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We aimed to compare the effects of beta-alanine on Traditional Resistance Training (TRAD) or Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFR). Methods: 19 subjects were randomly allocated to a Placebo (n = 10) or beta-alanine (n = 9) group. Subjects from both groups were trained unilaterally (unilateral arm curl) for six weeks, and each arm was trained using a different paradigm (BFR or TRAD). One repetition maximum (1RM) test measurements were performed before and after the strength training program. Work output was accessed as the total weight lifted (repetitions × weight lifted × sets) for the entire strength training program. Results: 1RM or total weight lifted was not increased by beta-alanine supplementation. However, the TRAD-trained arm showed a significantly increased 1RM and total weight lifted compared to the BFR arm (p < 0.05). Conclusion: We conclude that in the short-term (6 weeks) and following the current experimental conditions, beta-alanine does not benefit BFR or TRAD in terms of total weight lifted (volume of training) or maximal strength (1RM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the investigation was to verify the validity and reliability of a low-end 50-Hz Global Navigation Satellite System receiver (GNSSr) for different soccer-specific run distances and average speed assessments. Six soccer players were assessed on two different days while performing eight different running paths with changes of direction for a final total of 44 runs. During the runs, each participant was equipped with the GNSSr, while the time for each single run was recorded using a photocell gate. Reference vs. receiver assessment correspondences for distance and average speed were evaluated by calculating the standard error of the estimate (SEE), coefficient of variation (CV), and mean bias. Residual vs. predicted value comparison was performed by means of Bland-Altman plots. Finally, calculating the intra-class correlations coefficient (ICC) assessed the test-retest reliability of the measurement. Receiver distance assessment showed an SEE of 0.52 m (0.73%), and mean bias of 0.06 m. Receiver average speed assessment showed an SEE of 0.02 m·s-1 (0.74%) and mean bias of 0.001 m·s-1. The Bland-Altman plot showed a small difference between the two assessments with the 95% limits of agreement=±1.08 m/0.046 m·s-1. Receiver distance/speed assessment was found to be reliable, with ICC=0.999. In spite of its low cost, the new low-end GNSSr provides valid and reliable assessments of distance and average speed for young adults performing several standardized running actions of differing lengths within delimited setup spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In table tennis, motor skills are crucial for discriminating player level. However, there is a dearth of studies exploring the impact of a vibrational stimulus on performance. Thirty-four male players (age 25±2 years; body mass index, BMI 23.4±1.2 kg⋅m-2) participated in the study. Seventeen played at international level (IL), while the remaining 17 played at national level (NL). The participants underwent a ball-handling test, the ball score, before (PRE) and after (POST) a vibrational stimulus. Intra-class correlation (ICC) for the ball score result showed good reliability (ICC 0.87 for IL and 0.80 for NL). Repeated measures ANOVA showed differences between groups for ball score (p=0.000) and a significant group x time interaction (p=0.004). Better performances were observed for the IL group than for the NL group, significantly only for POST. Vibration produced positive and negative effects in IL and NL groups, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An analysis of different techniques for the prediction of running performance has been widely investigated to improve athletes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of laboratory tests to predict running performance. The relationship between maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max), velocity associated with VO2 max (vVO2 max), and critical velocity (CV) with 1200, 2400, and 2800 m performances. Thirteen Brazilian Army runners performed an incremental treadmill test starting at 12 km·h-1 with increments of 1 km·h-1 every 3 min until exhaustion to determine VO2 max and vVO2 max. Later, the runners ran at 100, 110, and 120% of vVO2 max to determine CV on treadmill. In addition to the laboratory test, the subjects performed three maximal runs at 1200 (P1200), 2400 (P2400), and 2800 (P2800) m on the track. Data normality was verified using the Shapiro Wilk's and Pearson correlations (P=0.05) were used to determine the relationship between the laboratory variables and the performances field test. The results showed significant correlations for P1200, P2400, and P2800 with CV (r = -0.70) and vVO2 max (r = -0.85). Based on the results of this investigation, we conclude that CV and vVO2 max determined in the laboratory can be used to predict performance in the distances studied in military runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine if the use of the running-based anaerobic sprint test (RAST) could be used to predict anaerobic capacity in running athletes. Eleven male middle-distance runners (21 ± 1 yrs) volunteered to take part in this study. The maximum accumulated oxygen deficit (MAOD) was determined during running on a treadmill, and the RAST was determined during running on a track. None of the variables associated with RAST output (peak power, mean power, fatigue index, and maximal and mean velocities) was significantly correlated with MAOD. Thus, the findings indicate that the use of the RAST does not predict anaerobic capacity in running. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]