaxation). One trial was performed in the non-fatigued state (CTRL) and another after fatiguing neuromuscular stimulation of the KE (FNMES). Peripheral and central fatigue were quantified by the difference between pre and post exercise in quadriceps voluntary activation (ΔVA) and potentiated twitch (ΔPtw). Critical torque (CT) was determined as the average force of the last 12 contractions, whereas W' was calculated as the area above the CT. Results: Although FNMES led to a significant decrease in potentiated twitch (Ptw) before performing the 60-MVCs protocol (p < 0.05), ΔVA (∼ −7.5%), ΔPtw (∼ −39%), and CT (∼816 N) post-MVCs were similar between the two conditions. The difference in W' between CTRL and FNMES was correlated with the level of pre-fatigue induced in FNMES (r2 = 0.60). In addition, W' was correlated with ΔPtw (r2 = 0.62) in the CTRL session. Conclusion: Correlative results in the present study indicate that regulating peripheral fatigue mechanisms at a critical threshold limit W'. Additionally, peripheral fatigue during KE exercise is limited to an individual threshold in T1D patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine whether cold therapy after the first exercise test influences the physical working capacity at the fatigue threshold (PWCFT) during the second exercise test. We hypothesized that cold therapy would delay the onset of PWCFT for the second exercise test relative to the control visit (i.e., no cold therapy). Methods: Eight healthy college-aged men volunteered for the present study. For each of the two visits, subjects performed incremental, single-leg, knee-extensor ergometer, followed by either resting for 30 min (control visit) or having a cold pack applied for 15 min and then resting for 15 min (experimental visit). Then, the same exercise test was performed. The order of visits (control vs. experimental) was randomized for each subject. The exercise indices and PWCFT were determined for each of the two visits and statistically analyzed using two-way repeated measures analysis of variance. Results: The results indicate no significant (p > 0.05) mean differences for maximal power output, heart rate at end-exercise, and PWCFT between the control and cold therapy visits. Moreover, there were no significant (p > 0.05) mean differences between the first and second exercise workbout within each visit. Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that cold therapy did not influence neuromuscular fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Successful performance in grappling combat sports (GCS) can be influenced by the fighter's capacity to sustain high-intensity contractions of the handgrip muscles during combat. This study investigated the influence of GCS experience on the critical torque (CT), impulse above CT (W′), tolerance, and neuromuscular fatigue development during severe-intensity handgrip exercise by comparing fighters and untrained individuals. Eleven GCS fighters and twelve untrained individuals participated in three experimental sessions for handgrip muscles: (1) familiarization with the experimental procedures and strength assessment; (2) an all-out test to determine CT and W′; and (3) intermittent exercise performed in the severe-intensity domain (CT + 15%) until task failure. No significant differences were found in CT and neuromuscular fatigue between groups (p > 0.05). However, GCS fighters showed greater W′ (GCS fighters 2238.8 ± 581.2 N·m·s vs. untrained 1670.4 ± 680.6 N·m·s, p < 0.05) and exercise tolerance (GCS fighters 8.38 ± 2.93 min vs. untrained 5.36 ± 1.42 min, p < 0.05) than untrained individuals. These results suggest that long-term GCS sports training can promote increased tolerance to severe-intensity handgrip exercise and improved W′ without changes in CT or the magnitude of neuromuscular fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Muscle fatigue is inevitable during resistance exercises, making its monitoring essential for maintaining athletic performance and reducing the risk of injury. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and velocity loss have been reported as reliable indicators of muscle fatigue during explosive resistance exercises. However, their validity has been assessed only indirectly. This study aimed to directly examine the validity of RPE and velocity loss as markers of muscle fatigue during explosive back squat (BS) exercises. Methods: Seventeen trained men performed three BS tasks with varying volumes (low, medium, high) at 65% of their one-repetition maximum. RPE, spectral fatigue index (SFI), and velocity loss were measured throughout the tasks. Results: Significant effects were observed across conditions for overall RPE (p < 0.001) and velocity loss (p < 0.001), while no significant effect was found for SFI. RPE and SFI increased significantly as the tasks progressed (p < 0.001), while velocity did not significantly decrease. Significant but weak correlations were found between RPE and SFI (r = 0.325, p < 0.001) and between velocity loss and SFI (r = 0.224, p < 0.001). Conclusions: These findings suggest that RPE and muscle fatigue levels increase correspondingly, indicating that RPE could serve as a practical, indirect fatigue marker for explosive BS exercises. However, velocity loss may not fully reflect muscle fatigue during lower-body explosive training and should not be used as the sole indicator. Additionally, caution is warranted when applying velocity-related parameters as indirect physiological markers for resistance exercises. The significant but weak correlations between RPE, velocity loss, and SFI suggest that assessing muscle fatigue in lower-body exercises remains challenging.

Background/Objective: This study investigated the differences in acute fatigue following resistance training performed with low versus high loads in the bench press (BP). Methods: Trained males (n = 5, 21.2 ± 2.77 years; 81.86 ± 6.67 kg; 177 ± 7.52 cm) undertook three protocols with 50%RM and three with 85%RM with volume equalized between protocols: muscular failure protocols (TF, RTP1 and 2), half-maximum repetition protocols (RTP3 and 4), and cluster set protocols (RTP5 and 6). Mechanical performance, lactate, and perceptual responses were analyzed during protocols and at post 0, 24, and 48 h using frequentist (p < 0.05) and Bayesian approaches. Results: Moderate to large (ES ≥ 0.3) and trivial to moderate (ES < 0.3) effects were observed at 0 and 24 h post-session, respectively, across all protocols. TF protocols, particularly RTP1, showed the greatest impairments when compared to the other RTP (ES ≥ 0.3). The Bayesian analysis supported the frequentist results, showing strong-decisive evidence for our data under the model that included protocols as predictors for mechanical, metabolic, and perceptual variables during protocols. Inter-individual variability in responses was observed in the neuromuscular tests, potentially related to the strength level and perceptual responses. Conclusions: In summary, TF generates greater fatigue, while reducing set volume to half of maximum repetitions or including intra-set rest that helps to mitigate fatigue symptoms.

Background: During self-paced (SP) time trials (TTs), cyclists show unconscious nonrandom variations in power output of up to 10% above and below average. It is unknown what the effects of variations in power output of this magnitude are on physiological, neuromuscular, and perceptual variables. Purpose: To describe physiological, neuromuscular, and perceptual responses of 10-km TTs with an imposed even-paced (EP) and variable-paced (VP) workload. Methods: Healthy male, trained, task-habituated cyclists (N = 9) completed three 10-km TTs. First, an SP TT was completed, the mean workload from which was used as the mean workload of the EP and VP TTs. The EP was performed with an imposed even workload, while VP was performed with imposed variations in workload of ±10% of the mean. In EP and VP, cardiorespiratory, neuromuscular, and perceptual variables were measured. Results: Mean rating of perceived exertion was significantly lower in VP (6.13 [1.16]) compared with EP (6.75 [1.24]), P =.014. No mean differences were found for cardiorespiratory and almost all neuromuscular variables. However, differences were found at individual kilometers corresponding to power-output differences between pacing strategies. Conclusion: Variations in power output during TTs of ±10%, simulating natural variations in power output that are present during SP TTs, evoke minor changes in cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular responses and mostly affect the perceptual response. Rating of perceived exertion is lower when simulating natural variations in power output, compared with EP cycling. The imposed variations in workload seem to provide a psychological rather than a physiological or neuromuscular advantage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionNeuromuscular fatigue causes a transient reduction of muscle force, and alters the mechanisms of motor control. Whether these alterations increase the risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is still debated. Here we compare the biomechanics of single-leg drop jumps before and after the execution of a fatiguing exercise, evaluating whether this exercise causes biomechanical alterations typically associated with an increased risk of ACL lesion. The intensity of the fatiguing protocol was tailored to the aerobic capacity of each participant, minimizing potential differential effects due to inter-individual variability in fitness.MethodsTwenty-four healthy male volunteers performed single leg drop jumps, before and after a single-set fatiguing session on a cycle ergometer until exhaustion (cadence: 65–70 revolutions per minute). For each participant, the intensity of the fatiguing exercise was set to 110% of the power achieved at their anaerobic threshold, previously identified by means of a cardiopulmonary exercise test. Joint angles and moments, as well as ground reaction forces (GRF) before and after the fatiguing exercise were compared for both the dominant and the non-dominant leg.ResultsFollowing the fatiguing exercise, the hip joint was more extended (landing: Δ=−2.17°, p = 0.005; propulsion: Δ=−1.83°, p = 0.032) and more abducted (landing: Δ=−0.72°, p = 0.01; propulsion: Δ=−1.12°, p = 0.009). Similarly, the knee joint was more extended at landing (non-dominant leg: Δ=−2.67°, p

IntroductionWhile using force-plate derived measures of vertical jump performance, reflective of stretch-shortening-cycle (SSC) efficiency is common practice in sport science, there is limited evidence as to which tests and measures may be most sensitive toward neuromuscular fatigue. The aim of this study was to explore the SSC fatigue response to a one-week high-intensity fatiguing phase of training in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division-I basketball players.MethodsThe study timeline consisted of three weeks of baseline measures, one week of high-intensity training, and two weeks of follow-up testing. Countermovement jumps (CMJ) and 10-5 hop tests were performed at baseline, as well as at two time-points during, and three time-points following the fatiguing training period, allowing for performance-comparisons with baseline.ResultsCompared to the weekly training sum at baseline, during the high intensity training phase, athletes were exposed to very large increases in selected external load metrics (ES = 1.44–3.16), suggesting that athletes experienced fatigue acutely, as well as potential longer lasting reductions in performance. Vertical jump data suggested that in the CMJ, traditional metrics such as jump height, as well as metrics reflecting kinetic outputs and movement strategies, were sensitive to the stark increase in high-intensity training exposure. The 10-5 hop test suggested a fatigue-induced loss of tolerance to ground impact reflected by performance reductions in metrics related to jump height and reactive strength qualities.DiscussionThese findings emphasize that when monitoring neuromuscular fatigue, variables and assessments may not be looked at individually, but rather as part of a more global monitoring approach.

Introduction: Repeated sprint cycling exercises (RSE) performed under systemic normobaric hypoxia (HYP) or with blood flow restriction (BFR) are of growing interest. To the best of our knowledge, there is no stringent consensus on the cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular responses between systemic HYP and BFR during RSE. Thus, this study assessed cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular responses to multiple sets of RSE under HYP or with BFR. Methods: According to a crossover design, fifteen men completed RSE (three sets of five 10-s sprints with 20 s of recovery) in normoxia (NOR), HYP, and with bilaterally-cuffed BFR at 45% of resting arterial occlusive pressure during sets in NOR. Power output, cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular responses were assessed. Results: Average peak and mean powers were lower in BFR (dz = 0.87 and dz = 1.23, respectively) and HYP (dz = 0.65 and dz = 1.21, respectively) compared to NOR (p < 0.001). The percentage decrement of power output was greater in BFR (dz = 0.94) and HYP (dz = 0.64) compared to NOR (p < 0.001), as well as in BFR compared to NOR (p = 0.037, dz = 0.30). The percentage decrease of maximal voluntary contraction of the knee extensors after the session was greater in BFR compared to NOR and HYP (p = 0.011, dz = 0.78 and p = 0.027, dz = 0.75, respectively). Accumulated ventilation during exercise was higher in HYP and lower in BFR (p = 0.002, dz = 0.51, and p < 0.001, dz = 0.71, respectively). Peak oxygen consumption was reduced in HYP (p < 0.001, dz = 1.47). Heart rate was lower in BFR during exercise and recovery (p < 0.001, dz = 0.82 and p = 0.012, dz = 0.43, respectively). Finally, aerobic contribution was reduced in HYP compared to NOR (p = 0.002, dz = 0.46) and BFR (p = 0.005, dz = 0.33). Discussion: Thus, this study indicates that power output during RSE is impaired in HYP and BFR and that BFR amplifies neuromuscular fatigue. In contrast, HYP did not impair neuromuscular function but enhanced the ventilatory response along with reduced oxygen consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of beetroot juice supplementation (BEET) on neuromuscular fatigue etiology during simulated soccer match play. In a randomized, double-blind, crossover design, 13 soccer players completed the Loughborough Intermittent Shuttle Test (LIST). Players received either BEET (2×150 mL; ∼8 mmol/L nitrate) or placebo (PLA) for 7 days (6 days prior to the experimental session and on the day of trial, 2 h before LIST). Neuromuscular assessments were performed at baseline, 45 min (half time: HT), and 90 min (full time: FT) following LIST. Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and twitch responses, delivered through electrical femoral nerve stimulation, were used to assess peripheral (quadriceps resting twitch force Qtw,pot) and central fatigue (voluntary activation, VA). Compared with baseline, MVC Qtw,pot and VA values decreased in PLA and BEET conditions at HT and FT (P < 0.05). Compared with PLA, the decrease in MVC and Qtw,pot was significantly attenuated with BEET at HT and FT (P < 0.001). Likewise, BEET attenuated the decrease in VA at HT (P < 0.001, d = 1.3) and FT (P < 0.001, d = 1.5) compared with the PLA condition. Chronic beetroot juice supplementation attenuates neuromuscular fatigue development during simulated soccer matches, and this is due to both central and peripheral factors. Consequently, chronic beetroot may optimize physical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The neural drive to the muscle is the primary determinant of the rate of force development (RFD) in the first 50 ms of a rapid contraction. It is still unproven if repetitive rapid contractions specifically impair the net neural drive to the muscles. To isolate the fatiguing effect of contraction rapidity, 17 male adult volunteers performed 100 burst‐like (i.e., brief force pulses) isometric contractions of the knee extensors. The response to electrically‐evoked single and octet femoral nerve stimulation was measured with high‐density surface electromyography (HD‐sEMG) from the vastus lateralis and medialis muscles. Root mean square (RMS) of each channel of HD‐sEMG was normalized to the corresponding M‐wave peak‐to‐peak amplitude, while muscle fiber conduction velocity (MFCV) was normalized to M‐wave conduction velocity to compensate for changes in sarcolemma properties. Voluntary RFD 0–50 ms decreased (d = −0.56, p < 0.001) while time to peak force (d = 0.90, p < 0.001) and time to RFDpeak increased (d = 0.56, p = 0.034). Relative RMS (d = −1.10, p = 0.006) and MFCV (d = −0.53, p = 0.007) also decreased in the first 50 ms of voluntary contractions. Evoked octet RFD 0–50 ms (d = 0.60, p = 0.020), M‐wave amplitude (d = 0.77, p = 0.009) and conduction velocity (d = 1.75, p < 0.001) all increased. Neural efficacy, i.e., voluntary/octet force ratio, largely decreased (d = −1.50, p < 0.001). We isolated the fatiguing impact of contraction rapidity and found that the decrement in RFD, particularly when calculated in the first 50 ms of muscle contraction, can mainly be explained by a decrease in the net neural drive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Muscle fatigue is nearly unavoidable during resistance exercise, yet evaluating it in such circumstances can be challenging. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the validity of using the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) as a measure of muscle fatigue during non-explosive bench press (BP) exercise. METHODS: Fifteen male collegiate athletes participated in three BP tasks set at 65% of their one-repetition maximum. The RPE, spectral fatigue index (SFI), and velocity loss were measured across different experimental conditions. RESULTS: Significant effects were observed across different experimental conditions for the overall RPE, average velocity loss, and average SFI (all p < 0.001). As the lifting tasks progressed, there were significant increases in the RPE, velocity loss, and SFI (p < 0.001). Additionally, significant differences were observed between the experimental conditions in the RPE (p < 0.001), SFI (p < 0.001), and velocity loss (p < 0.01). A significantly stronger (p < 0.05) correlation was observed between the RPE and SFI (r = 0.68, df = 117, p < 0.001) than between the velocity loss and SFI (r = 0.51, df = 117, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The corresponding changes observed in the RPE, velocity loss, and SFI suggest that both the RPE and velocity loss can be used as indicators of muscle fatigue during non-explosive BP exercise. However, due to the strong correlation between the RPE and SFI, RPE is more effective for reflecting muscle fatigue in non-explosive resistance exercise settings. Regarding ease of use, the RPE is more suitable than velocity loss for assessing muscle fatigue in training scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of inducing post‐activation potentiation (PAP) during prolonged low‐frequency force depression (PLFFD) on motor unit (MU) firing rates. In 10 participants, grouped firing rates of 3027 MUs from the tibialis anterior were recorded with tungsten microelectrodes. Baseline MU firing rates at 25% isometric maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) were ∼14 Hz. A 1 min dorsiflexion MVC reduced torque and maximal MU firing rates (36 Hz) by 49% and 52%, respectively. Following task completion, firing rates at 25% of baseline MVC torque and torque in response to electrically evoked (single twitch, 10 Hz and 50 Hz) stimulation were assessed before and after a 5 s MVC (to induce PAP) every 10 min for 60 min. From 10 to 60 min after task completion, the torque ratios (twitch:50 Hz and 10:50 Hz) were depressed (∼30%) relative to baseline (P < 0.001), indicating PLFFD; and firing rates were higher by ∼15% relative to baseline (P < 0.001). This occurred despite recovery of MVC rates (∼99%) and torque (∼95%) by 10 min (P > 0.3). Inducing PAP during PLFFD increased both low to high torque ratios (twitch and 10:50 Hz) by ∼200% and ∼135%, respectively (P < 0.001) and firing rates were ∼18% lower relative to PLFFD rates (P < 0.001), despite a speeding of evoked contractile properties (P = 0.001). Thus, firing rates appear strongly matched to alterations in torque, rather than contractile speed when modified by contractile history, and lower rates during PAP may be a mechanism to mitigate effects of PLFFD. The effect of activation history on contractile function demonstrates acute compensatory responses of motoneuron output. Key points: Prolonged low frequency force depression (PLFFD) following a sustained 1 min isometric maximal voluntary contraction causes an increase in submaximal mean motor unit (MU) firing rates.Inducing post‐activation potentiation (PAP) during PLFFD, however, causes a reduction in mean submaximal MU firing rates to a level below those at baseline.The mean firing rate reduction during PAP occurs despite a speeding of evoked contractile properties and thus firing rates are more strongly matched to alterations in torque, rather than contractile speed when modified by various contractile histories.The reductions in firing rates during PAP may mitigate the effects of PLFFD during voluntary contractions.These results demonstrate that firing rates are highly responsive to opposing influences on the contractile state and can make rapid compensatory rate adjustments dependent on the active state of the muscle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to maintain upright body balance in sports is significantly complicated by the development of neuromuscular fatigue. This review presents our own and literature data on the magnitude of violations and the duration of restoration of the stability of a vertical posture under the influence of light aerobic and submaximal loads on postural and non-postural muscles in athletes. It has been shown that the degree of decrease in postural stability under the influence of high loads of equal relative power is the same in athletes and untrained individuals, however, a standard light load in absolute value causes a less significant increase in the velocity of body oscillations in athletes. The load on posturally insignificant muscles of the upper limbs also reduces the stability of the vertical posture. Dysregulation of posture after intense exercise may be associated with a deterioration in proprioceptive sensitivity in working muscles, a decrease in the contractile properties of the muscles themselves, as well as a violation of sensorimotor integration in the nerve centers of the posture regulation system due to the development of local and central fatigue. The period of restoration of reduced postural stability after intense exercise in athletes is shortened and is probably associated with the increased capabilities of the oxygen transport and utilization system. Despite a significant amount of work on the regulation of posture during and after exercise, additional research is needed to identify the exact mechanisms of disruption and restoration of postural regulation during neuromuscular fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To observe how knee proprioceptive acuity and quadriceps neuromuscular function change during and after repeated isokinetic knee-extension exercise in patients with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) or meniscus surgery. Methods: Patients with ACLR or meniscus surgery and matched controls (n = 19 in each group) performed knee-flexion replication at 15° and 75°, and quadriceps peak torque (PT), central activation ratio (CAR) and rate of torque development (RTD) at baseline and immediately after every five sets of isokinetic knee-extension exercise (times 1–5). Results: Compared to the baseline, the ACLR and control groups displayed errors in knee-flexion replication at 75° only at time 5 (115.9–155.6%; p ≤ 0.04, d ≥ 0.97), whereas the meniscus surgery group exhibited errors at all time points (142.5–265.6%; p ≤ 0.0003, d ≥ 1.4). Significant percentage reductions in quadriceps CAR were observed between times 4 and 5 in the ACLR group (–5.8%; p = 0.0002, d = 0.96), but not in the meniscus surgery (–1.4%; n.s.) and control (0.1%; n.s.) groups. Significant percentage reductions in quadriceps RTD were observed between times 4 and 5 in the ACLR (–24.2%; p = 0.007, d = 0.99) and meniscus surgery (–23.0%; p = 0.01, d = 0.85) groups, but not in the control group (–0.2%; n.s.). Conclusion: Patients with ACLR or meniscus surgery displayed a greater loss in knee proprioceptive acuity and quadriceps neuromuscular function during and after exercise than healthy individuals. Evidence-based interventions to enhance exercise-induced fatigue resistance should be implemented following ACLR or meniscus surgery, aiming to prevent proprioceptive and neuromuscular changes within the knee joint and quadriceps. Level of evidence: III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Maximum strength was the only neuromuscular performance affected in Pompe disease. • Our study highlights a proximal-distal gradient in muscle weakness intensity. • The weakest muscles were the hip extensors followed by hip abductors and abductors. • Instrumented assessment of the weakest muscles is essential. • Neural and muscular fibers factors of aLOPD are as functional as those of controls. Adults with late-onset Pompe disease (aLOPD) are characterized by muscular contractile tissue deterioration. However, their neuromuscular performances are poorly known. We aimed to compare maximal muscle strength, activation, explosive strength and neuromuscular fatigue between aLOPD and controls. We studied 20 aLOPD and 20 matched controls. Isometric maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) torque was obtained for the hip, knee and ankle muscles. The voluntary activation level (VAL) during knee extensor MVC was assessed using interpolated twitch technique. Explosive strength was evaluated for knee and ankle muscles through the rate of torque development (RTD) during fast contractions. Neuromuscular fatigue was measured during a 30-second contraction of knee flexors and extensors. All muscle MVC torques were significantly lower in aLOPD than controls (p <0.05). The weakest muscles were the hip extensors followed by hip abductors and abductors. Raw value of RTD was lower in aLOPD for the majority of muscles (p <0.05). No intergroup differences were reported for normalized RTD, VAL and neuromuscular fatigue (p-values> 0.05). Our study shows that maximal strength was the only neuromuscular characteristic affected in aLOPD with a proximal-distal intensity gradient. This suggests that the surviving muscle tissue of aLOPD is as functionally efficient as that of control individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Compared with normoxia, repeated short (5–10 s) sprints (>10 efforts) with incomplete recovery (≤30 s) in hypoxia likely cause substantial performance reduction accompanied by larger metabolic disturbances and magnitude of neuromuscular fatigue. However, the effects of hypoxia on performance of repeated long (30 s) "all-out" efforts with near complete recovery (4.5 min) and resulting metabolic and neuromuscular adjustments remain unclear. Purpose: The intention was to compare acute performance, metabolic, and neuromuscular responses across repeated Wingates between hypoxia and normoxia. Methods: On separate visits, 6 male participants performed 4 × 30-second Wingate efforts with 4.5-minute recovery in either hypoxia (fraction of inspired oxygen: 0.145) or normoxia. Responses to exercise (muscle and arterial oxygenation trends, heart rate, and blood lactate concentration) and the integrity of neuromuscular function in the knee extensors were assessed for each exercise bout. Results: Mean (P =.80) and peak (P =.92) power outputs, muscle oxygenation (P =.88), blood lactate concentration (P =.72), and perceptual responses (all Ps >.05) were not different between conditions. Arterial oxygen saturation was significantly lower, and heart rate higher, in hypoxia versus normoxia (P <.001). Maximal voluntary contraction force and peripheral fatigue indices (peak twitch force and doublets at low and high frequencies) decreased across efforts (all Ps <.001) irrespective of conditions (all Ps >.05). Conclusion: Despite heightened arterial hypoxemia and cardiovascular solicitation, hypoxic exposure during 4 repeated 30-second Wingate efforts had no effect on performance and accompanying metabolic and neuromuscular adjustments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is generally accepted that local muscular fatigue can negatively affect position sense. Interestingly, it has been proposed that in women, position sense and neuromuscular coordination may be affected by fluctuations of estrogen and progesterone levels. The aim of this study was to examine the possible effect of localized muscle fatigue on knee joint position sense at two phases of the menses: follicular and luteal. Twenty physically active females aged 19–30 years, with normal menses, volunteered for this study. An isokinetic dynamometer was used to evaluate proprioception and perform the fatigue protocol of the knee extensors and flexors. Knee proprioception at rest and after fatigue at three knee target angles (30°, 45°, 60°) was measured. A three-way ANOVA analysis with repeated measures was performed. The results showed that the main effect of fatigue was significant, but no main effect of the menstrual cycle phase was found. Additionally, a main effect was found for the target angle (more flexed target knee joint angles were associated with larger angular error deviations). In conclusion, localized muscle fatigue can significantly reduce the accuracy of active knee joint repositioning in both the luteal and the follicular menstrual phases in young, physically active healthy women.

Introduction: Repeated sprint cycling exercises (RSE) performed under systemic normobaric hypoxia (HYP) or with blood flow restriction (BFR) are of growing interest. To the best of our knowledge, there is no stringent consensus on the cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular responses between systemic HYP and BFR during RSE. Thus, this study assessed cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular responses to multiple sets of RSE under HYP or with BFR.Methods: According to a crossover design, fifteen men completed RSE (three sets of five 10-s sprints with 20 s of recovery) in normoxia (NOR), HYP, and with bilaterally-cuffed BFR at 45% of resting arterial occlusive pressure during sets in NOR. Power output, cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular responses were assessed.Results: Average peak and mean powers were lower in BFR (dz = 0.87 and dz = 1.23, respectively) and HYP (dz = 0.65 and dz = 1.21, respectively) compared to NOR (p < 0.001). The percentage decrement of power output was greater in BFR (dz = 0.94) and HYP (dz = 0.64) compared to NOR (p < 0.001), as well as in BFR compared to NOR (p = 0.037, dz = 0.30). The percentage decrease of maximal voluntary contraction of the knee extensors after the session was greater in BFR compared to NOR and HYP (p = 0.011, dz = 0.78 and p = 0.027, dz = 0.75, respectively). Accumulated ventilation during exercise was higher in HYP and lower in BFR (p = 0.002, dz = 0.51, and p < 0.001, dz = 0.71, respectively). Peak oxygen consumption was reduced in HYP (p < 0.001, dz = 1.47). Heart rate was lower in BFR during exercise and recovery (p < 0.001, dz = 0.82 and p = 0.012, dz = 0.43, respectively). Finally, aerobic contribution was reduced in HYP compared to NOR (p = 0.002, dz = 0.46) and BFR (p = 0.005, dz = 0.33).Discussion: Thus, this study indicates that power output during RSE is impaired in HYP and BFR and that BFR amplifies neuromuscular fatigue. In contrast, HYP did not impair neuromuscular function but enhanced the ventilatory response along with reduced oxygen consumption.

Purpose: To determine the recovery kinetics of performance, muscle damage, and neuromuscular fatigue following 2 speed-endurance production training (SEPT) protocols in soccer. Methods: Ten well-trained, male soccer athletes randomly completed 3 trials: work-to-rest ratio (SEPT) 1:5, SEPT/1:8, and a control trial. Training load during SEPT was monitored using global positioning system and heart-rate monitors. Performance (isokinetic strength of knee extensors and flexors, speed, and countermovement jump) and muscle damage (delayed-onset muscle soreness [DOMS] and creatine kinase) were evaluated at baseline and at 0, 24, 48 and 72 h posttraining. Maximal voluntary contraction (fatigue index) of knee extensors and flexors was additionally assessed at 1, 2, and 3 h posttraining. Results: Fatigue increased (P <.05) in SEPT/1:5 (∼4–30%) for 3 h and in SEPT/1:8 (∼8–17%) for 2 h. Strength performance declined (P <.05) in both SEPT trials (∼5–20%) for 48 h. Speed decreased (∼4–18%; P <.05) for 72 h in SEPT/1:5 and for 48 h in SEPT/1:8. Countermovement-jump performance decreased (∼7–12%; P <.05) in both SEPT trials for 24 h. DOMS increased (P <.05) in SEPT/1:5 (∼2-fold) for 72 and in SEPT/1:8 (∼1- to 2-fold) for 48 h. Creatine kinase increased (∼1- to 2-fold, P <.05) in both SEPT trials for 72 h. Conclusions: SEPT induces short-term neuromuscular fatigue; provokes a prolonged deterioration of strength (48 h), speed (72 h), and jump performance (24 h); and is associated with a prolonged (72-h) rise of DOMS and creatine kinase. Time for recovery is reduced when longer work-to-rest ratios are applied. Fitness status may affect quality of SEPT and recovery kinetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Drop jumps and high-intensity interval running are relevant training methods to improve explosiveness and endurance performance, respectively. Combined training effects might, however, be achieved by performing interval drop jumping. Purpose: To determine the acute effects of interval drop jumping on oxygen uptake ( V ˙ O 2 )—index of cardioventilatory/oxidative stimulation level and peripheral fatigue—a limiting factor of explosiveness. Methods: Thirteen participants performed three 11-minute interval training sessions during which they ran 15 seconds at 120% of the velocity that elicited maximal V ˙ O 2 ( V ˙ O 2 max) (ITrun), or drop jumped at 7 (ITDJ7) or 9 (ITDJ9) jumps per 15 seconds, interspersed with 15 seconds of passive recovery. V ˙ O 2 and the time spent above 90% of V ˙ O 2 max ( V ˙ T O 2 max) were collected. Peripheral fatigue was quantified via preexercise to postexercise changes in evoked potentiated quadriceps twitch (ΔQT). Power output was estimated during ITDJs using optical sensors. Results: All participants reached 90% of V ˙ O 2 max or higher during ITrun and ITDJ9, but only 11 did during ITDJ7. V ˙ T O 2 max was not different between ITrun and ITDJ9 (145 [76] vs 141 [151] s; P =.92) but was reduced during ITDJ7 (28 [26] s; P =.002). Mean ΔQT in ITDJ9 and ITDJ7 was not different (−17% [9%] vs −14% [8%]; P =.73) and greater than in ITrun (−8% [7%]; P =.001). No alteration in power output was found during ITDJs (37 [10] W·kg−1). Conclusion: Interval drop jumping at a high work rate stimulated the cardioventilatory and oxidative systems to the same extent as interval running, while the exercise-induced increase in fatigue did not compromise drop jump performance. Interval drop jumping might be a relevant strategy to get concomitant improvements in endurance and explosive performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine the variables of acute neuromuscular fatigue (NMF) and its correlation with the serum concentration of creatine kinase (CK) pre- and post-training through performance analysis counter movement jump (CMJ). Methods: Eight male endurance performance athletes performed 3 trials CMJ in force platform before and after fatigue protocol high intensity intermittent running (PFAI) (fatiguing to the maximum possible rate of work for each repetition Protocol). A total of 8 variables were analyzed through CMJ and the biomarker CK before and after fatigue protocol. Results: No significant differences for the variables of mean force MF (P = 0,62. d = 0,03), time to peak force TTPF (P = 0,46. d = 0,43), jump height JH (P = 0,19. d = 0,65), flight time FT (P = 0,26. d = 0,58), relation flight time: contraction time FT: CT (P = 0,74. d = 0,59) and CK (P = 0,79. d = 0,31). Significant differences in variables of peak power (p = 0.008. d = 1,37) and contraction time (p = 0.01. d = 0,76) were found. Finally, Spearman’s correlation (Spearman’s Rho) for non-parametric tests was performed between peak power (PP) (p = 0.002) (r = 0.92) and contraction time (CT) (p = 0.001) (r = 0.97). Conclusions: There is a neuromuscular fatigue state in the acute phase determined of CMJ variables, independent of lineal relation CK production. Likewise, it is highlighted a major parameter the reduction of peak power and increment of contraction time in the neuromuscular performance.

Introduction: Fatigue is the most common and disabling symptominmultiple sclerosis (MS), being reported by 55% to 78% of patients with MS (PwMS). Etiology of MS-related fatigue remains poorly understood, but an increased neuromuscular fatigability (i.e., greater loss of torque during exercise) could contribute to this phenomenon. This study aimed to characterize the correlates of MS-related fatigue in PwMS using a comprehensive group of physiological and psychosocial measures, with a particular focus on fatigability. Methods: Forty-two relapsing-remitting PwMS and 20 healthy subjects were recruited. PwMS were assigned in two groups (high (HF) and low (LF) fatigue) based on two fatigue questionnaires (Fatigue Severity Scale and Modified Fatigue Impact Scale). The main outcomes of this study are derived from incremental cycling completed to task failure (i.e., inability to pedal around 60 rpm). Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), rating of perceived exertion, and central and peripheral parameters measured using transcranial magnetic and peripheral nerve stimulation were assessed in the knee extensor muscles before, during, and after the fatiguing task. Other potential correlates of fatigue were also tested. Results:MVC torque decreased to a greater extent for the HF group than LF group after the third common stage of the incremental fatiguing exercise (-15.7% ± 6.6% vs -5.9% ± 13.0%, P < 0.05), and this occurred concurrently with a higher rating of perceived exertion for HF (11.8 ± 2.5 vs 9.3 ± 2.6, P < 0.05). Subjective parameters (depression, quality of life) were worse for HF compared with LF and healthy subjects (P < 0.001). Moreover, MVC torque loss at the final common stage and maximal heart rate explained 29% of the variance of the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale. Conclusions: These results provide novel insight into the relationship between MS-related fatigue and fatigability among PwMS. The HF group exhibited greater performance fatigability, likely contributing to a higher perceived exertion than the LF group when measured during a dynamic task. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Capital Institute of Physical Education is the property of Shoudu Tiyu Xueyuan 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.)

Background: Recovery is a key factor to promote adaptations and enhance performance. Sprint Interval Training (SIT) is known to be an effective approach to improve overall physical function and health. Although a 2-day rest period is given between SIT sessions, the time-course of recovery after SIT is unknown. Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine whether the neuromuscular and autonomic nervous systems would be impaired 24 and 48 h after an SIT session. Methods: Twenty-five healthy subjects performed an 8 × 15 s all-out session on a braked cycle ergometer with 2 min of rest between repetitions. Isometric maximal voluntary contraction (iMVC) and evoked forces to electrical nerve stimulation during iMVC and at rest were used to assess muscle contractile properties and voluntary activation before (Pre), 1 (Post24h), and 2 (Post48h) days after the session. Two maximal 7 s sprints with two different loads were performed at those same time-points to evaluate the maximal theoretical force (F0), velocity (V0) and maximal power (Pmax) production during a dynamic exercise. Additionally, nocturnal heart rate variability (HRV) was assessed the previous and the three subsequent nights to the exercise bout. Results: No significant impairments were observed for the iMVC or for the force evoked by electrical stimulation 1 day after the session. Similarly, F0, V0, and Pmax were unchanged at Post24h and Post48h. Furthermore, HRV did not reveal any temporal or frequential significant difference the nights following SIT compared to Pre. Conclusion: The results of this study show a full recovery of neuromuscular and autonomic functions a day after an all-out SIT session. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]