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Background and Purpose: Firefighting is a high-risk profession that requires high physical fitness, and it is important to have regular exercise to maintain optimal physical fitness and health. However, there is a little research on the best types and methods of training to improve the performance of firefighters and reduce the volume of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) used in duty. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate and compare the effect of 8 weeks of high-intensity interval and functional training on cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) and the used volume of SCBA in firefighters. Materials and Methods: Thirty-nine firefighters working in the fire department of Tehran participated in the study and were randomly allocated in the three groups of control, HIIT and HIFT. Subjects in HIIT group performed 8 weeks of Tabata exercises with body weight, which were 4 exercises in the first two weeks and were increased to 6 and 8 exercises in the 6th and 8th weeks, respectively. In each session, they had 10 min general warm up, thereafter they performed 8 sets of each exercise, where sets included 20 s activity followed by 10 s rest and 2 min rest was allowed between exercises. Subjects in HIFT group had similar program to the HIIT group, with the exception that the exercises they performed were those exercises in the standard simulated test for firefighters which were performed based on the Tabata methods (20 s activity followed by 10 s rest). Two days before training and 48 hours after the last training session the VO2max test (Bruce’s protocol) and simulated firefighting test were carried out. Results: The statistical analysis of the data showed that HIFT and HIIT caused a significant increase in maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and performance, and a significant decrease in the volume of SCBA used in firefighters (p<0.05), though, these changes were not significantly different between HIIT and HIFT groups (p<0.05). VO2max increased by 6.35% and 4.26% in HIFT and HIIT groups, and performance increased by 5.21 and 4.74%, following HIFT and HIIT, respectively. In addition, VO2/HR increased by 11.64 and 6.52% in HIIT and HIIT groups, respectively, while, the volume of SCBA used decreased by 14.41% and 11.44%, respectively. However, the results of repeated measures of ANOVA showed no significant between-group differences for RER (P=0.269), HR (P=0.595), VE (P=0.392), VE/VO2 ratio (P0.778) =) and VE/VCO2 ratio (P=0.778). Conclusion: According to the results of the present study it could be concluded that 8 weeks of HIFT and HIIT can improve cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max), performance, and the volume of SCBA used in firefighters, and that performing these types of training based on the Tabata’s method is advised to firefighters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to evaluate long-term changes in proteinogenic and non-proteinogenic plasma free amino acids (PFAA). Eleven male endurance triathletes participated in a 9-month study. Blood was collected at rest, immediately after exhaustive exercise, and during 30-min recovery, in four consecutive training phases: transition, general, specific, and competition. Twenty proteinogenic and 22 non-proteinogenic PFAAs were assayed using the LC-ESI-MS/MS technique. The structured training modified the patterns of exercise-induced PFAA response, with the competition phase being the most distinct from the others. Branched-chain amino acids (p = 0.002; η2 = 0.216), phenylalanine (p = 0.015; η2 = 0.153), methionine (p = 0.002; η2 = 0.206), and lysine (p = 0.006; η2 = 0.196) declined more rapidly between rest and exhaustion in the competition phase. Glutamine (p = 0.008; η2 = 0.255), glutamate (p = 0.006; η2 = 0.265), tyrosine (p = 0.001; η2 = 0.195), cystine (p = 0.042; η2 = 0.183), and serine (p < 0.001; η2 = 0.346) levels were reduced in the competition phase. Arginine (p = 0.046; η2 = 0.138) and aspartate (p = 0.011; η2 = 0.171) levels were highest during exercise in the transition phase. During the competition phase, α-aminoadipic acid (p = 0.023; η2 = 0.145), β-aminoisobutyric acid (p = 0.007; η2 = 0.167), β-alanine (p < 0.001; η2 = 0.473), and sarcosine (p = 0.017; η2 = 0.150) levels increased, whereas phosphoethanolamine (p = 0.037; η2 = 0.189) and taurine (p = 0.008; η2 = 0.251) concentrations decreased. Overtraining indicators were not elevated. The altered PFAA profile suggests adaptations within energy metabolic pathways such as the tricarboxylic acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, ammonia neutralization, the purine nucleotide cycle, and buffering of intracellular H+ ions. The changes seem to reflect normal adaptations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Firefighting is a high-risk profession that requires high physical fitness, and it is important to have regular exercise to maintain optimal physical fitness and health. However, there is a little research on the best types and methods of training to improve the performance of firefighters and reduce the volume of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) used in duty. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate and compare the effect of 8 weeks of high-intensity interval and functional training on cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) and the used volume of SCBA in firefighters.Materials and Methods: Thirty-nine firefighters working in the fire department of Tehran participated in the study and were randomly allocated in the three groups of control, HIIT and HIFT. Subjects in HIIT group performed 8 weeks of Tabata exercises with body weight, which were 4 exercises in the first two weeks and were increased to 6 and 8 exercises in the 6th and 8th weeks, respectively. In each session, they had 10 min general warm up, thereafter they performed 8 sets of each exercise, where sets included 20 s activity followed by 10 s rest and 2 min rest was allowed between exercises. Subjects in HIFT group had similar program to the HIIT group, with the exception that the exercises they performed were those exercises in the standard simulated test for firefighters which were performed based on the Tabata methods (20 s activity followed by 10 s rest). Two days before training and 48 hours after the last training session the VO2max test (Bruce’s protocol) and simulated firefighting test were carried out.Results: The statistical analysis of the data showed that HIFT and HIIT caused a significant increase in maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and performance, and a significant decrease in the volume of SCBA used in firefighters (p

As cardiorespiratory capacity is an important factor of an overall quality of life and a significant indicator of physical fitness, its development should begin from early childhood. The goal of the research is to determine the differences in the quality of life and cardiorespiratory abilities of primary education students. A total of 651 fourth-grade primary school students from the Republic of Croatia participated in the research. The average age of the subjects was 10.38±0.50 years, and the sample was divided in two subsamples according to gender, 316 girls (10.30±0.47 years) and 335 boys (10.34±0.49 years). Body height was measured with a portable altimeter, while body mass, body mass index -- BMI, percentage of fat, level of obesity, and muscle mass were measured with a two-frequency body composition analyser (TANITA DC-360P). Waist circumference and hip circumference were measured with a centimeter tape, while the ratio of the waist and hip circumference (WHR index) was calculated based on their ratio. Cardiorespiratory capacity was assessed with a multi-stage 20m-running test (20MSRT Shuttle run test). For assessing the qualty of life, the researchers used a Croatian version of the KIDSCREEN-10 Questionnaire. The research results show a high mean value of the overall life quality assessment (4.33). The identification of individual differences between the researched groups demonstrated that students with a high level of cardiorespiratory capacity rate their quality of life significantly higher than students with a low or moderate cardiorespiratory capacity. According to the results, 41.01% of students have an unsatisfactory level of cardiorespiratory ability. There are statistically significant differences in morphological characteristics and cardiorespiraory capacity among the groups classified according to their level of cardiorespiratory capacity. Children with a higher level of cardiorespiratory capacity report a better quality of life and have better indeces of physical nutrition. Physical exercises used to boost the development of the cardiorespiratory capacity of children indirectly impact the prevention of obesity and can diminish other factors of cardiovascular risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundPhysical exertion during exercise often leads to increased oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, significantly affecting physical performance. Current strategies to mitigate these effects are limited by their effectiveness and potential side effects. Molecular hydrogen (H₂) has gained attention for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have suggested that H2 supplementation contributes to antioxidant potential and anti-fatigue during exercise, but the variance in the observations and study protocols is presented across those studies.ObjectiveThis systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to comprehensively characterize the effects of H₂ supplementation on physical performance (i.e., endurance, muscular strength, and explosive power), providing knowledge that can inform strategies using H2 for enhancing physical performance.MethodsWe conducted a literature search of six databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, Sport-Discus, Embase, and PsycINFO) according to the PRISMA guidelines. The data were extracted from the included studies and converted into the standardized mean difference (SMD). After that, we performed random-effects meta-analyses and used the I2 statistic to evaluate heterogeneity. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) was used to assess the quality of the evidence obtained from this meta-analysis.ResultsIn total, 27 publications consisting of 597 participants were included. The search finally included aerobic endurance, anaerobic endurance, muscular strength, lower limb explosive power, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), blood lactate (BLA), and average heart rate (HRavg) in the effect size (ES) synthesis. The ES of H2 on aerobic endurance, including V̇O2max (SMD = 0.09, p = 0.394; I2 = 0%) and aerobic endurance exercise (SMD = 0.04, p = 0.687; I2 = 0%), were not significant and trivial; the ES of H2 on 30 s maximal anaerobic endurance (SMD = 0.19, p = 0.239; I2 = 0%) was not significant and trivial; the ES of H2 on muscular strength (SMD = 0.19, p = 0.265; I2 = 0%) was not significant and trivial; but the ES of H2 on lower limb explosive power (SMD = 0.30, p = 0.018; I2 = 0%) was significant and small. In addition, H2 reduces RPE (SMD = −0.37, p = 0.009; I2 = 58.0%) and BLA (SMD = −0.37, p = 0.001; I2 = 22.0%) during exercise, but not HRavg (SMD = −0.27, p = 0.094; I2 = 0%).ConclusionThese findings suggest that H2 supplementation is favorable in healthy adults to improve lower limb explosive power, alleviate fatigue, and boost BLA clearance, but may not be effectively improving aerobic and anaerobic endurance and muscular strength. Future studies with more rigorous designs are thus needed to examine and confirm the effects of H2 on these important functionalities in humans.Systematic review registrationhttp://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO.

Background: Peak oxygen pulse (O2Ppeak) can reflect the condition of cardiovascular function and provide supplementary information for maximal oxygen uptake, but its direct measurement requires the precise instruments under the guidance of professionals, and the subjects should strive to the state of exhaustion. Objectives: The aim of the present cross-sectional study was to establish a prediction equation to estimate O2Ppeak of Chinese adults aged 20–39, from routine measures of anthropometry and cardiovascular function. Methods: 252 adults (20–39 years old) were recruited and randomly allocated to the validation group (n = 226) and the cross-validation group (n = 26). To be included in the study, subjects were required to be healthy, none-professional sports experience (healthy individuals who are not athletes or have had experience as athletes), and no medication taken recently. Subjects with cardiovascular diseases, lung disease and musculoskeletal diseases were excluded. The subjects’ anthropometric and cardiovascular variables were measured and each subject performed a maximal exercise test on an electromagnetic cycle ergometer. Results: The O2Ppeak estimated equation was developed using multiple linear regression models, O2Ppeak = 30.394 + 0.083 x body mass (kg) - 0.090 x resting heart rate (bpm) - 0.157 x age (years) - 2.710 x gender (1 = male, 2 = female) - 0.035 x systolic blood pressure (mmHg). The equation had the coefficient of determination (R2) = 0.804 and the standard error of estimate (SEE) = 1.619 ml/beat. An ANOVA and Akaike’s information criterion (AIC) were tested. Bland-Altman graphs were plotted to examine the distribution of bias. Cross-validation estimated O2Ppeak and directly measured O2Ppeak did not show significant difference while had a strong positive correlation (r = 0.89, p

Abstract Objective This study focused on evaluating whether high-intensity interval training (HIIT) had an effect on aerobic capacity and fatigue among patients with prostate cancer (PCa) and exploring its effect on the immune system of PCa patients. Methods To investigate the potential effect of HIIT on patients with prostate cancer, a meta-analysis was carried out. From January 2012 to August 2022, studies that met predefined criteria were searched in the Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and EBSCO databases. Analysis of the standardized mean differences was performed using Review Manager 5.4.1 software with a 95% confidence interval. Results This review examined a total of 6 articles. There were 215 male patients with PCa involved, and the mean age was 64.4 years. According to the results of the meta-analysis, the HIIT group (n = 63) had greater VO2peak (P

The study purpose was to compare the effects of concurrent resistance and aerobic training to resistance and/or aerobic training alone on body composition, muscular strength and maximum oxygen uptake in overweight and obese men. Materials and methods. Twenty-four overweight and obese (BMI = 23.0 - 29.9 kg/m²) volunteers who were male students from Ubon Ratchathani Rajabhat University, aged 19-22 years were assigned into 3 groups: 1) resistance training group (RT), 2) aerobic training group (AT) and 3) concurrent resistance and aerobic training group (RT+AT). The training was 45 minutes per session and 2 days per week. Body composition along with muscular strength (1-RM) and maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) were measured before (2-3 days prior) and after (2-3 days post) a 5-week training period. Results. Waist circumference was significantly decreased in all three groups, but the RT+AT group also found improvement in percentages of fat-free mass (0.49 ± 0.49%, p = 0.021, mean ± SD) and skeletal muscle mass (1.01 ± 0.95%, p = 0.025) when compared to their baseline. Similarly, 1-RM in leg extension was significantly increased in all three groups, while the RT group (47.67 ± 14.85%, p = 0.01) and the RT+AT group (42.08 ± 21.70%, p = 0.039) showed a substantially larger improvement in the 1-RM in leg extension when compared to the AT group (20.37 ± 13.97%). Finally, VO2max was significantly increased in all three groups (baseline to post-intervention), though they were not significantly different between groups. Conclusions. Concurrent resistance and aerobic training can reduce waist circumference and increase fat-free mass, skeletal muscle mass, 1-RM and VO2max. Therefore, this training strategy may serve as a useful alternative way to improve overall physical fitness and health promotion in overweight to obese male population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• 3D echo variables in single ventricle correlate with cardiopulmonary fitness. • 3D echo variables in single ventricle correlate with health-related QOL. • 3D echo reproducibility in single ventricle is good. • Feasibility of 3D echo in single ventricle should be improved. The prognosis of patients with a functional single ventricle has improved, with better cardiopulmonary fitness, health-related quality of life and survival. Conventional echocardiography remains the first-line technique in single ventricle follow-up. Three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography has shown recent value in congenital cardiology, but its ability to predict functional status in patients with a single ventricle remains unknown. To evaluate, in patients with a single ventricle, the association between 3D echocardiography variables and functional status determined by cardiopulmonary fitness. Children and adults with a functional single ventricle were prospectively enrolled in this multicentre study. Cardiopulmonary fitness was assessed by cardiopulmonary exercise test, with measures of maximum oxygen uptake (VO 2max) and ventilatory efficiency (VE/VCO 2 slope). 3D echocardiography was performed with off-line reproducibility analyses, using TomTec Arena™ software. Health-related quality of life was assessed using the SF-36 questionnaire. A total of 33 patients were screened, and 3D echocardiography analyses were feasible in 22 subjects (mean age 28 ± 9 years). 3D echocardiography ejection fraction correlated with percent-predicted VO 2max (r = 0.64, P < 0.01), VE/VCO 2 slope (r = –0.41, P = 0.05), two-dimensional echocardiography ejection fraction (r = 0.55, P < 0.01) and health-related quality of life physical functioning dimension (r = 0.56, P = 0.04). 3D echocardiography indexed end-systolic volume correlated with percent-predicted VO 2max (r = –0.45, P = 0.03) and VE/VCO 2 slope (r = 0.65, P < 0.01). 3D echocardiography reproducibility was good. Single ventricle ejection fraction and volumes measured by 3D echocardiography correlated with cardiopulmonary fitness, as determined by two main prognostic cardiopulmonary exercise test variables: VO 2max and VE/VCO 2 slope. Despite good reproducibility, 3D echocardiography feasibility remained limited. 3D echocardiography may be of value in single ventricle follow-up, provided that the technique and analysis software are improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: With a growing number of athletes and coaches adopting altitude training, the importance for rationalizing and optimizing such training has been emphasized. We conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the influence of altitude training on athletes' aerobic capacity and to explore the best altitude training method to improve this capacity. Methods: We searched Web of Science, SpringerLink, Science Direct, EBSCO, and PubMed databases combined with manual search of the references to collect studies indexed from 1979 to September 2020 on the effect of altitude training on athletes' aerobic capacity. Data from experimental studies that reported hemoglobin levels and maximum oxygen uptake in athletes before and after altitude training, or in athletes performing altitude training in comparison with a control group were analyzed. Data of the populations, intervention, comparison, outcomes and study design were extracted. Review Manager software 5.3 was used for bias evaluation. Results: 17 publications were included. In our meta-analysis, altitude training led to higher maximum oxygen uptake [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.67, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.35–1.00, P

The study purpose was to compare the effects of concurrent resistance and aerobic training to resistance and/or aerobic training alone on body composition, muscular strength and maximum oxygen uptake in overweight and obese men. Materials and methods. Twenty-four overweight and obese (BMI = 23.0 – 29.9 kg/m2) volunteers who were male students from Ubon Ratchathani Rajabhat University, aged 19-22 years were assigned into 3 groups: 1) resistance training group (RT), 2) aerobic training group (AT) and 3) concurrent resistance and aerobic training group (RT+AT). The training was 45 minutes per session and 2 days per week. Body composition along with muscular strength (1-RM) and maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) were measured before (2-3 days prior) and after (2-3 days post) a 5-week training period. Results. Waist circumference was significantly decreased in all three groups, but the RT+AT group also found improvement in percentages of fat-free mass (0.49 ± 0.49%, p = 0.021, mean ± SD) and skeletal muscle mass (1.01 ± 0.95%, p = 0.025) when compared to their baseline. Similarly, 1-RM in leg extension was significantly increased in all three groups, while the RT group (47.67 ± 14.85%, p = 0.01) and the RT+AT group (42.08 ± 21.70%, p = 0.039) showed a substantially larger improvement in the 1-RM in leg extension when compared to the AT group (20.37 ± 13.97%). Finally, VO2max was significantly increased in all three groups (baseline to post-intervention), though they were not significantly different between groups. Conclusions. Concurrent resistance and aerobic training can reduce waist circumference and increase fat-free mass, skeletal muscle mass, 1-RM and VO2max. Therefore, this training strategy may serve as a useful alternative way to improve overall physical fitness and health promotion in overweight to obese male population.

This study aimed to develop prediction equations for maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) based on non-exercise (anthropometric) and submaximal exercise (anthropometric and physiological) variables in paraplegic men with a spinal cord injury. All participants were tested on an arm ergometer using a maximal graded exercise test. Anthropometric variables such as age, height, weight, body fat, body mass index, body fat percentage, and arm muscle mass and physiological variables such as VO2, VCO2, and heart rate at 3 and 6 min of graded exercise tests were included in the multiple linear regression analysis. The prediction equations revealed the following. Regarding non-exercise variables, VO2max was correlated with age and weight (equation R = 0.771, R2 = 0.595, SEE= 3.187). Regarding submaximal variables, VO2max was correlated with weight and VO2 and VCO2 at 6 min (equation R = 0.892, R2 = 0.796, SEE = 2.309). In conclusion, our prediction equations can be used as a cardiopulmonary function evaluation tool to estimate VO2max simply and conveniently using the anthropometric and physiological characteristics of paraplegic men with spinal cord injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With regional hypoxic episodes in the world’s oceans becoming more severe and more frequent, a valuable management need will be a screening protocol to characterize the full diversity of hypoxic robustness among fishes (defined here as their tolerance and performance). Yet, high-throughput screening protocols to deal with the almost 33,000 fish species have the potential to trade off convenience with the information depth normally provided with comprehensive but more time-consuming phenotyping protocols. As a solution, we propose a two-tier testing approach, one that combines a simple, rapid, cost-effective, and well-established hypoxia challenge test (a measure of hypoxic tolerance) with an individual-based hypoxic performance test that defines maximum aerobic capacity over a wide range of ambient water oxygen levels (a hypoxic performance curve). The later test would be performed on selected indicator species identified from the tolerance screening test. Here we describe the two methodological approaches for this two-tier approach using some existing data to illustrate the potential for their applications in marine science.

Physical inactivity is documented as a health risk factor for chronic diseases, accelerated aging, and cognitive impairment. Physical exercise, on the other hand, plays an important role in healthy aging by promoting positive muscular, cardiovascular, and central nervous system adaptions. Prior studies on the effects of exercise training on cerebral perfusion have focused largely on elderly cohorts or patient cohorts, while perfusion effects of exercise training in young sedentary adults have not yet been fully assessed. Therefore, the present study examined the physiological consequence of a 6-month endurance exercise training on brain perfusion in 28 young sedentary adults randomly assigned to an intervention group (IG; regular physical exercise) or a control group (CG; without physical exercise). The IG performed an extensive running interval training three times per week over 6 months. Performance diagnostics and MRI were performed every 2 months, and training intensity was adapted individually. Brain perfusion measurements with pseudo-continuous arterial spin labeling were analyzed using the standard Oxford ASL pipeline. A significant interaction effect between group and time was found for right superior temporal gyrus (STG) perfusion, driven by an increase in the IG and a decrease in the CG. Furthermore, a significant time effect was observed in the right middle occipital region in the IG only. Perfusion increases in the right STG, in the ventral striatum, and in primary motor areas were significantly associated with increases in maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max). Overall, this study identified region-specific increases in local perfusion in a cohort of young adults that partly correlated with individual performance increases, hence, suggesting exercise dose dependency. Respective adaptations in brain perfusion are discussed in the context of physical exercise-induced vascular plasticity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical inactivity is documented as a health risk factor for chronic diseases, accelerated aging, and cognitive impairment. Physical exercise, on the other hand, plays an important role in healthy aging by promoting positive muscular, cardiovascular, and central nervous system adaptions. Prior studies on the effects of exercise training on cerebral perfusion have focused largely on elderly cohorts or patient cohorts, while perfusion effects of exercise training in young sedentary adults have not yet been fully assessed. Therefore, the present study examined the physiological consequence of a 6-month endurance exercise training on brain perfusion in 28 young sedentary adults randomly assigned to an intervention group (IG; regular physical exercise) or a control group (CG; without physical exercise). The IG performed an extensive running interval training three times per week over 6 months. Performance diagnostics and MRI were performed every 2 months, and training intensity was adapted individually. Brain perfusion measurements with pseudo-continuous arterial spin labeling were analyzed using the standard Oxford ASL pipeline. A significant interaction effect between group and time was found for right superior temporal gyrus (STG) perfusion, driven by an increase in the IG and a decrease in the CG. Furthermore, a significant time effect was observed in the right middle occipital region in the IG only. Perfusion increases in the right STG, in the ventral striatum, and in primary motor areas were significantly associated with increases in maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max). Overall, this study identified region-specific increases in local perfusion in a cohort of young adults that partly correlated with individual performance increases, hence, suggesting exercise dose dependency. Respective adaptations in brain perfusion are discussed in the context of physical exercise-induced vascular plasticity.

Abstract Aims Maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) is an essential parameter to assess functional capacity of patients with heart failure (HF). We aimed to identify clinical factors that determine its value, as they have not been well characterized yet. Methods We conducted a retrospective, observational, single‐centre study of 362 consecutive patients with HF who underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) as part of standard clinical assessment since 2009–2019. CPET was performed on treadmill, according to Bruce's protocol (n = 360) or Naughton's protocol (n = 2). We performed multivariable linear regression analyses in order to identify independent clinical predictors associated with peak VO2max. Results Mean age of study patients was 57.3 ± 10.9 years, mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 32.8 ± 14.2%, and mean VO2max was 19.8 ± 5.2 mL/kg/min. Eighty‐nine (24.6%) patients were women, and 114 (31.5%) had ischaemic heart disease. Multivariable linear regression analysis identified six independent clinical predictors of VO2max, including NYHA class (B coefficient = −2.585; P

Obesity induces several disorders, such as android obesity, insulin resistance, and coronary/peripheral artery disease, and obese individuals commonly have low adherence to training programs. Exercise at self-selected intensity is a feasible strategy to avoid dropouts of training routines. We aimed to assess the effects of different training programs at self-selected intensity on body composition, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), feelings of pleasure and displeasure (FPD) and fitness outcomes (maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) and maximum dynamic strength (1RM)) in obese women. Forty obese women (n = 40; Body Mass Index: 33.2 ± 1.1 kg.m-2) were randomly allocated to combined training (CT = 10), aerobic training (AT = 10), resistance training (RT = 10) and control group (CG = 10). The frequency that CT, AT and RT performed the training sessions was 3 times per week during 8 weeks. Body composition (DXA), VO2max and 1RM were assessed at baseline and after intervention. All participants were on a restricted dietary intake aiming to ingest 2.650 kcal per day. Post hoc comparisons revealed that CT promotes a larger decrease in body fat percentage (p = 0.001), body fat mass (p = 0.004) than other groups. CT and AT elicited higher V̇O2max increases (p = 0.014) than RT and CG, and 1RM values were higher in CT and RT (p = 0.001) than AT and CG at post-intervention. All training groups presented low RPE and high FPD over the training sessions, but only the CT was effective to reduce body fat percentage and body fat mass in obese women. In addition, CT was effective to increase simultaneously maximum oxygen uptake and maximum dynamic strength in obese women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of physiological and kinematic predictors on 400-m front crawl race in young male swimmers and to consider the interrelation between them. Methods: Nineteen male swimmers took part in this study (age: 13.5 ± 0.44 years, height: 168.6 ± 7.77 cm, body mass: 56.9 ± 10.57 kg). Measurements of physiological parameters were conducted using expired air analyzer (Start 2000 MES, Poland) during step-test in water flume. Kinematic indices were computed while analyzing video recording of 400-m front crawl race. To check for possible influence of biological age (BA) diversity in studied group, partial correlation with age control was computed. Results: Swimming to exhaustion in water flume defined as speed at maximum oxygen uptake and anaerobic threshold (VO2 max V & and VAT) occurred to be strongly positively correlated with 400-m race speed. Speed in surface swimming zones (Vsurface) was related to ability of kinematics adjustment and significantly correlated with stroke index (SI). Vsurface at the beginning and the end of the race, i.e., at 1st, 7th and 8th lap interplayed with stroke rate (SR) measured at corresponding laps. Conclusions: Our study showed that 400-m front crawl performance of young male swimmers is strongly dependent on swimming efficiency developed with aerobic conditioning. Significant role of proper pacing strategy was also identified, which indicates that race pace training should be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several factors contributed to the evolution of handball, and one of the most important changes for faster, more dynamic and aggressive game is the change of rules which increase physical demands of players and especially referees. The aim of this study is to determine whether functional abilities have an influence on the quality of refereeing. Material and methods: 31 subjects were involved in the research, all of them top-level referees with an average age of 34.66±6.44, height 184.02±5.87 cm and body mass 91.14±10.61 kg. Testing was divided into two parts: the first part was spiroergometric progressive test on a treadmill to diagnose functional abilities, and the second part was the official handball matches. Results: Results show an average relative maximum oxygen uptake of 45.35±6.12 ml/min/kg. No statistically significant correlation was found between better functional abilities of handball referees and a better quality of refereeing. Conclusions: Referees have a lower anaerobic capacity, which could lead to errors in their judgment during the highest physiological loads in a match. Referees are a homogeneous group due to elimination criteria on tests at official seminars. If there were no elimination criteria, there would be greater variability among referees, and it would be possible to confirm the hypothesis that better functional abilities would lead to a better quality of refereeing.

The study was conducted to compare peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) measured with the incremental graded test (GXT) (VO2peak) and two tests to verify maximum oxygen uptake, performed 15 min after the incremental test (VO2peak1) and on a separate day (VO2peak2). The aim was to determine which of the verification tests is more accurate and, more generally, to validate the VO2max obtained in the incremental graded test on cycle ergometer. The study involved 23 participants with varying levels of physical activity. Analysis of variance showed no statistically significant differences for repeated measurements (F = 2.28, p = 0.118, η2 = 0.12). Bland–Altman analysis revealed a small bias of the VO2peak1 results compared to the VO2peak (0.4 ml⋅min–1⋅kg–1) and VO2peak2 results compared to the VO2peak (−0.76 ml⋅min–1⋅kg–1). In isolated cases, it was observed that VO2peak1 and VO2peak2 differed by more than 5% from VO2peak. Considering the above, it can be stated that among young people, there are no statistically significant differences between the values of VO2peak measured in the following tests. However, in individual cases, the need to verify the maximum oxygen uptake is stated, but performing a second verification test on a separate day has no additional benefit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is known that cardiovascular risk is increased during exercise and recovery. Thus, it is necessary to assess all the risk associated with exercise to minimize chances of cardiovascular events. The aim of this study was to verify whether a maximal exercise alters ambulatory cardiac autonomic modulation in untrained women and whether aerobic fitness is correlated to cardiac autonomic modulation. Twelve women (25.35 ± 5.44 years) were outfitted with the Holter monitor on an experimental (after maximum exercise) and a control day to heart rate variability (HRV) evaluation. Maximal exercise increased 24 h heart rate (82 ± 14 vs 77 ± 11 bpm; p = 0.04) and during sleep time (72 ± 14 vs. 65 ± 9 bpm; p = 0.01), reduced parasympathetic modulation (HF – n.u. 49.96 ± 11.56 vs 42.10 ± 14.98; p = 0.04), and increased low-frequency/high-frequency ratio (2.88 ± 3.24 vs 1.31 ± 0.60; p = 0.03) during sleep time compared to the control day. Aerobic fitness was correlated positively with LF, HF, and HF (n.u.) indices (r = 0.61 to 0.73, p < 0.05) and correlated negatively with LF (n.u.) and LF/HF ratio (Rho = - 0.57 to - 0.69; p < 0.05). Maximal exercise alters parasympathetic modulation during sleep time in untrained women. Ambulatory cardiac autonomic modulation after exercise is related to aerobic fitness.

The study was conducted to compare peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) measured with the incremental graded test (GXT) (VO2peak) and two tests to verify maximum oxygen uptake, performed 15 min after the incremental test (VO2peak1) and on a separate day (VO2peak2). The aim was to determine which of the verification tests is more accurate and, more generally, to validate the VO2max obtained in the incremental graded test on cycle ergometer. The study involved 23 participants with varying levels of physical activity. Analysis of variance showed no statistically significant differences for repeated measurements (F = 2.28, p = 0.118, η2 = 0.12). Bland–Altman analysis revealed a small bias of the VO2peak1 results compared to the VO2peak (0.4 ml⋅min–1⋅kg–1) and VO2peak2 results compared to the VO2peak (−0.76 ml⋅min–1⋅kg–1). In isolated cases, it was observed that VO2peak1 and VO2peak2 differed by more than 5% from VO2peak. Considering the above, it can be stated that among young people, there are no statistically significant differences between the values of VO2peak measured in the following tests. However, in individual cases, the need to verify the maximum oxygen uptake is stated, but performing a second verification test on a separate day has no additional benefit.

Background: Maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) is an important respiratory physiological index of the aerobic endurance of the body, especially for special groups such as drug addicts, and it is an important indicator for assessing the cardiopulmonary function and formulating exercise prescriptions. Although the cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPX) is a classic method to directly measure VO2max, this method is limited by factors such as cumbersome operating procedures and expensive equipment, resulting in its relatively low applicability. Recently, many studies have begun to focus on the estimation of VO2max in different groups of people, but few studies have focused on drug addicts.Methods: Fifteen chemically synthesized drug addicts (such as amphetamines) and Fifteen plant-derived drug addicts (such as heroin) were recruited at the Chongqing Compulsory Isolation and Drug Rehabilitation Center in China. First, the VO2max of subjects was directly measured through the CPX. Second, after subjects were fully rested, they were required to complete the 30-s high-leg raise, 1,000-m walk, and 3-min step experiment. Finally, SPSS 21.0 software was used to perform the correlation and linear regression analysis to verify the estimated effectiveness.Results: (1) Regardless of chemically synthesized or natural plant-derived drug addicts, the years of drug use and walking time of 1,000 m were significantly negatively correlated with VO2max (chemically synthesized: P < 0.01 and natural plant-derived: P < 0.05), the number of 30-s high-leg raises was a significantly positive correlation with VO2max (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01), and the 3-min step index was significantly positively correlated with VO2max (P < 0.01 and P < 0.01). (2) Regression analysis shows that the 30-s high-leg lift, 1,000-m walking, and 3-min step experiment could effectively estimate the VO2max of chemically synthesized and natural plant-derived drug addicts. (3) Multiple linear regression constructed by the years of drug use combined with the step index has the highest estimated accuracy for the VO2max of chemically synthesized drug addicts (96.48%), while the unary regression equation established by a single step index has the highest prediction accuracy for the VO2max of natural plant-derived addicts (94.30%).Conclusion: The indirect measurement method could effectively estimate the VO2max of drug addicts, but different measurement methods have certain differences in the estimation accuracy of VO2max of different drug addicts. In the future, the physical characteristics of drug users can be fully considered, combined with more cutting-edge science and technology, to make the estimation accuracy of VO2max closer to the real level.

Background: Maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) is an important respiratory physiological index of the aerobic endurance of the body, especially for special groups such as drug addicts, and it is an important indicator for assessing the cardiopulmonary function and formulating exercise prescriptions. Although the cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPX) is a classic method to directly measure VO2max, this method is limited by factors such as cumbersome operating procedures and expensive equipment, resulting in its relatively low applicability. Recently, many studies have begun to focus on the estimation of VO2max in different groups of people, but few studies have focused on drug addicts. Methods: Fifteen chemically synthesized drug addicts (such as amphetamines) and Fifteen plant-derived drug addicts (such as heroin) were recruited at the Chongqing Compulsory Isolation and Drug Rehabilitation Center in China. First, the VO2max of subjects was directly measured through the CPX. Second, after subjects were fully rested, they were required to complete the 30-s high-leg raise, 1,000-m walk, and 3-min step experiment. Finally, SPSS 21.0 software was used to perform the correlation and linear regression analysis to verify the estimated effectiveness. Results: (1) Regardless of chemically synthesized or natural plant-derived drug addicts, the years of drug use and walking time of 1,000 m were significantly negatively correlated with VO2max (chemically synthesized: P < 0.01 and natural plant-derived: P < 0.05), the number of 30-s high-leg raises was a significantly positive correlation with VO2max (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01), and the 3-min step index was significantly positively correlated with VO2max (P < 0.01 and P < 0.01). (2) Regression analysis shows that the 30-s high-leg lift, 1,000-m walking, and 3-min step experiment could effectively estimate the VO2max of chemically synthesized and natural plant-derived drug addicts. (3) Multiple linear regression constructed by the years of drug use combined with the step index has the highest estimated accuracy for the VO2max of chemically synthesized drug addicts (96.48%), while the unary regression equation established by a single step index has the highest prediction accuracy for the VO2max of natural plant-derived addicts (94.30%). Conclusion: The indirect measurement method could effectively estimate the VO2max of drug addicts, but different measurement methods have certain differences in the estimation accuracy of VO2max of different drug addicts. In the future, the physical characteristics of drug users can be fully considered, combined with more cutting-edge science and technology, to make the estimation accuracy of VO2max closer to the real level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the safety and feasibility of performing treadmill aerobic exercise in moderate normobaric hypoxia among chronic hemiparetic stroke survivors. Design: Observational study using convenience sampling. Setting: Research laboratory in a tertiary rehabilitation hospital. Participants: Chronic hemiparetic stroke survivors who could walk at least 10-m with or without assistance and had no absolute contraindications to exercise testing. Intervention: Participants (three male and four female) were asked to complete three normobaric hypoxia exposure protocols within a single session. First, they were passively exposed to normobaric hypoxia through gradual reductions in the fraction of inspired oxygen (FIO2 = 20.9, 17.0, and 15.0%) while seated (5-min at each level of FIO2). Participants were then exposed to the same reductions in FIO2 during constant-load exercise performed on a treadmill at 40% of heart rate reserve. Finally, participants completed 20-min of exercise while intermittently exposed to moderate normobaric hypoxia (5 × 2-min at FIO2 = 15.0%) interspaced with 2-min normoxia intervals (FIO2 = 20.9%). Outcome Measures: The primary outcome was occurrence of adverse events, which included standardized criteria for terminating exercise testing, blood oxygen saturation (S p O2) <80%, or acute mountain sickness score >2. The increased cardiovascular strain imposed by normobaric hypoxia exposure at rest and during exercise was evaluated by changes in S p O2, heart rate (HR), blood pressure, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE). Results: One participant reported mild symptoms of nausea during exercise in normobaric hypoxia and discontinued participation. No other adverse events were recorded. Intermittent normobaric hypoxia exposure was associated with reduced S p O2 (MD = −7.4%, CI: −9.8 to −5.0) and increased HR (MD = 8.2, CI: 4.6 to 11.7) compared to intervals while breathing typical room air throughout the 20-min constant-load exercise period. The increase in HR was associated with a 10% increase in relative effort. However, reducing FIO2 had little effect on blood pressure and RPE measurements. Conclusion: Moderate normobaric hypoxia appeared to be a safe and feasible method to increase the cardiovascular strain of submaximal exercise in chronic hemiparetic stroke survivors. Future studies evaluating the effects of pairing normobaric hypoxia exposure with existing therapies on secondary prevention and functional recovery are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Respiratory function is subject to the aging process, similarly to that of multiple other systems. Regular aquatic exercise favors physical development, and improves circulation and respiration, as well as overall health. Aim of Study. The purpose of the study was to assess the impact of a 12-week training program involving water aerobics on respiratory system function and aerobic capacity in post-menopausal women. Material and Methods. The study included 30 women (21 in the study group, 9 controls). Women in the study group participated in supervised water aerobics classes, twice a week for 3 months. At the beginning and end of the study, all the women underwent a spirometry test and an exercise test by an ergometer. Results. An analysis of changes after the training program demonstrated a significant increase of the maximal aerobic capacity in the study group (p < 0.05). No significant changes were found in spirometry indicators (VC) or airflow parameters in the large and small airways (MEF75, MEF50) following a 12-week water aerobics program. Conclusions. The implemented training program for healthy postmenopausal women did not improve the spirometry indicators studied, and the observed aerobic capacity increase likely resulted from improved circulatory and metabolic performance that determines an individual's exercise tolerance and health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeThe lactate threshold (LT), critical power (CP) and maximum oxygen uptake (VO₂max) together partition exercise intensity domains by their common physiological, biochemical and perceptual response characteristics. CP is the greatest power output attainable immediately following intolerance at VO₂peak, and the asymptote of 3 min all-out exercise. Thus we reasoned that a maximal 'sprint' immediately following standard ramp-incremental exercise would allow characterisation of the three aerobic indices in a single test.MethodsTen healthy men (23 ± 3 year, mean ± SD) performed 9 cycle-ergometry tests on different days: (A) two ramp-incremental tests to intolerance (20 W min(-1)), immediately followed by a 3 min maximal, variable-power effort ramp-sprint test (RST) for LT, VO₂peak and sprint-phase power (SP) determination; (B) four constant-power tests for CP and VO₂max determination; (C) constant-power tests at 10 W below LT, and 10 W below and above SP to verify intensity domain characterisation. Capillary [lactate] and breath-by-breath VO₂ were measured.ResultsReproducibility of LT, SP and VO₂max measurements between RST repeats was within 5% or less (r ≥ 0.991, p < 0.001). CP (257 ± 46 W) was not different (p = 0.72) from SP (258 ± 42 W). Exercise 10 W below LT and SP resulted in steady state VO₂ and [lactate]. VO₂max (4.0 ± 0.6 L min(-1)), peak [lactate] (11 ± 2 mM) and intolerance were reached 19 ± 5 min into exercise at 10 W above SP.ConclusionsThese data suggest that the key indices of aerobic function may be accurately and reliably estimated during a single exercise test. This test may provide a basis for simplifying assessment and prescription of exercise training and experimental interventions.

In this study five different knitted sport clothes were tested in a wear trial test with ten men subject. After the activity, subjects were included in a rest period of 20 minutes. In this period, microclimate temperature and relative humidity values were measured with a datalogger from four body regions (chest, abdomen, back and waist). The results showed that the lowest waist microclimate temperature value was seen in TS tencel single jersey fabric like the other three body regions. On the contrary to chest and back regions, the abdomen microclimate temperature values increase during the relaxing period. Also the lowest microclimate temperature values were seen in abdomen region. On the other hand the highest microclimate relative humidity values were seen in abdomen region ( 93-96 %).

Background: Currently, there are two methods for testing maximal oxygen uptake: the direct and indirect methods, but both have certain requirements for testing equipment, site, and personnel. There is a lack of a convenient and effective method for testing maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max). With the development of artificial neural network (ANN), a solution to this gap is provided. Objective: The goal of this study was to design a method to evaluate the cardiopulmonary function of young people and verify its feasibility and reliability. Methods: The incremental squat test (IST) and Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) test were designed with 196 subjects (97 males and 99 females). The back propagation (BP) neural network was used to construct the model of VO2max by recording and analyzing squatting times, height, weight, gender, age, leg length, Manou Riers Skelic index (MRSI), and VO2max. Results: Three hidden layers and 65 nodes were employed in the BP neural network. Each hidden layer contained 19 nodes. Other parameters of this network were 0.01, 0.9, and 2000 for the learning rate, momentum, and iterations, respectively. The difference between the measurements and predictions was not significant (p > 0.05), and the correlation between them was extremely strong (r = 0.98, p < 0.01). Conclusions: We conclude that the model constructed using the BP neural network is accurate, and the IST is feasible for predicting VO2max. This method can be used as a substitute for other cardiopulmonary fitness test protocols in cases of insufficient venues and equipment. thereby preventing health complications. In subsequent studies, the sample size should be expanded, and separate prediction models should be developed for different genders.

Aims: Maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) is an essential parameter to assess functional capacity of patients with heart failure (HF). We aimed to identify clinical factors that determine its value, as they have not been well characterized yet. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, observational, single‐centre study of 362 consecutive patients with HF who underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) as part of standard clinical assessment since 2009–2019. CPET was performed on treadmill, according to Bruce's protocol (n = 360) or Naughton's protocol (n = 2). We performed multivariable linear regression analyses in order to identify independent clinical predictors associated with peak VO2max. Results: Mean age of study patients was 57.3 ± 10.9 years, mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 32.8 ± 14.2%, and mean VO2max was 19.8 ± 5.2 mL/kg/min. Eighty‐nine (24.6%) patients were women, and 114 (31.5%) had ischaemic heart disease. Multivariable linear regression analysis identified six independent clinical predictors of VO2max, including NYHA class (B coefficient = −2.585; P < 0.001), age (B coefficient per 1 year = −0.104; P < 0.001), tricuspid annulus plane systolic excursion (B coefficient per 1 mm = +0.209; P < 0.001), body mass index (B coefficient per 1 kg/m2 = −0.172; P = 0.002), haemoglobin (B coefficient per 1 g/dL = +0.418; P = 0.007) and NT‐proBNP (B coefficient per 1000 pg/mL = −0.142; P = 0.019). Conclusions: The severity of HF (NYHA class, NT‐proBNP) as well as age, body composition and haemoglobin levels influence significantly exercise capacity. In patients with HF, the right ventricular systolic function is of greater importance for the physical capacity than the left ventricular systolic function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Physical exertion during exercise often leads to increased oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, significantly affecting physical performance. Current strategies to mitigate these effects are limited by their effectiveness and potential side effects. Molecular hydrogen (H₂) has gained attention for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have suggested that H 2 supplementation contributes to antioxidant potential and anti-fatigue during exercise, but the variance in the observations and study protocols is presented across those studies., Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to comprehensively characterize the effects of H₂ supplementation on physical performance (i.e., endurance, muscular strength, and explosive power), providing knowledge that can inform strategies using H 2 for enhancing physical performance., Methods: We conducted a literature search of six databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, Sport-Discus, Embase, and PsycINFO) according to the PRISMA guidelines. The data were extracted from the included studies and converted into the standardized mean difference (SMD). After that, we performed random-effects meta-analyses and used the I 2 statistic to evaluate heterogeneity. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) was used to assess the quality of the evidence obtained from this meta-analysis., Results: In total, 27 publications consisting of 597 participants were included. The search finally included aerobic endurance, anaerobic endurance, muscular strength, lower limb explosive power, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), blood lactate (BLA), and average heart rate (HR avg ) in the effect size (ES) synthesis. The ES of H 2 on aerobic endurance, including V̇O 2max (SMD = 0.09, p  = 0.394; I 2 = 0%) and aerobic endurance exercise (SMD = 0.04, p  = 0.687; I 2 = 0%), were not significant and trivial; the ES of H 2 on 30 s maximal anaerobic endurance (SMD = 0.19, p  = 0.239; I 2 = 0%) was not significant and trivial; the ES of H 2 on muscular strength (SMD = 0.19, p  = 0.265; I 2 = 0%) was not significant and trivial; but the ES of H 2 on lower limb explosive power (SMD = 0.30, p  = 0.018; I 2 = 0%) was significant and small. In addition, H 2 reduces RPE (SMD = -0.37, p  = 0.009; I 2 = 58.0%) and BLA (SMD = -0.37, p  = 0.001; I 2 = 22.0%) during exercise, but not HR avg (SMD = -0.27, p  = 0.094; I 2 = 0%)., Conclusion: These findings suggest that H 2 supplementation is favorable in healthy adults to improve lower limb explosive power, alleviate fatigue, and boost BLA clearance, but may not be effectively improving aerobic and anaerobic endurance and muscular strength. Future studies with more rigorous designs are thus needed to examine and confirm the effects of H 2 on these important functionalities in humans., Systematic Review Registration: http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. The author(s) declared that they were an editorial board member of Frontiers, at the time of submission. This had no impact on the peer review process and the final decision., (Copyright © 2024 Zhou, Shang, Yuan, Guo, Wang, Bao and Zhou.)

[Purpose] In Japan, one measure against the novel coronavirus disease-2019 infection involves the public use of surgical masks. Research indicates that exercising while wearing a mask increases the physical burden, particularly affecting young people during high-intensity exercise. This study examined the effects of wearing masks while running in male university students. [Participants and Methods] The participants were 20 healthy male university students (21.6 ± 1.6 years). The participants underwent cardiopulmonary exercise tests with the masks on and off on different days until exhaustion. The following parameters were measured: exercise duration, Borg Scale rating (respiratory or lower extremities), surface temperature around the mouth, time to sweat onset, metabolic reaction, pulmonary ventilation, and cardiovascular reaction parameters. [Results] The results showed that VO 2 max remained consistent between the mask-on and mask-off conditions. However, minute ventilation, respiratory rate, and heart rate decreased in the mask-on condition, which correlated with a reduction in exercise duration. Furthermore, running with the mask significantly decreased the VE/VO 2 , VE/ VO 2 , Borg Scale rating of the lower extremities, and the time to sweat onset. [Conclusion] Running with a surgical mask affected respiratory function and decreased exercise duration in healthy male university students. However, it did not induce any changes in VO 2 max., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest., (2024©by the Society of Physical Therapy Science. Published by IPEC Inc.)

Th e purpose of current study is investigating eff ect of Blood Flow Restriction Interval Training on aerobic performance among young football players during transition phase of periodization. Twenty eight young male football players were recruited in this study. Subjects were randomly divided into three groups: control, Normal Interval without Kaatsu, and Interval with Kaatsu. Exercise protocol was based on aerobic interval at 400 meters with maximum eff ort for 3 sets in per sessions (First week) and 4 set (Second week). Th e results shown that there is a signifi cant diff erence in aerobic power between groups p

The utility of measuring whole-animal performance to frame the metabolic response to environmental hypoxia is well established. Progressively reducing ambient oxygen (O2) will initially limit maximum metabolic rate as a result of a hypoxemic state and ultimately lead to a time-limited, tolerance state supported by substrate-level phosphorylation when the O2 supply can no longer meet basic needs (standard metabolic rate, SMR). The metabolic consequences of declining ambient O2 were conceptually framed for fishes initially by Fry’s hypoxic performance curve, which characterizes the hypoxemic state and its consequences to absolute aerobic scope (AAS), and Hochachka’s concept of scope for hypoxic survival, which characterizes time-limited life when SMR cannot be supported by O2 supply. Yet, despite these two conceptual frameworks, the toolbox to assess whole-animal metabolic performance remains rather limited. Here, we briefly review the ongoing debate concerning the need to standardize the most commonly used assessments of respiratory performance in hypoxic fishes, namely critical O2 (the ambient O2 level below which maintenance metabolism cannot be sustained) and the incipient lethal O2 (the ambient O2 level at which a fish loses the ability to maintain upright equilibrium), and then we advance the idea that the most useful addition to the toolbox will be the limiting-O2 concentration (LOC) performance curve. Using Fry & Hart’s (1948) hypoxia performance curve concept, an LOC curve was subsequently developed as an eco-physiological framework by Neil et al. and derived for a group of fish during a progressive hypoxia trial by Claireaux and Lagardère (1999). In the present review, we show how only minor modifications to available respirometry tools and techniques are needed to generate an LOC curve for individual fish. This individual approach to the LOC curve determination then increases its statistical robustness and importantly opens up the possibility of examining individual variability. Moreover, if peak aerobic performance at a given ambient O2 level of each individual is expressed as a percentage of its AAS, the water dissolved O2 that supports 50% of the individual’s AAS (DOAAS-50) can be interpolated much like the P50 for an O2 hemoglobin dissociation curve (when hemoglobin is 50% saturated with O2). Thus, critical O2, incipient lethal O2, DOAAS-50 and P50 and can be directly compared within and across species. While an LOC curve for individual fish represents a start to an ongoing need to seamlessly integrate aerobic to anaerobic capacity assessments in a single, multiplexed respirometry trial, we close with a comparative exploration of some of the known whole-organism anaerobic and aerobic capacity traits to examine for correlations among them and guide the next steps.

We assessed the effects of resistance circuit-based training (CT) on strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, and body composition. A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted in three databases, ending on March, 2020. Meta-analysis and subgroup analysis were used to analyze the effects of pre–post-intervention CT and differences from control groups (CG). Of the 830 studies found, 45 were included in the meta-analysis (58 experimental groups (n = 897) and 34 CG (n = 474)). The CT interventions led to increases in muscle mass (1.9%; p < 0.001) and decreases in fat mass (4.3%; p < 0.001). With regard to cardiorespiratory fitness, CT had a favorable effect on VO2max (6.3%; p < 0.001), maximum aerobic speed or power (0.3%; p = 0.04), and aerobic performance (2.6%; p = 0.006) after training. Concerning strength outcome, the CT increased the strength of the upper and lower extremities. Only the magnitude of strength performance appears to be influenced by the training (number of sessions and frequency) and the training status. Moreover, low and moderate intensities and short rest time between exercise increase the magnitude of change in fat mass loss. Therefore, CT has been shown to be an effective method for improving body composition, cardiorespiratory fitness, and strength of the lower and upper limbs.

Introduction: The basic measurement of aerobic capability of an organism is the quantity of oxygen uptake (VO2 ml/min/kg). Aerobic power or the maximum aerobic capacity is determined by the maximum value of oxygen uptake (VO2 max). Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the maximal oxygen uptake between two groups of athletes involved with different training regimes. . Materials and Methods: There were 204 top male athletes from a variety of disciplines participating in our research, aged between 18 and 35. The participants were divided into two groups corresponding to the characteristics of their training: skill sports group (n = 86) and endurance sports group (n = 118). Results: Subjects in the group of skills sports were significantly older than those in the endurance sport group (25 ± 5, 23 ± 4, respectively; p < 0.05). The body height values were significantly higher in the endurance sports group compared to skills sports (185.54 ± 7.24, 183.41 ± 7.79, respectively; p < 0.05). Body weight values did not significantly differ among groups. The body mass index was statistically significantly lower in the endurance sports group when compared to the skill sports group (23,32 ± 1,88 kg/ m2 and 24,80 ± 3,37 kg/m2, respectively; p < 0,001). Testing showed that the body fat percentage statistically significantly higher for the skill sports group when compared to the endurance sports group (13,52 ± 6,45% and 8,39 ± 3,62%, respectively; p < 0,001). The participants part of the skill sports group had a statistically significantly lower oxygen consumption at rest when compare to the endurance sports group (5,87 ± 1,20 ml/min/ kg and 6,54 ± 1,26 ml/min/kg, respectively; p < 0.05). Within the endurance sports group a statistically significantly higher maximum oxygen consumption when compared to the skill sports group (55,35 ± 8,44 ml/ min and 45,50 ± 7,49 ml/min respectively; p < 0,001). Conclusion: The results of our study pointed to the existence of a significant difference in the anthropometric and functional characteristics between the two examined groups of athletes who are in different training regimes. Higher values of maximum oxygen consumption in a group of athletes involved in endurance sport points to a better physical fitness in comparison with the group of skills sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The basic measurement of aerobic capability of an organism is the quantity of oxygen uptake (VO2 ml/min/kg). Aerobic power or the maximum aerobic capacity is determined by the maximum value of oxygen uptake (VO2 max). Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the maximal oxygen uptake between two groups of athletes involved with different training regimes. . Materials and Methods: There were 204 top male athletes from a variety of disciplines participating in our research, aged between 18 and 35. The participants were divided into two groups corresponding to the characteristics of their training: skill sports group (n = 86) and endurance sports group (n = 118). Results: Subjects in the group of skills sports were significantly older than those in the endurance sport group (25 ± 5, 23 ± 4, respectively; p < 0.05). The body height values were significantly higher in the endurance sports group compared to skills sports (185.54 ± 7.24, 183.41 ± 7.79, respectively; p < 0.05). Body weight values did not significantly differ among groups. The body mass index was statistically significantly lower in the endurance sports group when compared to the skill sports group (23,32 ± 1,88 kg/m2 and 24,80 ± 3,37 kg/m2, respectively; p < 0,001). Testing showed that the body fat percentage statistically significantly higher for the skill sports group when compared to the endurance sports group (13,52 ± 6,45% and 8,39 ± 3,62%, respectively; p < 0,001). The participants part of the skill sports group had a statistically significantly lower oxygen consumption at rest when compare to the endurance sports group (5,87 ± 1,20 ml/min/kg and 6,54 ± 1,26 ml/min/kg, respectively; p < 0.05). Within the endurance sports group a statistically significantly higher maximum oxygen consumption when compared to the skill sports group (55,35 ± 8,44 ml/min and 45,50 ± 7,49 ml/min respectively; p < 0,001). Conclusion: The results of our study pointed to the existence of a significant difference in the anthropometric and functional characteristics between the two examined groups of athletes who are in different training regimes. Higher values of maximum oxygen consumption in a group of athletes involved in endurance sport points to a better physical fitness in comparison with the group of skills sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Medical students need to cope with their tight schedule, which also demand a good physical fitness to do those activities. Insufficient leisure time and exhausting activities impede students’ capacity on having routine physical exercise to maintain their physical fitness. Cardiopulmonary endurance describes a person physical fitness level, and lung function is one basic component of cardiopulmonary endurance. Without optimal lung function, circulatory system in the body cannot work properly. This study aimed to determine whether lung function giving a significant correlation with the cardiorespiratory endurance which are measured by Forced Expiratory Volume One Second (FEV1), Vital Capacity (VC), and VO2Maximum (VO2max), respectively. Methods: This study was conducted in September–October 2013 to the students of Faculty of Medicine at Universitas Padjadjaran academic year 2010–2012, using the cross-sectional method. Sample was taken through simple random sampling process. There were 34 male and 34 female students after controlling for covariates. Direct measurement using spirometer used to determine lung function and maximum oxygen uptake was measured by assessing Rhyming Step Test result. Correlation coefficient was then calculated by Pearson correlation test. Results: The correlation between FEV1with VO2max of male students giving a value of p=0.442, while for VC obtained a value of p=0.259. Female students result giving a value of p=0.746 for the FEV1with VO2max, and p=0.489 for the VC with the VO2max. Conclusions: There is no significant correlation between FEV1 and VC with the VO2max of the respondents.

Long-term heavy physical work often leads to early retirement and disability pension due to chronic overload, with a need to define upper limits. The aim of this study was to evaluate the value of the first lactate threshold (LTP1) as a physiological marker for heavy occupational work. A total of 188 male and 52 female workers performed an incremental cycle ergometer test to determine maximal exercise performance and the first and second lactate (LTP1; LTP2) and ventilatory thresholds (VT1; VT2). Heart rate (HR) recordings were obtained during one eight-hour shift (HR8h) and oxygen uptake was measured during 20 minutes of a representative work phase. Energy expenditure (EE) was calculated from gas-exchange measures. Maximal power output (Pmax), maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) and power output at LTP1 and LTP2 were significantly different between male and female workers. HR8h was not significantly different between male and female workers. A significant relationship was found between Pmax and power output at LTP1. HR8h as a percentage of maximum HR significantly declined with increasing performance (Pmax:r = −0.56; p < 0.01; PLTP1:r = −0.49; p < 0.01). Despite different cardio-respiratory fitness-levels; 95.4% of all workers performed their usual work below LTP1. It is therefore suggested that LTP1 represents the upper limit for sustained heavy occupational work; which supports its use to determine work capability and assessing the limits of heavy occupational work.

Aim: To investigate the association between self-reported physical fitness level obtained by a single-item question and objectively measured fitness level in 30- to 49-year-old men and women. Methods: From the Danish ‘Check Your Health Preventive Program’ 2013–2014 fitness level was assessed in 2316 participants using the Aastrand test. Additionally, participants rated their physical fitness as high, good, average, fair or low. The association of self-reported- with objectively measured fitness level was analyzed by linear regression. Categories of self-reported- and objectively measured fitness level were cross-tabulated and agreement was quantified by Kappa statistics. Gender differences within categories were investigated by Poisson regression. Results: Data from 996 men and 1017 women were analyzed (excluded, n = 303). In both men and women a higher self-reported fitness level was associated with a higher objectively measured fitness level (Rall = 0.42). Kappa agreement was 0.25. Poisson regression revealed that women rated their fitness level significantly lower than men (p

An animal's body size impacts many aspects of its structure and function (Y); insights that only become apparent when viewed over several orders of magnitude of body mass (M) and expressed allometrically in the form of power law equations (Y=aMb). The resulting relationships are apparent clusters of similar exponents (b) revealing emergent 'patterns of design' that shed light on the universal principles of structure and function. Basic physical principles of surface area, volume and heat exchange apply to all objects, including animals, and many consequences must be attributed to these fundamental properties. Starting with Galileo's description of the shapes of bones in the 16th century and extending to 19th century explanations of heat production and loss by Sarrus and Rameaux, allometric patterns have provided numerous biological insights. Here, we examine several of these insights and explore how the selective pressures and scaling may differ when comparing animals in a vegetative (basal) state and those utilizing their maximum metabolic capacities. It seems that the selective pressures under those two conditions differ. We caution that allometric patterns invite explanations that lack supporting data or may be dismissed because there is hesitation among biologists to make comparisons lacking phylogenetic support. We argue that emergent allometric patterns have inherent value and continue to be the fodder for many fruitful hypotheses., Competing Interests: Competing interests The authors declare no competing or financial interests., (© 2023. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.)

Background: Peak oxygen pulse (O 2 P peak ) can reflect the condition of cardiovascular function and provide supplementary information for maximal oxygen uptake, but its direct measurement requires the precise instruments under the guidance of professionals, and the subjects should strive to the state of exhaustion., Objectives: The aim of the present cross-sectional study was to establish a prediction equation to estimate O 2 P peak of Chinese adults aged 20-39, from routine measures of anthropometry and cardiovascular function., Methods: 252 adults (20-39 years old) were recruited and randomly allocated to the validation group (n = 226) and the cross-validation group (n = 26). To be included in the study, subjects were required to be healthy, none-professional sports experience (healthy individuals who are not athletes or have had experience as athletes), and no medication taken recently. Subjects with cardiovascular diseases, lung disease and musculoskeletal diseases were excluded. The subjects' anthropometric and cardiovascular variables were measured and each subject performed a maximal exercise test on an electromagnetic cycle ergometer., Results: The O 2 P peak estimated equation was developed using multiple linear regression models, O 2 P peak  = 30.394 + 0.083 x body mass (kg) - 0.090 x resting heart rate (bpm) - 0.157 x age (years) - 2.710 x gender (1 = male, 2 = female) - 0.035 x systolic blood pressure (mmHg). The equation had the coefficient of determination (R 2 ) = 0.804 and the standard error of estimate (SEE) = 1.619 ml/beat. An ANOVA and Akaike's information criterion (AIC) were tested. Bland-Altman graphs were plotted to examine the distribution of bias. Cross-validation estimated O 2 P peak and directly measured O 2 P peak did not show significant difference while had a strong positive correlation (r = 0.89, p  < 0.001)., Conclusions: The established equation has high effectiveness and reliability to predict O 2 P peak of adults aged 20-39., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

This study investigated the determination of exercise intensity for a rhythmik exercise program based on cardiopulmonary functions. Nine female participants in their 20s to 40s performed a rhythmik exercise program for 60 min per session, three sessions weekly, for 8 weeks. All participants underwent a grade exercise test to measure their minute ventilation (VE), oxygen uptake (VO 2 ), maximal volume of minute oxygen consumption (VO 2max ), heart rate (HR), and oxygen pulse (O 2 pulse) at the time of anaerobic threshold (AT) and maximal exercise time (ET max ). To determine the exercise intensity of the rhythmik exercise program, the Polar Heart Monitor was used for quantification, and the Borg Scale was used to measure the rating of perceived exertion (RPE). We did not observe any significant effects on the reaching time of AT, VE, VO 2 , VO 2max , HR, and O 2 pulse at either AT or ET max . However, maximal value of VE (VE max ) was significantly enhanced at ET max . The exercise intensity of the rhythmik exercise program was found to be low at 62.85% of HR max with an RPE of 12.22. Our results suggest that the rhythmik exercise program did not directly improve cardiopulmonary functions; however, considering the unstructured nature of the rhythmik exercise program, anticipated positive effects on cardiopulmonary fitness are achievable through changes in the program contents and exercise time according to the goals of the participants., Competing Interests: CONFLICT OF INTEREST No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported., (Copyright © 2023 Korean Society of Exercise Rehabilitation.)

Th e purpose of current study is investigating eff ect of Blood Flow Restriction Interval Training on aerobic performance among young football players during transition phase of periodization. Twenty eight young male football players were recruited in this study. Subjects were randomly divided into three groups: control, Normal Interval without Kaatsu, and Interval with Kaatsu. Exercise protocol was based on aerobic interval at 400 meters with maximum eff ort for 3 sets in per sessions (First week) and 4 set (Second week). Th e results shown that there is a signifi cant diff erence in aerobic power between groups p<0.05. Post hoc comparisons indicated that the mean of aerobic power was signifi cantly diff erent between all three groups. It has been shown, there is a signifi cant diff erence in rate of perceived exertion between groups at the p<0.05. Post hoc comparisons indicated that the mean of RPE was signifi cantly diff erent between groups. Th is study has been shown that aerobic power and RPE was improved by both normal and BFR interval method. We also found that there is not signifi cantly diff erence in NIWK and IWK group at rate of perceived exertion. Th is results may be explained by reducing intensity of exercise by subjects during exercise with BFR in cause of pain in their legs during exercise. Th e result of current study suggest that Intermediate-intensity, interval training with BFR improves aerobic capacity and RPE concurrently in young football players and prevent decline of VO2max at result of retraining at transition phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]