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Rey, E, Costa, PB, Corredoira, FJ, and Sal de Rellan Guerra, A. Effects of age on physical match performance in professional soccer players. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2019-This study aimed to evaluate the effects of age using a large-scale analysis of match physical performance in professional soccer players. A total of 10,739 individual match observations were undertaken on outfield players competing in the first and second divisions of the Spanish soccer professional leagues during the 2017-2018 season, using a computerized tracking system (TRACAB, Chyronhego, New York, USA). The players were classified into five positions and into 5 age groups (

Purpose To explore risk profiles of patients scheduled for lumbar spinal fusion (LSF) and their association with short-term recovery of patient after surgery. Methods Forty-nine patients scheduled for elective 1–3 level LSF between March 2019 and June 2020 were included. Patients underwent a preoperative risk screening, consisting of an anamnesis, questionnaires and physical performance tests. A latent profile analysis (LPA) was used to identify possible risk profiles within this population. Results Two risk profiles could be established: a fit and deconditioned risk profile. A significant between-profile difference was found in smoking status (p = 0.007), RAND36-PCS (p p p p = 0.050), motor control (p = 0.020) and steep ramp test (p = 0.005). Moreover, the fit risk profile had a significant shorter time to functional recovery (3.65 days versus 4.89 days, p = 0.013) and length of hospital stay (5.06 days versus 6.00 days, p = 0.008) compared to the deconditioned risk profile. No differences in complication rates between both risk profiles could be established. Allocation to a risk profile was associated with the functional recovery rate (p = 0.042), but not with LOS or complications. Conclusion This study found a fit and deconditioned risk profile. The patients with a fit risk profile perceived a better quality of life, performed better in mobility, motor control, cardiopulmonary tests and showed also a significant shorter stay in the hospital and a shorter time to functional recovery. Preoperatively establishing a patient’s risk profile could aid in perioperative care planning and preoperative decision-making.

Muscle strength and physical performance are associated with incident fractures and mortality. However, their role in the risk of subsequent fracture and postfracture mortality is not clear. We assessed the association between muscle strength (grip strength) and performance (gait speed and chair stands time) and the risk of subsequent fracture and mortality in 830 men with low-trauma index fracture, who participated in the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) USA Study and had their index measurements assessed within 5 years prior to the index fracture. The annual decline in muscle strength and performance following index fracture, estimated using linear mixed-effects regression, was also examined in relation to mortality. The associations were assessed using Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for age, femoral neck bone mineral density (FN BMD), prior fractures, falls, body mass index (BMI), index fracture site, lifestyle factors, and comorbidities. Over a median follow-up of 3.7 (interquartile range [IQR], 1.3-8.1) years from index fracture to subsequent fracture, 201 (24%) men had a subsequent fracture and over 5.1 (IQR, 1.8-9.6) years to death, and 536 (65%) men died. Index measurements were not associated with subsequent fracture (hazard ratios [HRs] ranging from 0.97 to 1.07). However, they were associated with postfracture mortality. HR (95% confidence interval [CI]) per 1 standard deviation (1-SD) decrement in grip strength: HR 1.12 (95% CI, 1.01-1.25) and gait speed: HR 1.14 (95% CI, 1.02-1.27), and 1-SD increment in chair stands time: HR 1.08 (95% CI, 0.97-1.21). Greater annual declines in these measurements were associated with higher mortality risk, independent of the index values and other covariates. HR (95% CI) per 1-SD annual decrement in change in grip strength: HR 1.15 (95% CI, 1.01-1.33) and in gait speed: HR 1.38 (95% CI, 1.13-1.68), and 1-SD annual increment in chair stands time: HR 1.28 (95% CI, 1.07-1.54). Men who were unable to complete one or multiple tests had greater risk of postfracture mortality (24%-109%) compared to those performed all tests. It remains to be seen whether improvement in these modifiable factors can reduce postfracture mortality. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).

BACKGROUND: Previous research suggests that sarcopenia is associated with lower cognitive functioning. Evidence on the longitudinal relationship between cognition and sarcopenia, according to the revised criteria of the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP2), is scarce. This study aimed to investigate both cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between sarcopenia and its defining parameters (muscle strength, muscle mass and physical performance) and cognitive performance in middle-aged and older men. METHODS: This was a secondary analysis of data from the European Male Ageing Study (EMAS), a multicentre cohort study of men aged 40-79 years, recruited from population registers in eight European centres. Cognitive functioning was assessed by using a battery of three neuropsychological tests, measuring fluid intelligence: Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure (ROCF-Copy and ROCF-Recall), Camden Topographical Recognition Memory (CTRM) and Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). Sarcopenia-defining parameters appendicular lean mass (aLM), gait speed (GS), chair stand test (CST) and handgrip strength (HGS) were measured. Sarcopenia was diagnosed according to the criteria of the EWGSOP2. All measurements were performed at baseline and after a follow-up of 4.3 years. Cross-sectional associations between cognition, sarcopenia-defining parameters and prevalent sarcopenia (EWGSOP2) were analysed. Longitudinally, the predictive value of baseline cognition on decline in sarcopenia-defining parameters, onset of new sarcopenia and vice versa was examined. Linear and logistic regression were used and adjusted for putative confounders. RESULTS: In the whole cohort (n = 3233), ROCF-Copy (β = 0.016; P

PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the effects of 20 wk resistance exercise training with or without protein supplementation on body composition, muscle mass, muscle strength, physical performance, and aerobic capacity in prostate cancer patients receiving androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). METHODS: Sixty prostate cancer patients receiving ADT were randomly assigned to perform 20 wk of resistance exercise training with supplementation of 31 g whey protein (EX + PRO, n = 30) or placebo (EX + PLA, n = 30), consumed immediately after exercise and every night before sleep. A separate control group (CON, n = 36) only received usual care. At baseline and after 20 wk, body composition (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry), muscle mass (computed tomography scan), muscle strength (1-repetition maximum strength tests), physical performance (Timed Up and Go Test, 30-Second Chair Stand Test, and Stair Climb Test), aerobic capacity (cardiopulmonary exercise test), and habitual dietary intake (food diary) were assessed. Data were analyzed using a two-factor repeated-measures ANOVA. RESULTS: Over time, muscle mass and strength increased in EX + PRO and EX + PLA and decreased in CON. Total fat mass and fat percentage increased in EX + PRO and CON, but not in EX + PLA. Physical performance did not significantly change over time in either group. Aerobic capacity was maintained in EX + PLA, but it decreased in EX + PRO and CON. Habitual protein intake (without supplements) averaged >1.0 g·kg body weight -1 ·d -1 , with no differences over time or between groups. CONCLUSIONS: In prostate cancer patients, resistance exercise training counteracts the adverse effects of ADT on body composition, muscle mass, muscle strength, and aerobic capacity, with no additional benefits of protein supplementation.

Antioxidant supplementation has become a common practice among athletes to boost sport achievement. Likewise, melatonin (MEL) has been ingested as an ergogenic aid to improve physical performance. To date, no study has checked whether the multiple beneficial effects of MEL have an outcome during a maximum running exercise until exhaustion. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of MEL ingestion on physical performance and biochemical responses (i.e., oxidative stress) during exhaustive exercise. In a double blind randomized study, thirteen professional soccer players [age: 17.5 ± 0.8 years, body mass: 70.3 ± 3.9 kg, body height: 1.80 ± 0.08 m; maximal aerobic speed (MAS): 16.85 ± 0.63 km/h; mean ± standard deviation], members of a first league squad, performed a running exercise until exhaustion at 100% of MAS, after either MEL or placebo ingestion. Physical performance was assessed, and blood samples were obtained at rest and following the exercise. Compared to placebo, MEL intake prevented the increase in oxidative stress markers (i.e., malondialdehyde), alleviated the alteration of antioxidant status (i.e., glutathione peroxidase, uric acid and total bilirubin) and decreased post-exercise biomarkers of muscle damage (i.e., creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase) (p0.05). However, physical performance was not affected by MEL ingestion (p0.05). In conclusion, acute MEL intake before a maximal running exercise protected athletes from oxidative stress and cellular damage but without an effect on physical performance.

The aim of this study was to compare the acute physiological (i.e., heart rate-related variables) and neuromuscular responses (i.e., sprint and jump) and time-motion characteristics (i.e., external load variables) when modifying the game design (possession play vs. mini-goals without a goalkeeper) during 4-a-side in amateur senior football players. Male senior football players (n = 16) performed two formats of small-sided games (SSGs) in two different testing sessions (4-a-side with possession play and mini-goals rule). Differences in time-motion characteristics and physiological parameters of players were measured with the Global Positioning System (GPS), and tested before and after (pre- and post-SSG) for neuromuscular assessment. A repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), with Bonferroni post-hoc test, showed that both SSG formats induced changes in sprint performance (before-after comparison) (p ≤ 0.05). Moreover, the results showed that the variables muscle oxygen saturation, rate of perceived exertion, 85-89% heart rate peak, total distance, total distances at low speed, total distances at high speed, m/min, accelerations at low speed, accelerations of ≥ 2.5 m.s

Objective Foot and/or ankle (F/A) problems may be encountered in medial uni-compartmental knee (UKA) patients postoperatively due to the limb alignment changes and alterations in weight bearing of F/A. This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors and the incidence of foot and ankle (F/A) problems in (UKA) arthroplasty patients. Methods Patients who underwent UKA between 2016 and 2019 in our clinic were evaluated and the presence of F/A problems was recorded. Radiologic evaluations included hip knee ankle angle (HKA), medial proximal tibial angle, posterior tibial slope angle, talar tilt angle, talar inclination, talar dome to mechanical axis (TDMA), and talocrural angle (TCA) measured on preoperative and follow-up long-leg standing radiographs. The range of motion, Q angles, and muscle strengths were measured. Visual analog scale, physical performance limitations, and patient-reported activity limitations were evaluated for all patients. Patients with reported F/A problems were additionally evaluated with Foot Functional Index. Results Forty-four patients (38 female, 6 male; mean age 58.66 ± 8.6 years; mean BMI 31.30 ± 3.81, mean follow-up period 34.22 ± 18.95 months) were included in the study. There were 13 patients (29.5%) with reported F/A problems. Postoperative comparison of patients with and without F/A problems showed statistically significant differences in only WOMAC and SF12 physical health sub-scores ( p = 0.002, p = 0.003, respectively). There was no significant postoperative change in TDMA in patients with F/A problems ( p > 0.05) in contrast to patients without F/A problems ( p = 0.006). There was no statistically significant difference in preoperative TCA measurements between groups ( p = 0.79). Comparison of knee and ankle radiologic measurements between groups demonstrated significant difference only in postoperative HKA measurements (−2.82 ± 2.53 vs. −0.80 ± 3.12, p = 0.033). Conclusion F/A problems adversely affecting the functional status were frequent in our cohort of UKA patients. Postoperative residual varus deformity may be a risk factor for this. Therefore, if slight varus alignment is aimed at UKA patients, preoperative F/A status should be evaluated.

Introduction During aging, changes occur in the human body that increase the probability of arterial hypertension which can potentiate deleterious effects on functional performance. Objective To analyze the association of functional performance indicators with hypertension in older people. Methods An epidemiological, population-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted with 209 older adults (58.40% women). Functional performance was assessed by the following tests: handgrip strength; chair stand test; arm curl test; timed up and go (TUG); sit and reach test; and step in place test (SPT). Diagnosis of arterial hypertension was self-reported. Results The prevalence of hypertension was found to be 58.90% (males: 51.70%; females: 63.90%). It was also observed that the hypertensive individuals of both sexes had worse performance in SPT and TUG (p < 0.05). Furthermore, it was found that each additional second for TUG increased by 11% the probability of hypertension in men (PR:1.11; 95%CI: 1.03-1.20) and by 7% in women (PR: 1.07; 95%CI: 1.04-1.12), while each step performed in the SPT decreased the probability for the outcome by 2% (men and women = PR: 0.98; 95%CI: 0.97-0.99). Conclusion TUG was found to be positively associated with hypertension, while SPT was inversely associated with hypertension. Resumo Introdução Durante o envelhecimento ocorrem modificações no corpo humano, as quais aumentam a probabilidade de hipertensão arterial sistêmica (HAS),o que pode potencializar efeitos deletérios no desem-penho funcional. Objetivo Analisar a associação de indicadores de desempenho funcional com a HAS em pessoas idosas. Métodos Inquérito epidemiológico, populacional, transversal, conduzido com 209 idosos (58,40% mulheres). O desempenho funcional foi averi-guado pelos seguintes testes: força de preensão manual; levantar e sentar da cadeira; flexão do antebraço; levantar, caminhar e sentar (LCS); sentar e alcançar o pé; e marcha estacionária (ME). O diagnóstico da HAS foi autorreferido. Resultados Averiguou-se a prevalência de HAS em 58,9% dos participantes (homens: 51,7%; mulheres: 63,9%). Observou-se, também, que os hipertensos de ambos os sexos apresentaram pior desempenho na ME e LCS (p < 0,05). Além disso, verificou-se que cada segundo a mais despendido para LSC aumentou em 11% e 7%, respectivamente, a probabilidade de HAS nos homens (RP: 1,11; IC95%: 1,03-1,20) e nas mulheres (RP: 1,07; IC95%: 1,04-1,12), enquanto cada passo a mais realizado na ME diminuiu em 2% a probabilidade para o desfecho (homens e mulheres = RP: 0,98; IC95%: 0,97-0,99). Conclusão Identificou-se que o teste de LCS esteve positivamente associado à HAS. Ademais, a ME apresentou-se inversamente associada à HAS.

This study sought to examine differences in measures of intense periods of physical performance during competitive match-play, between one-match (1 match weeks) and two-match microcycles (2 match week). 1, 3 and 5 min "peak" and mean averages for total distance (TD), high-speed running (HSR) and metabolic power (MP) were analysed for each 15 min period of match-play. Linear mixed models were employed to examine the differences in dependent variables for each method of measurement between the 1 and 2 game microcycles. No differences were reported for "peak" values for all epoch lengths, however, results revealed significantly reduced "average" values, during periods of fixture congestion, for 1, 3 and 5 min epochs for average TD, and 3 min epochs for average HSR towards the end of the match (75-90 min split). There was, however, a trend for the opposite response to occur in the 60-75-min period. The current data suggests that players potentially display altered pacing strategies during periods of fixture congestion, with these observed responses being dependent on sampling method and epoch length.

In regular football, the players’ selection process involves an objective assessment based on their anthropometric and physical performance. However, available literature focused on players’ selection process in cerebral palsy (CP) football is scarce. Purpose: To describe the anthropometrical and physical performance profiles of the International Spanish CP footballers and to compare them with the remaining CP football players from the national competition. Method: A total of 75 CP football players from the Spanish CP Football National Competition (classified into the 3 existing classes: football class [FT] 1 = 38; FT2 = 29; FT3 = 8) participated in the study. Participants were divided into 2 groups: selected players (n = 15) and nonselected players (n = 60) for the national team. Anthropometrical data and physical performance (countermovement jump, 20-m sprint, modified agility T-test [MAT], and dribbling test) were collected. Results: There were significant differences in the 20-m sprint, MAT, and dribbling for the total sample and in MAT and dribbling for FT2 and FT3 classes between selected players and nonselected players (P Conclusion: Change-of-direction ability (ie, MAT) and dribbling skills are important when performing the selection process, as they allow the evaluation of important aspects of the game, but they may also provide the technical staff with an idea of the functionality and the physical performance of the players in each sport class.

BackgroundMusculoskeletal conditions and physical frailty have overlapping constructs. We aimed to quantify individual contributions of musculoskeletal factors to frailty.MethodsParticipants included 347 men and 360 women aged ≥60 yr (median ages; 70.8 (66.1–78.6) and 71.0 (65.2–77.5), respectively) from the Geelong Osteoporosis Study. Frailty was defined as ≥3, pre-frail 1–2, and robust 0, of the following; unintentional weight loss, weakness, low physical activity, exhaustion, and slowness. Measures were made of femoral neck BMD, appendicular lean mass index (ALMI, kg/m2) and whole-body fat mass index (FMI, kg/m2) by DXA (Lunar), SOS, BUA and SI at the calcaneus (Lunar Achilles Insight) and handgrip strength by dynamometers. Binary and ordinal logistic regression models and AUROC curves were used to quantify the contribution of musculoskeletal parameters to frailty. Potential confounders included anthropometry, smoking, alcohol, prior fracture, FMI, SES and comorbidities.ResultsOverall, 54(15.6%) men and 62(17.2%) women were frail. In adjusted-binary logistic models, SI, ALMI and HGS were associated with frailty in men (OR = 0.73, 95%CI 0.53–1.01; OR=0.48, 0.34–0.68; and OR = 0.11, 0.06–0.22; respectively). Muscle measures (ALMI and HGS) contributed more to this association than did bone (SI) (AUROCs 0.77, 0.85 vs 0.71, respectively). In women, only HGS was associated with frailty in adjusted models (OR = 0.30 95%CI 0.20–0.45, AUROC = 0.83). In adjusted ordinal models, similar results were observed in men; for women, HGS and ALMI were associated with frailty (ordered OR = 0.30 95%CI 0.20–0.45; OR = 0.56, 0.40–0.80, respectively).ConclusionMuscle deficits appeared to contribute more than bone deficits to frailty. This may have implications for identifying potential musculoskeletal targets for preventing or managing the progression of frailty.

Background Youth sports participation is encouraged for proposed physical and psychological benefits. However early sport specialization and the potentially negative consequences may be a cause for concern. Purpose To describe sport specialization in Canadian youth and investigate associations with previous injury and physical performance. Study design Cross-sectional study. Methods Junior high school students (grades 7-9, ages 11-16) were invited to participate. All participants completed a questionnaire capturing specialization level (low, moderate, high; based on year-round training, exclusion of other sports, and single-sport training) and injury history in the previous 12-months. Additionally, all participants completed physical performance measures including vertical jump (cm), predicted VO2max (mL/kg/min), single-leg balance (secs) and Y-Balance composite score (%). Logistic regression examined the association between school grade, school size, sex and sport specialization (Objective 1) and the association between sport specialization and injury history (Objective 2). Multivariable linear regression analyses (4) assessed associations between sport specialization category and physical performance measures (Objective 3). Results Two hundred and thirty-eight students participated in the study. Eighteen percent of participants reported high specialization, with no significant associations between sex, grade or school size and specialization category. There was no significant difference in the odds of sustaining previous injury between participants reporting moderate (odds ratio [OR]=1.94, 95% CI 0.86-4.35) or high (OR=2.21, 95% CI 0.43-11.37) compared to low specialization. There were no significant differences in vertical jump height (mean diff [MD] = -0.4 to 2.1cm), predicted VO2max (MD = 2.2 to 3.1mL/kg/min), single leg balance (MD = 0.5 to 1.9sec) or Y-balance (MD = 0.6 to 7.0%) between sport specialization categories. Conclusions Sport specialization exists in Canadian junior high schools but may be less common than previously reported and it was not associated with sex, grade, or school size. Level of specialization was not associated with history of injury nor a range of physical performance measures. Level of Evidence Level 3

Longitudinal changes in anthropometric and physical performance characteristics of International female rugby union players were evaluated across 5-seasons, according to field position. Sixty-eight international female rugby union players from a top 2 ranked international team, undertook anthropometric and physical performance measurements across five seasons. Anthropometric and physical performance changes occurred, with skinfolds decreasing between 2015 and 2017 and body mass increasing between 2017 and 2019. Single-leg isometric squat (SL ISO), 0-10 m momentum (0-10 Mom) and 20-30 m momentum (20-30Mom) were higher in 2018 and 2019 than all years. Front-row players were characterised by greater SL ISO and 1-RM bench press than inside and outside backs, with higher skinfolds and lower endurance levels than all positions. Between 2017 and 2019, front-row players had larger decreases and increases in endurance and one repetition maximum (1-RM) bench press, respectively, compared to all other positions. Forwards had the highest 0-10Mom and 20-30Mom, and scrum-half the lowest, while outside backs had faster 0-10, 30-40, and 40 m (TT40 m) times, and greater peak velocity (Vmax) compared to forward positions. These longitudinal findings show that physical performance has increased, with anthropometric and performance characteristics becoming more distinctive between positions, among elite female rugby union players.

BACKGROUND: This study examined the differences in physical and anthropometric traits between specific playing positions (i.e., forwards: front row, second row, back row; backs: half backs, centers, wings/fullbacks) in amateur rugby players and analyzed the magnitude of correlations among jump, sprint, and strength measures in forwards and backs. METHOD: Sixty-four male rugby players were assessed in anthropometrics, a variety of vertical jumps, 10- and 30-m sprint, and strength tests (i.e., squat and bench press). RESULTS: Front row forwards (FFR) demonstrated significantly higher body mass (BM) than second row (FSR) and back row (FBR) (107.4 ± 12.8, 99.1 ± 9.9 and 91.6 ± 7.6 kg respectively; p< 0.001). FFR showed greater absolute strength in bench press and squat, although no differences were found in relative strength. Regarding the differences in jump performance, FBR and FSR showed significantly (p< 0.05) and significant to non-significant (p= 0.042–0.078, ES = 0.90–1.55) higher jumps in all tasks compared to FFR. Moreover, FBR demonstrated lower sprint times and greater maximum sprinting speed (MSS) than FFR (p< 0.01). For the backs, centers (BCEN) were significantly heavier (p< 0.05) and exhibited a non-significantly moderate larger sprint momentum (p= 0.068, ES = 0.75) compared to half backs (BHB). MSS values were small to moderately greater in favor of wings/fullbacks [BWFB] (p= 0.188–0.059, ES = 0.50–0.71). Finally, statistically significant correlations were found between drop jump (flight time) and jump height across all jump tasks, sprint times and speed for both forwards (r= 0.541 to 0.996, p< 0.001) and backs (r= 0.422 to 0.995, p< 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, FFR demonstrated significant, small to very large differences, when compared to their specific peers, whereas the backs were more similar. Additionally, our results indicated moderate to strong associations between explosive tasks such as sprinting and jumping in both playing positions.

Purpose We aimed to study variations in strength and power performance during the menstrual cycle (MC) in eumenorrheic young women and during the pill cycle in oral contraceptives (OC) users. Methods Forty healthy, normal-weight women between 18 and 35 yr (n = 30 eumenorrheic women; n = 10 OC users) completed this prospective cohort study. Seven to nine times during the MC/pill-cycle, the participants completed a physical performance test series, a questionnaire about psychological well-being, blood sampling, and determination of body mass. The physical tests included isometric handgrip strength, elbow flexor strength, countermovement jump (CMJ) height, and a 10-s Wingate bike test. Results No direct correlation was observed between the variations in sex hormones and physical performance parameters. However, positive correlations were observed between physical performance outcomes and self-reported motivation, perception of own physical performance level, pleasure level, and arousal level. CMJ was 6% lower in the late luteal phase (LL) compared with the midluteal phase (ML) (P = 0.04). Wingate peak power was 3% lower in early follicular (EF) compared with the ML (P = 0.04). Furthermore, Wingate average power was 2%-5% lower in LL compared with all other MC phases. In line with these observations, physical pain was higher in EF and LL, and the pleasure level was lower in EF compared with the other MC phases. In OC users, we observed no variation in performance and self-reported parameters between the placebo-pill phase and the OC-pill phase. Conclusions Impairments in CMJ and Wingate performance were observed at the end and start of MC compared with other MC phases, which were associated with lower psychological well-being, but not the sex hormone fluctuations.

Harty, PS, Friedl, KE, Nindl, BC, Harry, JR, Vellers, HL, and Tinsley, GM. Military body composition standards and physical performance: historical perspectives and future directions. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2021-US military physique and body composition standards have been formally used for more than 100 years. These metrics promote appropriate physical fitness, trim appearance, and long-term health habits in soldiers, although many specific aspects of these standards have evolved as evidence-based changes have emerged. Body composition variables have been shown to be related to many physical performance outcomes including aerobic capacity, muscular endurance, strength and power production, and specialized occupational tasks involving heavy lifting and load carriage. Although all these attributes are relevant, individuals seeking to improve military performance should consider emphasizing strength, hypertrophy, and power production as primary training goals, as these traits appear vital to success in the new Army Combat Fitness Test introduced in 2020. This fundamental change in physical training may require an adjustment in body composition standards and methods of measurement as physique changes in modern male and female soldiers. Current research in the field of digital anthropometry (i.e., 3-D body scanning) has the potential to dramatically improve performance prediction algorithms and potentially could be used to inform training interventions. Similarly, height-adjusted body composition metrics such as fat-free mass index might serve to identify normal weight personnel with inadequate muscle mass, allowing for effective targeted nutritional and training interventions. This review provides an overview of the origin and evolution of current US military body composition standards in relation to military physical readiness, summarizes current evidence relating body composition parameters to aspects of physical performance, and discusses issues relevant to the emerging modern male and female warrior.

El objetivo de esta investigación fue valorar los efectos de distintos tipos de calentamientos aplicados en escolares sobre la calidad de movimiento de las habilidades motrices y el rendimiento de salto y carrera. La metodología utilizada fue a partir de un diseño estudio cruzado aleatorizado (n=27 escolares), que incluyó tres condiciones experimentales para valorar el efecto agudo de distintos tipos de calentamiento (tradicional, basado en juegos adaptados reducidos y FIFA 11+) sobre el salto vertical, sprint en 20 metros y habilidades motoras de locomoción y control de objetos en niños y niñas. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva y comparativa a través de ANOVA de medidas repetidas y Friedman con sus pruebas post-hoc según corresponda. Los resultados muestran que todos los tipos de calentamiento mostraron diferencias significativas en sprint, salto vertical y habilidades motoras, respecto al a la condición control sin calentamiento. El calentamiento basado en juegos adaptados reducidos presentó efectos superiores que las otras modalidades en las habilidades motoras de locomoción (p< .05). Las comparaciones entre calentamientos mostraron que la intervención basada en FIFA 11+ mostró ser más eficaz en reducir el tiempo de sprint en 20 metros y aumentar la altura del salto vertical (p< .05). En conclusión, este estudio sugiere que, la selección de una estrategia adecuada basada en una diversidad de experiencias motrices como las ofrecidas por los protocolos de calentamiento FIFA11+ y de juegos adaptados reducidos podría ser clave para mejorar el rendimiento motor y la magnitud de los beneficios asociados al calentamiento. Abstract: The objective of this research is to assess the effects of different types of warm-ups applied in schoolchildren on the quality of movement of motor skills and jumping and sprint performance. The methodology used was based on a randomized crossover study design (n = 27 schoolchildren), which included three experimental conditions to assess the acute effect of different types of warm-up (traditional, based on reduced adapted games and FIFA 11+) on the vertical jump, sprint in 20 meters and motor skills of locomotion and control of objects in children. Descriptive and comparative statistics were used through repeated measures ANOVA and Friedman with its post-hoc tests as appropriate. The results show that all types of warm-up showed significant differences in sprint, vertical jump and motor skills, compared to the control condition without warm-up. The warm-up based on reduced adapted games presented greater effects than the other modalities on the motor skills of locomotion (p

Physical performance measures assessing mobility are important tools for assessing current functional status, predicting future functional status, and monitoring change. To respond to the increased...

Summary Background With increasing age physical performance decreases. However, especially in orienteering, with the risk of running too fast in relation to map reading skills and thus of not being able to process important map information correctly a lower running speed can be an advantage. Further, with increasing age and the often-greater experience, the susceptibility to errors should decrease yielding to the aim of the study to analyze the relationship between average speed and age in senior orienteering. Material & methods All national Competitions of Middle and Long Distance as well as the Swiss Championships in the Middle and Long Distance as well as in night orienteering were analyzed for the season 2018 and 2019 for all senior categories. Average running speed was calculated per category with the concept of performance km, whereby in 2018 ten competitions and in 2019 nine competitions yielding to a total sample size of 855 female and 950 male orienteers analyzed. Furthermore, polynomial analyses of second degree between average running speed and age were conducted with calculation of coefficient of determination and in addition multilinear regression analysis between average course time and age respectively distance absolved. Results Average age of peak performance was identified with 50.0 ± 2.3 years for men and 47.3 ± 3.1 for women in 2018 respectively 51.1 ± 3.1 years for men and 47.0 ± 3.0 for women in 2019. Furthermore, high coefficients of determination were identified with average values of 0.916 ± 0.061 in men and 0.910 ± 0.051 in women 2018 respectively 0.891 ± 0.102 in men and 0.913 ± 0.079 in women in 2019. Discussion The relatively high ages are probably due to the fact that Classic beginner mistakes such as running too fast compared to map reading skills become less common, which is reflected in an absolutely lower error rate and correspondingly leads to a less severe decrease in age-related performance.

Castillo, D, Rodríguez-Fernández, A, Nakamura, FY, Sanchez-Sanchez, J, Ramirez-Campillo, R, Yanci, J, Zubillaga, A, and Raya-González, J. Influence of different small-sided game formats on physical and physiological demands and physical performance in young soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 35(8): 2287-2293, 2021-The aim of this study was to quantify the acute impact of bout duration and individual interaction space on physical and physiological demands and on physical performance. Ten young male soccer players (age: 14.8 ± 0.6 years) from the same team playing in the National U-16 Division participated. Physical (total distance [TD]; distance covered at different speeds; and maximum velocity [Velmax]) and physiological (peak [HRpeak] and mean [HRmean] heart rate) parameters were collected for every bout during each small-sided game (SSG) format. Moreover, the effects of SSGs on horizontal jump (HJ) and 30-m sprint performances were evaluated. The SSG formats were composed of 6 players a side (including goalkeepers) and included 4 repetitions of 6 minutes in a space of 100 m2 (SSG1) or 200 m2 (SSG2) and 6 repetitions of 4 minutes in 100 m2 (SSG3) or 200 m2 (SSG4). The TD, the distance covered at different speeds, and Velmax were greater (p0.01, effect size [ES] = 1.25-5.95, large) in SSG2 and SSG4 than SSG1 and SSG3, respectively. Furthermore, the HRmean and HRpeak were lower (p0.05, ES = 1.53-2.23, large) during SSG3 than other SSGs. In addition, while a significant (p0.05, ES = 0.70-2.04, moderate to large) increase in SPR30 time in SSG1 and SSG3 was observed, HJ performance was not affected (p0.05, ES = 0.03-0.54, trivial to moderate) by any SSG format. These findings suggest increasing pitch size to induce greater physical demands and to use SSGs with smaller pitch size, and independently of the bout duration, to induce neuromuscular fatigue.

This study determined the effectiveness of a 3-month group-based multicomponent exercise program in the mobility, balance confidence, and muscle performance of older adults. A total of 40 participants (mean age=70.60±6.25 years completed pre- and posttest clinical intervention measures of mobility using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, balance confidence using the Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale, upper limb strength (handgrip dynamometer), and lower limb function (30-sec chair rise test). Data were analyzed using paired t-test and based on TUG criteria for risk of fall (low- and high-risk groups). Significant improvements were found in all measures (All P0.05). The low-risk group showed a higher improvement in mobility (14.87% vs. 11.74%), balance confidence (34.21% vs. 26.08%), and lower limb function (96.87% vs. 21.20%) but was not significantly different from the high-risk group (P>0.05). A group-based multicomponent exercise program benefited the physical functions of older adults at low- or high risk of falls.

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of chronological age on acceleration and deceleration match performance in professional soccer players. A total of 5317 individual match observations were collected on 420 professional players competing in the Spanish LaLiga during the 2018–2019 season, using a multiple-camera computerised tracking system (TRACAB; ChyronHego, Melville, NY, USA). Players were classified using a k-means cluster analysis into four different age groups: 17–23 years, 24–27 years, 28–30 years, and 31–38 years. Linear mixed models were adjusted to compare the players’ match performance according to their age group and playing position (central defenders, external defenders, central midfielders, external midfielders, and forwards). The results showed that players aged between 31–38 years performed a significantly less total number of accelerations (ES=0.30–0.48) and decelerations (ES=0.29–0.49) in comparison with younger players. These age-related physical performance declines were more pronounced among central defenders, central midfielders, and forwards. However, no significant effects were obtained for players’ maximum acceleration and deceleration capacities. The current findings provide useful information for coaches and strength and conditioning specialists to better understand the effects of age on players’ physical performance and to develop age-tailored training programs.

PURPOSE This study aimed to determine the efficacy of α-lactalbumin (A-LAC) supplementation for improving sleep and performance recovery after simulated evening competition in female athletes. METHODS Sixteen trained women (mean ± SD: age, 27 ± 7 yr; mass, 62 ± 10 kg; stature, 167 ± 8 cm) participated in this randomized double-blind three-arm crossover study. Participants completed a simulated evening competition before consuming either an A-LAC whey protein, whey protein placebo (PLA), or water control (CON) beverage. Sleep was monitored via polysomnography, and participants completed a series of physical, cognitive, and perceptual assessments before, and 14 and 24 h after simulated competition. RESULTS Non-rapid eye movement stage 2 sleep increased after competition in A-LAC (pre, 199 ± 44 min; post, 212 ± 37 min) but decreased in CON (pre, 228 ± 43 min; post, 195 ± 40 min) and PLA (pre, 224 ± 25 min; post, 211 ± 35 min; P = 0.012). In addition, Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 distance improved over time in A-LAC (baseline, 664 ± 332 m; 14 h post, 667 ± 326 m; 24 h post, 781 ± 427 m) compared with CON (baseline, 741 ± 366 m; 14 h post, 648 ± 351 m; 24 h post, 720 ± 407 m) and PLA (baseline, 763 ± 394 m; 14 h post, 636 ± 366 m; 24 h post, 720 ± 396 m; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The findings indicate that A-LAC supplementation may be useful for retaining some sleep characteristics after evening competition, leading to improved physical performance in female athletes.

The physiological and neuromuscular responses at 72 h post-match are not widely researched, despite evidence showing substantial changes in recovery markers at 72 h post-match. Consequently, the aim of this study was to determine the biochemical and physical performance responses to a soccer match after a 72-h recovery period. Male soccer players of a semiprofessional team participated in this study. Before playing a friendly match, blood values of testosterone, cortisol, the testosterone-to-cortisol ratio and urea were collected and the squat jump and the Bangsbo Repeated Sprint Ability test were performed. These measurements were considered as baseline (pre match) and were obtained again after a 72-h recovery period. Results indicate that physical performance at 72 h post-match was similar to baseline (squat jump: p = 0.974; total Repeated Sprint Ability time: p = 0.381; Repeated Sprint Ability fatigue index: p = 0.864). However, perturbations in the biochemical milieu derived from the soccer match metabolic and physiological stress were still evident at this time point. While no significant differences compared to pre match were obtained in testosterone and urea concentrations after the recovery period, cortisol and testosterone-to-cortisol ratio values were significantly higher (14.74 ± 3.68 µg/dL vs. 17.83 ± 2.65 µg/dL; p = 0.045; ES 0.92 [0.00; 1.84], very likely) and lower (39.08 ± 13.26 vs. 28.29 ± 7.45; p = 0.038; ES −0.96 [−1.89; −0.04], very likely), respectively. In conclusion, soccer players have similar physical performance to the pre match after a 72-h recovery period, even with signs of biochemical and physiological stress.

The present study aimed to assess the physical match performance among senior and youth soccer players from an elite Scottish Premiership club during the 2021/2022 season. Twenty-two first team (25.9 ± 4.5 years, 78.3 ± 8.2 kg, 1.82 ± 0.07 cm) and 16 youth players (16.8 ± 0.9 years, 70.1 ± 6.8 kg, 177 ± 5.8 cm) were examined. A selection of physical match performance variables were measured using a global positioning system. Linear mixed-effect regressions revealed for all examined variables no significant differences between first team and U-18 players and no significant differences between playing level by position interaction. Across both teams, Centre Backs compared to Wing Backs, showed a 295 m (p < 0.01) lower high-intensity distance, and performed on average 36 fewer very-high intensity decelerations (p = 0.03). Comparing to Wide Midfielders, Centre Backs showed lower total (1297 m, p = 0.01), high-intensity (350 m, p = 0.01), and sprint (167 m, p < 0.01) distances. Sprint distance was also lower in Centre Backs vs. Strikers (118 m, p = 0.03), and in Central Midfielders vs. both Strikers (104 m, p = 0.03) and Wide Midfielders (154 m, p = 0.01). The present findings highlight the physical match performance of elite Scottish players and provide useful information within the context of understanding how methods of physical development of youth soccer are implemented in different countries.

Self-myofascial release with a roller has been used as a tool to accelerate recovery. The objective of this systematic review was to investigate how one session or multiple sessions of self-myofascial release with a roller affect the recovery of an athlete´s performance. The research was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, BVS, Embase, SPORTDiscus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases using the terms: foam rolling, foam roller, and self-myofascial release combined with recovery, exercise, fatigue, and sport and acute effects, chronic effects and performance, resulting in 12,020 articles. After checking the inclusion criteria, 40 studies were selected and analyzed. It was concluded that multiple sessions of self-myofascial release with a roller are more effective in recovering lower limb power and speed performance than just one session. A single session is more effective for recovering strength performance than multiple sessions. Moreover, both single and multiple sessions showed similar results in the recovery of agility, pain, flexibility, blood lactate removal, and perception of recovery. Finally, multiple sessions between sets of resistance exercise seem to reduce performance, decreasing the number of repetitions and resistance to fatigue, while a single session did not produce a significant effect. Self-myofascial release with a roller demonstrates potential for speeding up the recovery process of athletes. Future studies should evaluate the effect of the regular use of self-myofascial release with a roller on performance recovery. Level of evidence II; Systematic review. RESUMEN La autoliberación miofascial con foam roller se ha utilizado como estrategia para acelerar el proceso de recuperación. Esta revisión sistemática tuvo como objetivo investigar cómo una o varias sesiones de autoliberación miofascial con foam roller afectan la recuperación del desempeño de los atletas. La investigación se llevó a cabo en las bases de datos PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, BVS, Embase, SPORTDiscus, ScienceDirect y Google Scholar utilizando los términos: “foam rolling”; “foam roller”; “self-myofascial release” combinados con “recovery”, “exercise”, “fatigue”, “sport”; y “acute effects”, “chronic effects”, “performance”, que dan como resultado 12.020 artículos. Tras verificar los criterios de inclusión, se seleccionaron y analizaron 40 estudios. Se concluyó que las sesiones múltiples de autoliberación miofascial con foam roller son más efectivas para recuperar el desempeño de potencia de las extremidades inferiores y velocidad que una sola sesión. Una sesión es más efectiva para recuperar el desempeño de fuerza que múltiples sesiones. Además, una sesión y varias sesiones demostraron resultados similares en la recuperación de la agilidad, el dolor, la flexibilidad, la eliminación del lactato en sangre y la percepción de recuperación. Por último, las sesiones múltiples entre series de ejercicios de resistencia parecen reducir el desempeño, al disminuir el número de repeticiones y la resistencia a la fatiga, mientras que una sola sesión no causó un efecto significativo. La autoliberación miofascial con foam roller demuestra su potencial de acelerar el proceso de recuperación de los atletas. Estudios futuros deberán evaluar el efecto del uso crónico de la autoliberación miofascial con foam roller en la recuperación del desempeño. Nivel de evidencia II; Revisión sistemática. RESUMO A autoliberação miofascial com rolo vem sendo utilizada como estratégia para acelerar o processo de recuperação. Esta revisão sistemática teve como objetivo investigar como uma sessão ou múltiplas sessões de autoliberação miofascial com rolo afetam a recuperação do desempenho dos atletas. A pesquisa foi realizada nas bases de dados PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, BVS, Embase, SPORTDiscus, ScienceDirect e Google Scholar usando os termos: “foam rolling”; “foam roller”; “self-myofascial release” combinados com “recovery”, “exercise”, “fatigue”, “sport” e “acute effects”, “chronic effects”, “performance”, resultando em 12.020 artigos. Depois da verificação dos critérios de inclusão, 40 estudos foram selecionados e analisados. Verificou-se que múltiplas sessões de autoliberação miofascial com rolo são mais efetivas para recuperar o desempenho de potência dos membros inferiores e velocidade do que apenas uma sessão. Uma sessão é mais efetiva para a recuperação do desempenho de força do que múltiplas sessões. Além disso, uma sessão e múltiplas sessões mostraram resultados similares na recuperação de agilidade, dor, flexibilidade, remoção de lactato sanguíneo e percepção de recuperação. Por fim, múltiplas sessões entre séries de exercício resistido parecem reduzir o desempenho, diminuindo o número de repetições e a resistência à fadiga, enquanto uma só sessão não provocou efeito significativo. A autoliberação miofascial com rolo demonstra potencial para acelerar o processo de recuperação de atletas. Estudos futuros devem avaliar o efeito do uso crônico da autoliberação miofascial com rolo na recuperação do desempenho. Nível de evidência II; Revisão Sistemática.

The aim of this study was two-fold: (1) to analyze the influence of season phase (i.e., the start of the in-season and mid-in-season) on match running performance in a Portuguese professional football team; (2) to determine and model the main factor influencing match running performance during the in-season in this specific football team. Eighteen matches were collected by an 18 Hz global positioning system (GPS) from a professional Portuguese football team during the start of the in-season and mid-in-season. The match running performance was analyzed according to season phases, presenting significant differences in total distance (TD) (tlower bound = 4.71, p < 0.001; tupper bound = −2.22, p = 0.002), average speed (AvS) (tlower bound = 359.45, p < 0.001; tupper bound = −359.87, p < 0.001), and relative high speed running (rHSR) (tlower bound = 13.10, p < 0.001; tupper bound = −10.21, p < 0.001). The logistic regression showed TD (β = −1.59, z = −2.84, p = 0.005) and AvS (β = 2.68, z = −2.84, p = 0.007) as the major factors influencing match running performance during seasonal variation. Sprints and accelerations showed no significance for predicting match running performance during the season phases (β = −0.05 to 1.07, z = −0.95 to 1.07, p = 0.29 to 0.72). Current research confirms that lower and upper bounds should be used to quantify seasonal differences on match running performance. TD and AvS were described as the main factors influencing match running performance during the in-season phase. Thus, it is important to highlight the pace and volume of the game to maximize match running performance. This project was supported by the National Funds through FCT—Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (UIDB/DTP/04045/2020). info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

BACKGROUND In soccer, a better understanding of the bioimpedance parameters with physical performance may be useful to efficiently monitor and interpret players' performance variation throughout a certain period of the season. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the association between phase angle (PhA) and arms and legs lean soft tissue (ALST and LLST) with physical performance in young elite soccer players. METHODS Fifteen young male elite soccer players (age = 14.2±1.2 years, BMI = 20.51±1.38 kg/m2) participated in this investigation. Raw bioimpedance parameters (reactance, resistance, and phase angle) were obtained by a bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) device. Then, ALST and LLST were estimated. All players underwent a physical testing battery including countermovement jump (CMJ), 10-m and 20-m sprint, and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test level 1 (YoYo IRTL1) in the domains of anaerobic and aerobic performance, respectively. RESULTS The results showed that LST (total, arms and legs) positively correlated with CMJ (0.64 < r < 0.69; p < 0.001) and negatively correlated with 10-m (-0.59 < r < -0.63; p < 0.05) and 20-m sprint (-0.67 < r < -0.73; p < 0.001), while PhA positively correlated with CMJ (r = 0.57; p < 0.05) and negatively correlated (r = -0.54; p < 0.05) only with 20-m sprint. No significant association was found between the BIA-related parameters (PhA and LST) and Yo- Yo IRT level 1. CONCLUSIONS The present findings highlight the existing association of PhA and LST with jumping and sprinting performance in young elite soccer players. This result supports the use of BIA-related measures as a simple and practical approach to monitoring anaerobic performance changes, rather than aerobic, over time throughout the season.

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) provide clinicians a greater understanding of patients’ perceived ability in their physical performance. Existing PROMs on falls efficacy provide meaningfu...

Introduction: The use of substances to enhance sports performance among professional and amateur athletes is increasing. Such substances may either be included in the group of dietary supplements or fall into pharmacological classes. Every substance used for this purpose is called an ergogenic agent. The number of ergogenic options available increases every day, favoring overuse and use without proper guidance. Among the dietary supplements, we highlight the use of creatine, a substance widespread in sports. Among the pharmacological groups, many drugs are used. Recently the use of sildenafil citrate by professional athletes from various predominantly aerobic sports modalities was reported in the media. Objective: To compare and demonstrate the responses caused by physical training associated with the use of creatine and sildenafil citrate in mice. Methods: A swim training protocol was applied and then an electrophysiograph was used in order to obtain parameters related to contraction intensity, the area under the curve and the percentage drop. Results: The responses obtained demonstrated the ergogenic action of creatine because it altered the parameters used for measurement. The use of sildenafil citrate did not yield satisfactory results to frame the drug as an ergogenic agent. Conclusion: Creatine has an ergogenic effect, reducing the percentage drop after 10 seconds, while sildenafil demonstrated no ergogenic potential and, interestingly, resulted in weaker responses when compared to the exercise groups. Evidence level II; Comparative prospective study . RESUMEN Introducción: El uso de sustancias con el objetivo de aumentar el rendimiento deportivo entre atletas profesionales y amateurs es creciente. Tales sustancias pueden formar parte del grupo de suplementos alimentarios o integrar clases farmacológicas. Toda sustancia empleada para ese fin es denominada agente ergogénico. El número de opciones entre los agentes ergogénicos aumenta cada día, favoreciendo así su uso excesivo y sin la debida orientación. Entre los suplementos alimentarios, se destaca el uso de creatina, sustancia muy difundida en el medio deportivo. Ya entre los grupos farmacológicos, muchas sustancias son usadas. Recientemente, fue divulgado entre los medios de comunicación el uso de citrato de sildenafil por atletas profesionales, de varias modalidades deportivas, predominantemente las aeróbicas. Objetivos: Comparar y demostrar las respuestas ocasionadas por el entrenamiento físico, asociadas al uso de creatina y citrato de sildenafil en ratones. Métodos: Se aplicó un protocolo de entrenamiento de natación y, a continuación, se usó un electrofisiógrafo con el objetivo de obtener parámetros referentes a la intensidad de contracción, al área bajo la curva y a la caída porcentual. Resultados: Las respuestas obtenidas demuestran acción ergogénica de la creatina, visto que alteraron los parámetros empleados para la medición. Ya el uso de citrato de sildenafil no presentó resultados satisfactorios para encuadrar al fármaco como agente ergogénico. Conclusión: La creatina presenta efecto ergogénico porque reduce la caída porcentual después de 10 segundos, mientras que el sildenafil no presentó potencial ergogénico y, curiosamente, demostró respuestas inferiores cuando comparado a los grupos de ejercicio. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudio prospectivo comparativo . RESUMO Introdução: O uso de substâncias com o objetivo de aumentar o rendimento esportivo entre atletas profissionais e amadores é crescente. Tais substâncias podem fazer parte do grupo de suplementos alimentares ou integrar classes farmacológicas. Toda substância empregada para esse fim é denominada de agente ergogênico. O número de opções entre os agentes ergogênicos aumenta a cada dia, favorecendo assim o uso em demasia e sem a devida orientação. Entre os suplementos alimentares, salientamos a utilização de creatina, substância muito difundida no meio esportivo. Já entre os grupos farmacológicos, muitas substâncias são utilizadas. Recentemente, foi divulgado entre os meios de comunicação o uso de citrato de sildenafila por atletas profissionais de várias modalidades esportivas, predominantemente as aeróbicas. Objetivos: Comparar e demonstrar as repostas ocasionadas pelo treinamento físico, associadas ao uso de creatina e citrato de sildenafila em camundongos. Métodos: Aplicou-se um protocolo de treinamento de natação e, a seguir, empregou-se um eletrofisiógrafo com objetivo de obter parâmetros referentes à intensidade de contração, à área sob a curva e à queda percentual. Resultados: As respostas obtidas demonstram ação ergogênica da creatina, visto que alteraram os parâmetros empregados para a mensuração. Já a utilização de citrato de sildenafila não apresentou resultados satisfatórios para enquadrar o fármaco como agente ergogênico. Conclusão: A creatina apresenta efeito ergogênico porque reduz a queda percentual após 10 segundos, já a sildenafila não apresentou potencial ergogênico e, curiosamente, demonstrou respostas inferiores quando comparado aos grupos de exercício. Nível de evidência II; Estudo prospectivo comparativo .

Background Despite the associations of both preoperative sarcopenia and physical performance with post‐operative mortality in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC), there have been no comprehensive studies of the impact of physical status on prognosis. This study was performed to investigate the prognostic significance of preoperative sarcopenia and physical performance in NSCLC. Methods This retrospective cohort study was performed in NSCLS patients undergoing curative lung resection at a university hospital between January 2014 and December 2017. The patients were divided into four groups according to the skeletal muscle index [sarcopenia (lowest sex‐specific tertile) and non‐sarcopenia] and 6 min walking distance (6MWD) [short distance (

Purpose Reduced physical performance due to therapy-related dysfunctions in children diagnosed with cancer contributes to insufficient physical activity levels. It is therefore essential that relevant functions are restored. Whole-body vibration (WBV) training, a neuromuscular stimulating exercise intervention, could have the potential to target those functions adequately. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a combined supervised and home-based WBV intervention with children after inpatient oncological treatment. Methods Eight children aged 6–21 years were included after cessation of their inpatient oncological treatment. They performed a 12-week WBV training including one supervised and two home-based sessions per week according to a standardized training protocol. Feasibility, adherence and compliance to the vibration protocol were documented. Subjective benefits and satisfaction were assessed using a questionnaire. Results Study participants attended 84.03 ± 13.09% of WBV sessions. No serious adverse events occurred. Some patients reported side effects partially resulting in modifications of the vibration protocol by therapists. Almost all children regarded the intervention as beneficial. Conclusion A combined supervised and home-based WBV intervention with children after inpatient oncological treatment is feasible and safe. The beneficial potential regarding relevant sensory and motor dysfunctions is now to be investigated. Trial registration number and date of registration DRKS00014713 15.05.2018

This study aimed to compare the effects of three resistance training (RT) programs differing in the magnitude of velocity loss (VL) allowed in each exercise set: 10%, 30%, or 45% on changes in strength, vertical jump, sprint performance, and EMG variables. Thirty-three young men were randomly assigned into three experimental groups (VL10%, VL30%, and VL45%; n = 11 each) that performed a velocity-based RT program for 8 weeks using only the full squat exercise (SQ). Training load (55-70% 1RM), frequency (2 sessions/week), number of sets (3), and inter-set recovery (4 min) were identical for all groups. Running sprint (20 m), countermovement jump (CMJ), 1RM, muscle endurance, and EMG during SQ were assessed pre- and post-training. All groups showed significant (VL10%: 6.4-58.6%; VL30%: 4.5-66.2%; VL45%: 1.8-52.1%; p < 0.05-0.001) improvements in muscle strength and muscle endurance. However, a significant group × time interaction (p < 0.05) was observed in CMJ, with VL10% showing greater increments (11.9%) than VL30% and VL45%. In addition, VL10% resulted in greater percent change in sprint performance than the other two groups (VL10%: -2.4%; VL30%: -1.8%; and VL45%: -0.5%). No significant changes in EMG variables were observed for any group. RT with loads of 55-70% 1RM characterized by a low-velocity loss (VL10%) provides a very effective and efficient training stimulus since it yields similar strength gains and greater improvements in sports-related neuromuscular performance (jump and sprint) compared to training with higher velocity losses (VL30%, VL45%). These findings indicate that the magnitude of VL reached in each exercise set considerably influences the observed training adaptations., Physical Performance & Sports Research Center, Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Seville, Spain

Combat roles are physically demanding and expose service personnel to operational stressors such as high levels of physical activity, restricted nutrient intake, sleep loss, psychological stress, and environmental extremes. Women have recently integrated into combat roles, but our knowledge of the physical, physiological, and psycho-cognitive responses to these operational stressors in women is limited. The aim of this narrative review was to evaluate the evidence for sex-specific physical, physiological, and psycho-cognitive responses to real, and simulated, military operational stress. Studies examining physical and cognitive performance, body composition, metabolism, hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, and psychological health outcomes were evaluated. These studies report that women expend less energy and lose less body mass and fat-free mass, but not fat mass, than men. Despite having similar physical performance decrements as men during operational stress, women experience greater physiological strain than men completing the same physical tasks, but this may be attributed to differences in fitness. From limited data, military operational stress suppresses hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal, but not hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal, axis function in both sexes. Men and women demonstrate different psychological and cognitive responses to operational stress, including disturbances in mood, with women having a higher risk of post-traumatic stress symptoms compared with men. Based on current evidence, separate strategies to maximize selection and combat training are not warranted until further data directly comparing men and women are available. However, targeted exercise training programmes may be advisable to offset the physical performance gap between sexes and optimize performance prior to inevitable declines caused by intense military operations.

Physical performance fatigue can be ascribed to both peripheral and central components. Central fatigue, however, is an elusive entity, consisting of cognitive/sensory component and presumably also a neuro-physiological component that are difficult to tease apart and assess independently of each other. The most widely accepted method for the assessment of central fatigue is based on the premise that decreasing volitional muscle activation (VA), as determined by the interpolated twitch technique (ITT) in fatiguing muscles, reflects increasing central fatigue. Suffering its own shortcomings, the validity of VA determination under fatigued conditions has never been proven and is only assumed. This review presents evidence that questions ITT's reliability and validity in reflecting VA in the fatiguing muscle and, consequently, VA's validity for central fatigue assessment. Specifically highlighted is the paradox of children and endurance athletes, who share striking endurance characteristics, being claimed as more centrally fatigable than untrained adults. Further research and new directions are needed for confirming and quantifying central fatigue and teasing apart its psychologic and neuromotor components.

Purpose: To examine the effect of growth hormone (GH) treatment on physical performance in children with idiopathic short stature and normal GH secretion. Materials and Methods: A total of 24 children participated in the study (13 GH-treated, 11 non-treated, aged 8–13 y, 11 males and 13 females, Tanner stage 1–2). Participants performed a battery of motor skill performance tests (Eurofit), as well as the Wingate anaerobic test. Results: No statistically significant differences in any of the Eurofit physical fitness test results (eg, 20-m shuttle run 33.0 [15.1] vs 25.1 [21.0] laps in treated and nontreated participants, respectively, P = .25) or the Wingate anaerobic test were found between the groups (eg, peak power 5.0 [2.9] vs 3.9 [2.6] watts/kg in treated and nontreated participants, respectively, P = .2). Conclusions: Therapeutic usage of exogenous GH for pre and early pubertal children with idiopathic short stature and normal GH secretion was not associated with beneficial effects on physical performance indices. This suggests that the use of GH as a potential performance enhancing agent, in this age group, at least at commonly used doses, is not advantageous.

Conkright, WR, Beckner, ME, Sinnott, AM, Eagle, SR, Martin, BJ, Lagoy, AD, Proessl, F, Lovalekar, M, Doyle, TLA, Agostinelli, P, Sekel, NM, Flanagan, SD, Germain, A, Connaboy, C, and Nindl, BC. Neuromuscular performance and hormonal responses to military operational stress in men and women. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2021-Women have recently been integrated into ground close combat positions; however, there are limited data in women in these roles. We aimed to test the hypothesis that there would be no sex-specific neuromuscular responses, but hormonal signaling would be differentially impacted when exposed to simulated military operational stress (SMOS). Neuromuscular performance was assessed daily using a tactical mobility test (TMT) in 54 male and 15 female military members. Blood was drawn before/after TMT. Mood states were assessed each morning. Unloaded 300-m shuttle time increased 6% in both sexes and remained 7% higher after 1 day of recovery compared with baseline (p 0.05). Growth hormone increased in men, but not women, before to after TMT (p < 0.001 vs. p = 0.086). Women experienced a greater decline in insulin-like growth factor-I across days compared with men (ηp2 = 0.778 vs. 0.209, respectively, p < 0.001). Brain-derived neurotrophic factor increased significantly in men only from before to after TMT on day 1 (men: +107% vs. women: +10%) but no difference on days 3 or 4. Cortisol increased 69% from before to after TMT when averaged by sex and day. Negative mood states (depression, tension, and anger) and altered hormonal concentrations were associated with poorer TMT performance. Acute SMOS differentially impacted circulating hormonal milieu in men and women, but no differences in physical performance responses. Unloaded 300-m shuttle was negatively impacted while other fitness domains were maintained. Relationships between performance and mood/endocrine signaling highlight the potential for self-report measures and biomarkers to serve as indicators of performance change.

Radnor, JM, Oliver, JL, Waugh, CM, Myer, GD, and Lloyd, RS. Muscle Architecture and Maturation Influence Sprint and Jump Ability in Young Boys: A Multistudy Approach. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2020-This series of experiments examined the influence of medial gastrocnemius (GM) and vastus lateralis (VL) muscle architecture (muscle thickness, pennation angle, and fascicle length) on sprint and jump performance in pre-, circa-, and post-peak height velocity (PHV) boys. In experiment 1, 1-way analysis of variance and Cohen's d effect sizes demonstrated that most muscle architecture measures were significantly greater in post-PHV compared with pre-PHV boys (d = 0.77-1.41; p < 0.05). For most sprint and jump variables, there were small to moderate differences between pre-PHV to circa-PHV and circa-PHV to post-PHV groups (d = 0.58-0.93; p < 0.05) and moderate to large differences between pre-PHV and post-PHV groups (d = 1.01-1.47; p < 0.05). Pearson's correlation analyses in experiment 2 determined that muscle architecture had small to moderate correlations with sprint and jump performance (r = 0.228-0.707, p < 0.05), with strongest associations within the post-PHV cohort. Chi-squared analyses in experiment 3 identified that, over 18 months, more POST-POST responders than expected made positive changes in GM and VL muscle thickness. Significantly more PRE-POST subjects than expected displayed changes in maximal sprint speed, while significantly more POST-POST individuals than expected showed positive changes in jump height. Muscle architecture seems to be larger in more mature boys compared with their less mature peers and likely underlies their greater performance in sprinting and jumping tasks. Boys experiencing, or having experienced, PHV make the largest increases in muscle architecture and sprinting and jumping performance when tracked over 18 months.

Objectives The purpose of this study was to establish beliefs and practices of physical performance coaches regarding sprinting and Hamstring Strain Injury (HSI) in Australian Rules football. Designs Delphi-validated questionnaire. Setting Online. Participants Eighteen high-performance managers of the Australian Football League. Main outcome measures Descriptive statistics were collected to establish experience; central themes were established for the analyses of the beliefs and practices. Results Nine (50%) physical performance coaches responded to an invitation to complete the questionnaire. Participants held an undergraduate degree and had 9.2 ± 4.3 years of experience. Accelerations (n = 9), maximum speed sprints (n = 9) and running with hip flexion (n = 7) were the most common activities associated with HSI. Coaches believed sprinting, eccentric strength training and proper periodisation were effective strategies to reduce HSI risk. There’s a disparity between beliefs and practices when using GPS to monitor sprinting, however, all coaches reported regular exposure to sprint training across both pre and in-season. Overstriding (n = 9) and pelvic instability (n = 6) were identified as key flaws in running mechanics. Conclusions This information can be used to improve training strategies, whilst these findings indicate further investigations into sprint training and running mechanics for HSI risk reduction.

Maintaining physical performance: the minimal dose of exercise needed to preserve endurance and strength over time, Spiering, BA, Mujika, I, Sharp, MA, and Foulis, SA. J Strength Cond Res 35(5): 1449-1458, 2021-Nearly every physically active person encounters periods in which the time available for exercise is limited (e.g., personal, family, or business conflicts). During such periods, the goal of physical training may be to simply maintain (rather than improve) physical performance. Similarly, certain special populations may desire to maintain performance for prolonged periods, namely athletes (during the competitive season and off-season) and military personnel (during deployment). The primary purpose of this brief, narrative review is to identify the minimal dose of exercise (i.e., frequency, volume, and intensity) needed to maintain physical performance over time. In general populations, endurance performance can be maintained for up to 15 weeks when training frequency is reduced to as little as 2 sessions per week or when exercise volume is reduced by 33-66% (as low as 13-26 minutes per session), as long as exercise intensity (exercising heart rate) is maintained. Strength and muscle size (at least in younger populations) can be maintained for up to 32 weeks with as little as 1 session of strength training per week and 1 set per exercise, as long as exercise intensity (relative load) is maintained; whereas, in older populations, maintaining muscle size may require up to 2 sessions per week and 2-3 sets per exercise, while maintaining exercise intensity. Insufficient data exists to make specific recommendations for athletes or military personnel. Our primary conclusion is that exercise intensity seems to be the key variable for maintaining physical performance over time, despite relatively large reductions in exercise frequency and volume.

In March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced most activities in Italy, including soccer, to cease. During lockdown, players could only train at home, with limited evidence regarding the effect of this period. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of COVID-19 lockdown on professional soccer players’ physical performance. Aerobic fitness and vertical jump were assessed before and after four periods in two different seasons: COVID-19 lockdown, competitive period before lockdown, competitive period and summer break of the 2016–2017 season. Linear mixed models were used to examine within-period changes and between-period differences in changes observed during COVID-19 lockdown and the three other periods. Within-period changes in aerobic fitness showed a significant improvement following COVID-19 lockdown (p

This study aims 1) to compare repeated change of direction ability (rCODA) and bench press (BP) between low (A category, ≤2.5) and high (B category, ≥3.0) sport classes and 2) to analyse the relationships between rCODA and BP performance in a sample of wheelchair basketball (WB) players. Seventeen world-class WB players volunteered participated in this study. All the players undertook two tests: the repeated (x12) Modified Agility T-test (rMAT) to measure the rCODA and the movement velocity in a BP test. No significant differences were observed between categories in the rMAT and BP. For the total sample, BP variables with a mean propulsive velocity of 1 m·s

This study aimed to compare the effects of 6-weeks combined core strength and small-sided games training (SSGcore) vs. small-sided games (SSG) training on the physical performance of young soccer players. Thirty-eight amateur soccer players (age: 16.50 ± 0.51 years) were randomly assigned to either a SSGcore (n = 20) or a SSG group (n = 18). The SSGcore group performed upper and lower body core strength exercises combined with SSG including 2-, 3- and 4-a-sided soccer games third a week. The SSG group performed only the SSG periodization. Baseline and after the 6-week training period the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test level 1 (YYIRTL-1), 5–20-m sprint test, countermovement jump (CMJ), squat jump (SJ), triple-hop distance (THD), zigzag agility with ball (ZAWB) and without ball (ZAWOB), three corner run test (TCRT) and Y-balance test. The SSGcore group demonstrated meaningful improvements in 20 m sprint time (SSGcore: -9.1%, d = 1.42; SSG: -4.4%, d = 0.76), CMJ (SSGcore: 11.4%, d = 2.67; SSG: -7.7%, d = 1.43), SJ (SSGcore: 12.0%, d = 2.14; SSG: 5.7%, d = 1.28), THD (SSGcore: 5.0%, d = 1.39; SSG: 2.7%, d = 0.52) and TCRT (SSGcore: -3.7%, d = 0.69; SSG: -1.9%, d = 0.38). Furthermore, the SSGcore group demonstrated meaningfully higher improvement responses in both leg balance score (d = ranging from 2.11 to 2.75) compared with SSG group. These results suggest that the inclusion of core strength training to a SSG periodization is greatly effective to improve speed and strength-based conditioning in young soccer players.

The aim of this study was to analyse the effects of floater positioning within futsal Gk+3vs3+Gk SSGs on youth players’ tactical and physical performance. An independent measure approach under four experimental conditions was carried out: Floaters Off (FO), Goal Line Floaters (GLF), Lateral Floaters own court sidelines (LFocsl) and Lateral Floaters full court sidelines (LFfcsl). Thirty male futsal players (U19 age category) participated in the study. Players’ activity was assessed using WIMU PROTM and heart rate (HR) was recorded by HR monitors during the SSGs. Results showed significant differences in the physical variables (ρ ≤ 0.05), not finding such differences in the tactical variables analysed. However, significant differences were observed in relation to the spatial occupation areas. GLF is related to higher distance and speed variables, being the most demanding SSG; in LFocsl, lower HR values were obtained, and FO is linked to the acceleration and deceleration variables, being an indicator of futsal performance. These findings should be considered for the design of futsal training tasks, according to the context (team, players . . .) and time of the week and the season, since they allow the development of the variables described by optimising training time with the ball., This study has been carried out thanks to the contribution of the Junta de Extremadura through the European Regional Development Fund. A way to make Europe (GR18129).

This study aimed to compare the effects of 8-week self-paced high-intensity interval training (HIIT) vs. self-paced moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on the physical performance and psychophysiological responses of young adults. Twenty-eight recreationally active young adults (age: 21.1 ± 1.6 years) were randomly assigned to either the self-paced HIIT (n = 14) or the MICT (n = 14) group training protocol. The HIIT consisted of two 12–24 x 30 seconds of high-intensity runs interspersed by 30 seconds of recovery. The MICT completed 24–48 minutes of continuous running. Before and after the 8-week interventions the following tests were completed: maximum oxygen consumption (V̇O2max) estimated from the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test level 1 (YYIRTL-1), repeated sprint ability (RSA), 10–30-m sprint test, change of direction test (T-drill), countermovement jump (CMJ) and squat jump (SJ), and triple hop distance test (THD). Training rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and physical activity enjoyment scale (PACES) were assessed during the training programme. The HIIT resulted in greater improvement in YYIRTL-1, V̇O2max, RSA and T-drill performances compared to the MICT. Furthermore, RPE and PACES values were higher in the HIIT than the MICT. This study suggested that self-paced HIIT may be a more effective training regime to improve aerobic fitness with greater physical enjoyment in recreationally active young adults.

To date, there is a lack of information about the optimal conditions of the warm-up to lead to a better performance in elite tennis players. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of two different warm-up protocols (dynamic vs. self-myofascial release with foam rolling) on neuromuscular variables associated with physical determinants of tennis performance. Using a crossover randomised experimental design, eleven professional men tennis players (20.6 ± 3.5 years) performed either a dynamic warm-up (DWU) or a selfmyofascial release with foam rolling (SMFR) protocol. DWU consisted of 8 min of dynamic exercises at increasing intensity and SMFR consisted of 8 min of rolling on each lower extremity unilaterally. Just before (baseline) and after completing warm-up protocols, players performed a countermovement jump (CMJ), the 5-0-5 agility test, a 10-m sprint test and the Straight Leg Raise and Thomas tests to assess range of motion. Compared to baseline, the DWU was more effective to reduce the time in the 5-0-5 test than SMFR (-2.23 vs. 0.44%, respectively, p = 0.042, ηp2 = 0.19). However, both warm-up protocols similarly affected CMJ (2.32 vs. 0.61%, p = 0.373, ηp2 = 0.04) and 10-m sprint time changes (-1.26 vs. 1.03%, p = 0.124, ηp2 = 0.11). Changes in range of motion tests were also similar with both protocols (p = 0.448–1.000, ηp2 = 0.00–0.02). Overall, both DWU and SMFR were effective to prepare well-trained tennis players for highly demanding neuromuscular actions. However, DWU offered a better preparation for performing change of direction and sprint actions, and hence, in high-performance tennis players, the warm-up should include dynamic exercises. post-print 402 KB

Background and Study Aim. To study changes in the functional state of professional Russian cross country skiers in the course of the preparatory phase and their effects on their competition ratings. Materials and methods. In this study we examined 10 cross-country skiers. The functional state was assessed through a maximal load bicycle ergometer test, coordination and special performance tests. Concentrations of lactate and cortisol were checked in the blood plasma of participants. Results. The training effects on general physical preparedness and special physical preparation in September in comparison with June were observed as an increased number of pull-ups on a pull-up bar (by 14%) and decreased time of the roller ski test (by 4%). In autumn higher systolic (by 11%) and diastolic (by 10%) arterial blood pressure levels, higher levels of plasma lactate and cortisol (by 48% and 64%, respectively) were detected (p, Предпосылки и цель исследования.Изучить функциональное состояние квалифицированных Российских лыжников-гонщиков в динамике подготовительного периода и его влияние на их соревновательный рейтинг. Материал и методы. Вподготовительном периоде исследованы 10 лыжников-гонщиков. Для оценки функционального состояния организма спортсменов проводили: тесты для определения специальной работоспособности, максимальный велоэргометрический и координационный тесты, исследовали концентрацию лактата и кортизола в крови. Результаты. Развитие общих и специальных физических качеств у лыжников-гонщиков в сентябре по сравнению с июнем, отразилось в увеличении количеств подтягиваний в висе на перекладине на 14% и уменьшении времени теста на лыжероллерах на 4% (р, Передумови та мета дослідження. Вивчити функціональний стан кваліфікованих Російських лижників-гонщиків в динаміці підготовчого періоду і його вплив на їх змагальний рейтинг.Матеріал і методи.В підготовчому періоді досліджені 10 лижників-гонщиків. Для оцінки функціонального стану організму спортсменів проводили: тести для визначення спеціальної працездатності, максимальний велоергометричний і координаційний тести, досліджували концентрацію лактату і кортизолу в крові.Результати. Розвиток загальних і спеціальних фізичних якостей у лижників-гонщиків у вересні в порівнянні з червнем, відбилося в збільшенні кількості підтягувань у висі на перекладині на 14% і зменшення часу тесту на лижероллерах на 4% (р

Glassbrook, DJ, Fuller, JT, Wade, JA, and Doyle, TLA. Not all physical performance tests are related to early season match running performance in professional rugby league. J Strength Cond Res 36(7): 1944-1950, 2022-This study aimed to determine which physical tests correlate with early season running performance. Sixteen professional rugby league players performed the 30-15 intermittent fitness test (IFT), 1.2-km time trial, 1 repetition maximum (RM) barbell back squat, isometric midthigh pull (IMTP), countermovement jump (CMJ), barbell squat jump (SJ), and ballistic bench press throw (BBP). Bivariate Pearson's correlations and linear regression were used to compare physical tests with peak match running intensities recorded by a portable Global Positioning System and represented by peak match velocity and acceleration, as well as peak 1-, 4-, 6-, and 8-minute instantaneous acceleration/deceleration periods of play. Significant (p0.05) negative correlations (r = -0.55 to -0.60) were observed between the IFT and relative 1-, 4-, 6-, and 8-minute peaks, and between the relative 1RM back squat and relative 1-, 4-, 6-, and 8-minute peaks. Significant positive correlations (r = 0.52-0.84) were observed between the following physical tests and match performance pairs: IFT and peak acceleration; relative 1RM back squat and peak acceleration; SJ peak power (relative and absolute) and peak acceleration; CMJ peak force (relative and absolute) and peak acceleration; CMJ peak power (relative and absolute) and peak acceleration and 1-, 4-, 6-, and 8-minute peaks; and relative BBP peak power and peak velocity and peak acceleration. The results of this study highlight that not all generic tests of physical qualities are related to peak match running performance and only those with significant correlations are likely to be able to indicate how players may perform during match-play.

Bishop, C, Perez-Higueras Rubio, M, Gullon, IL, Maloney, S, and Balsalobre-Fernandez, C. Jump and change of direction speed asymmetry using smartphone apps: between-session consistency and associations with physical performance. J Strength Cond Res 36(4): 927-934, 2022-The aims of this study were to (a) quantify the magnitude and direction of asymmetry from jump and change of direction speed (CODS) tests and (b) determine the relationship between these asymmetries and jump and CODS performance, in a test-retest design. Thirty Spanish national-level youth basketball athletes performed single leg countermovement jumps (SLCMJs), single leg drop jumps (SLDJs), and 505 CODS tests, all assessed using the My Jump 2 and CODTimer smartphone applications. All tests showed good to excellent reliability, with no significant differences identified between test sessions in jump, CODS, or asymmetry data. The direction of asymmetry showed substantial levels of agreement between test sessions for jump height during the SLDJ (Kappa = 0.72), but only fair levels of agreement for reactive strength during the SLDJ (Kappa = 0.25), fair levels of agreement for jump height during the SLCMJ (Kappa = 0.29), and slight levels of agreement for total time during the 505 test (Kappa = 0.18). Jump height asymmetry from the SLDJ was significantly associated with reduced jump height (ρ = -0.44), reactive strength (ρ = -0.46) and 505 times (ρ = 0.45-0.48) in test session 1, and reactive strength (ρ = -0.42) and 505 times (ρ = 0.40) in test session 2. These data show that jump height asymmetry from the SLDJ was associated with reduced jump and CODS performance in youth basketball athletes during repeated test sessions. In addition, the same asymmetry metric was the only one to show substantial levels of agreement between test sessions. Owing to the consistency of these data, SLDJ height asymmetry may be a useful metric to measure when monitoring interlimb asymmetries.