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Background: Physical fitness has been considered an important health indicator. Several factors can impact the increase in physical fitness in children and adolescents, including chronological age, sex and BMI, in addition to training variables such as weekly frequency, session and intervention duration, and types of exercises performed. To know the importance of variables that can impact physical fitness, it is important for health professionals to identify the most efficient way of prescribing physical exercises for children and adolescents. The aim is review and meta-analyses of the effects of supervised and structured physical exercise on the physical fitness trainability of children and adolescents. Methods: Relevant articles were searched in the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase and Scopus platform databases and selected based on the following criteria: children and adolescents aged between 7 and 17 years who performed any type of structured physical exercise compared to a control group without exercise and evaluating physical fitness (strength or muscular power, cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) or speed. The results are reported in accordance with PRISMA 2020. Results: Eighty studies were included with a total of 5769 participants. Strength exercises (ES: 1.073; 95% CI, 0.612–1.533; P < 0.001; I2: 74%), concurrent (ES: 1.054; 95% CI, 0.255–1.853; P < 0.010; I2: 72%) and sports (ES: 0.573; 95% CI, 0.015 to 1.132; P < 0.044; I2: 34%) seem to be the most effective in increasing muscular strength. Aerobic activities (ES: 0.400; 95% CI, 0.258–0.542; P < 0.001; I2: 74%), sports (ES: 0.271; 95% IC, 0.148–0.394; P < 0.001; I2: 15), or HIIT (ES: 0.668; 95% IC, 0.333–1.003; P < 0.001; I2: 29%) resulted in increased CRF (ES: 0.514; 95% IC, 0.220–1.808; P < 0.001; I2: 66%). The practice of physical exercise increased muscular power (ES: 0.241; 95% CI, 0.053–0.429; P = 0.012; I2: 0%). The practice of HIIT impacts MAS gains (ES: 0.048; 95% CI, 0.050 − 0.026; P = 0.029; I2: 44%). Conclusion: Supervised and structured physical exercise can improve muscular strength (15–35%), CRF (5.4–8.5%), muscular power (5.6–11.8%), and MAS (5.4%) trainability in children and adolescents. Sex, BMI of the subjects and type of exercise performed (aerobic activities, exclusive to strength, HIIT or sports) should be considered when prescribing the exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Betaine supplementation, a dietary practice that possesses potential effects on exercise performance, has undergone extensive study. This study aimed to systematically review and meta-analyse betaine supplementation's effects on exercise performance. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar, focusing on studies comparing chronic betaine to a placebo in healthy humans aged 15–60 years, measuring exercise outcomes. Studies with acute betaine supplementation, no control group, or animals were excluded. Quality assessment was done using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool, and a random-effects model was employed for the meta-analysis. The review included 17 studies with 317 participants (21% female). The results revealed a significant effect size of 0.47 (95% CI 0.04 to 0.89) for maximal strength (1RM, 3RM, maximal isokinetic or isometric force), particularly in the lower body (SMD: 0.49, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.98). No significant effects were found for upper body strength, cycling sprint power, bench press throws power, or muscular endurance. However, vertical jumping performance improved significantly (SMD: 0.36, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.69) after excluding a low-quality study. In conclusion, betaine supplementation for at least 7 days significantly enhances muscular strength, especially lower body strength, and shows potential in improving vertical jumping performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Climbing is an intricate sport composed of various disciplines, holds, styles, distances between holds, and levels of difficulty. In highly skilled climbers the potential for further strength-specific adaptations to increase performance may be marginal in elite climbers. With an eye on the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics, more climbers are trying to maximize performance and improve training strategies. The relationships between muscular strength and climbing performance, as well as the role of strength in injury prevention, remain to be fully elucidated. This narrative review seeks to discuss the current literature regarding the effect of resistance training in improving maximal strength, muscle hypertrophy, muscular power, and local muscular endurance on climbing performance, and as a strategy to prevent injuries. Main Body: Since sport climbing requires exerting forces against gravity to maintain grip and move the body along the route, it is generally accepted that a climber's absolute and relative muscular strength are important for climbing performance. Performance characteristics of forearm flexor muscles (hang-time on ledge, force output, rate of force development, and oxidative capacity) discriminate between climbing performance level, climbing styles, and between climbers and non-climbers. Strength of the hand and wrist flexors, shoulders and upper limbs has gained much attention in the scientific literature, and it has been suggested that both general and specific strength training should be part of a climber's training program. Furthermore, the ability to generate sub-maximal force in different work-rest ratios has proved useful, in examining finger flexor endurance capacity while trying to mimic real-world climbing demands. Importantly, fingers and shoulders are the most frequent injury locations in climbing. Due to the high mechanical stress and load on the finger flexors, fingerboard and campus board training should be limited in lower-graded climbers. Coaches should address, acknowledge, and screen for amenorrhea and disordered eating in climbers. Conclusion: Structured low-volume high-resistance training, twice per week hanging from small ledges or a fingerboard, is a feasible approach for climbers. The current injury prevention training aims to increase the level of performance through building tolerance to performance-relevant load exposure and promoting this approach in the climbing field. Key Points: Altering the mechanical and metabolic stress, by using different intensities or varying the number of repetitions and sets, and training frequency per week are the most significant variables in manipulating the overall training volume and the variables requiring emphasis in planning incorporation of resistance training (RT) in climbers. Structured low-volume training at high resistance, twice per week, is a feasible approach to RT in climbers. The following classifications are proposed in climbing: > 15 reps (or hang time > 30 s) strength endurance bias; 8–15 RM (or 3–30 s hang time) hypertrophic bias; 1- 5 RM (or 1–5 s hang time) maximal strength bias. Improving maximal finger and shoulder girdle strength may decrease injury risk; as a result of reducing percentage of maximum strength generated in each move, the overall loading stress in a session is also diminished. Upper body RT programs have proven efficient for improving performance in climbing-specific tests among lower- and intermediate-grade climbers, but whether this training approach may improve climbing performance among advanced or elite climbers remains to be elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess physical activity levels during 3 school days among first cycle students and its relationship with lower limb muscle strength. Twenty-eight students from the Governor of Muscat were participated in this study, (age: 11.8±0.3 years, height: 9.0±148 cm, mass Body: 14.5±34.8 kg, BMI: 5.3±19.2 kg.m-2 To assess physical activity levels, the ActiGraph GT3X device was used for 3 school days during the week (from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, daily). All participating performed two tests of lower limb muscle strength (CMJ - FCM). Study results showed that the average physical activity levels of students during 3 school days were (455.9± 56.7minutes) and (26.3±6.6 minutes) for both sedentary physical behavior (SPA) and high-intensity physical activity (VPA), respectively. The results also revealed that the level of moderate and vigorous physical activity level (MVPA) during 3 days of school reached (67.9 ±17.01minutes), which is approximately (22.6 minutes per day), meaning that there was a noticeable decrease in the levels of physical activity practiced during school days (3 days). per week for first cycle students. The results also showed that there was no relationship between all physical activity levels (SPA, LPA, MPA, VPA, MVPA) and lower limb muscle strength tests (CMJ - FCM) among the students (0.05

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.)

Study purpose. This study aimed at investigating the anthropometric and physiological characteristics that affect soccer skills in advanced-level youth soccer players. Materials and methods. Ninety advanced youth male soccer players from the U-18 division 1 soccer club were enrolled to participate in this study. The participants were classified into three different positions: defenders, midfielders, and forwards. The anthropometric profiles (height, weight, and body fat) and physiological variables (Y-balance test, Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1, running-based anaerobic sprint test, sit-up test, countermovement jump test, drop jump test, arrowhead agility test, and 40-m sprint test) were assessed. Soccerspecific skills were measured using the Loughborough soccer passing and shooting protocol. Results. The multiple regression analysis revealed a statistically significant relationship between physical factors and the Loughborough soccer passing ability (R2 = 0.291, F(15, 74) = 2.200, p = 0.015). The results indicated that the relative maximum power displayed the strongest association with passing ability, followed by sit-up, countermovement jump without and with arm swing, and fatigue index. Concerning the shooting performance, the predictors accounted for 21.8% of the variance, with sit-up being the sole significant predictor among other factors. Conclusions. Our findings underscore the significance of relative maximum power, fatigue tolerance, muscular power, and core strength as valuable predictors for enhancing passing ability. In addition, abdominal strength emerged as a crucial indicator of shooting performance. Soccer coaches could use the essential information described in this study for talent identification purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: North American indigenous populations experience higher rates of obesity and chronic disease compared with nonindigenous populations. Improvements in musculoskeletal fitness can mitigate negative health outcomes, but is not well understood among indigenous populations. This review examines musculoskeletal fitness measures among North American indigenous populations. Methods: A total of 1632 citations were evaluated and 18 studies were included. Results: Comparisons of musculoskeletal fitness measures between North American indigenous men and boys and women and girls were generally not reported. The greatest left and right combined maximal grip strength and maximal leg strength among Inuit boys and men and girls and women were observed among 20-29 years age group. Maximal combined right and left grip strength declined from 1970 to 1990, by an average of 15% among adults and 10% among youth. Maximal leg extension among Inuit has declined even further, averaging 38% among adults and 27% among youth from 1970 to 1990. Inuit men demonstrate greater grip strength and lower leg strength than Russian indigenous men, whereas Inuit women demonstrate greater leg strength. Conclusions: Further research is needed to better understand physical fitness among indigenous peoples and the potential for improving health and reducing chronic disease risk for indigenous peoples through physical fitness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared cardiorespiratory fitness, bio-motor abilities, and body composition indexes of sprint kayakers categorized into three different age groups and two expertise levels of international- and club-level athletes. Seventy-three male juniors (n = 14, age = 16.2 ± 0.8), under 23 [U23 (n = 15, age = 20.2 ± 1.6)], professionals (n = 16, age = 27.1 ± 4.8), club-level (n = 15, age = 26.9 ± 6.6), and international-level (n = 13, age = 27.3 ± 3.2) sprint kayakers were studied. Cardiorespiratory fitness (assessed using incremental exercise test), 500 and 1,000-m paddling performance (assessed using kayak ergometer), upper-body power (assessed using 30 s all-out Wingate test) and strength (assessed through one repetition tests for bench press, cable row, and prone bench pull exercises), as well as body composition indexes (measured using dualenergy X-ray absorptiometry) were evaluated on four occasions separated by 48 h recovery. U23 and, especially, professionals indicated significantly (p < 0.05) greater outcomes for the majority of the cardiorespiratory fitness parameters [maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), velocity corresponding to VO2max, Oxygen pulse, maximal ventilation, and second ventilatory threshold] and 500 and 1,000- m performance. U23 and professional sprint kayakers significantly (p < 0.05) differed in the first ventilatory threshold and 500, and 1,000-m performance but not in VO2max or the second ventilatory threshold. Professionals also showed a lower fat mass, higher muscle mass, and higher strength (bench press, prone bench pull, and seated cable row) and power than U23 and junior kayakers. Strength and power indicators had significantly greater values in U23 athletes compared to juniors. International-level athletes also showed superior VO2max, velocity corresponding to VO2max, middle (500-m), and long-distance (1,000-m) time trial performance, strength and power, lower fat, and higher muscle mass than club-level sprint kayakers. Cardiorespiratory fitness (particularly ventilatory threshold), body composition, and muscle strength/power are the best differentiating factors for sprint kayakers of different ages and expertise levels. These findings could aid coaches in prescribing training programs focusing on improving determining factors in paddling performance, as well as in predicting performance and identifying talent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Dietary supplementation with inorganic nitrate (NO3-) may enhance exercise performance by improving skeletal muscle contractility and metabolism. CrossFit also, is recognized as a new method improves exercise performance but the interaction effects of nitrate supplements and CrossFit on exercise performance are not well known. The present study was done to examine the interaction effects of CrossFit training and beetroot loading on exercise performances in young inactive men. Methods: In this quasi study, twenty inactive men (aged 21-30 years old), were randomly divided into beetroot juice + CrossFit group (n = 10) or placebo + CrossFitt group (n = 10). All participants were performed CrossFit training 3 days a week for 8 weeks. At the end week of the intervention, supplement group received 140 mL beetroot juice containing about 800 mg of NO3 - per day. Exercise performances were evaluated before and after the intervention. Independent and paired sample t-test were used for data analysis and statistical analyses was set at P≤0.05. Results: The results demonstrated that sprint (14.8% vs. 15.5%), anaerobic power (55.7% vs. 75.5%), fatigue index (67.2% vs. 71.5%) and vertical jump test (12.7% vs. 17.8%) were improved in the both groups (P<0.05), however no significant differences were observed between two groups. Peak aerobic power was increased in the both groups (P<0.05), while the increase of peak aerobic power was higher in the supplement group compare to the placebo group (17.9% vs. 13.3%; P<0.05). Conclusion: Generally, we can conclude that CrossFit training caused improves exercise performance but the interaction of beetroot juice and CrossFit cannot enhance these performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Health Sport Rehabilitation is the property of H.S. Skovoroda Kharkiv National Pedagogical University 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.)

Maximal force can be expressed across a range of conditions influenced by the external load and the time available to express force. As a result, several distinct and specific strength qualities exist. Conversely, some expressions of maximal force are similar and can be categorized as a single quality. Therefore, strength assessment systems must be sophisticated enough to isolate and measure each quality while minimizing redundant information. This article presents a contemporary, evidence-based and practical framework that reduces the many strength and speed-strength metrics into 5 distinct qualities. Alongside this, we present case examples of the application of strength diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries implemented policies that included movement restrictions, social distancing and school closures in order to control the spread of the virus. Even though these actions may have been necessary to save lives, there have been some unintended consequences that could affect future public health. Methods: The present study uses data from more than 24,500 Austrian elementary school children (51.2% male) that participated in a state-wide fitness evaluation program, which was initiated in the 2016/17 school year. In addition to body weight and height, data on cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular power, speed, agility, flexibility and object control were collected from three cohorts prior to the implementation of movement restrictions (school years: 2016/17, 2017/18, 2018/19) and one cohort in 2022, after the majority of COVID-19 policies had been lifted. Results: Body mass index percentiles were significantly higher in children post-COVID-19 (p < 0.01). Further, cardiorespiratory endurance, agility and flexibility were significantly lower post-COVID-19 compared to the years preceding movement restrictions (p ≤ 0.01), while absolute muscular strength was higher in the year 2022 (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Given the detrimental effects of COVID-19 policies on physical fitness in children, additional efforts are necessary that include versatile opportunities for physical activity and the promotion of physical fitness in order to modify the observed negative health trajectories and ensure future public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Topical application of menthol to the skin improves perception (i.e., makes subjects feel cooler) and changes submaximal neuromuscular recruitment facilitating force generation. We explored the effect of menthol (0.2% concentration; sprayed on the legs), on perception and maximal, dynamic (DLT) and isometric (IMLT) (weight) lifting tasks. Nine resistance-trained male subjects (mean ± SD: 24 ± 5 years; 75.7 ± 8.8 kg; 174 ± 10 cm; 5 repetition maximum deadlift [5RM] 132.3 ± 28.5 kg) were tested using a repeated measures design; we hypothesized that performance would improve. Before completing the DLT (i.e., deadlift performance 75% 1RM) and a midthigh pull dynamometer IMLT, subjects were sprayed with (~125 ml) of menthol or control spray. Performance, electromyography (root mean squared [rmsEMG], rectus femoris [RF], biceps femoris [BF], and medial gastrocnemius [MG]), perceptions (leg thermal sensation [TSlegs] and comfort [TClegs] and perceived exertion [RPE] and readiness to train), heart rate, and skin temperature were measured. Data were compared using analysis of variance (effect size ηp²) and t test to a 0.05 alpha level supported by Bayesian analysis. Dynamic lifting task performance was unchanged, although BF rmsEMG was higher (i.e., greater muscle activation in final [10th] repetition). Isometric lifting task force production was higher in the menthol spray (148 ± 30 kgf) condition (control spray 140 ± 30 kgf; p = 0.035, ηp² = 0.444) with corresponding higher rmsEMG (BF 3.8 ± 1.46 vs. control spray 2.9 ± 0.34 V; p = 0.049, ηp² = 0.403). TSlegs was lower after menthol spray before IMLT; subjects felt slightly cool. Menthol spray enhances isometric weightlifting performance with corresponding changes in neuromuscular activity, partially supporting our hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ageing affects metabolic flexibility, although physical status could influence this relationship. This cross-sectional study aims to describe and analyse the metabolic flexibility/inflexibility in a group of active older women, together with the impact of ageing and physical status on their oxidation rates and maximal fat oxidation (MFO). Methods: Fifteen volunteers (69.00 ± 6.97 years)—from 24 women—completed an incremental cycling test until the second ventilatory threshold. Intensity increased 10 W each 3 min 15 s, starting at 30 W. Gas exchange, heart rate, rate of perceived effort, pain scale and muscle power were registered, together with lactate. VO2 and VCO2 were considered for fat and carbohydrate oxidation (FATox and CHOox; Frayn's equation) at intensities 60%, 80% and 100% from the peak power in the test (P100). Psychophysiological parameters were compared at MFO/FATmax and P100, together with the energy expenditure calculations around MFO (included FAT and CHO contributions), and the main correlation analyses, with and without P100 and VO2 as covariates. Results: FATox was low at MFO (0.13; 95% CI [0.09–0.17] mg/min/kgFFM; 3.50; 95% CI [2.49–4.50] mg/min/kgFFM), with short oxidation-rate curves shifting down and leftward. CHOox and FATox were both low for reduced power with age (77.14 ± 18.58 W and 39.29 ± 9.17 W at P100 and MFO, respectively), all accompanied by a fall in energy expenditure (5.44 ± 2.58 kcal/min and 3.32 ± 1.55 kcal/min at P100 and MFO, respectively). Power appears as a determinant factor, given its strong and negative significant association with age (r = − 0.85, p < 0.005; R2 = 0.72) and moderate with MFO (r = − 0.54, p = 0.04; R2 = 0.29). In turn, energy expenditure shows a positive and moderate association with muscle power (r = 52, p = 0.04). Conclusions: Despite the drop in substrates oxidation with age, physical status (i.e. larger muscular power and energy expenditure) suggests a key role in the preservation of metabolic health with ageing in active women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Iberoamericana de Psicología del Ejercicio y el Deporte is the property of Revista Iberoamericana de Psicología del Ejercicio y el Deporte 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.)

The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in functional performance such as thermal images of the lower limbs; muscular power and clinical test performed for predict knee mechanics in males and females practitioners of resistance exercise with free-weights. Twenty male and eighteen female practitioners of resistance exercise (RE) with free-weights were recruited for research. All subjects practiced regularly RE 4.8 ± 0.4 days' week-1and total volume of 255.1 ± 9.2 minutes per week. All thermal images were performed in a thermoneutral room with temperature of 21°C with a relative humidity of 65%. Then, all subjects performed three CMJ trials and one min rest between trials. Finally, males and females performed the SLSD test with subjects stood on an 8-inch wooden box, assumed a single-limb stance. The two-way ANOVA yielded main effects for the group in the single leg step down test (SLSD test) (F1.36 = 9.260, p<.004), push-off phase (F1.36 = 27.11, p<.0001) and landing phase (F1.36 = 16.72, p<.0002) showed significant differences (p<.05) between sex. Thermal images showed significant difference only in the mean skin temperature at the posterior left and right leg between males vs. females (p<.05). Pearson's analysis demonstrated that jump height was significantly correlated with SLSD test in males and females. However, male showed negative correlation between skin temperature at the anterior leg and jump height. These finding shown the efficiency thermal images and SLSD test as possible tools to investigate muscle power in males and females that practice RE with free-weights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The fitness levels of Canadian adults declined substantially between 1981 and the years 2007 to 2009, suggesting a reduction in population health. This paper updates the fitness trends of Canadians aged 20 to 69 years by extending the time period to 2017. Data and methods The Canadian Health Measures Survey is a repeated cross-sectional survey that is conducted to produce nationally representative health estimates. Descriptive statistics are presented for fitness measures in 2016 and 2017 by age and sex, and trends in fitness were calculated spanning a period of 10 years (2007 to 2017). The associations between fitness measures and meeting the 2020 Canadian physical activity recommendations were also assessed. Results From 2007 to 2017, there were few statistically significant changes in the fitness levels of Canadian adults. When all ages were combined, there were declining trends in predicted cardiorespiratory fitness, from 39.5 to 36.7 mL•kg-1•min-1 among men and 34.0 to 32.2 mL•kg-1•min-1 among women. Trends indicated declining flexibility among men. In general, meeting the current Canadian moderate-to-vigorous physical activity recommendation was associated with better fitness, particularly in the categories of predicted cardiorespiratory fitness and body composition. Interpretation The periodic assessment of fitness in Canadians provides valuable insight into population health. The present update provides evidence that fitness levels among adults have generally stabilized over the past 10 years. Taken with the reported declines in fitness that occurred from 1981 to the 2007-to-2009 period, this study shows that the fitness of Canadian adults remained low between 2007 to 2009 and 2016 to 2017. It is necessary to explore new ways to help improve the fitness levels of the Canadian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maximal muscular power production is of fundamental importance to human functional capacity and feats of performance. Here, we present a synthesis of literature pertaining to physiological systems that limit maximal muscular power during cyclic actions characteristic of locomotor behaviours, and how they adapt to training. Maximal, cyclic muscular power is known to be the main determinant of sprint cycling performance, and therefore we present this synthesis in the context of sprint cycling. Cyclical power is interactively constrained by force-velocity properties (i.e. maximum force and maximum shortening velocity), activation-relaxation kinetics and muscle coordination across the continuum of cycle frequencies, with the relative influence of each factor being frequency dependent. Muscle cross-sectional area and fibre composition appear to be the most prominent properties influencing maximal muscular power and the power-frequency relationship. Due to the role of muscle fibre composition in determining maximum shortening velocity and activation-relaxation kinetics, it remains unclear how improvable these properties are with training. Increases in maximal muscular power may therefore arise primarily from improvements in maximum force production and neuromuscular coordination via appropriate training. Because maximal efforts may need to be sustained for ~15-60 s within sprint cycling competition, the ability to attenuate fatigue-related power loss is also critical to performance. Within this context, the fatigued state is characterised by impairments in force-velocity properties and activation-relaxation kinetics. A suppression and leftward shift of the power-frequency relationship is subsequently observed. It is not clear if rates of power loss can be improved with training, even in the presence adaptations associated with fatigue-resistance. Increasing maximum power may be most efficacious for improving sustained power during brief maximal efforts, although the inclusion of sprint interval training likely remains beneficial. Therefore, evidence from sprint cycling indicates that brief maximal muscular power production under cyclical conditions can be readily improved via appropriate training, with direct implications for sprint cycling as well as other athletic and health-related pursuits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compares the effects of 2 high-intensity interval training (HIIT) configurations, a 10-5 vs. a 20-10 second work-to-rest ratio, on anaerobic and aerobic performance. Thirty-four individuals were randomly assigned to 10-5-HIIT (n =17) and 20-10-HIIT (n =17) groups to complete 6 cycles of 6 exercises, 3 days a week for 4 weeks. The 10-5-HIIT was performed with 10 s:5 s work-to-rest ratio with 1-minute recovery between cycles, while the 20-10-HIIT was performed with 20 s:10 s work-to-rest ratio followed by a 2-minute recovery. Anaerobic (i.e., peak power [PP], anaerobic capacity [AC], anaerobic power [AP], and total work [TW]) and aerobic fitness (i.e., time to exhaustion [TE], absolute VO2max [A-VO2max], relative VO2max [R-VO2max]) were measured with pre-training and post-training intervention. A significant main effect time was observed for both 10-5-HIIT and 20-10-HIIT (p < 0.05) in PP (9.2%, 5.7%); AC (14.9%, 8.6%); AP (9.0%, 6.2%); TW (15.1%, 8.5%); TE (4.3%, 5.5%); A-VO2max (9.4%, 8.9%); R-VO2max (8.5%, 8.2%), respectively. In conclusion, individuals may be able to achieve similar health benefits as 20-10-HIIT by performing 10-5-HIIT, despite exercising for 50% less total time. High-intensity interval training has been suggested as a "time-efficient" mode of exercise that can mitigate the most significant barrier to physical activity, "lack of time." Both 10-5-HIIT and 20-1 0-HIIT can induce performance adaptations to a similar extent. However, because of shorter time commitment, performing 10-5-HIIT at 10 s:5 s work-to-rest ratio may offer a shorter and equally efficient interval. Functional fitness training during HIIT protocols seems to be as beneficial as ergometer-based HIIT to improve anaerobic and aerobic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Age-groups are commonly implemented in education and sports in order to provide fair and equal opportunities. Various studies, however, have shown a competitive advantage for early born children over their relatively younger peers, which is referred to as relative age effect. The present study examined differences in various components of physical fitness in Austrian elementaryschool children. A total of 18,168 children (51% boys) between 6 and 11 years of age provided valid data on anthropometric characteristics and physical fitness. Specifically, children completed eight fitness tests that assessed cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength and power, speed, agility, flexibility and object control. Across age-specific quartiles, older children were significantly taller and heavier than their younger peers. Older children also displayed better performance for strength and power, speed, agility and object control, while differences in cardio-respiratory endurance were less pronounced. These results highlight the presence of a relative age effect during the elementary school years and emphasize the need to consider individual differences in the evaluation of children’s performance. As all children should be given equal opportunities to engage successfully in physical education and sports, physical education teachers and youth coaches need to be educated on the implications of a relative age effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explored the associations between force-velocity-power (FVP) profiles and inter-limb asymmetries in FVP profiles obtained during unilateral jumping and single-leg isokinetic knee extension and flexion tasks. Thirty (13 senior and 17 junior) basketball players performed unilateral jumps with different levels of unloading (0–40% body mass) and isokinetic knee extension and flexion at different angular velocities (60–300°/s) with each leg. Senior and junior basketball players exhibited similar jump performance, normalized knee extensor and flexor strength, and relatively similar jumping and isokinetic FVP profiles. No significant associations between unilateral jump and isokinetic knee extension and flexion FVP parameters were found (all r ≤ 0.26; p > 0.05). Inter-limb asymmetries had no or very weak associations with unilateral jump height (−0.2 < r < 0.2; all p > 0.1); also, inter-limb asymmetries in jump and isokinetic FVP parameters were generally weakly associated (median r < 0.1). Finally, unilateral jump height was weakly-to-moderately associated with isokinetic F0, jumping Pmax, and normalized knee extension isokinetic peak torque at 60°/s and 240°/s (r = 0.35–0.57). These results suggest that the generalizability of the FVP profile of isolated muscle groups to complex ballistic tasks is weak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Krčmár, M, Krčmárová, B, Bakaľár, I, and Šimonek, J. Acute performance enhancement after squats combined with elastic bands on short sprint and vertical jump height in female athletes. J Strength Cond Res 35(2): 318–324, 2021—The main purpose of this study was to compare back squats with and without elastic bands on sprint and vertical jump height. Fourteen female athletes (21.9 ± 2.3 years; 177.5 ± 6.36 cm; 66.2 ± 6.2 kg; 1 repetition maximum [1RM]/ body mass: 1.96 ± 0.14) agreed to participate. On 4 separate days, athletes walked freely for 5 minutes (CON), performed 3 sets of 4 repetitions at 85% of their 1RM with 20% or 30% (BAND20 or BAND30) of the total resistance originated from elastic bands, or performed 3 sets and 4 repetitions at 85% of their 1RM with an isoinertial load (ISO) before performance tests. Posttesting began 5 and 10 minutes after the last set of squats and included sprints over 3, 5, and 10-m, squat jump (SJ), and countermovement (CMJ) vertical jump height. The results of this study show that all postactivation performance enhancement (PAPE) protocols significantly improved 10-m sprint time (p < 0.05 to p < 0.01). Only BAND30 significantly improved 3-m and 5-m sprint times at both times of posttesting (p < 0.01). Comparison of PAPE protocols showed a significant difference when comparing BAND30 vs. ISO in SJ height in favor of BAND30 only when the best SJ height results from both posttesting times were selected (p < 0.01, g = 1.08). The results of this study suggest that all PAPE protocols were able to enhance short sprints and vertical jump height, but it seems that there is a greater trend to achieve better performance after performing the BAND30 protocol that can be seen by higher effect sizes achieved almost in all tests compared with the other PAPE protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the aerobic power (treadmill running) and muscle power (bench press and bench pull) of Junior/U23 paddlers from Slovakia who won medals in international championships with that of those who did not take the podium. Forty-three Slovak Junior/U23 paddlers (sprint = 24, medalists = 8, non-medalists = 16; slalom = 19, medalists = 11, non-medalists = 8) were tested in 2018 and 2019 after the world championships. The maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and the velocity at maximal oxygen uptake (vVO2max) were determined by the incremental running protocol (0% slope and 1 km⋅h–1 increments every minute until volitional exhaustion). Mean maximal power from the entire concentric phase was recorded during bench press and bench pull exercises by the validated TENDO weightlifting analyzer. No interaction was obtained between medal and canoe discipline for VO2max (p = 0.069, F = 3.495), vVO2max (p = 0.552, F = 0.361) and absolute (bench press: p = 0.486, F = 0.495; bench pull: p = 0.429, F = 0.640) or relative (bench press: p = 0.767, F = 0.089; bench pull: p = 0.696, F = 0.155) mean maximal power. Conversely, a significant effect for the medal on the bench press (absolute p = 0.017, F = 6.170; relative p = 0.043, F = 4.384) and the bench pull (absolute p = 0.041, F = 4.470) mean maximal power were observed. Our study indicates the absolute mean power on the bench press as a prerequisite for success in international Junior/U23 championships of slalom and sprint canoeing. However, the mean power on bench pull seems to have a deeper influence on sprint paddlers when compared to slalom athletes. Regarding the aerobic power, the data from the treadmill testing did not reveal outcomes between medalists and non-medalists. This result can be associated with the lack of specificity of the incremental treadmill testing for canoeing, and future studies are encouraged to propose specific protocols to compare the aerobic power of medalists and non-medalists in international slalom and sprint championships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

External load influences internal load in resistance training (RT). The purpose of the present study was to compare the total volume-load, perceptual and stress responses during three different RT protocols. Twelve resistance-trained men completed three different RT protocols with the back squat and bench press exercises: (1) power (POW) (5 sets of 6 repetitions at 50%1RM, 2-min of rest), (2) hypertrophy (HYP) (5 sets-to-failure at 75%1RM, 2-min of rest), and (3) strength (STR) (5 sets-to-failure at 90%1RM, 3-min of rest). Volume-load (kg × reps.), session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE), training impulse (TRIMP; reps. × sRPE), cortisol, immunoglobulin A (IgA), lactate, and creatine kinase (CK) were assessed before and/or after the sessions. HYP was the most demanding session in terms of volume-load (p < 0.001), TRIMP (p < 0.001), cortisol (p = 0.001), lactate (p < 0.001), and CK (p = 0.001). Despite POW exhibited a greater volume-load than STR (p = 0.016), the latter exhibiting a greater sRPE (p < 0.001), and a greater post-session CK (p = 0.05). However, the TRIMP of STR and POW were not statistically different (152 vs. 260 AU; p = 0.089). These specific responses could be meditated by the presence of muscular failure. When pooling all the sessions, significant correlations were revealed among external and internal stress markers (r = 0.35–0.80; p ≤ 0.05). The use of TRIMP could be recommended as a simple and valid monitoring tool which integrates into a single parameter the internal and the external loads of RT sessions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growth and maturation affect long term physical performance, making the appraisal of athletic ability difficult. We sought to longitudinally track youth soccer players to assess the developmental trajectory of athletic performance over a 6-year period in an English Premier League academy. Age-specific z-scores were calculated for sprint and jump performance from a sample of male youth soccer players (n = 140). A case study approach was used to analyse the longitudinal curves of the six players with the longest tenure. The trajectories of the sprint times of players 1 and 3 were characterised by a marked difference in respective performance levels up until peak height velocity (PHV) when player 1 achieved a substantial increase in sprint speed and player 3 experienced a large decrease. Player 5 was consistently a better performer than player 2 until PHV when the sprint and jump performance of the former markedly decreased and he was overtaken by the latter. Fluctuations in players' physical performance can occur quickly and in drastic fashion. Coaches must be aware that suppressed, or inflated, performance could be temporary and selection and deselection decisions should not be made based on information gathered over a short time period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research aim was to identify the effect of using some plyometric exercises to improve muscular power (vertical jump) and digital achievement in high jump activity among third year's students. The researchers used an experimental method in conformity with research nature between pre-tests and post-tests for the sample research. The sample was formed by students belonging to the physical education and sports institute, University of Mostaganem (Algeria) of the academic year 2018/2019. 40 students were chosen and divided into two groups (experimental 21 students, control 19 students). The vertical jump test of stability and digital achievement test were used. After the treatment of the results by statistical means and through these results, it has been reached several conclusions from them. Plyometric exercises are important to develop vertical jump and digital achievement level in high jump [discussion significant difference (p≤0.05)] among students, and the best improvement of the experimental group based on plyometric exercises is marked comparing to the control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The aim of this study was to investigate if choice over resistance training exercise order affects motor performance and psychological outcomes among elite youth hockey players. Methods. Seventeen elite hockey players (male, n = 14; female, n = 3, age: 15.1 ± 1.1 years) participated in this study. In the first session, individual optimum power loads were calculated in the back squat, jump squat, bench press and bench throw exercises. Then, in four counterbalanced sessions, participants completed three sets of six repetitions in the same exercises loaded with their optimum power loads. In two sessions, athletes used a self-selected order of exercises, while in other two sessions the order was predetermined. Power outputs were estimated with a linear position transducer. Fatigue and enjoyment were measured during and after the sessions using standardized questionnaires. Repeated measures analyses of variance and a paired-sample t-test were used to compare the effects between conditions. Results. We observed trivial to small differences between conditions in power outputs (p ≥ 0.07; ES ≤ 0.21), fatigue (p ≥ 0.42; ES ≤ 0.33) and enjoyment (p = 0.72; ES = 0.05). Conclusion. Given the comparable effects between approaches, both can be used when coaching youth athletes. Self-selecting the order of exercises based on preferences is a feasible and practical coaching option when working with youth athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bringhurst, RF, Wagner, DR, and Schwartz, S. Wingate anaerobic test reliability on the velotron with ice hockey players. J Strength Cond Res 34(6): 1716–1722, 2020— This study evaluated the test-retest reliability of the Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT) performed on a Velotron electromagnetically braked cycle ergometer for power-trained athletes and assessed whether a familiarization trial was necessary to achieve high test-retest reliability. Twenty-one male ice hockey players (age 23.5 ± 4.7 years, mass 86.3 ± 16.6 kg, height 180.9 ± 7.4 cm) from a collegiate club team (Club = 10) and a recreational league (Rec = 11) performed three 30-second WAnTs within 2 weeks and with at least 24 hours between visits. Mean power (MP), anaerobic capacity, peak power (PP), anaerobic power, maximum revolutions per minute, and fatigue index were assessed. Resistance was 8.5% of the participant’s body mass. The effect of time on power output was moderated (p < 0.001, h²p = 0.24) such that a significant increase was observed after a practice trial, but not between subsequent trials for the Club players; no practice effect was observed among Rec players. Extremely high reliability (ICC1,1) was found between trials after excluding the practice trial (MP = 0.973, anaerobic capacity = 0.975, PP = 0.957, and anaerobic power = 0.890). Club players achieved higher outputs despite no significant differences in body size or age compared with Rec players. Ice hockey players performing the 30-second WAnT on the Velotron electromagnetically braked cycle ergometer had highly reliable data, and using a familiarization trial is recommended to increase reliability and achieve higher power outputs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose this study was to examine the effect of body size on countermovement jump (CMJ) kinetics in children. Participants (n = 160) aged 7–11 years, divided equally by sex and into primary school year groups (years 3, 4, 5 and 6), each performed one CMJ on a force platform. The variables bodyweight (BW), peak force (Fmax), in-jump minimum force (IMF), in-jump vertical force range (IFR) and basic rate of force development (BRFD) were attained from the force-time history and then subsequently scaled to account for body size. A significant age, sex and interaction effect were found for the absolute variables BW, IMF, Fmax and IFR (P < 0.05) between school year groups 3 and 4 against year's 5 and 6. Simple main effects highlighted no significant sex differences between the boys and girls for all variables (P > 0.05). No significant age or sex differences were observed for normalised or allometrically scaled values (P > 0.05). The results indicate that girls and boys can be grouped together but that body size must be accounted for to enable accurate conclusions to be drawn independent of growth. Body size significantly effects the representation of CMJ kinetic results and therefore, future studies should report both absolute and scaled values. Future research should develop an age-appropriate criterion method for children in order to determine processed CMJ variables to further investigate the neuromuscular performance of children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study examined the post-activation potentiation effects of body-weight lunge exercises with blood-flow restriction on jump performance. Eighteen anaerobically trained men took part in this study across 3 weeks.Methods: During the first week, participants were familiarised with the lunge exercises with blood-flow restriction and the drop-jump protocol. In the second and third week, participants were randomly allocated to complete body-weight lunges (three sets of eight repetitions) either with or without blood-flow restriction (occlusion set at 130% of systolic blood pressure) to induce post-activation potentiation. Drop-jump performance was assessed between blood-flow conditions, and prior to, and at the third, sixth, ninth, twelfth and fifteenth minute following each lunge exercise. Relationships between mechanical contributors of jump performance and final jump performance were examined via Pearson correlation coefficients.Results: Lunges with blood-flow restriction significantly improved jump height (~ 4.5% ± 0.8%), flight time (~ 3.4% ± 0.3%) and power (~ 4.1% ± 0.3%) within 6-15 min post-exercise (p < 0.05) with the magnitude of effect between blood-flow conditions, moderate-large (0.54-1.16). No significant changes (p > 0.05) were found in jump performance measures following lunge exercises without blood-flow restriction. Significant correlations (p < 0.05) between mechanical contributors of jump performance and jump performance highlighted the potential of blood-flow restriction to enhance stretch-shortening cycle mechanics in the current study.Conclusion: Lunge exercises with blood-flow restriction improved subsequent jump performance in anaerobically trained men. The use of blood-flow restriction may be a practical alternative to heavy resistance training equipment during warm-up protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi-ingredient preworkout supplements (MIPS) are marketed as a means to increase exercise performance. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of a single serving of Bang Pre-Workout Master Blaster (BMB) on upper- and lower-body power output and local muscular endurance. Ten resistance-trained males participated in two exercise testing sessions consisting of the vertical jump (VJ), seated medicine ball throw (SMBT), and local muscular endurance tests for the bench press (BP) and leg extension (LE) exercises at 70% of one-repetition maximum. Participants consumed placebo (PLA) or BMB 30 minutes prior to each exercise session. No difference between trials was observed for SMBT distance or BP repetitions. Vertical jump (p =.006) and LE repetitions (p =.014) were greater for the BMB trial compared with placebo. A significant interaction between trial and time was observed for insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1; p =.044). Serum IGF-1 was significantly increased at both 30 PS (p =.004) and 30PX (p =.038) compared with BL for the BMB trial only. In conclusion, acute ingestion of BMB increased lower-body power and endurance as measured by the VJ and LE repetition tests, respectively, without altering hemodynamics. Furthermore, serum IGF-1 increased in response to acute exercise with BMB supplementation, but not with PLA. No differences in human growth hormone (HGH) or serum cortisol responses were observed between trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are many studies showing acute static stretching to be detrimental to power generation. However, the majority have focused upon the impact of stretching the agonist musculature. To date, few have examined the potential benefits of acute antagonist static stretching; none have focused on upper-body power. Utilising a repeated-measures design, 30 male participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups whereupon they performed four bench-throw tests; two control (NO-STRETCH) and two experimental (STRETCH), in a counter-balanced manner. Prior to the experimental measures, participants undertook a series of static antagonist stretches. Mean Pmax (SD) in the NO-STRETCH trials was 862.76 (146)W and 898.50 (144)W, respectively. For STRETCH trial 1, Pmax = 930.10 (146)W and trial 2, Pmax = 953.36 (136)W. When compared to the respective NO-STRETCH trials, antagonist static stretching did have a significant effect on Pmax for both the initial (P < 0.01, d = 1.33) and the re-stretching procedures (P < 0.01, d = 1.35). A significant difference was also found between the STRETCH trials (P < 0.01, d = 0.46). The results have practical implications for those involved in upper-body power activities. Specifically, incorporating upper-body antagonist static stretching into pre-performance routines might offer a simple and effective means of enhancing agonist power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To help inform strategies aimed at increasing muscular fitness levels, we examined factors associated with childhood muscular fitness (strength and power) that preceded the recently observed secular decline. Data were available from a nationally representative sample of Australian children aged 7–15 years in 1985 (n = 8469). Muscular fitness measures included strength (right and left grip, shoulder extension and flexion, and leg strength) and power (standing long jump distance). Anthropometric (adiposity, fat-free mass), cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), flexibility, speed capability, physical activity (individual and parental), dietary quality and intake (fruit, vegetable, protein) and sociodemographic (area-level socioeconomic status (SES), school type) data were available. Statistical analyses included sex-stratified linear regression. Of all examined factors, measures of adiposity, fat-free mass, CRF, flexibility and speed capability were associated with muscular fitness at levels that met Cohen's threshold for important effects (r-squared = 0.02 to 0.28). These findings highlight the multifactorial relationship between muscular fitness and its determinants. Collectively, these factors were powerful in explaining muscular strength (females: r-squared = 0.32; males: r-squared = 0.41) and muscular power (females: r-squared = 0.36; males: r-squared = 0.42). These findings highlight modifiable and environmental factors that could be targeted to increase childhood muscular fitness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Lawn tennis is one of the most admired racquet sports worldwide which is played either individually or in doubles. Circuit training is a simple method of giving a player a variety of exercises that will improve the three main functions i.e. speed, strength and agility, related to performance on the field. Plyometric training involves lengthening of muscle followed by quick shortening contraction that enhances capability of muscle to produce large amount of force. Aim: To compare the effectiveness of circuit training and plyometric training on speed, strength and agility in aspiring state level Lawn tennis players. Materials and Methods: The present study had an experimental study design. Forty male lawn tennis players in the age group of 18-25 years were included in this comparative study and randomly divided into two groups: Circuit training (Group A) and Plyometric training (Group B) with 20 players in each group. All players were evaluated for lower limb strength, upper limb strength, agility, running speed with Vertical Jump Test, Chest press test, agility-T-Test and 50 meter Dash test. Circuit training group performed 5 minutes warm up, 5 minutes sports specific training, Circuit training 28 to 42 minutes and cool down for 5 minutes. Plyometric group performed warm up 5 minutes, Plyometric training 30 to 60 minutes, 5 minutes sports specific training, cool down for 5 minutes. Paired t-test was used to compare the differences within the group and unpaired t-test was used to compare the difference between groups. Data was collected for all variables at baseline, 4th and end of 8th week. Results: Both groups improved significantly after 8th week but circuit training group showed highly significant difference for upper limb strength, lower limb strength, running speed and agility compared to plyometric training group (p<0.05). Conclusion: Circuit training is an important method for improving upper limb and lower limb strength, running speed and agility in lawn tennis players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Physical fitness during childhood is an important indicator of current and future health. This paper provides an overview of the fitness of Canadian children and youth aged 6 to 19 years. Data and methods: Data are from three cycles of the Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS) spanning a 10-year period: 2007 to 2009 (n = 2,081), 2009 to 2011 (n = 2,133) and 2016 to 2017 (n = 2,070). The CHMS is a comprehensive direct health measures survey conducted on a nationally representative sample of Canadians. Descriptive statistics for measures of cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength and power, flexibility, and body composition are provided by age group and sex. Physical fitness measures are presented for participants who met and did not meet the physical activity and screen time recommendations. Results: Few changes in the fitness measures occurred over the past decade. Cardiorespiratory fitness decreased between 2007-2009 and 2016-2017 in 8 to 10 (52.1 to. 51.0 mL•kg-1•min-1) and 11 to 14 (50.8 to 49.8 mL•kg-1•min-1) year old boys. Girls generally had lower levels of fitness compared to boys, except for flexibility which was higher in girls. Cardiorespiratory fitness was higher in children and youth who met the current Canadian recommendations for physical activity and screen time. Grip strength was higher in boys who met the current Canadian screen time recommendation. Interpretation: Ongoing and periodic surveillance of fitness through the CHMS is important to monitor trends, assess future interventions designed to improve fitness levels at the population level and to increase our understanding of the relationships between fitness and health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: High-intensity interval training (HIT) can impact cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness simultaneously, yet protocols typically focus on lower-body exercise. For older adults however, performing activities of daily living requires upper- and lower-body fitness. Aims: To assess the effects of combined upper- and lower-body HIT on fitness in adults aged > 50 years. Methods: Thirty-six adults (50–81 years; 21 male) were assigned via minimisation to either HIT (n = 18) or a no-exercise control group (CON, n = 18) following baseline assessment of leg extensor muscle power, handgrip strength, cardiorespiratory fitness (predicted VO2max) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The HIT group completed two training sessions per week for 12-weeks, performing a combination of upper-, lower- and full-body exercises using a novel hydraulic resistance ergometer. Data were analysed via ANCOVA with probabilistic inferences made about the clinical relevance of observed effects. Results: All participants completed the intervention with mean (82 ± 6%HRmax) and peak (89 ± 6%HRmax) exercise heart rates confirming a high-intensity training stimulus. Compared with CON, HIT showed possibly small beneficial effects for dominant leg power (10.5%; 90% confidence interval 2.4–19.4%), non-dominant leg power (9.4%; 3.3–16.0%) and non-dominant handgrip strength (6.3%; 1.2–11.5%) while the intervention effect was likely trivial (5.9%; 0.5–11.5%) for dominant handgrip strength. There was a likely small beneficial effect for predicted VO2max (8.4%; 1.8–15.4%) and small-moderate improvements across several domains of HRQoL. Conclusion: Combined upper- and lower-body HIT has small clinically relevant beneficial effects on muscular and cardiorespiratory fitness in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During upper-body tasks, use of the lower body is important for minimizing physiological strain and maximizing performance. The lower body has an integral role during standing upper-body tasks, however, it is less clear if it is also important during seated upper-body tasks. We determined the extent to which the lower body influenced seated arm cranking performance. Eleven males performed incremental (40 + 20 W · 3 min-1) and short-duration maximal effort (5 s, 120 rpm) arm cranking trials with and without lower-body restriction. The lower body was restricted by securing the legs to the seat and suspending them off the floor. Upper-body peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) and maximal power were determined. At the end of the incremental protocol, lower-body restriction reduced VO2peak by 14 ± 12 % (P < 0.01) compared to normal arm cranking. At greater submaximal stages (60-100 % isotime) heart rate, ventilation, RER, and arm-specific exertion increased to a greater extent (all P < 0.05) with lower-body restriction. During short duration maximal arm cranking, lower-body restriction decreased maximal power by 23 ± 9 % (P < 0.01). Results indicated that lower-body restriction limited aerobic capacity, increased physiological strain during high-intensity submaximal exercise, and compromised maximal power generating capacity. These results imply that use of the lower body is critical when performing seated arm cranking. Our findings have implications for exercise testing, training and rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Prescrição e Fisiologia do Exercício is the property of Instituto Brasileiro de Pesquisa e Ensino em Fisiologia do Exercicio 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.)

Copyright of Journal of Health Sciences (2447-8938) is the property of Unopar Cientifica Ciencias Biologicas e da Saude 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.)

The aims of the present study were to generate normative vertical jump height and predicted peak power (Ppeak) data for 9- to 17.9-year-olds and to investigate between-sex and age group differences in these measures. This was a cross-sectional study of 7,614 healthy schoolchildren (boys n = 3,258 and girls n = 4,356, mean [SD] age 12.8 [2.3] years). Each participant performed 2 countermovement jumps; jump height was calculated using a Takei 5414 Jump- DF Digital Vertical (Takei Scientific Instruments Co., Ltd.). The highest jump was used for analysis and in the calculation of predicted Ppeak. Centile smoothed curves, percentiles, and tables for the 3rd, 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th, and 97th percentiles were calculated using Cole's LMS (L [curve Box-Cox], M [curve median], and S [curve coefficient of variation]) method. The 2-way analysis of variance tests showed that maximum jump height (in centimeters) and predicted Ppeak (in watts) were higher in boys than in girls (p < 0.01). Post hoc analyses within sexes showed yearly increases in jump height and Ppeak in all ages. In boys, the maximum jump height and predicted Ppeak 50th percentile ranged from 24.0 to 38.0 cm and from 845.5 to 3061.6 W, respectively. In girls, the 50th percentile for jump height ranged from 22.3 to 27.0 cm, and the predicted Ppeak was 710.1 2036.4 W. For girls, jump height increased yearly from 9 to 1 7.9 years old. Our results provide, for the first time, sex- and age-specific vertical jump height and predicted Ppeak reference standards for Colombian schoolchildren aged 9-17.9 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) is a rare inherited peripheral neuropathy in which quality of life (QoL) is reduced compared with the general population. This paper investigates the relationship between QoL and physical performance in people with CMT with the aim of identifying avenues for future research into rehabilitation strategies. Cross-sectional data was obtained from 10 participants (5 men, 5 women, age 46 ± 13 years, height 1.7 ± 0.1 m, body mass 77 ± 17 kg) with CMT (CMT1A n = 5; CMT-X n = 3; unknown genetic origin n = 2). Participants were evaluated for QoL, falls efficacy (FES), balance, mobility, muscle strength, and power. Physical component score (PCS) of the Short Form-36 (SF-36) was significantly and directly related to higher leg press power (r = 0.75, p = 0.02). Better FES scores were significantly related to faster habitual gait speed (r = −0.70, p = 0.02), left hip abduction, and seated row strength (r = −0.68, p = 0.03; r = −0.73, p = 0.03, respectively). Future research should aim to substantiate these preliminary findings in a larger cohort and investigate whether interventions targeting muscle strength and power can improve QoL and mobility outcomes in people with CMT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Up-to-date research on musculoskeletal- and neuromotor fitness (MSMF) is lacking. The aims of the present paper were to a) establish normative values of MSMF by gender and age, and b) to assess how much of the variance in MSMF can be explained by obesity in adults. Methods: A random selection of 726 Norwegians (20-65 years) participated in a national cross-sectional study. Muscular endurance, muscular strength, explosive power, flexibility and balance were assessed in addition to waist circumference (WC). Results: Females displayed significantly higher scores compared to males on muscular endurance of the back extensors and on the flexibility tests (p < 0.001). Males displayed significantly higher scores than females (p < 0.001) on handgrip strength, modified push-ups, and explosive power. An inverse association was found between age and all MSMF scores for females (Beta:-0.06-(-0.92), p ⩽ 0.044) and males (Beta:-0.15-(0.91), p ⩽ 0.006), where younger participants displayed higher test scores on all MSMF tests, compared to older participants. Furthermore, participants showing higher scores on WC displayed lower scores on the following MSMF tests for both females and males: muscular endurance of the back extensors, balance, flexibility of the shoulder, and explosive power (p < 0.001). Additionally, male participants with higher WC scores showed lower scores on muscular endurance of the upper body and flexibility of the hamstrings compared to males with lower WC scores (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The data provide normative values of MSMF for adults based on age and gender, and support an inverse relationship of MSMF to age and WC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to examine the effects of cognitive training strategies on muscular force in healthy combat sports practitioners. Additionally, moderator variable, particularly cognitive training strategies, as well as the potential mediators of self-efficacy and motivation were examined. Forty-four male combat sports practitioners (23.2 ± 3.1 years, 1.74 ± 0.09 m, and 73.4 ± 9.5 kg) participated in the present study. Participants were randomly assigned to three conditions: mental imagery (MI: n = 14), mental training package (MTP: n = 16: combined of motivational self-talk and imagery), or control condition (CG: n = 14: physical training). Thus, self-efficacy, motivation, muscular power in countermovement jump (CMJ) and medicine ball throw (MBT), and strength performance in bench press and half-squat tests were measured before and after 10 weeks of training in each condition. In addition, MTP, MI, and physical training groups performed three times per week (~90-min per session) in alternative days for 10 weeks (30 sessions in total). In fact, MTP had better muscular power (CMJ, p = 0.03; MBT, p < 0.001) and strength performance (bench press, p = 0.04; half-squat, p = 0.02) than physical training (CG). Furthermore, the MBT performance was higher in the MTP condition than in the MI ( p = 0.04) after the training period. The results for motivation and self-efficacy were similar, with higher motivation and self-efficacy in MTP after the training period than in other conditions (all, p < 0.05). Significant relationships were identified between changes in motivation and changes in muscular force and between changes in self-efficacy and changes in muscular force (all, p < 0.05). Finally, the results obtained in the present study have confirmed the moderator role of cognitive training strategies. The findings also suggest that motivation and self-efficacy may have a mediator's role, and provide direction for psyching-up effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This study examined changes in muscle temperature, electrically evoked muscle contractile properties, and voluntary power before and after a soccer specific active warm-up and subsequent rest period. Ten amateur soccer players performed two experimental sessions that involved performance of a modified FIFA 11+ soccer specific warm-up, followed by a 12.5-min rest period where participants were required to wear either normal clothing or a passive electrical heating garment was applied to the upper thigh muscles. Assessments around the warm-up and cool-down included measures of maximal torque, rate of torque development, muscle temperature ( Tm), and electrically evoked measures of quadriceps contractile function. Tm was increased after the warm-up by 3.2 ± 0.7°C ( P < 0.001). Voluntary and evoked rates of torque development increased after the warm-up between 20% and 30% ( P < 0.05), despite declines in both maximal voluntary torque and voluntary activation ( P < 0.05). Application of a passive heating garment in the cool-down period after the warm-up did not effect variables measured. While Tm was reduced by 1.4 ± 0.4°C after the rest period ( P < 0.001), this value was still higher than pre warm-up levels. Voluntary and evoked rate of torque development remained elevated from pre warm-up levels at the end of the cool-down ( P < 0.05). The soccer specific warm-up elevated muscle temperature by 3.2°C and was associated with concomitant increases of between 20% and 30% in voluntary rate of torque development, which seems explained by elevations in rate-dependent measures of intrinsic muscle contractile function. Application of a passive heating garment did not attenuate declines in muscle temperature during a 12.5-min rest period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garnacho-Castan˜ o, MV, Domı´nguez, R, Ruiz-Solano, P, and Mate´ -Mun˜ oz, JL. Acute physiological and mechanical responses during resistance exercise at the lactate threshold intensity. J Strength Cond Res 29(10): 2867-2873, 2015—The purpose of this study was to examine acute metabolic, mechanical, and cardiac responses to halfsquat (HS) resistance exercise performed at a workload corresponding to the lactate threshold (LT). Thirteen healthy subjects completed 3 HS exercise tests separated by 48-hour rest periods: a maximal strength or 1 repetition maximum (1RM) test, an incremental load test to establish the % 1RM at which the LT was reached, and a constant load test at the LT intensity. During the last test, metabolic, mechanical, and cardiac responses were monitored respectively through blood lactate concentrations, height (H), average power (AP) and peak power (PP) recorded in a countermovement jump test, and heart rate (HR). During the constant load test, lactate concentrations and HR remained stable whereas significant reductions were detected in H, AP, and PP (p # 0.05). Only low correlation was observed between lactate concentrations and the H (r = 0.028), AP (r = 0.072), and PP (r = 0.359) losses produced. Half-squat exercise at the LT elicits stable HR and blood lactate responses within a predominantly aerobic metabolism, although this exercise modality induces significant mechanical fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lack of physical activity is one of the major factors that contribute to health problems of the people. Other major risk factors include obesity, nicotine and alcohol, which go hand in hand with the lack of sport and sport enthusiasm. Statistics show that active people are enjoying longer life with higher quality value, it is important to play sports every day or at least every day, experts recommend physical activity in a 45-minute duration, where the load comply with the age. There are many health benefits of sport and any sport is suitable for all ages. With advancing age and increasing the response time, the body coordination decreases. Sport is an integral part of the harmonious development of the individual Nowadays this is not an abstract ideal, a dream, but the sport is an activity that has real social dimensions. And we must not forget the ancient maxim that a sound mind in a healthy body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An interesting finding from eccentric exercise training interventions is the presence of muscle hypertrophy without changes in maximum concentric strength and/or power. The lack of improvements in concentric strength and/or power could be due to long lasting suppressive effects on muscle force production following eccentric training. Thus, improvements in concentric strength and/or power might not be detected until muscle tissue has recovered (e. g., several weeks post-training). We evaluated alterations in muscular structure (rectus-femoris, RF, and vastus lateralis, VL, thickness and pennation angles) and maximum concentric cycling power (Pmax) 1-week following 8-weeks of eccentric cycling training (2 × /week; 5–10.5 min; 20–55 % of P max ). Pmax was assessed again at 8-weeks post-training. At 1 week post-training, RF and VL thickness increased by 24 ± 4 % and 13 ± 2 %, respectively, and RF and VL pennation angles increased by 31 ± 4 % and 13 ± 1 %, respectively (all P < 0.05). Compared to pre-training values, Pmax increased by 5 ± 1 % and 9 ± 2 % at 1 and 8 weeks post-training, respectively (both P < 0.05). These results demonstrate that short-duration high-intensity eccentric cycling can be a time-effective intervention for improving muscular structure and function in the lower body of healthy individuals. The larger Pmax increase detected at 8-weeks post-training implies that sufficient recovery might be necessary to fully detect changes in muscular power after eccentric cycling training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]