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Existing elastic band materials for sports rehabilitation equipment have some deficiencies in strength, flexibility and durability, and need to be further improved. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to modify elastic bands using a conjugated material, carbon nanotubes, to improve the strength, flexibility and durability of elastic bands. In this paper, conjugated carbon nanotubes were prepared, and their elastic bands were strengthened and toughened by solvent, dispersant and functionalizer respectively under tensile testing machine and scanning electron microscope. Then the application effect of elastic band modified by conjugated materials in exercise rehabilitation was analyzed experimentally. The experimental results show that the strength of the elastic bands modified with carbon nanotubes is in the optimal range for sports rehabilitation, and the elongation at break of the test elastic band toughness index was also higher than that before modification, all of which were more than 90%. The recovery time of the elastic band after modification was long; the elastic retention rate was high, and the deformation was not easy. The satisfaction rate of different grades of elastic bands after modification was particularly high, which was not less than 95%. The research and application of elastic band modification based on conjugated material carbon nanotubes is very important for training and treatment in sports rehabilitation, which can provide better support and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Due to the special structure of the knee joint in genu valgus individuals, neuromuscular characteristics of muscles can be disturbed and this may change postural control. This study aimed to investigate the effect of 8 weeks of training with an elastic band on the frequency spectrum of lower limb muscles in genu valgum patients during running. Methods. This study was a clinical trial in which 24 male students (20-30 years old) were randomly divided into control and experimental groups. Corrective exercises were performed for 8 weeks using an elastic band for the experimental group. The electrical activity of selected muscles was recorded by an electromyography system. Statistical analysis was performed using repeated measures ANOVA test at the significant level of 0.05. Results. Findings showed a significant increase in the frequency spectrum of rectus femoris (P=0.026; d=1.669) after training. Conclusion. Quadriceps muscles increase knee joint stability along with balance during movements. Therefore, increasing the median frequency of knee joint muscles improve balance. Practical Implications. The results of this study showed that exercises with elastic bands are useful for people with Genu valgum, and in particular, the use of these exercises leads to improved balance and performance.

Background: During the repetitive execution of the swimming strokes, the muscles responsible for the internal rotations of the shoulders tend to become stronger compared to the muscles that oppose these movements. The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of a strengthening program for the shoulder rotator muscles using elastic band exercises in a diagonal Kabat pattern (D2 for flexion) in swimmers, to develop an effective, quick and easy-to-implement protocol for preventive training routines. Methods: A randomized controlled trial design was carried out. Internal and external rotation range of movement, isometric strength of the muscles responsible for internal and external rotation of the shoulder, scapular movements, was measured at the beginning of the study and after 8 weeks post-intervention. A total of 22 male swimmers participated in the study and were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n = 11) or a control group (n = 11). The experimental group underwent a 8-week shoulder-strength program using elastic bands, while the control group focused on aquatic training. Results: The strength-training program resulted in an improvement in the isometric strength of the muscles responsible for external rotation and a better balance between the shoulder rotator muscles in the experimental group. However, these improvements have not been significant (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The strengthening exercise program showed minimal improvement in shoulder rotation strength and range of motion. These findings suggest that the prescribed shoulder-strengthening exercise could be a quick-beneficial dry-land training option to improve external rotation shoulder strength or range of motion, but more studies with larger sample sizes and more weeks of treatment are needed to determine the efficacy of this protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Explosive and fast body movements, sprints, jumps and quick changes of direction, which are characteristic of the football training, place considerable strain on the hamstring muscles. Due to the high occurrence of hamstring injuries, new preventive strategies are required that focus on high-velocity training. The purpose was to assess the effectiveness of high-velocity elastic-band training in reducing the occurrence of hamstring injuries in football players. Methods: Male football players from 15 teams (n = 319) playing in national competitions participated in this study. The players were involved in a 5-week exercise period in either the intervention group (INT) or the control group (CON), with a follow-up period of ~4 months where hamstring injuries and exposure time were recorded. The INT group had two to three sessions per week of elastic-band training with low-load, high-velocity leg curls while lying prone; the CON group performed self-paced football-specific drills. Results: The incidence rate of hamstring injuries was 6.5% in the INT group (8 out of 123 players) and 9.2% in the CON group (18 out of 196 players). Although the INT group showed almost 1/3 reduction in hamstring injury incidence compared to the CON group, the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Moreover, no differences (p > 0.05, odds ratio [OR] = trivial-to-small) in distribution between the groups were found in hamstring injury characteristics (leg dominance and mechanism) except for the distribution of injuries that occurred during matches or training (p = 0.036; OR = 6.14, moderate). Conclusion: The program of high-velocity elastic-band training did not prove to be effective in preventing hamstring muscle injuries in football players despite displaying some positive indications that could be considering when creating injury prevention programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fascinating flight traits of butterflies, such as low wing loading, low flapping frequency, and the ability for long-distance flight, have intrigued scientists and engineers. To study these mechanisms, a 2.7 g butterfly-inspired flapping-wing micro air vehicle (FWMAV) was developed using a combination of a single motor, elastic bands, a driving shaft, shape optimization, and a butterfly-like wing planform. During tethered experiments, aerodynamic forces and wing motions were simultaneously measured to understand the aerodynamics of the butterfly-inspired FWMAV. The results show that the ranges of resultant flapping and lead-lag motion of the wing of the robot were within those of real butterflies during the first stroke. The lift varied with the flapping motion and was sufficient for flight but averaged to zero over one flapping cycle because the opposite direction of lift was generated during the upstroke. These findings indicate that the modulation of the resulting aerodynamic force direction due to the control of the stroke plane angle per stroke plays a crucial role in the flights of butterflies and butterfly-inspired FWMAVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the effects of plyometric training (PT) with elastic bands on the physical fitness and isokinetic function in fencing foil athletes. METHODS The study participants were 16 male and female foil fencers aged 20–35 who were selected as the national team in 2019 and classified into the PT with band (PTB) group (n=8) and PT group (n=8). The participants performed PT according to their elastic band status three times a week for four weeks. Both groups participated in the measurement of physical fitness and isokinetic function factors of the knee joint after 0 and 4 weeks. RESULTS Hand grip strength decreased significantly after 4 weeks versus 0 week in both groups (respectively, p

Background: During the repetitive execution of the swimming strokes, the muscles responsible for the internal rotations of the shoulders tend to become stronger compared to the muscles that oppose these movements. The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of a strengthening program for the shoulder rotator muscles using elastic band exercises in a diagonal Kabat pattern (D2 for flexion) in swimmers, to develop an effective, quick and easy-to-implement protocol for preventive training routines.Methods: A randomized controlled trial design was carried out. Internal and external rotation range of movement, isometric strength of the muscles responsible for internal and external rotation of the shoulder, scapular movements, was measured at the beginning of the study and after 8 weeks post-intervention. A total of 22 male swimmers participated in the study and were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n = 11) or a control group (n = 11). The experimental group underwent a 8-week shoulder-strength program using elastic bands, while the control group focused on aquatic training.Results: The strength-training program resulted in an improvement in the isometric strength of the muscles responsible for external rotation and a better balance between the shoulder rotator muscles in the experimental group. However, these improvements have not been significant (p > 0.05).Conclusion: The strengthening exercise program showed minimal improvement in shoulder rotation strength and range of motion. These findings suggest that the prescribed shoulder-strengthening exercise could be a quick-beneficial dry-land training option to improve external rotation shoulder strength or range of motion, but more studies with larger sample sizes and more weeks of treatment are needed to determine the efficacy of this protocol.

Background. Due to the special structure of the knee joint in genu valgus individuals, neuromuscular characteristics of muscles can be disturbed and this may change postural control. This study aimed to investigate the effect of 8 weeks of training with an elastic band on the frequency spectrum of lower limb muscles in genu valgum patients during running. Methods. This study was a clinical trial in which 24 male students (20-30 years old) were randomly divided into control and experimental groups. Corrective exercises were performed for 8 weeks using an elastic band for the experimental group. The electrical activity of selected muscles was recorded by an electromyography system. Statistical analysis was performed using repeated measures ANOVA test at the significant level of 0.05. Results. Findings showed a significant increase in the frequency spectrum of rectus femoris (P=0.026; d=1.669) after training. Conclusion. Quadriceps muscles increase knee joint stability along with balance during movements. Therefore, increasing the median frequency of knee joint muscles improve balance. Practical Implications. The results of this study showed that exercises with elastic bands are useful for people with Genu valgum, and in particular, the use of these exercises leads to improved balance and performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: To analyze and compare the effects of Vibrapole exercises and elastic band exercises on abdominal strength in young healthy individuals. Material and Methods: In this experimental study, 80 healthy, young individuals between the age groups of 18-24 were screened and recruited and then allocated into 2 groups. Group A- abdominal strengthening exercise using vibrapole (n=40) and Group B- abdominal strengthening exercise using an elastic band (n=40). The intervention was administered for 3 days/week, for 4 weeks to both groups. Progression was adjusted after 2 weeks, by increasing repetitions of exercises from 10 to 20. Outcome measures, including: surface Electromyography (EMG), pressure biofeedback and 7 stage sit-up test, were assessed pre and post-intervention. The analysis was performed with a 95% confidence interval. Results: Group A and B showed significant improvement (p-value

Background: Explosive and fast body movements, sprints, jumps and quick changes of direction, which are characteristic of the football training, place considerable strain on the hamstring muscles. Due to the high occurrence of hamstring injuries, new preventive strategies are required that focus on high-velocity training. The purpose was to assess the effectiveness of high-velocity elastic-band training in reducing the occurrence of hamstring injuries in football players.Methods: Male football players from 15 teams (n = 319) playing in national competitions participated in this study. The players were involved in a 5-week exercise period in either the intervention group (INT) or the control group (CON), with a follow-up period of ∼4 months where hamstring injuries and exposure time were recorded. The INT group had two to three sessions per week of elastic-band training with low-load, high-velocity leg curls while lying prone; the CON group performed self-paced football-specific drills.Results: The incidence rate of hamstring injuries was 6.5% in the INT group (8 out of 123 players) and 9.2% in the CON group (18 out of 196 players). Although the INT group showed almost 1/3 reduction in hamstring injury incidence compared to the CON group, the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Moreover, no differences (p > 0.05, odds ratio [OR] = trivial-to-small) in distribution between the groups were found in hamstring injury characteristics (leg dominance and mechanism) except for the distribution of injuries that occurred during matches or training (p = 0.036; OR = 6.14, moderate).Conclusion: The program of high-velocity elastic-band training did not prove to be effective in preventing hamstring muscle injuries in football players despite displaying some positive indications that could be considering when creating injury prevention programs.

Like in orthopaedics, many maxillofacial fracture cases require elastic traction to control the muscle spasms, pain and aid in reduction of the fractured segments to achieve acceptable occlusion before the definitive management. In trauma and emergency hospital setup, sometimes conventional stock elastic bands are not readily available for the traction (non-rigid maxillo–mandibular fixation). In such cases, customized elastic bands, made from Foley's catheter, can be a better alternative. The current technique is hassle free and has ease of customization as per individual case due to easy availability of Foley's catheter in hospital setup.

The paper presents a new version of the existing elastic band algorithm used for path finding, with application in the field of collaborative robotics and point-to-point movements. The algorithm places control points on the path and dynamically modifies the position of these control points in reaction to any obstacles located or moving in the workspace. The control points are updated in the robot space (TCP space), obstacles are represented by a set of grid-aligned voxels acquired by a camera system. Repulsive forces are created between the obstacles and the robot body (represented by a set of points covering evenly the surface of individual links) and transferred to the locations of the elastic band control points. The method is computationally effective and provides a smooth and length-optimal path while considering collisions in a more accurate manner than traditional usage of simple bounding volumes. The dynamic iterative updating of elastic band provides a clear principle for modification of the trajectory even close to the actual location of the robot as it is following the trajectory. The algorithm is verified on a set of practical experiments made on a physical UR3 robot with simulated obstacles, and the results are also compared to other commonly used methods for dynamic obstacle avoidance.

The aim of this study was to investigate the differences in neuromuscular performance between variable resistance training and constant resistance training within complex training. Twenty-one well-trained collegiate basketball players were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (variable resistance training) or a control group (constant resistance training) and completed a twice weekly training program over an 8-week period. Training programs were the same except that the experimental group included variable resistance via elastic bands (40% of the total load). Maximum strength, vertical jump, horizontal jump, and sprint performance were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Both groups demonstrated significant increases in the back squat 1RM (experimental group +36.5% and control group +32.3%, both p < 0.001), countermovement jump (experimental group +12.9%, p = 0.002 and control group +5.6%, p = 0.02), and squat jump performance (experimental group +21.4% and control group +12.9%, both p < 0.001), whereas standing broad jump performance improved only in the experimental group (+2.9%, p = 0.029). Additionally, the experimental group showed significant improvement in the squat jump (p = 0.014) compared with the control group. However, no statistically significant differences were found between groups for countermovement jump (p = 0.06) and sprint performance at 10 m (p = 0.153) and 20 m (p = 0.076). We may conclude that both training modalities showed similar improvements in maximum strength. Performing variable resistance training within a complex training program is more efficient to enhance selective power performance in well-trained collegiate basketball players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Study Aim. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of different training programs on the improvement of motoric and swimming performance prepubescent swimmers. Material and Methods. Forty-five children between the ages of 9 -11 years with at least 2 years of training experiences, participated in the study. Three different [(1) dry-land with elastic resistance band group + swimming (ERB); (2) dry-land without elastic resistance band (DL) + swimming and (3) swimming group (SG) with swimming training alone] training group were formed. And a 12-week training program was implemented thought the study. Biceps, chest, waist, hip, thigh body circumference measurements were taken from all participants. Vertical jump (VJ), flexed-arm strength (FAS), speed, upper body strength (UBS), Standing horizontal jump (SHJ), flexibility, aerobic endurance (AE), balance, and 50 m freestyle swimming (FS) score were tested on the participants. As statistical analysis, normality and homogeneity of variance assumption were checked (Shapiro-Wilk and Levene tests, respectively). A non-normal distribution was found. The values of each variable were expressed as mean ± standard deviation, and median. The training effects within the groups were evaluated using analyses of Friedman for repeated measures and the level of significance was set at p

[Display omitted] With continuous development of artificial intelligence technology, strain sensors have attracted widespread attention. In this work, a novel high-performance wearable strain sensor is prepared by using a kind of ultra-stretchable, super-hydrophobic and high-conductive composite. The preparation process is as follows, i.e., using common elastic band (EB) as the polymer matrix, nano carbon black (CB) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as mixed conductive filler, and then modified by polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to obtain the PDMS/(CB + CNTs)/EB composite for assembling assemble flexible wearable strain sensors. Experimental results reveal the following excellent properties: 1) The composite exhibits excellent mechanical properties and super-hydrophobicity, i.e., the tensile strength is up to 996.5%, and the elastic modulus and tensile strength increase 49.2% and 59.2%, compared with pristine EB; 2) The composite strain sensor exhibits high sensitivity (the gauge factor reaches up to 648.83 under strain range of 979.9–996.5%), and it still shows stable performance after 3000 cycles tests (100% strain); 3) It is a well candidate to be used for monitoring human body motions including large and subtle body movements; 4) The composite sensor also has advantages of easy access of raw materials, simple preparation, easy mass production and relatively low production cost, showing a broad application prospect in wearable electronic products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although resistance exercise is a well-known and accepted method for treatment of sarcopenia, its effectiveness varies. Through this meta-analysis, we investigated the effectiveness of elastic band resistance exercises in improving the physical performance of individuals with sarcopenia. Well-controlled prospective clinical trials investigating the treatment effect of elastic band training for sarcopenia were found from the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Google scholar databases up to July 2021 by using "sarcopenia" and "elastic band" as the search terms. Four studies--three randomized controlled trials and one quasiexperimental study -- met our inclusion criteria. A total of 231 older adults with sarcopenia were included. After 12 weeks of training, significant improvements were observed in the timed up and go test result, maximal grip strength, gait speed, and appendicular skeletal muscle index in the elastic band training group compared with the control group (95% CI, -2.93 to -1.41, 1.14 to 5.27, -0.06 to -0.02, and 0.03 to 0.26, respectively). However, no significant differences were observed in performance in the 6-minute-walk test (95% CI, -11.00 to 27.00). Elastic band resistance training may benefit older adults with sarcopenia. Further randomized controlled studies with larger samples and longer follow-up periods are warranted to strengthen the clinical evidence regarding the effectiveness of elastic band training for sarcopenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to determine the effect of 8 weeks of resistance training using elastic bands and green coffee supplement on hepatic steatosis index in obese middle-aged Women. Materials and Methods: In this randomized clinical trial, 60 obese (33.582.96) and middle-aged women (42.99±3.08) were selected as the subjects and were randomly divided into four groups of 15 people: supplement, exercise+supplement, exercise+placebo and placebo. The training groups received eight-week elastic band resistance training program at 3 sessions per week and 60 minutes each session. Daily supplementary groups received a 400 mg capsule of green coffee extract. Blood samples were measured 24 hours before the start and 48 hours after the end of the protocol in the fasting state. In order to compare intra-group and extra-group, the t-test and the two-way ANOVA and post-hoc Bonferroni test were used. Results: The results showed that 8 weeks of exercise with supplementation, despite significantly reducing the serum levels of liver enzymes in the experimental groups, there had no significant difference with the control group. Also, 8 weeks of resistance training combined with green coffee supplementation made a significant difference in the index of hepatic steatosis in obese women. Conclusion: However training with elastic bands and green coffee consumption improved hepatic steatosis index but considering that its effect on liver enzymes was not significant. it seems, improvement in liver function indices in obese women may require longer periods of resistance training and green coffee supplementation.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of tissue flossing applied to the ankle joint or to the calf muscles, on ankle joint flexibility, plantarflexor strength and soleus H reflex. Eleven young (16.6 ± 1.2 years) martial arts fighters were exposed to three different intervention protocols in distinct sessions. The interventions consisted of wrapping the ankle (ANKLE) or calf (CALF) with an elastic band for 3 sets of 2 min (2 min rest) to create vascular occlusion. A third intervention without wrapping the elastic band served as a control condition (CON). Active range of motion for ankle (AROM), plantarflexor maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), and soleus H reflex were assessed before (PRE), after (POST), and 10 min after (POST10) the intervention. The H reflex, level of pain (NRS) and wrapping pressure were also assessed during the intervention. Both CALF and ANKLE protocols induced a significant drop in H reflex during the intervention. However, the CALF protocol resulted in a significantly larger H reflex reduction during and after the flossing intervention (medium to large effect size). H reflexes returned to baseline levels 10 min after the intervention in all conditions. AROM and MVC were unaffected by any intervention. The results of this study suggest that tissue flossing can decrease the muscle soleus H reflex particularly when elastic band is wrapped around the calf muscles. However, the observed changes at the spinal level did not translate into higher ankle joint flexibility or plantarflexor strength.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of tissue flossing applied to the ankle joint or to the calf muscles, on ankle joint flexibility, plantarflexor strength and soleus H reflex. Eleven young (16.6 ± 1.2 years) martial arts fighters were exposed to three different intervention protocols in distinct sessions. The interventions consisted of wrapping the ankle (ANKLE) or calf (CALF) with an elastic band for 3 sets of 2 min (2 min rest) to create vascular occlusion. A third intervention without wrapping the elastic band served as a control condition (CON). Active range of motion for ankle (AROM), plantarflexor maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), and soleus H reflex were assessed before (PRE), after (POST), and 10 min after (POST10) the intervention. The H reflex, level of pain (NRS) and wrapping pressure were also assessed during the intervention. Both CALF and ANKLE protocols induced a significant drop in H reflex during the intervention. However, the CALF protocol resulted in a significantly larger H reflex reduction during and after the flossing intervention (medium to large effect size). H reflexes returned to baseline levels 10 min after the intervention in all conditions. AROM and MVC were unaffected by any intervention. The results of this study suggest that tissue flossing can decrease the muscle soleus H reflex particularly when elastic band is wrapped around the calf muscles. However, the observed changes at the spinal level did not translate into higher ankle joint flexibility or plantarflexor strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to determine whether combined exercise-mediated acquisition on the body composition, muscular strength, blood variables and physical fitness occur in female elderly aged over 80 years. METHODS Total 63 elderly (Control group, CON, n=36; Exercise group, EXE, n=27) aged between 80 and 90 years participated in this study. EXE group performed combined exercise for an hour at a time, twice a week for 8 week. RESULTS Body composition was not significantly changed before and after 8-week treatment in both groups. However, systolic blood pressure was increased and HDL-cholesterol was decreased in CON group. Also, muscular strengths in quadriceps femoris, biceps femoris and triceps brachii were significantly decreased in CON group, while there was no statistical change in EXE group. Fasting bloodglucose in EXE group was significantly decreased. Physical-fitness factors determined by senior fitness test were all significantly improved only in EXE group, while there was no change in CON group. These results suggest that combined exercise is very effective prescription in the super-aged elderly. CONCLUSIONS Combined exercise is very effective prescription in the super-aged elderly. Based on our study, we propose that need to develop various programs using combined exercise for super-aged elderly.

Elastic bands are one of the functional equipment used for physical development. The elastic band, which has recently become a widely used material for exercises, is thought to be a major factor that helps the body to develop and change. Present paper aimed to investigate the effects of the elasticity band on the physical properties of university students who have been taking gymnastics lessons. 34 students with a mean age of 19.76±3.25 years were enrolled voluntarily. In the study, physical measurements of the subjects were taken before and after 9-week exercises to observe the physical changes. These measurements consisted of body fat percentage (BFP), handgrip strength (right-left), flexibility, leg strength. SPSS 22.0 program was used for the statistical analysis of the data obtained after the measurements. In the analyses of the data in addition to descriptive statistics, paired-samples t-test was used. According to analyze results, after the nine-week elastic band exercises flexibility, waist circumference measurement, back strength, leg strength, and BFP values of the subjects were found to improve significantly. As a result, this paper showed that regular band exercises have positive effects on physical appearance.

Purpose: Among the most important sex hormones that changes in their levels are related to different diseases pathogenesis can mentioned to sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and estradiol. Therefore, the aim of present study was to investigate the effect of eight weeks’ selected resistance training on serum levels of estradiol, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and body composition in overweight premenopausal women.Methods: Twenty premenopausal women assigned in two experiment (mean age 44.3±2.11 years) and control (mean age 42.3±5.37 years) groups. Experiment group performed resistance training for eight weeks, three sessions in week by using Thera band. resistance exercise consist of 16 movements for upper body, trunk and lower body. Each movement performed with 10 repetitions, 3 set and two-minute interval rest between sets and one minute’s rest between exercises. 48 hours after the last exercise session, blood samples collected and desired variables (SHBG and estradiol) were measured by Elisa method. Data analyzed by analyze covariance test.Results: Increase the SHBG and decrease of body fat percent were significant in training group. But, changes in serum levels of estradiol wasn’t significant statistically.Conclusion: Different type of exercise training play important role in modulation of sex hormones levels. According to present study results, probably resistance training with Thera band have positive effects on modulate of sex hormones levels in women with overweight.

This study aimed to clarify whether low-load resistance training at a low frequency (twice a week) using body weight and elastic band improves muscle size, muscle strength, and physical functions and to compare the training effects between supervised training and a combination of supervised and unsupervised training in untrained older adults. Fifty-one older adults (ages: 57-75 years) selected to either a supervised (S) training group (n = 34) or a combined supervised and unsupervised (SU) group (n = 17). Both groups performed low-load resistance training composed of nine exercises for 12 weeks. The S group participated in supervised exercise sessions twice a week, and the SU group performed a supervised exercise session once a week and an unsupervised exercise session at home also once a week. For muscle thicknesses in the anterior aspects of the forearm, upper arm, and thigh and the posterior aspect of the thigh, group x time interactions were observed (p < 0.05). The hypertrophic effects were higher in the S group. Isometric knee extension strength and physical functions increased similarly in both groups. Low-load resistance training using body weight and elastic band twice a week for 12 weeks induces muscle hypertrophy and increases muscle strength and physical functions in older adults. Although the muscle hypertrophic effects are greater in the S group than in the SU group, the other effects were similar between the groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aging is associated with reduced muscle mass and strength leading to impaired physical function. Resistance training programs incorporated into older adults' real-life settings may have the potential to counteract these changes. We evaluated the effectiveness of 8 months resistance training using easily available, low cost equipment compared to physical activity counselling on physical function, muscle strength, and body composition in community-dwelling older adults receiving home care. Methods: This open label, two-armed, parallel group, cluster randomized trial recruited older adults above 70 years (median age 86.0 (Interquartile range 80–90) years) receiving home care. Participants were randomized at cluster level to the resistance training group (RTG) or the control group (CG). The RTG trained twice a week while the CG were informed about the national recommendations for physical activity and received a motivational talk every 6th week. Outcomes were assessed at participant level at baseline, after four, and 8 months and included tests of physical function (chair rise, 8 ft-up-and-go, preferred- and maximal gait speed, and stair climb), maximal strength, rate of force development, and body composition. Results: Twelve clusters were allocated to RTG (7 clusters, 60 participants) or CG (5 clusters, 44 participants). The number of participants analyzed was 56–64 (6–7 clusters) in RTG and 20–42 (5 clusters) in CG. After 8 months, multilevel linear mixed models showed that RTG improved in all tests of physical function and maximal leg strength (9–24%, p = 0.01–0.03) compared to CG. No effects were seen for rate of force development or body composition. Conclusion: This study show that resistance training using easily available, low cost equipment is more effective than physical activity counselling for improving physical function and maximal strength in community-dwelling older adults receiving home care. Trial registration: ISRCTN1067873 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantifying training variables of a physical exercise modality is essential for an appropriate dosage. In training with elastic bands, time under tension (TUT) and force represent the duration and intensity of this force-training modality. The aims of this study were to evaluate the degree of compliance to TUT prescription for three different scenarios of two exercises and the comparison of the force values obtained versus the estimate values. A total of 29 healthy volunteers were evaluated in a clinical environment under controlled conditions in 3 different scenarios (different velocities or ROMs) of both shoulder abduction and knee extension in 2 sets of 10 repetitions per scenario within a single session. Concentric and isometric phases showed a higher degree of compliance for their TUTs than the eccentric phase TUTs for all scenarios of both exercises, whereas the degree of compliance was higher for the total TUT than for the phases’ TUTs. Additionally, the eccentric phase showed a general tendency to develop for longer time periods than prescribed, whilst the fast scenario showed a higher degree of compliance for isometric phase TUTs and total TUTs than the extant two scenarios in both exercises. On the other hand, the force of the elastic bands tends to be overestimated according to the estimates of the manufacturers. These findings, both those related to the degree of compliance with TUTs and the force analysis, can be used by physiotherapists and other exercise professionals as a reference to achieve a good dosage of routine exercises with elastic bands.

Physiologically aging causes the decreased of muscle mass, strength, and or limited activity known as sarcopenia in the elderly. The decrease in muscle capacity occurs in all elderly, active, or sedentary. Exercise for the elderly is considered not enough to prevent the decrease of function that will occur. Therefore, it is necessary to add strength training to the elderly, such as elastic band exercise. The effect of strength training in 12 weeks with elastic band strengthening exercise on muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance as sarcopenia parameters measured in this study. The interventional study design was conducted in elderly community-dwelling in Bandung city, West Java, from May to July 2016. Thirty elderly (60–81 years old) muscle mass measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), handgrip strength using hand dynamometer and walking distance as the parameter of physical performance, using 6-minute walking test. Significant differences found in hand muscle strength (p=0.007), walking distance (p=0.000) after elastic band strengthening exercise, but there were no significant changes in muscle mass (p=0.236) even though the muscle mass increased after 12 weeks of strengthening exercise. In conclusion, additional elastic band strength exercise for regular elderly exercise can increase muscle strength and physical performance. PENGARUH LATIHAN DENGAN PITA ELASTIK TERHADAP PARAMETER SARKOPENIA PADA USILA DI KOMUNITAS Penuaan secara fisiologis menyebabkan penurunan massa, kekuatan otot dan/atau keterbatasan aktivitas pada usia lanjut (usila). Penurunan kemampuan otot ini terjadi pada semua usila, baik yang aktif maupun nonaktif sehingga senam usila yang ada dianggap tidak mencukupi untuk mencegah penurunan fungsi yang akan terjadi. Oleh karena itu, diperlukan penambahan latihan kekuatan pada usila seperti latihan kekuatan menggunakan pita elastik. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui pengaruh latihan kekuatan dengan pita elastik selama 12 minggu terhadap massa otot, kekuatan otot, dan performa fisik yang merupakan parameter sarkopenia pada usila. Desain penelitian intervensi dilakukan pada usila di komunitas Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat periode bulan Mei sampai Juli 2016. Sebanyak 30 partisipan (usia 60–81 tahun) diukur massa otot menggunakan bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) dan kekuatan otot menggunakan dinamometer tangan, serta uji jalan 6 menit untuk mengukur performa fisik. Perbedaan bermakna ditemukan pada kekuatan otot tangan (p=0,007) dan jarak tempuh jalan (p=0,000) setelah dilakukan latihan kekuatan dengan pita elastik, tetapi tidak didapatkan perbedaan bermakna pada massa otot tangan dan kaki (p=0,236) walaupun terjadi peningkatan massa otot setelah dilakukan latihan selama 12 minggu. Simpulan, penambahan latihan kekuatan dengan pita elastik pada program senam usila meningkatkan secara bermakna kekuatan otot dan performa fisik usila.

[Purpose] To investigate the effects of exercise using a modified elastic band with a coconut shell on leg muscle strength and balance in older adults. [Participants and Methods] The study consisted of 30 participants aged 60 years and older. The participants were randomly assigned to either the exercise (n=15) or control groups (n=15). The exercise group used a modified elastic band with a coconut shell three days a week for four weeks. Both groups received a single educational session on fall prevention after a baseline assessment. The Functional Reach Test (FRT) and Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) were used to assess balance, respectively. The 30-second chair stand test (30CST) was also used to measure leg strength. All outcome parameters were measured at the beginning of the study, immediately after a single exercise session, and after four weeks of exercise. [Results] The FRT and 30CST significantly increased in the exercise group after four weeks of exercise. The TUG significantly decreased in the exercise group after completing the program. [Conclusion] This study demonstrated that exercise using a modified elastic band with a coconut shell could effectively improve leg muscle strength and balance in older adults., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (2024©by the Society of Physical Therapy Science. Published by IPEC Inc.)

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) with elastic band exercise on strength and dynamic balance in ankle instability. A total of 19 subjects with ankle instability. Subjects were randomly divided into ST(Stretching group, n=10) and STPNF(Stretching with Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation group, n=10). Two groups measured strength dynamic balance. The differences in ankle muscle strength and balance ability between pre- and post-intervention were analyzed using paired t-test and independent t-test. In the within-group pre-post comparison, STPNF showed significant increase in muscle strength at RPF30°, LPF30°, and RPF90°. In the between-groups comparison, significant difference in muscle strength was found at RPF30°, LPF30°, LDF30°, RDF90°, LPF90°, and LDF90° (p<0.05). In the within-group pre-post comparison of dynamic balance, STPNF showed significant increase in leftward and rightward (p<0.05). In the between-groups comparison, significant difference in rightward balance was found (p<0.05). The results from this study indicated that PNF with elastic band have improved the strength and balance in ankle instability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible strain sensors are receiving a great deal of interest owing to their prospective applications in monitoring various human activities. Among various efforts to enhance the sensitivity of strain sensors, pre-crack generation has been well explored for elastic polymers but rarely on textile substrates. Herein, a highly sensitive textile-based strain sensor was fabricated via a dip-coat-stretch approach: a polyester woven elastic band was dipped into ink containing single-walled carbon nanotubes coated with silver paste and pre-stretched to generate prebuilt cracks on the surface. Our sensor demonstrated outstanding sensitivity (a gauge factor of up to 3550 within a strain range of 1.5–5%), high stability and durability, and low hysteresis. The high performance of this sensor is attributable to the excellent elasticity and woven structure of the fabric substrate, effectively generating and propagating the prebuilt cracks. The strain sensor integrated into firefighting gloves detected detailed finger angles and cyclic finger motions, demonstrating its capability for subtle human motion monitoring. It is also noteworthy that this novel strategy is a very quick, straightforward, and scalable method of fabricating strain sensors, which is extremely beneficial for practical applications.

Background/AimsRectal neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are among the most common of gastrointestinal NETs. Due to recent advances in endoscopy, various methods of complete endoscopic resection have been introduced for small (≤10 mm) rectal NETs. However, there is a debate about the optimal treatment for rectal NETs. In our study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of endoscopic resection using pneumoband and elastic band (ER-BL) for rectal NETs smaller than 10 mm in diameter.MethodsA total of 55 patients who were diagnosed with rectal NET from January 2004 to December 2011 at Gil Medical Center were analyzed retrospectively. Sixteen patients underwent ER-BL. For comparison, 39 patients underwent conventional endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR).ResultsThere was a markedly lower deep margin positive rate for ER-BL than for conventional EMR (6% [1/16] vs. 46% [18/39], P=0.029). Four patients who underwent conventional EMR experienced perforation or bleeding. However, they recovered within a few days. On the other hand, patients whounderwent endoscopic resection using a pneumoband did not experience any complications. In multivariate analysis, ER-BL (P=0.021) was independently associated with complete resection.ConclusionsER-BL is an effective endoscopic treatment with regards to deep margin resection for rectal NET smaller than 10 mm.

Objective: To compare the effects of foot muscle strengthening exercises with and without elastic band to the dynamic balance function in children aged 8–12 years with flexible flatfeet. Methods: Forty-one children (aged 8–12 years) with flexible flatfeet and dynamic balance problem were randomly allocated into either the intervention or control group. Both groups received thrice weekly training for 6 weeks. The foot strengthening exercise regimens consisted of pronation, supination, short foot, and tiptoeing using elastic band for the intervention group and without elastic band for the control group. Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) was tested before and after 6 weeks of training. Results: A statistically significant difference of normalized SEBT scores was found for both groups in both legs (p=0.00, p

Softball and baseball are games that require multiple skill sets such as throwing, hitting and fielding. Players spend a copious amount of time in batting practice in order to be successful hitters. Variables commonly associated with successful hitting include bat velocity and torso rotation. The concept of overspeed bodyweight assistance (BWA) has shown increases in vertical jump and sprint times, but not hip rotation and batting. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of assisted hip rotation on bat velocity. Twenty-one male and female recreational softball and baseball players (15 males, age 23.8 ± 3.1yrs; height 177.67 ± 6.71cm; body mass 85.38 ± 14.83kg; 6 females, age 21.5 ± 2.1yrs; height 162.20 ± 9.82cm; body mass 60.28 ± 9.72kg) volunteered to participate. Four different BWA conditions (0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%) were randomly applied and their effects on bat velocity were analyzed. Subjects performed three maximal effort swings under each condition in a custom measurement device and average bat velocity (MPH) was used for analysis. A mixed factor ANOVA revealed no interaction (p=0.841) or main effect for condition, but there was a main effect for sex where males had greater bat velocity (43.82±4.40 - 0% BWA, 41.52±6.09 - 10% BWA, 42.59±7.24 - 20% BWA, 42.69±6.42 - 30% BWA) than females (32.57±5.33 - 0% BWA, 31.69±3.40 - 10% BWA, 32.43±5.06 - 20% BWA, 32.08±4.83 - 30% BWA) across all conditions Using the concept of overspeed training with assisted hip rotation up to 30% BWA did not result in an increase in bat velocity. Future research should examine elastic band angle and hip translation at set-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ready made garment in Egypt is facing tremendous competition in the local and external markets. Most of the garment mills pay more attention to the quality export products and neglect the local market, so by the time they are losing the local market share which is gained by the Chinese and the Syrian products. One of the major problems found in many ready made garments is the degradation of the elastic band due to laundry. Therefore, the aim of the work is to study the methods of testing and factors affecting the performance of the elastic band due to successive washes, in order to insure good performance during usage. One of the large companies in knitting garment manufacturing received customer complains from stores that the elastic waste band used in the under wear is becoming lose and loses its elasticity after washing. Therefore, 15 samples from different types of elastic band were tested, using different materials, structure, finishing methods and widths. Results show that the type of the rubber band used and the way of storage before and after manufacture have a great influence on the performance of the elastic band in the garment. A testing technique is introduced to insure the performance of the rubber band is going to be reliable during its life time.

Background: Reducing rearfoot eversion is a commonly desired effect in clinical practice to prevent or treat musculoskeletal dysfunction. Interventions that pull the lower limb into external rotation may reduce rearfoot eversion. Objective: This study investigated whether the use of external rotation elastic bands, of different levels of stiffness, will decrease rearfoot eversion during walking. We hypothesized that the use of elastic bands would decrease rearfoot eversion and that the greater the band stiffness, the greater the eversion reduction. Method: Seventeen healthy participants underwent three-dimensional kinematic analysis of the rearfoot and shank. The participants walked on a treadmill with and without high- and low-stiffness bands. Frontal-plane kinematics of the rearfoot-shank joint complex was obtained during the stance phase of walking. Repeated-measures ANOVAs were used to compare discrete variables that described rearfoot eversion-inversion: mean eversion-inversion; eversion peak; and eversion-inversion range of motion. Results: The low-stiffness and high-stiffness bands significantly decreased eversion and increased mean eversioninversion (p≤0.037) and eversion peak (p≤0.006) compared with the control condition. Both bands also decreased eversion-inversion range of motion (p≤0.047) compared with control by reducing eversion. The high-stiffness band condition was not significantly different from the low-stiffness band condition for any variables (p≥0.479). Conclusion: The results indicated that the external rotation bands decreased rearfoot eversion during walking. This constitutes preliminary experimental evidence suggesting that increasing external rotation moments at the lower limb may reduce rearfoot eversion, which needs further testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Elastic resistance bands (ERB) combined with proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) are often used in resistance muscle training programs, which have potential effects on peripheral muscle strength. However, the effects of the combination of ERB and PNF on respiratory muscle strength warrant further investigation. Objectives: The assessment of the effects of PNF combined with ERB on respiratory muscle strength. Method: Twenty healthy, right-handed females were included. Subjects were randomized to either the resistance training program group (TG, n=10) or the control group (CG, n=10). Maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) and inspiratory pressure (MIP) were measured before and after four weeks of an upper extremity resistance training program. The training protocol consisted of upper extremity PNF combined with ERB, with resistance selected from 1 repetition maximum protocol. Results: PNF combined with ERB showed significant increases in MIP and MEP (p<0.05). In addition, there were significant differences between the TG and CG regarding ΔMIP (p=0.01) and ΔMEP (p=0.04). Conclusions: PNF combined with ERB can have a positive impact on respiratory muscle strength. These results may be useful with respect to cardiopulmonary chronic diseases that are associated with reduced respiratory muscle strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The ready made garment in Egypt is facing tremendous competition in the local and external markets. Most of the garment mills pay more attention to the quality export products and neglect the local market, so by the time they are losing the local market share which is gained by the Chinese and the Syrian products. One of the major problems found in many ready made garments is the degradation of the elastic band due to laundry. Therefore, the aim of the work is to study the methods of testing and factors affecting the performance of the elastic band due to successive washes, in order to insure good performance during usage. One of the large companies in knitting garment manufacturing received customer complains from stores that the elastic waste band used in the under wear is becoming lose and loses its elasticity after washing. Therefore, 15 samples from different types of elastic band were tested, using different materials, structure, finishing methods and widths. Results show that the type of the rubber band used and the way of storage before and after manufacture have a great influence on the performance of the elastic band in the garment. A testing technique is introduced to insure the performance of the rubber band is going to be reliable during its life time. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]