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Objective: This study aimed to compare the effects of two concurrent training (CT) protocols on the physical fitness of middle school students., Method: A 12-week quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test study was conducted with 157 middle school students (age = 12.48 ± 0.34, n = 90 females) divided into three groups: CT group A (CT-0h) received combined resistance training (RT) and aerobic training (AT) in each physical education session, CT group B (CT-48h) received RT and AT across two separate physical education classes 48 h apart, and a control group (Con) received no training. Training occurred twice a week. Test indicators included cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) measured by estimated VO 2 max and 20 m shuttle run (laps), as well as muscle strength assessed through long jump, vertical jump, and handgrip strength., Results: The intervention groups exhibited significant increases in estimated VO 2 max and muscle strength compared to their baseline values ( p < 0.05). Both CT-0h and CT-48h groups demonstrated significant improvements in 20 m shuttle run (laps) (mean difference: 8.88 laps, p < 0.01; mean difference: 4.81 laps, p < 0.01, respectively), standing long jump (mean difference: 6.20 cm, p < 0.01; mean difference: 3.68 cm, p < 0.01, respectively), vertical jump (mean difference: 4.95 cm, p < 0.01; mean difference: 4.04 cm, p < 0.01, respectively), and handgrip strength (mean difference: 11.17 kg, p < 0.01; mean difference: 6.99 kg, p < 0.01, respectively). CT-0h group exhibited significantly increased estimated VO 2 max (mean difference: 1.47 ml/kg/min, p < 0.01) compared to the CT-48h group., Conclusion: Both CT programs effectively improved adolescents' physical fitness indicators. However, the program that integrated RT and AT within the same physical education class demonstrated superior enhancement in adolescents' CRF., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (© 2024 Li et al.)

Objective: To synthesize evidence about physical fitness levels in children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) compared with typically developing (TD) children., Methods: We searched four databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and PsycINFO) for cross-sectional, case-control, and cohort studies comparing physical fitness between children with and without DCD. We assessed the methodological quality of the studies with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). We calculated Cohen's d effect sizes to provide clinical evidence of group differences in aerobic capacity, anaerobic capacity, muscle strength, body composition and flexibility., Results: We included 32 studies for qualitative synthesis after applying eligibility criteria. All selected studies ranged from moderate to high research quality. Effect sizes in favor of typically developing children over children with DCD were large for aerobic capacity ( d  = 1.15), anaerobic capacity ( d  = 0.90), and muscle strength ( d  = 0.79), and small for body composition ( d  = 0.43) and flexibility ( d  = 0.21) outcomes., Conclusion: Children with DCD presented significantly lower physical fitness than their typically developing peers, particularly in aerobic and anaerobic capacity and in muscle strength.

This investigation examined relationships between a Special Weapons and Tactics-specific fitness test (SORT) and an obstacle course (OC) used for qualification in fourteen male SWAT members from three local, regional police departments. The SORT included: squat, pushup, and lunge in 60 s; pullup hold; sled drag; and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test L1. The obstacle course included: 25 m sprint (repeated); window ascent; scale under a wall; 25 m serpentine run (repeated), body drag (20 m, repeated). Pearson coefficients examined SORT and OC relationships ( p ≤ 0.05); intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC 2,1 ) assessed agreement of SORT trials. Repeated measures ANOVA evaluated differences in SORT metrics across time. Coefficients of variation (COV) examined SORT scoring consistency. The YoYo test was related to all SORT assessments (r = -0.803-0.894), except sled drag. The remaining SORT metrics were related to ≥two tests. SORT COVs ranged from 0.77-13.26% for trials 1-2 but decreased between trials 2-3 (0.95-8.97%). The OC was associated with YoYo, lunges, squats and sled drag ( r = -0.790, -0.730, -0.766, and 0.802, respectively). No differences ( p > 0.05) existed across SORT trials for event scores. The SORT battery appears to be a valid and reliable testing measure to assess SWAT occupational specific fitness.

Introduction and Objective: Asthma, is the most common chronic inflammatory disease in childhood period. It can affect the daily life to an advanced level and may become vital. The purpose of this study is to compare physical fitness and anaerobic capacity in asthmatic children (AC) and non-asthmatic children (NC)., Materials and Methods: A total of 47 children participated in the study; 25 individuals with mild to moderate asthma and 22 healthy children were assessed. The assessed variables consist pulmonary function and peripheral muscle strength (PMS). Additionally, physical fitness was evaluated by using fitnessgram test battery, which includes body composition, modified shuttle walk test (MSWT), curl-up test, push-up test, and sit and reach test variables. Anaerobic capacity was measured with wingate anaerobic capacity test (WAnT) and counter-movement jump (CMJ) using a tri-axial accelerometer., Results: FEV 1 /FVC ratio (p = 0.01), MSWT (p = 0.001), push-up test (p = 0.01), and WAnT peak power (p = 0.05) were measured significantly to be found reduced in AC compared with that of NC. Between the two groups, PMS, curl-up test, sit and reach test, and CMJ were not significantly different (p = 0.05). High to moderate positive correlation was found among WAnT, CMJ parameters and FEV1, fat-free body mass (FFM), dominant handgrip, and quadriceps strengths (p = 0.05)., Conclusions: Physical fitness level and anaerobic capacity were lower in AC compared with that of NC. Physical fitness parameters and anaerobic exercise capacity should be evaluated on the physiotherapy and rehabilitation program in AC.

Current trends in the analysis of the physical fitness of athletes are based on subjecting the athlete to requirements similar to those found in competition. Regarding physical fitness, a thorough study of the capacities that affect the development of team sports in different ages and gender is required since the demands are not equivalent. The objective of this paper was to characterize the physical-physiological demands of athletes in an aerobic and anaerobic test specific to basketball players, as well as the evolution of the variables according to age and gender. The research was carried out in 149 players from different training categories ( n = 103 male; n = 46 female). The athletes performed two field tests that evaluated both aerobic capacity and lactic anaerobic capacity. Each athlete was equipped with an inertial device during the tests. Sixteen variables (equal in both tests) were analyzed. Three of them evaluated technical-tactical aspects, four variables of objective internal load, six kinematic variables of objective external load (two related to distance and four related to accelerometry) and three neuromuscular variables of objective external load. The obtained results show significant differences in the variables analyzed according to the age and gender of the athletes. They are mainly due to factors related to the anthropometric maturation and development inherent in age and have an impact on the efficiency and technical and tactical requirements of the tests carried out and, therefore, on the obtained results in the tests.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a gradually decreasing intensity training from that corresponding to maximal anaerobic power (MAnP) to that of near maximal oxygen uptake ([Formula: see text]) (decrescent intensity training) on MAnP, maximal accumulated oxygen deficit (MAOD), and [Formula: see text] in untrained young men. Seventeen untrained young men were randomly divided into either a training (TR; n  = 9) group or a control (CON; n  = 8) group. The TR group performed the decrescent intensity training, whereas the CON group did not perform any exercises. The mean training time per session throughout the training period was 275 ± 135 s. There was a Group × Time interaction for both absolute and relative ( p  < 0.01) values of [Formula: see text], MAOD, and MAnP. The TR group had significantly increased values for all variables after the 8-week training program, and the relative values of all variables were significantly higher in the TR group than in the CON group. Muscle thicknesses in the anterior and posterior aspects of the thigh and maximal isokinetic knee extension and flexion strengths improved only in the TR group ( p  < 0.05). A single-exercise training with gradually decreasing intensity from that corresponding to the MAnP to that of approximately 100% [Formula: see text] improves MAnP, MAOD, and [Formula: see text] concurrently, despite the short training time per session.

This study determined relationships between an agency-specific fitness test battery (PT500), and a work sample test battery (WSTB) in law enforcement recruits. Retrospective analysis on 219 males and 34 females from one agency was conducted. The PT500 comprised: push-ups, sit-ups, and mountain climbers in 120 s; pull-ups; and 201 m and 2.4 km runs. The WSTB comprised: 99 yard (90.53 m) obstacle course (99OC); body drag (BD) with a 165 pound (75 kg) dummy; 6 foot (1.83 m) chain link fence (CLF) and solid wall (SW) climb; and 500 yard (457.2 m) run (500R). Partial correlations, controlling for sex, calculated PT500 and WSTB relationships ( p < 0.05). Stepwise regression determined whether fitness predicted WSTB performance. The 500R related to all PT500 assessments ( r range = -0.127⁻0.574), 99OC related to all bar push-ups and mountain climbers, and BD related to none. The CLF related to sit-ups, pull-ups, and 2.4 km run; SW related to mountain climbers, pull-ups, and 2.4 km run ( r range = -0.127⁻-0.315). Push-ups, pull-ups, and 2.4 km run were involved in predictive relationships for 99OC, CLF, SW, and 500R ( r ² range = 0.217⁻0.500). To perform better in the WSTB and job-specific tasks, developing upper-body strength and aerobic fitness may be beneficial.

Background: There is little and conflicting information about anaerobic performance and functional strength in children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)., Aims: To investigate anaerobic capacity and functional strength in children with a clinical diagnosis of DCD (clin-DCD) and if differences were larger in older (age 7-10 years) compared to younger children (age 4-6 years). Furthermore to determine the percentage of children with clin-DCD that scored <15th percentile on the norm-referenced Functional Strength Measurement., Method: A clin-DCD group (36 boys, 11 girls, mean age: 7y 1mo, SD=2y 1mo) and a typically developing group (TD) (57 boys, 53 girls, mean age: 7y 5mo, SD=1y 10mo) were compared on Muscle Power Sprint Test (MPST) and Functional Strength Measurement (FSM)., Results: Children with clin-DCD performed poorer on the MPST and FSM, especially on the muscle endurance items of the FSM. The differences were larger in the older children compared to the younger on the cluster muscle endurance and the FSM total score. Over 50% of clin-DCD group scored <15th percentile on the FSM., Interpretation: Differences between children with clin-DCD and TD children are even more pronounced in the older children, especially when tested on items requiring fast repetitive movements., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Martial arts training is beneficial for improving physical fitness but the improvements can vary according to the type of martial art performed. This study investigated lung function, aerobic and anaerobic capacity, flexibility, muscular strength and power among male adolescents who were sedentary or who practiced taekwondo or wushu. Methods: A total of 30 male adolescents living in the Kelantan state in Malaysia who were between 14 years old and 20 years old were enrolled and divided into three groups: i) sedentary (control), ii) taekwondo and iii) wushu. Each participant underwent a lung function test, 20 m shuttle run, Wingate anaerobic test and a Sit and Reach test, as well as tests of standing long jump power, handgrip, back and leg strength. Results: Relative to the sedentary control group, the wushu group had significantly higher values than the sedentary control group for fat free mass (P = 0.047), explosive leg power (P < 0.001), aerobic capacity (P < 0.001), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) (P = 0.021) and Wingate anaerobic capacity (P < 0.05). The taekwondo group also showed significantly greater values than the sedentary control group for explosive leg power (P = 0.018), forced vital capacity (FVC) (P = 0.014) and FEV1 (P < 0.001). The wushu group exhibited significantly higher explosive leg power (P = 0.010) and Wingate anaerobic capacity parameters including mean power (P = 0.001), anaerobic capacity (P < 0.001) and anaerobic power (P = 0.002) than the taekwondo group. Conclusion: Engagement of male adolescents in wushu and taekwondo was associated with improved physiological profiles compared to those who were in the sedentary control group. Practice of wushu could result in greater explosive leg power and anaerobic capacities than taekwondo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze the physical fitness characteristics of elite freestyle skiing aerials athletes, thereby enhancing the understanding of exercise physiologists, sports scientists, and coaches regarding the demands in this discipline. Methods: After health screenings, 29 athletes from the Chinese National Freestyle Skiing Aerials Team were divided into elite and general groups, including males and females. Physical fitness indexes were determined through literature reviews, expert interviews, and the Delphi method, followed by physical fitness tests assessing body morphology, physiological function, and physical quality. Data normality was verified using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Differences between the two groups were then evaluated using independent sample t-tests or Mann-Whitney U tests, after which effect sizes were calculated to assess the magnitude of the differences. Results: Significant body morphology differences were noted between elite and general groups in fat-free body weight, leg, and waist circumferences (P < 0.05). Male athletes in the elite group exhibited a significantly lower percentage of body fat (P < 0.05), whereas the reduction in body fat percentage among female elite athletes was not statistically significant. In terms of physiological function assessment, elite athletes demonstrated superior performance in both maximum anaerobic capacity and relative maximum anaerobic capacity compared to their counterparts in the general group (P < 0.05). Notably, the difference in maximum anaerobic capacity was highly significant among male athletes (P < 0.01), and the relative maximum anaerobic capacity among female athletes was also markedly significant (P < 0.01). Regarding physical quality indexes, elite athletes outperformed those in the general group in all aspects except for the quick v-up and 12-minute run tests (P < 0.05 or P<0.01). Conclusion: Elite athletes exhibit superior physical fitness characteristics compared to general athletes, attributable to differences in age, years of training, and their participation in ongoing specialized physical training within structured, cyclical programs. Specifically, elite athletes demonstrated higher fat-free body weight, larger waist and leg circumferences in terms of body morphology. Particularly, male athletes showed a trend towards lower body fat percentage. Physiologically, they exhibited stronger anaerobic metabolism capabilities. In terms of physical quality, elite athletes displayed superior limb strength, lower limb explosive power, and specialized core strength, along with better speed, agility, and overall coordination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to explore the effects of a 7-week short sprint interval training (SSIT) with differing in programming volume-loads including progressive (P-SSIT) and nonprogressive (NP-SSIT) approaches on the immunoendocrine, physical fitness attributes and physiological parameters in male wrestlers during the pre-season. Thirty young freestyle wrestlers at the collegiate national-level were included in the study and were divided into three groups: P-SSIT (n = 10), NP-SSIT (n = 10), and an active control group (n = 10). The wrestlers engaged in their specific wrestling training three days weekly, while the P-SSIT and NP-SSIT groups underwent a 7-week SSIT, with scheduling in either progressed or nonprogressed volume-based overloads, three times per week. Before and after the intervention, various aspects of physical fitness (such as 20-m sprint, 4x9-m shuttle run, and maximal strength) and physiological parameters (including cardiorespiratory fitness and anaerobic power output), as well as immunoendocrine responses (such as immunoglobulin-A, testosterone, and cortisol) were measured. Following the training intervention, the control group did not show any significant changes in the variable measured; however, both the P-SSIT and NP-SSIT groups experienced significant improvements (p = 0.001) in physical fitness attributes and physiological parameters with effect sizes ranging from small to very large, and also more adaptive responses compared with control group (p < 0.05). In addition, there were no statistically significant changes observed among the P-SSIT and NP-SSIT groups in terms of immunoendocrine response to training, and physical fitness, as well as physiological parameters (p > 0.05). In conclusion, neither the progressed nor nonprogressed approaches of SSIT demonstrated superior effects on adaptations compared to one another. Therefore, it is recommended for strength and conditioning coaches in wrestling to incorporate both P-SSIT and NP-SSIT into their annual training plan, especially during the pre-season phase, to maximize the physical fitness and physiological parameters of their wrestlers while minimizing changes in immunoendocrine responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Today, training on various training surfaces is one of the most important concerns of coaches for improving sports performance, which has rarely been considered in sport teams. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of six-week of specific volleyball training on ground surfaces (concrete, floor and sand) on some selected factors of physical fitness in volleyball male players. Materials and Methods: Thirty-six male volleyball players (average age, 16.11±0.82 years) were purposefully selected and randomly divided into three training groups including training on concrete, floor, and sand surfaces. The repeated effort performance test (jump and real-time, time and ideal jump) with four repetitions and rest between repetitions at players' movement speed between 4 to 8 seconds was used. All tests were performed before and after the training programs. One-way analysis of variance and Tukey's tests were used at the significance level of p≤0.05. Results: Anaerobic power, explosive power (Jumping record) and time reduction in the repeated performance test significantly increased in the both sand and flooring groups compared to the concrete group. Moreover, agility and dynamic balance in the sand and flooring group had a significant decrease and increase, respectively, as compared to the concrete group. Additionally, dynamic balance showed more increased in the sand group than in the floor group. Conclusion: Specific volleyball exercises on sand compared to other surfaces by increasing training overload caused neuro-muscular adaptations and finally improved sports performance and physical fitness of volleyball players. Accordingly, coaches can use sand surfaces to maximize the benefits of training and prevent injury and pain to players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pediatric heart (HTx) and kidney transplant (KTx) recipients may have lower physical fitness than healthy children. This study sought to quantify fitness levels in transplant recipients, investigate associations to clinical factors and quality of life, and identify whether a quick, simple wall‐sit test is feasible as a surrogate for overall fitness for longitudinal assessment. Methods: Aerobic capacity (6‐min walk test, 6MWT), normalized muscle strength, muscle endurance, physical activity questionnaire (PAQ), and quality of life (PedsQL™) were prospectively assessed in transplanted children and matched healthy controls. Results: Twenty‐two HTx were compared to 20 controls and 6 KTx. 6MWT %predicted was shorter in HTx (87.2 [69.9–118.6] %) than controls (99.9 [80.4–120] %), but similar to KTx (90.3 [78.6–115] %). Muscle strength was lower in HTx deltoids (6.15 [4.35–11.3] kg/m2) and KTx quadriceps (9.27 [8.65–19.1] kg/m2) versus controls. Similarly, muscle endurance was lower in HTx push‐ups (28.6 [0–250] %predicted), KTx push‐ups (8.35 [0–150] %predicted), HTx curl‐ups (115 [0–450] %predicted), and KTx wall‐sit time (18.5 [10.0–54.0] s) than controls. In contrast to HTx with only 9%, all KTx were receiving steroid therapy. The wall‐sit test significantly correlated with other fitness parameters (normalized quadriceps strength R =.31, #push‐ups R =.39, and #curl‐ups R =.43) and PedsQL™ (R =.36). Conclusions: Compared to controls, pediatric HTx and KTx have similarly lower aerobic capacity, but different deficits in muscle strength, likely related to steroid therapy in KTx. The convenient wall‐sit test correlates with fitness and reported quality of life, and thus could be a useful easy routine for longitudinal assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To determine the prevalence of adolescents who meet muscle‐strengthening activities (MSA) recommendation and their associations with anthropometric variables, physical fitness, and lifestyle behaviours in a sample of Spanish adolescents aged 12–17 years. Methods: This was a cross‐sectional study using data from The Eating Healthy and Daily Life Activities (EHDLA) Study. Participants reported the days on which they engaged in MSA (≥3 days per week were considered to meet World Health Organization recommendation). Physical fitness was assessed with the ALPHA fitness battery. Additionally, body mass index, waist circumference, skinfolds and body fat percentage were assessed. Lifestyle variables were recreational screen time, sleep time and adherence to the Mediterranean diet. The associations between MSA and outcome variables were tested with linear and logistic regressions. Results: Of the 852 participants, 48% met MSA recommendation. Meeting MSA recommendation was associated with lower adiposity and higher performance in the shuttle run test, maximal oxygen consumption, standing long jump, speed‐agility, flexibility, lower screen time (in weekdays) and higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Conclusion: Engaging in MSA once or twice a week was linked with more desirable health outcomes than not engaging in such activities. However, meet with MSA recommendation (i.e., at least 3 days per week) reinforced these benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of physical fitness on the FRAN CrossFit® workout time-trial. Twenty male athletes were divided into a fast group (FG) and a slow group (SG) according to the median value of the FRAN time-trial. Measurements included the FRAN time-trial, body composition analysis, isometric handgrip and isometric mid-thigh pull strength, countermovement jump (CMJ), 30 s continuous jumping test (CJ30), and one repetition maximum (1-RM) strength in the squat, thrusters, snatch, clean and jerk, and dead-lift. The FG had significantly lower body fat (p < 0.018), higher CMJ (p < 0.05), lower percentage decrement in CJ30 height (p = 0.023), and higher 1-RM strength (p < 0.05) compared to the SG. A significant correlation was found between the FRAN time-trial with percentage body fat (r = 0.512, p = 0.021) and with percentage decrement in CJ30 height (r = 0.454, p = 0.044). Performance in the FRAN time-trial was also correlated with CMJ variables (r ranged from 0.634 to 0.663, p < 0.05) and 1-RM strength (r ranged from 0.510 to 0.701, p < 0.05). These results suggest that the FG has a higher tolerance to fatigue and is stronger, more powerful, and has less body fat compared to the SG. Consequently, body fat, 1-RM strength, power, and anaerobic capacity may predict the FRAN time-trial in CrossFit® athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to compare the effects of two concurrent training (CT) protocols on the physical fitness of middle school students. Method: A 12-week quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test study was conducted with 157 middle school students (age = 12.48 ± 0.34, n = 90 females) divided into three groups: CT group A (CT-0h) received combined resistance training (RT) and aerobic training (AT) in each physical education session, CT group B (CT-48h) received RT and AT across two separate physical education classes 48 h apart, and a control group (Con) received no training. Training occurred twice a week. Test indicators included cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) measured by estimated VO2max and 20 m shuttle run (laps), as well as muscle strength assessed through long jump, vertical jump, and handgrip strength. Results: The intervention groups exhibited significant increases in estimated VO2max and muscle strength compared to their baseline values (p < 0.05). Both CT- 0h and CT-48h groups demonstrated significant improvements in 20 m shuttle run (laps) (mean difference: 8.88 laps, p < 0.01; mean difference: 4.81 laps, p < 0.01, respectively), standing long jump (mean difference: 6.20 cm, p < 0.01; mean difference: 3.68 cm, p < 0.01, respectively), vertical jump (mean difference: 4.95 cm, p < 0.01; mean difference: 4.04 cm, p < 0.01, respectively), and handgrip strength (mean difference: 11.17 kg, p < 0.01; mean difference: 6.99 kg, p < 0.01, respectively). CT-0h group exhibited significantly increased estimated VO2max (mean difference: 1.47 ml/kg/min, p < 0.01) compared to the CT-48h group. Conclusion: Both CT programs effectively improved adolescents' physical fitness indicators. However, the program that integrated RT and AT within the same physical education class demonstrated superior enhancement in adolescents' CRF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We sought to create a system to evaluate the physical fitness of outstanding Chinese male boxers that included an evaluation index, fitness level criteria, and modeling. This system was then used to assess athletes' physical fitness and development. Methods: Documentation, expert interviews, questionnaires, measurements, and statistical analyses were used in this study. Results: The physical fitness evaluation system included the following three components: (1) body shape indexes (n = 4) including the backhand upper arm circumference differential, finger span height, Cottrell index, and pelvic width/ shoulder width x 100; (2) body function indexes (n = 4) including relative maximum anaerobic power, relative maximal oxygen uptake, and creatine kinase and testosterone concentrations; and (3) athletic quality indexes (n = 9) including the speed strength index, the backhand straight punch strength, 3-min cumulative punching force, backhand straight punch reaction time, backhand straight punch speed, 30-m sprint, 9-min double shake jump rope, 1-min double shake jump rope, and sitting forward bend tests. A five-point grading system to evaluate physical fitness was established and an evaluation model was proposed. Conclusions: The reference values were determined to be objective and effective using a back substitution process. Individual and differential assessments reflected the athletes; level of physical fitness. The critical values were established under the best and worst conditions and the optimal values were found to be valid and effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate incidence of pregnancy-related low back pain (LBP), evaluate physical fitness objectively during pregnancy and analyze the correlation between LBP and physical fitness of pregnant women, 180 pregnant women including 101 in mid-gestation (14–28 gestational weeks) and 79 in late-gestation (28–37 gestational weeks) were recruited and self-reported their LBP. The aerobic ability such as cardiorespiratory fitness and anaerobic ability including strength, endurance, speed, flexibility, and balance were evaluated by a novel materal physical fitness test system. The correlation between LBP and each component in physical fitness test system was analyzed in SPSS. As the results, 135 out of 180 participants (75% of total) had pregnancy-related LBP. Physical fitness of participants in late-gestation was significantly weaker including weaker back strength (p<0.05), less resistance band pullbacks in 30s (p<0.01), less stretching in sit-and-reach test (p<0.001), shorter duration in left legged blind balance test (p<0.05) and weaker bird dog balance(p<0.05) than those in mid-gestation. Correlation analysis indicated that LBP was negatively associated with standing heel raises in 20s (p<0.01) and standing glute kickbacks in 30s (left p<0.01, right p<0.05). Thus, it is concluded that LBP is in high prevalence throughout the entire pregnant course. The pregnant women are prone to have weakened strength of core muscle groups and poorer flexibility and balance along the pregnancy. In addition, their LBP was negatively correlated to strength of back muscle groups of lower limbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to estimate the main actions during a judo match based on athletes' physical fitness. Forty-one male adult judo athletes (23.3 ± 5.8 years old; 78.9 ± 11.6 kg; 174.7 ± 5.9 cm) underwent anthropometric measurements and a test battery to evaluate lower- and upper-body aerobic and anaerobic power and capacity, upper-body dynamic strength-endurance and performed one 5-min match simulation. The time-motion variables were recorded and used to determine the athletes' pacing. Perceptual, physiological, and performance variables were used to estimate the actions during the match via multiple regression analysis. The association between the frequency of attacks and upper-body strength-endurance confirmed the relevance of developing this capacity for high-intensity actions during the match. Aerobic capacity and power were related to high-intensity actions during the match. Anaerobic power and aerobic capacity were negatively related to high-intensity strength-endurance actions across the match (grip time), while upper-body VO2peak positively influenced it. Groundwork time was determined by aerobic capacity, upper-body strength-endurance, and anaerobic power. However, the coefficient of determination for these relationships was low to moderate (i.e. 0.13–0.51). Thus, different combinations of physiological, perceptual, and performance variables could partially estimate frequency and time of high- and low-intensity actions during the match. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The strength of evidence regarding long-term changes to fitness resulting from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdowns is deficient. This two-site retrospective study aimed to investigate the long-term changes in physical fitness among young adults a year after the onset of the pandemic using a robust historical control. University freshmen who underwent physical fitness tests in 2019 and completed a follow-up in 2020 (study group) were included. The primary focus was to compare the current cohort with a historical control group who completed the same tests a year prior (2018). A total of 5376 individuals were recruited, of which 2239 were in the study group. Compared with the control, the study group exhibited a decrease in anaerobic fitness, with an overall difference of −0.84 (95% confidence interval [CI], [−1.33 to −0.36]); declines in aerobic fitness, with a difference of −2.25 [−3.92 to −0.57] for males and −4.28 [−4.97 to −3.59] for females; a reduced explosive fitness (−2.68 [−3.24 to −2.12]); and a decreased upper-body strength in females (−1.52 [−2.16 to −0.87]). The fitness of young adults has been considerably compromised by COVID-19 lockdowns, highlighting the importance of promoting physical activity to prevent long-term health implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To profile sprint endurance performance of elite-level female soccer players. Methods: Twenty-five female national-team soccer players (age 25.1 [2.7] y, body mass 59.6 [3.6] kg, height 168.5 [4.1] cm) were tested for sprint endurance, performing 5 maximal sprints, interspersed with 30 seconds of active recovery (5 × 30 m) and a 30-second all-out shuttle run in a soccer pitch. The Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test level 1 (YYIR1) evaluated intermittent high-intensity endurance under the same field-testing conditions. Maximal anaerobic capacity was assessed while participants performed three 10-second all-out bouts separated by 20 seconds of passive recovery (3 × 10 s) on a nonmotorized treadmill. Results: Huge interplayer variability was observed for sprint decrements in 3 × 10 seconds (coefficient of variation = 37%) and 5 × 30 m (coefficient of variation = 62%). The 3 × 10 performance was largely associated with 5 × 30-m mean and best time and very largely with 30 seconds. A very large and nearly perfect correlation was observed between 30 seconds and 5 × 30 mMean (r = −.86) and 5 × 30 mBest (r = −.92), respectively. The YYIR1 was moderately to largely associated with 5 × 30-m variables and 30 seconds, respectively. A nearly perfect association was observed between 5 × 30 mBest and 5 × 30 mMean (r =.97). Conclusions: Elite female soccer players' sprint endurance variables are characterized by remarkable variability. Associations between sprint endurance variables suggest physiological interdependence and a likelihood of a general ability in sustaining sprinting in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-point shooting plays an important role in determining the outcomes of basketball games and could be relevant for player selection. However, there has been little research into the relationship between basketball players' physical capacities, metabolic capacities, and three-point shooting accuracy, particularly among female players. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between physical capacities, metabolic capacities, and dynamic three-point shooting accuracy in female professional basketball players. Twelve female professional basketball players from the Women's Chinese Basketball Association (WCBA) league (age: 19.04 ± 1.31 years, height: 181.33 ± 4.90 cm, playing experience: 7.83 ± 1.7 years) were recruited for this study. Pearson correlations and multiple linear regression analysis were run to assess the relationship between physical capacities, metabolic capacities, and dynamic three-point shooting. Results showed that coordination, balance, core strength, and relative average power were positively correlated with three-point shooting accuracy (r > 0.58, p < 0.05), while no other variables showed significant correlations. The current study suggests that coaching staff should consider coordination, balance, core strength, and anaerobic capacities when selecting players as well as in their training periodization if three-point shooting accuracy is considered relevant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine if photobiomodulation (PBM) has ergogenic effects on the anaerobic performance of well-trained cyclists. Fifteen healthy male road or mountain bike cyclists participated in this randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, crossover study. Athletes were randomly assigned to receive photobiomodulation (630 nm, 4.6 J/cm2, 6 J per point, 16 points, PBM session) or placebo intervention (PLA session) in the first session. The athletes then performed a 30-s Wingate test to determine mean and peak average power, relative power, mean and peak velocity, mean and peak RPM, fatigue index, total distance, time to peak power, explosive strength, and power drop. After 48 h, athletes returned to the laboratory for the crossover intervention. The repeated-measures ANOVA test followed by Bonferroni post hoc test or Friedman test with Dunn's post hoc test (p < 0.05), and Cohen's d statistic were used for comparisons. Performance in the Wingate test was not significantly different (p > 0.05) between PBM and PLA sessions for any variable. Only a small effect size was detected for time to peak power (-0.40; 1.11 to 0.31) and explosive strength (0.38; -0.34 to 1.09). We conclude that irradiation with red light, under a low energy density, does not promote ergogenic effects on the anaerobic performance of cycling athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The present study compared the effects of two different small-sided game (SSG) training methods, interval (ISSG) and continuous (CSSG) on the bio-motor abilities of young soccer players. Methods: Sixteen young soccer players (age: 19.5 ± 0.5 years; height: 177 ± 4.72 cm) were ranked based on the result of a running-based anaerobic sprint test (RAST) and randomly divided into two groups: CSSG (n = 8) and ISSG (n = 8). The training protocols were performed for eight weeks, three sessions per week. Participants were assessed twice (pre- and post-intervention) to estimate their anaerobic capacity with the RAST, aerobic capacity with Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test, body fat percentage with a bioimpedance analysis, speed with a 30-meter run test, and agility with the Illinois agility test. During the training session, the rating of the perceived exertion (RPE) and heart rate (mean and maximum) were recorded to assess the training load. Results: In general, aerobic and anaerobic capacities improved after ISSG (p < 0.05, for all). The between-group analysis with repeated measures ANOVA revealed higher values for ISSG than CSSG groups post-intervention in anaerobic power (p = 0.042, ηp2 = 0.264). In addition, the independent t-test results indicated that ISSG presented lower values of mean heart rate (p = 0.023, effect size [ES] = 0.85) and RPE (p < 0.05, ES = 0.88) than CSSG. Moreover, higher values for maximum heart rate were revealed for ISSG than for the CSSG group (p = 0.004, ES = 0.85). Conclusion: In conclusion, the findings of this study suggests that ISSG can lead to better improvements in anaerobic power and aerobic capacity than CSSG. Additionally, the ISSG led to a lower mean heart rate and RPE than the CSSG. Therefore, coaches and trainers may want to consider incorporating ISSG into their training programs for young soccer players to enhance their bio-motor abilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max) may be the single most important factor for long‐distance running performance. Interval training, enabling high intensity, is forwarded as the format that yields the largest increase in V̇O2max. However, it is uncertain if an optimal outcome on V̇O2max, anaerobic capacity, and running performance is provided by training with a high aerobic intensity or high overall intensity. Thus, we randomized 48 aerobically well‐trained men (23 ± 3 years) to three commonly applied interval protocols, one with high aerobic intensity (HIIT) and two with high absolute intensity (sprint interval training; SIT), 3× week for 8 weeks: (1) HIIT: 4 × 4 min at ~95% maximal aerobic speed (MAS) with 3 min active breaks. (2) SIT: 8 × 20 s at ~150% MAS with 10 s passive breaks. (3) SIT: 10 × 30 s at ~175% MAS with 3.5 min active breaks. V̇O2max increased more (p < 0.001) following HIIT, 4 × 4 min (6.5 ± 2.4%, p < 0.001) than SIT, 8 × 20 s (3.3 ± 2.4%, p < 0.001) and SIT, 10 × 30 s (n.s.). This was accompanied by a larger (p < 0.05) increase in stroke volume (O2‐pulse) following HIIT, 4 × 4 min (8.1 ± 4.1%, p < 0.001) compared with SIT, 8 × 20 s (3.8 ± 4.2%, p < 0.01) and SIT, 10 × 30 (n.s.). Anaerobic capacity (maximal accumulated oxygen deficit) increased following SIT, 8 × 20 s (p < 0.05), but not after HIIT, 4 × 4 min, nor SIT, 10 × 30 s. Long‐distance (3000‐m) endurance performance increased (p < 0.05–p < 0.001) in all groups (HIIT, 4 × 4 min: 5.9 ± 3.2%; SIT, 8 × 20 s: 4.1 ± 3.7%; SIT, 10 × 30 s: 2.2 ± 2.2%), with HIIT increasing more than SIT, 10 × 30 s (p < 0.05). Sprint (300‐m) performance exhibited within‐group increases in SIT, 8 × 20 s (4.4 ± 2.0%) and SIT, 10 × 30 s (3.3 ± 2.8%). In conclusion, HIIT improves V̇O2max more than SIT. Given the importance of V̇O2max for most endurance performance scenarios, HIIT should typically be the chosen interval format. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the validity of the Specific Wrestling Fitness Test (SWFT), correlating it with generic anaerobic tests in elite youth wrestlers and determining whether wrestlers differ according to quality and weight categories in all tests. The research included 23 advanced-level Greco-Roman wrestlers (aged 16-19 years) who were divided into two quality categories (National team members and Non-team members) and two weight categories (lighter and heavier). Variables included anthropometric characteristics, generic fitness tests, and SWFT. Results evidenced that only vertical jump height was associated with SWFT (Pearson's R=0.48, p<0.05). Team members had higher results in the vertical jump height (p=0.02, moderate ES), while wrestlers from the heavier category had higher body mass (p=0.001, large ES) and body height (p=0.01, large ES) than lighter wrestlers. Moreover, wrestlers did not differ in the SWFT according to quality and weight categories. SWFT was not associated with generic fitness tests, possibly because of its high specificity. Furthermore, team members and non-team members did not differ in the SWFT, which could be explained by the fact that only advanced-level wrestlers were included in this study. Thus, future studies should include lower-quality wrestlers and different testing protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Medicina do Esporte is the property of Redprint Editora Ltda. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: With knowledge of an individual’s critical power and W′, the SKIBA 2 model provides a framework with which to track W′ balance during intermittent high-intensity work bouts. There are fears that the time constant controlling the recovery rate of W′ (τW′) may require refinement to enable effective use in an elite population. Methods: Four elite endurance cyclists completed an array of intermittent exercise protocols to volitional exhaustion. Each protocol lasted approximately 3.5–6 min and featured a range of recovery intensities, set in relation to the athlete’s critical power (DCP). Using the framework of the SKIBA 2 model, the τW′ values were modified for each protocol to achieve an accurate W′ at volitional exhaustion. Modified τW′ values were compared with equivalent SKIBA 2 τW′ values to assess the difference in recovery rates for this population. Plotting modified τW′ values against DCP showed the adjusted relationship between work rate and recovery rate. Results: Comparing modified τW′ values against the SKIBA 2 τW′ values showed a negative bias of 112 (46) s (mean ± 95% confidence limits), suggesting that athletes recovered W′ faster than predicted by SKIBA 2 (P =.0001). The modified τW′–DCP relationship was best described by a power function: τW′ = 2287.2 × DCP–0.688 (R2 =.433). Conclusions: The current SKIBA 2 model is not appropriate for use in elite cyclists, as it underpredicts the recovery rate of W′. The modified τW′ equation presented will require validation but appears more appropriate for high-performance athletes. Individual τW′ relationships may be necessary to maximize the model’s validity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several anecdotal reports suggest that sex before competition can affect performance. Our objective was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine whether athletic performance or some physical fitness measure is affected by prior sexual activity. Web of Science (all databases) and Google Scholar were used to identify studies from which adult healthy subjects were included. As all studies were crossover trials, an inverse variance statistical method with random effects was used to minimize the uncertainty of the pooled effect estimate. Bias was assessed via the revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool (RoB 2) with a "per protocol" analysis. Nine crossover studies (133 subjects, 99% male) were used in this meta-analysis. All those studies did not examine athletic performance per se, but all studies assessed one or more physical fitness parameters. The RoB 2 suggested that overall, there were some concerns with bias. As there was moderate heterogeneity amongst the different outcomes (Tau2 = 0.02, Chi-square = 17.2, df = 8, p = 0.03, I2 = 54%), a random-effects model was used. The results neither favored abstinence nor sexual activity before a physical fitness test [standardized mean difference = 0.03 (− 0.10 to 0.16), Z = 0.47, p = 0.64, where a negative standardized mean difference favors abstinence, and a positive standardized mean difference favors sexual activity]. The results demonstrate that sexual activity within 30 min to 24 h before exercise does not appear to affect aerobic fitness, musculoskeletal endurance, or strength/power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beard, A, Ashby, J, Chambers, R, Millet, GP, and Brocherie, F. Wales Anaerobic Test (WAT): Reliability and fitness profiles of international rugby union players. J Strength Cond Res 36(9): 2589–2596, 2022—To provide strength and conditioning coaches a practical and evidence-based test for repeated-sprint ability (RSA) in rugby union players, this study assessed the relative and absolute test-retest reliability of the Wales Anaerobic Test (WAT) and its position-specific association with other fitness performance indices. Thirty-four players (forwards: n = 19; backs: n = 15) of the Welsh rugby union male senior national team performed the WAT (10 × 50-m distance, 25–30 seconds of passive recovery) twice within 4 days. Time for each repetition was recorded, with the best (WATBest) and total time (WATTT) retained for analysis. Relative (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC]) and absolute (SEM) reliability of the WAT indices were quantified. Furthermore, association (Pearson's product-moment correlations and stepwise backward elimination procedure) with other fitness performance indices (10- and 40-m sprinting times, 30-15 intermittent fitness test [30-15IFT] and the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 2 [YYIR2]) was investigated. Pooled values revealed "moderate" to "high" ICCs for WATBest (ICC = 0.89, p = 0.626) and WATTT (ICC = 0.95, p = 0.342). Good test sensitivity was reported for forwards and backs' WATTT (p > 0.101). Both WATBest and WATTT correlated with 10-m and 40-m sprinting times (r > 0.69, p < 0.001) as well as with 30-15IFT (r < −0.77, p < 0.001) and YYIR2 (r < −0.68, p < 0.001) for pooled values. The WAT proved to be a reliable and sensitive test to assess the rugby union specific RSA-related fitness of international players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The primary objective was to evolve comprehensive clinical tests for measuring back muscles' endurance and obtain their baseline data. The secondary objective was to determine the reliability of these tests and compare them with the standard Sorenson's test. Methods: This cross-sectional study comprised 50 healthy volunteers who were subjected to perform four endurance exercises including Sorenson's test and three other predefined test exercises of inclined spot jogging, inclined trunk push-up and pelvic bridging. Average endurance value, maximum heart rate (HRmax), maximum aerobic capacity (VO2max) and level of ease of performance score (1–10) were calculated for each clinical test. The set of four exercises was repeated after one week and reliability was determined using test–retest correlation. The proposed test designs were compared to the Sorenson's test in terms of VO2max and level of ease and p values were calculated. Results: The baseline mean endurance values (in seconds) were: Sorenson's test—155.96, inclined spot jogging—110.52, inclined push-up—88.84 and pelvic bridging test—170.36. The Sorenson's test had lower median HRmax (104), VO2 max (19.52) and level of ease score (6) as compared to inclined spot jogging (HRmax—138; VO2max—24.94; level of ease score—7), inclined push-up (HRmax—132; VO2max—23.72; level of ease score—8) and pelvic bridging (HRmax—128; VO2max—22.68; level of ease score—8) tests. The differences of VO2max and level of ease scores of our proposed tests were statistically significant (p ≤ 0.001) against the Sorenson's test. The test–retest correlation for the Sorenson's test was moderately significant while very strong correlation was found for all the other three tests. Conclusion: Sorenson's test demonstrated low test–retest correlation, least effect on the cardio-vascular status and was most cumbersome to perform. The proposed dynamic endurance tests are more reliable, involve the cardio-vascular system more and are easier to perform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Police health and physical fitness are essential for improving quality of life and police skills. This review aims to identify and analyze international and Portuguese studies that have investigated the relationships between various aspects of physical fitness as specified by job descriptions and to understand the health-related requirements of police officers. This will help to select the most used fitness measures and health-related parameters for police officers and improve training curricula for these occupational groups. This review aims (i) to identify and analyze the most used physical fitness tests for police officers (from international and Portuguese studies) and (ii) to understand the health-related physical fitness requirements according to the job descriptions of police officers. A total of 29 studies were included. Eighteen were from around the world and eleven were related to Portuguese police officers. All studies showed acceptable methodological quality in the assessment of physical fitness, and the most used fitness components were muscular strength, endurance, power, aerobic and anaerobic capacity, flexibility, and agility. For the analysis of health parameters, they are insufficient at the international level, while at the Portuguese level we have an acceptable sample. We try to analyze the relationship between physical fitness and health, but the studies conducted so far are insufficient. This review provides summary information (i) to help select the most used fitness measures and health-related parameters for police officers, and (ii) that will serve as a starting point for evaluating the relationship between the health and physical fitness of police officers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cross-country (XC) skiing is one of the most demanding of endurance sports, involving protracted competitions on varying terrain employing a variety of skiing techniques that require upper- and/or lower-body work to different extents. Through more effective training and extensive improvements in equipment and track preparation, the speed of cross-country ski races has increased more than that of any other winter Olympic sport, and, in addition, new types of racing events have been introduced. To a certain extent this has altered the optimal physiological capacity required to win, and the training routines of successful skiers have evolved accordingly. The long-standing tradition of researchers working closely with XC-ski coaches and athletes to monitor progress, improve training, and refine skiing techniques has provided unique physiological insights revealing how these athletes are approaching the upper limits of human endurance. This review summarizes current scientific knowledge concerning the demands involved in elite XC skiing, as well as the physiological capacity and training routines of the best athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: New applications of the critical-power concept, such as the modeling of intermittent-work capabilities, are exciting prospects for elite cycling. However, accurate calculation of the required parameters is traditionally time invasive and somewhat impractical. An alternative single-test protocol (3-min all-out) has recently been proposed, but validation in an elite population is lacking. The traditional approach for parameter establishment, but with fewer tests, could also prove an acceptable compromise. Methods: Six senior Australian endurance track-cycling representatives completed 6 efforts to exhaustion on 2 separate days over a 3-wk period. These included 1-, 4-, 6-, 8-, and 10-min self-paced efforts, plus the 3-min all-out protocol. Traditional work-vs- time calculations of CP and anaerobic energy contribution (W') using the 5 self-paced efforts were compared with calculations from the 3-min all-out protocol. The impact of using just 2 or 3 self-paced efforts for traditional CP and W' estimation was also explored using thresholds of agreement (8 W, 2.0 kJ, respectively). Results: CP estimated from the 3-min all-out approach was significantly higher than from the traditional approach (402 ± 33, 351 ± 27 W, P < .001), while W' was lower (15.5 ± 3.0, 24.3 ± 4.0 kJ, P = .02). Five different combinations of 2 or 3 self-paced efforts led to CP estimates within the threshold of agreement, with only 1 combination deemed accurate for W'. Conclusions: In elite cyclists the 3-min all-out approach is not suitable to estimate CP when compared with the traditional method. However, reducing the number of tests used in the traditional method lessens testing burden while maintaining appropriate parameter accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current study was to investigate the effects of acute caffeine supplementation on anaerobic capacity determined by the alternative maximal accumulated oxygen deficit (MAODALT) in running effort. Eighteen recreational male runners [29 ± 7years; total body mass 72.1 ± 5.8 kg; height 176.0 ± 5.4cm; maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) 55.8 ± 4.2 ml⋅kg-1⋅min-1] underwent a graded exercise test. Caffeine (6 mg⋅kg-1) or a placebo were administered 1 hr before the supramaximal effort at 115% of the intensity associated with VO2max in a double-blind, randomized cross-over study, for MAODALT assessment. The time to exhaustion under caffeine condition (130.2 ± 24.5s) was 11.3% higher (p = .01) than placebo condition (118.8 ± 24.9 s) and the qualitative inference for substantial changes showed a very likely positive effect (93%). The net participation of the oxidative phosphorylation pathway was significantly higher in the caffeine condition (p = .02) and showed a likely positive effect (90%) of 15.3% with caffeine supplementation. The time constant of abrupt decay of excess postexercise oxygen consumption (τ1) was significantly different between caffeine and placebo conditions (p = .03) and showed a likely negative effect (90%), decreasing -8.0% with caffeine supplementation. The oxygen equivalents estimated from the glycolytic and phosphagen metabolic pathways showed a possibly positive effect (68%) and possibly negative effect (78%) in the qualitative inference with caffeine ingestion, respectively. However, the MAODALT did not differ under the caffeine or placebo conditions (p = .68). Therefore, we can conclude that acute caffeine ingestion does not modify the MAODALT, reinforcing the robustness of this method. However, caffeine ingestion can alter the glycolytic and phosphagen metabolic pathway contributions to MAODALT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of the study was to evaluate distinct performance indicators and energy system contributions in 3 different, new sport-specific finger flexor muscle exercise tests. Methods: The tests included the maximal strength test, the all-out test (30 s) as well as the continuous and intermittent muscle endurance test at an intensity equaling 60% of maximal force, which were performed until target force could not be maintained. Gas exchange and blood lactate were measured in 13 experienced climbers during, as well as pre and post the test. The energy contribution (anaerobic alactic, anaerobic lactic, and aerobic) was determined for each test. Results: The contribution of aerobic metabolism was highest during the intermittent test (59.9 ± 12.0%). During continuous exercise, this was 28.1 ± 15.6%, and in the all-out test, this was 19.4 ± 8.1%. The contribution of anaerobic alactic energy was 27.2 ± 10.0% (intermittent), 54.2 ± 18.3% (continuous), and 62.4 ± 11.3% (all-out), while anaerobic lactic contribution equaled 12.9 ± 6.4, 17.7 ± 8.9, and 18.2 ± 9.9%, respectively. Conclusion: The combined analysis of performance predictors and metabolic profiles of the climbing test battery indicated that not only maximal grip force, but also all-out isometric contractions are equally decisive physical performance indices of climbing performance. Maximal grip force reflects maximal anaerobic power, while all-out average force and force time integral of constant isometric contraction at 60% of maximal force are functional measures of anaerobic capacity. Aerobic energy demand for the intermittent exercise is dominated aerobic re-phosphorylation of high-energy phosphates. The force-time integral from the intermittent test was not decisive for climbing performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents an overview of current scientific articles that address the reliability and validity of the 30–15 intermittent fitness test (30–15 IFT) as an assessment of aerobic capacity, as well as its use in terms of training programming. The search for and analysis of papers was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. A database search was performed through PubMed, PMC, Med Line, Cochrane Library and ScienceDirect, as well as directly from the author who first presented the IFT 30–15. Type of study: research was included in this paper on condition that (i) the original scientific paper was available in its entirety; (ii) the IFT 30–15 was used to evaluate or verify validity and reliability; and (iii) the IFT 30–15 was used for the purpose of evaluation of training programming. Of the 213 relevant studies identified, 21 were included in the quantitative analysis. All research was conducted on a sample of athletes who are exclusively engaged in team sports. As for the use of the subject test when it comes to programming individualized intermittent training to strengthen aerobic capacity, it seems that the IFT 30–15 test is appropriate and extremely useful for team sports. Regarding the reliability of tests identified in the reviewed literature, all studies indicate that the 30–15 IFT is a reliable test for assessment of aerobic capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Purpose: Anthropometrics, aerobic fitness and muscle strength are measured in one-third of all 18-year-old Norwegian men and women during yearly selection for compulsory military service. The large sample size and geographical representativity make these data valuable for reference. The main purpose of this study was to present reference data for anthropometrics and physical fitness in young Norwegian men and women. Methods: All 154,659 subjects (66% men and 34% women, 17–21 years old) who completed physical examinations at conscript selection from 2011 to 2019 were included in the study. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from height and weight measurements. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) was estimated from performance on a maximal treadmill test. Muscle strength was measured by isometric chest and leg press, or seated medicine ball throw, standing long jump and pull-ups. Results: Mean BMI (SD) was 23.1 (3.4) and 22.9 (3.3) kg·m−2 in men and women, respectively (P < 0.001), and 24% of men and 21% of women had a BMI ≥ 25 kg·m−2. Estimated VO2peak was 52.9 (4.6) and 42.7 (3.9) mL·kg−1·min−1 in men and women, respectively (P < 0.001). Men performed significantly better than women on all muscle strength tests, with corresponding effect sizes varying from 1.14 for isometric leg press to 2.96 for seated medicine ball throw. Conclusion: The presented reference data on physical fitness in young Norwegian men and women can be used to evaluate population health, serve as reference material for future studies and describes sex differences in several physical fitness parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this work was to determine anaerobic performance in male amputee football players considering types and levels of limb impairment, playing position, anthropometric parameters, and comparing the findings to reference values. Relationship between parameters in the laboratory anaerobic test and the handgrip test was checked. Methods: The 30-second Wingate Anaerobic Test (peak power, mean power, relative peak power, relative mean power, time to achieve peak power, fatigue index) on the arm-crank ergometer (LODE ANGIO), the FUTREX 6100 (Futrex, Gaithersburg, USA) and the handgrip test were used in amputee football players (n = 23). Anthropometric measurements were collected. Results: There were no differences in anaerobic results between players considering types and levels of limb impairment. Forwards had significantly higher relative mean and peak power (p = 0.049, d = 0.82; p = 0.049, d = 0.81), and lower amputation-adjusted body mass index (p = 0.001, d = 1.50) than defenders. For peak power, 19 out 23 achieved, and for relative peak power, 22 out 23 achieved results from "average" to "elite". Peak power strongly correlated to handgrip strength results. Conclusions: Amputee football requires a high level of power from players. Maintaining appropriate body composition is important for amputee football players to have better anaerobic performance during the game. The 30-second Wingate Anaerobic Test can be used to assess anaerobic performance in AF players. Sport-specific anaerobic performance laboratory tests and field-based tests using in indirect upper limbs' peak power monitoring would be beneficial for coaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study's purpose was to measure and compare isokinetic muscle function and anaerobic exercise capacity of knee joints according to the three Kukki Taekwondo competition types. Methods: A total of 21 elite Korean male poomsae (forms), gyorugi (sparring), and demonstration athletes majoring in Taekwondo were selected as the subjects of the study. Subjects' physical fitness levels were measured using standardized strength, endurance, agility, balance, and flexibility tests. In particular, the isokinetic muscle function measurement system was used to measure the muscle function of subjects' knee joints, and the Wingate test was used to measure their anaerobic exercise ability. Results: Gyorugi athletes showed better results than their poomsae and demonstration counterparts in nearly all metrics, including body composition, physical fitness factors, isokinetic muscle function (60°/sec), muscle power (180°/sec), and anaerobic exercise capacity. Gyorugi athletes were also taller and showed higher muscle mass, strength, muscular endurance, and agility. However, poomsae athletes showed a higher level of flexibility. The results found isokinetic muscle function and anaerobic exercise capacity of the knee joint to be most important for gyorugi athletes and then for demonstration and poomsae athletes, in that order. Conclusions: This study provides useful information needed to identify the physical fitness factors of the different Kukki Taekwondo athletes, and, in turn, it is may serve as important fundamental data for developing future systematic Taekwondo training programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of RICYDE. Revista Internacional de Ciencias del Deporte is the property of Revista Internacional de Ciencias del Deporte and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: The 30-s-long Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT_30s) has some limitations in high-level athletes. A shorter version might be helpful for both clinical applications and performance assessment. The comparison between the traditional WAnT_30s and a shorter version has never been carried out yet in Paralympic athletes. Aim: To assess if a 10-s-long Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT_10s) could be used to accurately assess and predict the anaerobic components of physical fitness as an alternative to the traditional WAnT_30s in male Paralympic athletes. Methods: Forty-four trained male Paralympic Athletes grouped by severity of locomotor impairment completed the WAnT_30s and the WAnT_10s with an arm cranking ergometer. Differences between mean and peak power achieved throughout both WAnTs were analysed using a mixed-design analysis of variance and predictivity was assessed by stepwise linear regression analysis. Results: In the whole sample, peak power values were similar (P > 0.005) in the two tests and the WAnT_10s mean power was significantly higher than that in the WAnT_30s (P < 0.005). Finally, the mean power measured during WAnT_30s showed high level of predictability from mean power measured during WAnT_10s and the Functional class (adjusted R2 = 0.906; P < 0.001). Conclusion: The WAnT_10s is accurate to assess peak power, is definitively appropriate to evaluate the alactic anaerobic metabolism and seems able to predict the mean power as traditionally evaluated through a WAnT_30s in male Paralympic Athletes. Thus, it can be used to assess the anaerobic components of physical fitness in this athletic population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Cross-country (XC) skiing has been an Olympic event since the first Winter Games in Chamonix, France, in 1924. Due to more effective training and tremendous improvements in equipment and track preparation, the speed of Olympic XC-ski races has increased more than that of any other Olympic endurance sport. Moreover, pursuit, mass-start, and sprint races have been introduced. Indeed, 10 of the 12 current Olympic competitions in XC skiing involve mass starts, in which tactics play a major role and the outcome is often decided in the final sprint. Accordingly, reappraisal of the success factors for performance in this context is required. The very high aerobic capacity (VO2max) of many of today's world-class skiers is similar that of their predecessors. At the same time, the new events provide more opportunities to profit from anaerobic capacity, upper-body power, high-speed techniques, and "tactical flexibility." The wide range of speeds and slopes involved in XC skiing requires skiers to continuously alternate between and adapt different subtechniques during a race. This technical complexity places a premium on efficiency. The relative amounts of endurance training performed at different levels of intensity have remained essentially constant during the past 4 decades. However, in preparation for the Sochi Olympics in 2014, XC skiers are performing more endurance training on roller skis on competition-specific terrain, placing greater focus on upper-body power and more systematically performing strength training and skiing at high speeds than previously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) often have reduced aerobic capacity and report fatigue as the most disabling symptom impacting their health-related quality of life (HRQoL). A multidisciplinary rehabilitation approach is recommended for successful management of symptoms, although there is little supporting evidence. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of a multimodal therapy approach, including endurance training and patient education, during a three-week inpatient rehabilitation stay, on HRQoL in PwMS at six months follow-up. Inpatient energy management education (IEME) + high-intensity interval training (HIIT) will be compared with progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) + moderate continuous training (MCT).Methods: This study has a two-armed single-blind randomized controlled superiority trial design. One hundred six PwMS-related fatigue (relapsing-remitting or chronic progressive phenotypes; Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) ≤ 6.5) will be recruited at the Valens clinic, Switzerland, and randomized into either an experimental (EG) or a control group (CG). EG: participants will perform IEME twice and HIIT three times per week during the three-week rehabilitation stay. IEME is a group-based intervention, lasting for 6.5 h over three weeks. HIIT contains of five 1.5-min high-intensive exercise bouts on a cycle ergometer at 95-100% of peak heart rate (HRpeak), followed by active breaks of unloaded pedalling for 2 min to achieve 60% of HRpeak. CG: participants will perform PMR twice and MCT three times per week during the three-week rehabilitation stay, representing local usual care. PMR consists of six 1-h relaxation group sessions. MCT consists of 24-min continuous cycling at 65% of HRpeak. The primary outcome is HRQoL (Physical and Mental Component Summaries of the Medical Outcome Study 36-item Short Form Health Survey; SF-36), measured at entry to the clinic (baseline, T0), three weeks after T0 (T1) and at four (T2) and six (T3) months after T0. Secondary outcomes comprise cardiorespiratory fitness, inflammatory markers (measured at T0 and T1), fatigue, mood, self-efficacy, occupational performance, physical activity (measured at T0, T1, T2 and T3) and behaviour changes in energy management (measured at T2 and T3).Discussion: This study will provide detailed information on a multimodal therapy approach to further improve rehabilitation for PwMS.Trial Registration: This trial was prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT04356248 ; 22 April 2020). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This chapter describes the physiological responses associated with anaerobic power and capacity of combat sports athletes from different modalities (judo, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, wrestling, Olympic boxing, karate, and Muay Thai) during specific situations. Next, the most used evaluation methods for the control and monitoring of these variables are presented. Finally, based on longitudinal studies that evaluated the effects of anaerobic power and capacity training of combat sports athletes, the main training approaches are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents an overview of current scientific articles that address the reliability and validity of the 30–15 intermittent fitness test (30–15 IFT) as an assessment of aerobic capacity, as well as its use in terms of training programming. The search for and analysis of papers was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. A database search was performed through PubMed, PMC, Med Line, Cochrane Library and ScienceDirect, as well as directly from the author who first presented the IFT 30–15. Type of study: research was included in this paper on condition that (i) the original scientific paper was available in its entirety; (ii) the IFT 30–15 was used to evaluate or verify validity and reliability; and (iii) the IFT 30–15 was used for the purpose of evaluation of training programming. Of the 213 relevant studies identified, 21 were included in the quantitative analysis. All research was conducted on a sample of athletes who are exclusively engaged in team sports. As for the use of the subject test when it comes to programming individualized intermittent training to strengthen aerobic capacity, it seems that the IFT 30–15 test is appropriate and extremely useful for team sports. Regarding the reliability of tests identified in the reviewed literature, all studies indicate that the 30–15 IFT is a reliable test for assessment of aerobic capacity.