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Background: Weightlifting is one of the Olympic sports. Stress and anxiety are highly prevalent in sports and higher stress and anxiety levels seem to affect performance. There are several training methods used to enhance performance. However, there seems to be a scarcity of studies regarding the effect of training on psycho-physiological measures of performance. Aim: The present study aimed to investigate the effect of a combined high- and low-volume training program on the levels of salivary cortisol, maximum total Olympic lift performance (sum of snatch, and clean and jerk), and anxiety levels (somatic anxiety, cognitive anxiety, and self-confidence). Methods: Twelve elite male Olympic weightlifters underwent a 6-week training protocol and levels of salivary cortisol, maximum total Olympic lift performance, and anxiety levels were assessed at baseline, mid-intervention (3rd week), and post-intervention (6th week). Appropriate statistical tests were utilized for data analysis. Results: Results showed a significant effect of training on salivary cortisol level, total Olympic lifting performance, and somatic anxiety from baseline to the mid of training (p < 0.01) and also from mid of training to post-training (p < 0.01). However, there was no significant difference in cognitive anxiety and self-confidence level from baseline to the mid of training to post-training (p > 0.05). Conclusions: A combined high- and low-volume training program of 6 weeks tends to decrease anxiety and improves the total Olympic weightlifting performance and salivary cortisol levels in elite Olympic weightlifters. This information may be utilized in the training of weightlifters to enhance performance, targeting the psycho-physiological components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent research has shown more favorable training adaptations for inactive adults when cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) exercise is prescribed with the use of ventilatory thresholds compared to percentages of heart rate reserve (HRR). However, there is limited research on changes in health-related outcomes with the use of these CRF methods in combination with muscular fitness exercises. The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two training programs for improving CRF, muscular fitness, and cardiometabolic risk factors. Inactive men and women (n=109, aged 49.3±15.5 years) were randomized to a non-exercise control group or one of two exercise training groups. The exercise training groups consisted of 13 weeks of structured exercise with progression using either CRF exercise prescribed with the use of ventilatory thresholds and functional training for muscular fitness (THRESH group) or HRR and traditional muscular fitness training (STND group). After the 13-week protocol, there were significant differences in body weight, body composition, systolic blood pressure, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), VO2max, 5-repetition maximum (RM) bench press, and 5-RM leg press for both treatment groups compared to the control group after controlling for baseline values. However, the THRESH group had significantly more desirable outcomes for VO2max, 5-RM bench press, 5-RM leg press, body composition, and HDL-c when compared to both the STND and control group. Additionally, the proportion of individuals estimated as likely to respond above 3.5 mL½kg-1½min-1 in VO2max (i.e., the minimal clinically important difference) was 76.4%, 20.8%, and 0.13% for the THRESH, STND, and control groups, respectively. While both exercise programs elicited favorable health-related adaptations after 13 weeks, these results suggest that a personalized program with exercise prescribed based on ventilatory threshold and with the use of functional muscular fitness training may yield greater training adaptations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Athletes across various sports seek to enhance their power generation and force production by incorporating weightlifting exercises into their training. Therefore, integrating partial weightlifting movements could be sensible due to their simplified execution. Our research aimed to investigate which of four attentional focus strategies (external, internal, holistic, and neutral) would have the greatest impact on performance in terms of power variables for highly experienced weightlifting athletes in a practical training setting. Twelve highly skilled Olympic weightlifters volunteered for the study. They performed 48 single repetitions of the hang power snatch with each of the four attentional focus strategies. Results of the ANOVA did not reveal a significant main effect for maximum velocity, power measurement and displacement. Despite extensive research demonstrating how attentional focus affects performance differently, even among highly skilled populations, the lack of observed effects in our study underscores the challenges of conducting research in applied settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Académica Internacional de Educación Física is the property of Asociacion Cientifica Internacional de Educacion Fisica 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.)

Evaluating anti-doping measures is essential to optimise their effectiveness. Comparing sporting results that have a higher doping prevalence, such as weightlifting, before and after the implementation of anti-doping measures may serve as an effectiveness indicator. The results of the most successful weightlifters of both sexes in two time periods, 2009–2015 and 2016–2022 were analysed. The Sinclair Total (ST) to compare the relative strength of weightlifters from different weight categories was calculated. A significant decrease in the ST during 2016–2022 (p < 0.001) in athletes of all ages and both sexes overall was reported. When analysed by age, there was a decrease in ST in juniors and seniors of both sexes (p = 0.010 and p < 0.001, respectively), but not in youth. There was a decrease in the ST in senior men (p < 0.001), junior women (p < 0.001) and senior women (p < 0.001). In elite weightlifting, adult athletic results declined during 2016–2022, which may partly be explained by the implementation of new methods to detect long-term anabolic androgenic steroid metabolites as well as other policies. This may highlight the effectiveness of these methods both in the prevention and detection of anti-doping rule violations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The maximal number of repetitions that can be completed at various percentages of the one repetition maximum (1RM) [REPS ~ %1RM relationship] is foundational knowledge in resistance exercise programming. The current REPS ~ %1RM relationship is based on few studies and has not incorporated uncertainty into estimations or accounted for between-individuals variation. Therefore, we conducted a meta-regression to estimate the mean and between-individuals standard deviation of the number of repetitions that can be completed at various percentages of 1RM. We also explored if the REPS ~ %1RM relationship is moderated by sex, age, training status, and/or exercise. A total of 952 repetitions-to-failure tests, completed by 7289 individuals in 452 groups from 269 studies, were identified. Study groups were predominantly male (66%), healthy (97%), < 59 years of age (92%), and resistance trained (60%). The bench press (42%) and leg press (14%) were the most commonly studied exercises. The REPS ~ %1RM relationship for mean repetitions and standard deviation of repetitions were best described using natural cubic splines and a linear model, respectively, with mean and standard deviation for repetitions decreasing with increasing %1RM. More repetitions were evident in the leg press than bench press across the loading spectrum, thus separate REPS ~ %1RM tables were developed for these two exercises. Analysis of moderators suggested little influences of sex, age, or training status on the REPS ~ %1RM relationship, thus the general main model REPS ~ %1RM table can be applied to all individuals and to all exercises other than the bench press and leg press. More data are needed to develop REPS ~ %1RM tables for other exercises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the impact of different inter-repetition rest (IRR) configurations (zero seconds [IRR0], three seconds [IRR3], and self-selected less than five seconds [SSIRR]) on estimating the number of repetitions (Nrep) and the percentage of completed repetitions relative to the maximum number of repetitions possible to failure (%rep) after reaching 10%, 20%, and 30% velocity loss thresholds (VLT). Eighteen men completed three sessions, each with a different IRR configuration, separated by 48–72 hours. Single sets of repetitions to momentary muscular failure were performed against 65%, 75%, and 85% of the one-repetition maximum during free-weight back squat and bench press exercises. No significant differences were reported between IRR configurations for the Nrep (P ≥0.089) and %rep (P ≥0.061), except for %rep after reaching the 20–30%VLT against 65%1RM and the 10–20%VLT against 75%1RM in the bench press exercise (P ≤0.048). Additionally, both Nrep and %rep exhibited high interindividual variability (between-subject CV=14–79%) across the different IRR configurations. The individual %rep-%VLT relationships were slightly stronger than the general %rep-%VLT relationships (median R2 =0.914–0.971 vs. 0.698–0.900). Overall, regardless of the IRR configuration, this novel velocity-based approach does not guarantee the same effort levels across subjects in the free-weight back squat and bench press sets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study employed a randomized crossover design to investigate the effect of strength-training exercise at varying intensities on acute changes in plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. Fourteen trained male subjects (41.0±5.8 years old) were enrolled in the current study. The strength-training protocol included bench press, leg press, and lat pull-down exercises. Participants performed four sets with repetition failure at 60% or 80% of their one-repetition maximum (1RM), with a two-minute rest period. The order of intensity was randomized among volunteers. Blood samples were collected before, immediately after, and one hour after each exercise protocol. A time-point comparison revealed that a single session of strength training at 60% of 1RM increased lactate plasma concentrations from 1.2 to 16 mmol/L (p<0.0001). However, no significant changes were observed in the plasma BDNF concentration. Conversely, the training session at 80% of 1RM increased lactate concentrations from 1.3 to 14 mmol/L (p<0.0001) and BDNF concentrations from 461 to 1730 pg/ml (p=0.035) one hour after the session's conclusion. These findings support the hypothesis that a single strength-training session at 80% 1RM can significantly enhance circulating levels of BDNF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the effect of breast cancer surgery and adjuvant therapy on the relationship between bar velocity and relative intensity (load-velocity [L-V] relationship) of the bench press (BP) exercise. Twenty-two breast cancer survivors (age: 48.0±8.2 yr., relative strength: 0.40±0.08) completed a loading test up to the one-repetition maximum (1RM) in the BP using a lightweight carbon bar. General and individual relationships between relative intensity (%1RM) and mean propulsive velocity (MPV) were studied. Furthermore, the mean test velocity (MPVTest) and velocity attained to the 1RM (MPV1RM) were analyzed. These procedures and analyses were also conducted in 22 healthy women (age: 47.8±7.1 yr., relative strength: 0.41±0.09) to examine the differences in velocity parameters derived from these L-V relationships. Polynomial regressions showed very close relationships (R2 ≥0.965) and reduced estimation errors (≤4.9% 1RM) for both groups. Between-group differences in MPV attained to each %1RM were small (≤0.01 m·s−1) and not significant (p≥0.685). Similarly, the MPVTest (0.59±0.06 m·s−1) and MPV1RM (0.17±0.03 m·s−1) were identical for breast cancer survivors and healthy women. These results suggest that practitioners could use the same velocity parameters derived from the BP L-V relationship to prescribe this exercise in middle-aged women, regardless of whether they have suffered from breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to conduct a systematic review of para powerlifting strength performance. The searches were conducted in three electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus. Intervention studies related to para powerlifting performance were included. The main information was extracted systematically, based on criteria established by the authors. The data on study design, sample size, participant's characteristics (e. g. type of disability, sex, age, body weight, and height), training experience, assessment tools, physical performance criteria, and force-related outcomes were extracted and analyzed. The studies (n=9) describe factors related to biomechanics and performance. Outcomes revealed that the one-repetition maximum test is used as load prescription and that para powerlifting should work at high speeds and higher loads. Regarding technique, grip width with 1.5 biacromial distance provides a good lift and partial amplitude training as an alternative to training. There are no differences in total load and movement quality in the lumbar arched technique compared with the flat technique. As a monitoring method, repetitions in reserve scale was used for submaximal loads. Finally, our outcomes and discussion indicated strategies and techniques that can be used by para powerlifting coaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute Effect of Heavy Weightlifting on the Pelvic Floor Muscles in Strength-Trained Women: An Experimental Crossover Study. Med. Sci. Sports Exerc., Vol. 56, No. 1, pp. 37-43, 2024. Introduction/Purpose: Heavy lifting may produce strain on the pelvic floor muscles (PFM) due to high increases in intra-abdominal pressure, but knowledge of the impact of weightlifting on the PFM is lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate acute effects of heavy weightlifting on the PFM in strength-trained women and whether general strength in whole-body exercises correlated to PFM strength. Methods: Forty-seven nulliparous women between 18 and 35 yr who regularly performed weightlifting and were able to lift their own body weight ( 1.2 in back squat and 1.5 in deadlift were included in this experimental crossover study. They participated in baseline evaluations (questionnaire/measurements of background characteristics and pelvic floor disorders, one-repetition maximum (1RM) tests in back squat and deadlift) and one test day where they were randomized to start with 60 min of weightlifting (four sets of four repetitions at 75%–85% of 1RM in back squat and deadlift) or seated rest of 60 min. Vaginal pressure measurements of PFM resting pressure, strength, and endurance and surface electromyography measurements of PFM resting activity were performed before/after weightlifting and rest. Results: No statistically significant differences were found when comparing the change in PFM resting pressure, strength, endurance, and resting activity after heavy weightlifting and rest. There were no statistically significant correlations between PFM strength and maximum (1RM) or relative strength (1RM/bodyweight) in either back squat or deadlift. Conclusions: Our results imply that heavy weightlifting is well tolerated by the PFM in short term among young, nulliparous, and strength-trained women. Strength in whole-body exercises was not correlated to PFM strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to test whether believed versus actual acute creatine ingestion impacted resistance exercise performance. Fifteen men (21.9 ± 2.7 years old) completed four bouts of three sets each of squat and bench press to volitional fatigue at a 10RM load with 1-min between-sets rest interval. Thirty minutes prior to each exercise bout, they received the following treatments in a randomized order: 1) nothing (CON); 2) 0.3 g·kg−1 dextrose placebo (PLC); 3) 0.3 g·kg−1 dextrose, identified as creatine (Cr-False); 4) 0.3 g·kg 20 −1 creatine, identified as creatine (CrTrue). Between-treatments comparisons included the total repetitions completed and the rate of perceived exertion. Results revealed (p < 0.05) higher repetitions performed for all treatments versus CON for both squat and bench press. In the squat, more repetitions were performed with Cr-True (p < 0.001) and CrFalse (p < 0.001) than with either CON or PLC. Bayes Factor analyses revealed strong (PLC to Cr-True BF = 19.1) and very strong (PLC to CrFalse BF = 45.3) posterior probability favouring positive effects for both "creatine" conditions over PLC for the squat. In conclusion, in acute measures, belief versus ingestion of creatine yields similar exercise performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and hypothesis: Patients with chronic functional constipation have some problems such as weakness of pelvic floor muscles, and a lack of coordination of pelvic floor and abdominal muscles has been seen. The goal of this study was to investigate the lumbar proprioception and the core muscle recruitment pattern. Methods: The study type is a cross-sectional case–control study. There were 30 participants (case, n = 15, and control, n = 15). Electromyography of the core muscles was recorded while the subjects were getting up from the chair accompanied by lifting a weight, to check the pattern of muscle recruitment. Moreover, the lumbar proprioception was evaluated by an isokinetic device in both groups. The study was analyzed using independent t test and Mann–Whitney U test, and a nonparametric Friedman test was performed followed by Bonferroni pairwise comparison. Results: The comparison of muscle activity delay between the two groups showed that there was a significant difference between the two groups regarding the abdominal muscles, anal sphincter, and erector spinae (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the rectus femoris and gluteal muscles between the two groups (p > 0.05). Moreover, the proprioception of the lumbar region showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) between the two groups. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrated that the lumbar proprioception sense was reduced in the case group. This result can be justified, based on the problems in constipation (lack of coordination of muscles, weakness of pelvic floor muscles). The coordination of core muscles changed in patients with chronic functional constipation during a functional task. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to use bivariate functional principal components analysis (bfPCA) to quantify patterns in barbell trajectories during the snatch and to investigate whether these patterns correlate with weightlifting performance and biomechanical characteristics that characterise weightlifting technique. A motion capture system was used to record three-dimensional barbell trajectories as six weightlifters performed three snatch lifts during a weightlifting competition. Horizontal and vertical barbell positions of all lifts were used as input to a bfPCA. Weightlifting performance was quantified through the ratio of barbell mass/body-mass, whereas biomechanical variables were quantified through peak vertical barbell velocity and acceleration. The bfPCA extracted barbell trajectory patterns related to variations in general forward/backward motion (pattern 1), peak height (pattern 2), and crossing of the vertical reference line during the first pull (pattern 3). Spearman rank correlations showed that pattern 1 correlated positively with weightlifting performance and negatively with peak barbell velocity and acceleration. The opposite results were found for pattern 3. Interpretation of the extracted barbell trajectory patterns and statistical results suggest that better weightlifting performances were characterised by snatch lifts that exhibited general backward shifts and limited forward motions during the first and second pull, regardless of peak heights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the perspectives of Hannah Arendt and Abraham Lincoln on leadership and rule. Arendt argues that leadership is based on equality and provides opportunities for political action, while rule is derived from hierarchical relationships and undermines citizen participation. Lincoln, on the other hand, believes that leadership can involve both persuasion and command, and that a form of rule based on the consent of the governed is legitimate in a democracy. The article compares and contrasts their ideas, ultimately suggesting that Lincoln's understanding of the principles of the Declaration of Independence offers important insights into leadership and rule. [Extracted from the article]

Concurrent training has been postulated as an appropriate time‐efficient strategy to improve physical fitness, yet whether the exercise‐induced adaptations are similar in men and women is unknown. An unblinded randomized controlled trial was conducted to investigate sex‐specific dose–response effects of a 24‐week supervised concurrent exercise training program on cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular strength in young adults. One hundred and forty‐four sedentary adults aged 18–25 years were assigned to either (i) a control group (n = 54), (ii) a moderate intensity exercise group (MOD‐EX, n = 46), or (iii) a vigorous intensity exercise group (VIG‐EX, n = 44) by unrestricted randomization. Cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max), hand grip strength, and one‐repetition maximum of leg press and bench press were evaluated at baseline and after the intervention. A total of 102 participants finished the intervention (Control, n = 36; 52% women, MOD‐EX, n = 37; 70% women, and VIG‐EX, n = 36; 72% women). In men, VO2max significantly increased in the MOD‐EX (~8%) compared with the control group and in the VIG‐EX group after the intervention (~6.5%). In women, VO2max increased in the MOD‐EX and VIG‐EX groups (~5.5%) compared with the control group after the intervention. There was a significant increment of leg press in the MOD‐EX (~15.5%) and VIG‐EX (~18%) groups compared with the control group (~1%) in women. A 24‐week supervised concurrent exercise was effective at improving cardiorespiratory fitness and lower body limbs muscular strength in young women—independently of the predetermined intensity—while only at moderate intensity improved cardiorespiratory fitness in men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gray's Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory proposes that individual differences in behavior are due to the sensitivity to 2 brain systems: the behavioral inhibition system (BIS), which regulates aversive emotions to threatening stimuli, and the behavioral approach system (BAS), which regulates positive emotions toward rewarding or nonpunishing stimuli. The current study investigated whether BIS and BAS sensitivity predicts participation and performance in strength sports. A sample of 177 competitive strength athletes (male 5 148; female 5 29; mean age 5 28.68; SD 5 6.24 years) and 178 control participants (male 5 89; female 5 89; mean age 5 29.39; SD 5 7.42) completed the BIS/BAS scale, with strength athletes also providing their Wilks scores as a measure of sporting performance. Independent t tests showed significantly higher BIS (MD52.37, p50.003, 95% CI [0.79, 3.94], d50.31) and total BAS (MD511.71, p < 0.001, 95% CI [9.26, 14.15], d 51.00) sensitivity in strength athletes than individuals in the control group. A 3-step hierarchical regression analysis revealed that the number of training years (b50.506, p < 0 .001), BIS (b52203, p50.005) and BAS drive (b50.188, p 5 0.012) made significant unique contributions to predicting the Wilks score, with no significant contributions of age, sex, BAS fun seeking, and BAS reward responsiveness. The findings indicate that the overall reward sensitivity (total BAS score) and reward seeking (BAS drive) are associated positively with participation and performance in strength sports, respectively. Given the association of these brain systems to addiction and other psychiatric disorders, the findings could have implications in psychiatric treatment and sporting recruitment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research introduces an optimal Fin Ray gripper design for vegetable handling in horticulture applications. Fin Ray grippers are triangular with crossbeams. The gripper flexes and adjusts to the structure of the object upon activation. The change in the gripper's form resembles fish fin physiology. This research entails the design and fabrication of Fin Ray inclined grippers with variations in their geometrical structure, namely, the gap between the crossbeams, the inclination angle of the crossbeams, and the thickness of the crossbeams. The Box-Behnken design and analysis of variance approaches were used to assess the major impacts, interactions, and importance of the crossbeam's characteristics on weightlifting capacity and displacement. The Fin Ray gripper design parameters were successfully optimised by the chosen Response Surface Methodology. Less force is needed to obtain a good grasp on an object when a design is made to achieve optimum weightlifting capacity and bending displacement. The gripper's design and analysis, as well as the experimental results demonstrating how well it handles various types of vegetables, are described in the paper. The design of an optimal Fin Ray gripper presents a new and unique idea for adaptive grasping in horticultural robots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In the USA, lumbar discectomy is one of the most commonly performed spinal procedures. As certain sports are considered to be major risk factors for disc herniation, the question remains as to when highly active patients should return to their previous level of activity. This study aimed to analyze spine surgeons' opinions on when patients may return to activities following discectomy as well as their underlying rationale for their decision. Methods: A questionnaire was designed by five different fellowship-trained spine surgeons for the 168 members of the Spine Society of Australia. Questions on the surgeons experience, decision making, preferred surgical technique, the postoperative rehabilitation and the response to patient expectations were included. Results: In total, 83.9% of surgeons discuss the postoperative level of activity with their patients. Sport is considered as an important contributor for good functional outcome by 71.0% of surgeons. Surgeons recommend avoiding, often permanently, weightlifting (35.7%) of the time, rugby (21.4%), horseback riding (17.9%) as well as martial arts (14.3%) postoperatively even with previous training. The return to high levels of activity is considered as a major risk factor for disc herniation recurrence by 25.8% of surgeons. Return to high level of activity is typically recommended after 3 months by 48.4% of surgeons. Conclusion: So far no consensus on the rehabilitation protocol and return to level of activity exists. Recommendations depend on personal experience as well as the individuals' training, and typically, a period of avoidance of sport for up to 3 months is recommended. Level of evidence: Level III, therapeutic and prognostic study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Muscle fatigue is nearly unavoidable during resistance exercise, yet evaluating it in such circumstances can be challenging. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the validity of using the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) as a measure of muscle fatigue during non-explosive bench press (BP) exercise. METHODS: Fifteen male collegiate athletes participated in three BP tasks set at 65% of their one-repetition maximum. The RPE, spectral fatigue index (SFI), and velocity loss were measured across different experimental conditions. RESULTS: Significant effects were observed across different experimental conditions for the overall RPE, average velocity loss, and average SFI (all p < 0.001). As the lifting tasks progressed, there were significant increases in the RPE, velocity loss, and SFI (p < 0.001). Additionally, significant differences were observed between the experimental conditions in the RPE (p < 0.001), SFI (p < 0.001), and velocity loss (p < 0.01). A significantly stronger (p < 0.05) correlation was observed between the RPE and SFI (r = 0.68, df = 117, p < 0.001) than between the velocity loss and SFI (r = 0.51, df = 117, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The corresponding changes observed in the RPE, velocity loss, and SFI suggest that both the RPE and velocity loss can be used as indicators of muscle fatigue during non-explosive BP exercise. However, due to the strong correlation between the RPE and SFI, RPE is more effective for reflecting muscle fatigue in non-explosive resistance exercise settings. Regarding ease of use, the RPE is more suitable than velocity loss for assessing muscle fatigue in training scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Resistance exercises are widely used to enhance muscle hypertrophy. Hypertrophy occurs with effect of mechanical loading, metabolic stress, and muscle damage. The time under tension in eccentric, isometric, and concentric phases of resistance exercises can alter muscle damage and anabolic hormone responses. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to reveal the effect of the time spent in the concentric and eccentric phases of the movement on muscle damage and anabolic hormone response during resistance exercise. METHODS: Ten male subjects participated in the study. A, B, C tempo protocols were created by changing the time under tension to be 1 or 2 seconds in the eccentric and concentric phases of bench press and squat movements. In all protocols, isometric phases were 0 sec. The metronome was used to apply tempos. Blood samples were taken before each protocol, after administration, and in the 24 th , 48 th and 72 nd hours after exercise; and serum insulin, testosterone, Insuline-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1), Creatine Kinase (CK) and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were evaluated. RESULTS: Time-wise changes in CK were statistically different for all protocols (p < 0.05). CK levels in the 24 th hour of the protocol C and the 48 th hour of the protocol B were significantly higher than those in the other protocols (p < 0.05). IGF-1 and testosterone levels were significantly higher in the protocol B in the post-test, compared to the other protocols (p < 0.05). Insulin levels in the 24 t ⁢ h hour were significantly higher in the protocol B compared to those in others (p < 0.05). Time-wise changes in LDH parameters were not statistically significant in any hours (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Extending time under tension in the eccentric phase of a bout of resistance exercise appears to affect the anabolic hormone response and muscle damage. In this way, increased metabolic response and mechanical stress can induce muscle mass gain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to examine the load-velocity (L-V) relationship in the bench-press (BP) and leg-press (LP) exercises performed unilaterally, and compared this unilateral L-V relationship with the bilateral variants. Nineteen men (age=23.5±2.1 years) completed two incremental tests in BP and LP, performed bilaterally and unilaterally, across two sessions with a 48-hour rest period. We found a close relationship between medium propulsive velocity (MPV) and %1RM in unilateral BP (R2 =0.97, SEE=0.06 m·s-1) and LP (R2 =0.96, SEE=0.06 m·s-1). No significant differences were observed between the preferred and non-preferred sides in the L-V relationship for either exercise. Additionally, higher velocities were achieved in unilateral exercises compared to bilateral exercises, particularly with light and moderate loads (30–70%1RM) in BP (p<0.05) and with light loads (30–45%1RM) in LP (p<0.05). Close L-V relationships were observed in unilateral exercises, without differences in the L-V relationships between preferred and non-preferred sides despite the interlimb asymmetries in the absolute strength values. Interestingly, lower velocities were observed at light loads (~30–45% 1RM) for bilateral compared to unilateral exercises, which could be explained by different strength deficits for these exercises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A heavy schoolbag is one of the most common health problems worldwide among school aged children. Frequently using the heavy schoolbag and using it incorrectly during school days may cause risk of musculoskeletal symptoms (involving pains in neck, both shoulders, back, waist, elbow, hand and wrist, thigh, knee, and foot), and can be a risk factor for other health problems including a change in body posture and spinal cord deformity. The study objectives were to investigate the association between the weight of schoolbags and the occurrence of neck, lower back, and shoulders and hand/wrist symptoms among primary school children. Material & Methods: A descriptive (cross-sectional) design was carried out in public schools in Erbil city, during the academic year 2022-2023. Epi Info 7 (produced by CDC) computer program was used for sample size estimation. The sample involved 624 students aged 6 to 12 years from 12 primary schools in Erbil city. Results: The majority (79.6%) of the students were using risky (heavy) weight schoolbag. The prevalence of pain (in one or more sites) was 41.3%. There was significant association between prevalence of pain and hand type of schoolbag (p=0.022), weight of bag (p=0.011), and ratio of weight of bag/body weight of more than 10% (p=0.020). Prevalence of pain was higher among students aged =10 years, who were using hand type bag, and who used to carry risky weight bag. Regression analysis showed that the following factors were associated with pain: age (=10 years), lifting heavy weight, not practicing exercise. Conclusion: In conclusion the prevalence of Musculo-skeletal pain was relatively high, which was multi-factorial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Rehabilitation clinicians that work with physically active populations are challenged with how to safely return patients back to performing deadlift movements following low back injury. Application of reliable and valid tests and measures to quantify impairments related to low back pain (LBP) enhances clinical decision making and may affect outcomes. Myotonometry is a non-invasive method to assess muscle stiffness which has demonstrated significant associations with physical performance and musculoskeletal injury. Hypothesis/Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare the stiffness of trunk (lumbar multifidus [LM] and longissimus thoracis [LT]) and lower extremity (vastus lateralis [VL] and biceps femoris [BF]) muscles between individuals with and without LBP during the lying, standing, and deadlifting body positions. Study Design Cross-sectional cohort comparison Methods Muscle stiffness measures were collected in the VL, BF, LM, and LT muscles with participants in lying (supine and prone), standing, and the trap bar deadlift position. Separate analyses of covariance were conducted to compare absolute and relative muscle stiffness between the groups for each muscle and condition. Results Sixty-eight participants (41 female, 21.3 years, 34 LBP) volunteered for the study. Within the deadlift condition there was a significantly greater increase in the percent-muscle stiffness change in the VL (p = .029, 21.9%) and BF (p = .024, 11.2%) muscles in the control group than in the LBP group. There were no differences in percent-muscle stiffness changes for the standing condition nor were there any absolute muscle stiffness differences between the two groups for the three conditions. Conclusion No differences in muscle stiffness were identified in the lying, standing, or deadlifting conditions between participants with and without LBP. Differences in percent stiffness changes were noted between groups for the deadlift position, however the differences were modest and within measurement error. Future studies should investigate the utility of myotonometry as a method to identify LBP-related impairments that contribute to chronic and/or recurrent low back injury. Level of Evidence Level 3 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Journal of Sports & Science is the property of Journal of Sports & Science 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.)

Aiming Lv,1,2 Tong Ding,2 DeQiong,2 DaWaZhuoMa,2 Long Cai,2 Yutong Zhang,2 Jinyu Yin,2 SeZhen,2 Qiubo Lv11Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; 2Women and Children's Hospital of Tibet Autonomous Region, Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, People's Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Qiubo Lv, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 DaHua Road, Dong Dan, Beijing, 100730, People's Republic of China, Tel +86 13801192185, Fax +86 10 85136220, Email [email protected] Purpose: Pelvic floor disorder (PFD) seriously affects the everyday life of women. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors for postpartum PFD in women living in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR).Methods: Parous women who attended the outpatient gynaecology clinic at our hospital between June 2022 and August 2022 were screened in this study. The demographic and clinical data of these women were collected. Their pelvic floor functions were evaluated via a pelvic organ prolapse (POP) quantification examination, the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory Questionnaire-20 (PFDI-20) and the Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS).Results: A total of 201 women were included in this study, of whom 81.09% (163/201) were Tibetan. Twenty-seven women (13.43%) were diagnosed with POP stage ≥ 2 and 27 women (13.43%) with an OABSS score ≥ 3. The median PFDI-20 total score was 4.17 (range 0– 43.75). Han women (n = 38) in the TAR had much lower PFDI-20 total scores, compared with Tibetan women (n = 163) (p < 0.05). The results of the multiple linear regression models showed that the PFDI-20 scores obtained from women living in the TAR were closely related to parity, history of heavy weight lifting, age, history of instrumental deliveries, ethnicity and number of caesarean sections.Conclusion: Pelvic floor disorder is common among parous women living in the TAR. Ethnicity, parity, history of heavy weight lifting, age, history of instrumental deliveries and number of caesarean sections are the factors closely related to the PFDI-20 scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hockey is a fast-paced and high-intensity sport that requires players to possess various physical attributes, including strength, power, agility, and endurance. It requires explosive movements, quick changes in direction, and constant upper and lower body coordination Purpose: There are a number of training programs that are focused on improving strength, speed, and agility. There is less data available on hockey-specific training for field hockey players. Thus, the need for this study is to investigate the effect of a hockey-specific training program on strength, speed, and agility. Materials and Methods: Total of thirty collegiate hockey players who are continually playing hockey for more than 3 to 4 years, the age between 18-25 were selected from SIMATS, Chennai. Strength, Speed and agility were measured using 1RM squat for lower limb, 1 RM bench press for upper limb, 10 meter DASH run test and Illinois agility test respectively. The players were randomly allocated into two groups, one group received hockey specific training program 4 days per week for 8 weeks. Another group perform regular training program. Results: A t test analysis was used to compare the effectiveness of hockey specific training programme and regular training programme, which shows statistically significant improvement in hockey specific training programme group with a p value of< 0.0001 Conclusion: Here by we concluded that hockey specific training program will improve the strength, speed and agility in collegiate hockey players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the lifting of COVID‐19 restrictions eventually, the destabilising consequences of the pandemic on migration persist and continue to worsen. Based on in‐depth interviews with 25 Chinese international students, this paper asks what new forms of education transnationality are being introduced by the intersection of digital mobility and physical immobility. Using Henri Lefebvre's (2004) rhythmanalysis, we understand stay‐at‐home international students' sensual and physical experiences as palpable aspects of daily existence that not only constitute transnational lived temporalities but also trigger 'small accidents', leading to potentially larger‐scale temporal changes. By attending to the dynamic interaction between their agency and the external structure, we conclude that situated corporeal and emotional suffering, embodied transitioning strategies, and changes to mobility pathways make up the fabric of the immobile everydayness of the new 'grafted transnationalism'. This paper contributes to the existing scholarship on transnational education by highlighting the dual sense of exclusion that students experience in both corporeal and social time, as well as the multilayered possibilities of reorientation as their way of regaining control of dyssynchronous rhythmic encounters. It also sorts out the implications of lifetime geography on students' differentially distributed vulnerability and susceptibility when facing life course disruptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The relationship between the percentage of a fatiguing ambulatory task completed and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) appears to be linear and scalar, with a relatively narrow "window." Recent evidence has suggested that a similar relationship may exist for muscularly demanding tasks. Methods: To determine whether muscularly demanding tasks fit within this "ambulatory window," we tested resistance-trained athletes performing bench press and leg press with different loadings predicted to allow 5, 10, 20, and 30 repetitions and measured RPE (category ratio scale) at the end of the concentric action for each repetition. Results: There was a regular, and strongly linear, pattern of growth of RPE for both bench press (r =.89) and leg press (r =.90) during the tasks that allowed 5.2 (1.2), 11.6 (1.9), 22.7 (2.0), and 30.8 (3.2) repetitions for bench press and 5.5 (1.5), 11.4 (1.6), 20.2 (3.0), and 32.4 (4.2) repetitions for leg press, respectively. Conclusions: The path of the RPE growth versus percentage task fit within the window evident for ambulatory tasks. The results suggest that the RPE versus percentage task completed relationship is scalar, relatively linear, and apparently independent of exercise mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "The Masters athlete in Olympic weightlifting: Training, lifestyle, health challenges, and gender differences." The correction addresses an error in Table 1, specifically in the category of "Income," where the values are incomplete. The corrected table provides demographic information by gender, including age groups, marital status, race, income, employment, and education. The article is authored by Marianne Huebner, David Meltzer, Wenjuan Ma, and Holly Arrow. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Preexercise food intake enhances exercise performance due, in part, to the provision of exogenous carbohydrate. Food intake also suppresses hunger, but the specific influence of hunger on exercise performance has not been investigated. This study aimed to manipulate hunger by altering preexercise meal viscosity to examine whether hunger influences performance. Methods: Sixteen resistance-trained males completed 2 experimental trials ingesting either high viscosity semisolid (SEM) and low viscosity liquid (LIQ) carbohydrate-containing meals 2 hours before performing 4 sets of back squat (85 [22] kg) and bench press (68 [13] kg) to failure at 90% 10-repetition maximum. Subjective hunger/fullness as well as plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, ghrelin, and peptide tyrosine–tyrosine were measured before and periodically after the meal. Repetitions completed in sets were used to determine exercise performance. Results: Hunger was lower, and fullness was greater during SEM compared with LIQ immediately before and during exercise (P <.05). Total repetitions completed for back squat were approximately 10% greater in SEM (SEM 57 [9]; LIQ 51 [7] repetitions; P =.001) with no difference in bench press repetitions (SEM 48 [11]; LIQ 48 [10] repetitions; P =.621). Postprandial glucose concentrations were greater during LIQ (12% increase in peak glucose) but were similar throughout exercise. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that exercise performance in back squat was increased in the SEM trial concomitant to a reduction in hunger. Therefore, this study provides novel data that suggest that exercise performance might be influenced by hunger, at least for resistance exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Tackling is a fundamental skill in collision sports such as rugby league. Given the complexity of tackling and multitude of strength and power variables available for analysis, this study aimed to predict tackle outcomes in professional rugby league based on strength and power principal components (PCs). Methods: Twenty-eight rugby league players participated in this study. Maximal strength was assessed via 1 repetition maximum on the back squat, bench press, and bench pull. Lower-body vertical and horizontal power were evaluated using a countermovement jump and standing broad jump. A postmatch analysis of 5 National Rugby League matches was conducted to examine tackling outcomes. PC analysis was performed on the strength and power assessments. The first PCs were retained in each analysis, and a series of Spearman rank-order correlations were conducted between the tackle outcomes and the retained PCs. The PCs significantly related to tackle outcomes were included in the multiple regression analyses to estimate their effect on tackle outcomes. Results: Strength PC was a significant predictor of play-the-ball speed in attack, accounting for 54% of the variance. Countermovement jump PC was a significant predictor of postcontact meters, explaining 19% of the variance. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that a range of tackle outcomes may be predicted from strength and power components. The coaching staff may choose to develop programs and testing designed to focus on these components, which may further develop players' tackle outcomes during competition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical Scenario: Resistance training (RT) programs promote skeletal muscle hypertrophy through the progressive physiological stress applied to an individual. Currently, the vast majority of studies regarding the hypertrophic response to RT have focused on either sedentary or untrained individuals. This critically appraised topic focuses on the hypertrophic response to high- and low-load RT in resistance-trained men. Clinical Question: In experienced male weightlifters, does high-load RT lead to greater increases in muscle mass than low-load RT? Summary of Key Findings: Six studies met the inclusion criteria, while 4 studies were included in the analysis. Each of the 4 studies showed that low-load RT elicited hypertrophic gains similar to high-load RT when sets were taken to failure. Three of the studies were not volume equated, indicating a dose–response relationship between training volume-load and skeletal muscle hypertrophy. One of the studies was volume equated, indicating that skeletal muscle hypertrophy could be achieved at levels comparable to those observed in high-load protocols as a result of high levels of metabolic stress and the concomitant recruitment of high-threshold motor units that can occur during fatiguing contractions. Clinical Bottom Line: Evidence suggests that low-load training produces hypertrophic gains similar to those observed in high-load RT protocols when sets are taken to failure in resistance-trained men. Strength of Recommendation: There is moderate to strong evidence to suggest that low-load RT elicits hypertrophic gains similar to those observed in high-load RT protocols when sets are taken to failure in resistance-trained men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to map responses over 32 hours following high-load (HL) and moderate-load (ML) half-squat priming. Methods: Fifteen participants completed control, HL (87% 1RM), and ML (65% 1RM) activities in randomized, counterbalanced order. Countermovement jump (CMJ), squat jump (SJ), saliva testosterone, saliva cortisol, and perceptual measures were assessed before and 5 minutes, 8 hours, 24 hours, and 32 hours after each activity. Results are presented as percentage change from baseline and 95% confidence interval (CI). Cliff delta was used to determine threshold for group changes. Results: SJ height increased by 4.5% (CI = 2.2–6.8, Cliff delta = 0.20) 8 hours following HL. CMJ and SJ improved by 6.1% (CI = 2.1–7.8, Cliff delta = 0.27) and 6.5% (CI = 1.2–11.8, Cliff delta = 0.30), respectively, 32 hours after ML. No clear diurnal changes in CMJ or SJ occurred 8 hours following control; however, increases of 3.9% (CI = 2.9–9.2, Cliff delta = 0.26) and 4.5% (CI = 0.9–8.1, Cliff delta = 0.24), respectively, were observed after 32 hours. Although diurnal changes in saliva hormone concentration occurred (Cliff delta = 0.37–0.92), the influence of priming was unclear. Perceived "physical feeling" was greater 8 hours following HL (Cliff delta = 0.36) and 32 hours after ML and control (Cliff delta = 0.17–0.34). Conclusions: HL priming in the morning may result in small improvements in jump output and psychophysiological state in the afternoon. Similar improvements were observed in the afternoon the day after ML priming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is to determine how a lightweight active soft waist exoskeleton (ASWE) reduces the oxygen consumption and activity of lower back muscles of the wearer performing the repetitive lifting tasks. The heavy and frequent manual lifting operations are usually associated with an increased risk of injury in the industry. An ASWE is designed to assist workers' spine for lifting weights. The structural composition and operation principle were described for the ASWE. Twelve men were recruited in the experiments as the test subjects. Oxygen consumption and electromyography of the thoracic erector spinae (TES) at the T9 level and lumbar erector spinae (LES) at the L3 level were recorded during 90 lifts in 15 min. Subjects' discomfort and effectiveness evaluation were collected after lifting trials. The average value of oxygen consumption was decreased from form 15.9 ml/kg/min (Without-ASWE condition) to 13.7 ml/kg/min (With-ASWE condition). The increase in electromyography root mean square amplitude from the start until the end of the lifting trial was significantly lower when the ASWE was in use for the TES (162.79 vs. 82.08%) and the LES (122.48 vs. 83.87%). The use of the ASWE showed less oxygen consumption and back muscle contraction compared to the nonuse, which might reduce metabolic consumption or slow down the muscle fatigue level of the wearer's back across the lifting trial. Therefore, wearing the ASWE can reduce the discomfort of body parts, lumbar regions that exercise for a long time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the influence of inter-set rest periods of 1 (R1), 3 (R3) and 5 (R5) minutes on the number of repetitions completed before exceeding the minimum velocity thresholds of 0.45 m⋅s−1 (MVT0.45) and 0.35 m⋅s−1 (MVT0.35) during the bench press exercise. Twenty-three physically active individuals, 15 men and eight women, randomly completed six testing sessions consisting of four sets of the bench press exercise performed with maximal intent against 75% of the one-repetition maximum. Testing sessions differed in the length of inter-set rest periods (R1, R3, and R5) and MVT applied (MVT0.45 and MVT0.35). The number of repetitions was lower using shorter inter-set rest periods (R1 < R3 < R5), but R3 was more similar to R1 and R5 using MVT0.45 and MVT0.35, respectively. The fastest velocity of the set was reduced with the increment in the number of sets for the three protocols using MVT0.35 (greater reduction for shorter rest periods), but it was only reduced for R1 when using MVT0.45. The results suggest that, to maintain bench press mechanical performance, 5-min inter-set rest periods are necessary when sets are terminated close to failure (MVT0.35), while 3 min may suffice when sets are terminated farther from failure (MVT0.45). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The work-related stress experienced by firefighters is associated with numerous health issues. In the general population, improving physical fitness is associated with improvements in both mental and physical quality of life. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the study was to examine whether fitter professional firefighters report greater physical and mental quality of life. METHODS: Twenty-three professional firefighters (males = 21, females = 2; age: 36.78±7.12yrs; height: 176.96±5.67 cm; weight: 88.20±16.02 kg; years of service: 8.70±6.62years) volunteered for the study. Participants completed a fitness protocol that included the wall sit and reach, Y-balance test, vertical jump, 1 repetition maximum bench press, pull-ups to failure, push-ups to failure, a plank hold and 1-mile run. The short form 36 questionnaire was used to assess overall quality of life. Firefighters were divided into "high" and "low" groups for physical and mental quality of life. Group differences in fitness parameters were assessed using a multivariate analysis of covariance with gender, age, years of service, height, and body mass as co-variates. RESULTS: Firefighters with lower mental quality of life had lower body fat percentages (p = 0.003), fat mass (p = 0.036), greater fat free mass (p = 0.015), vertical jump height (p = 0.024) and performed more pull-ups (p = 0.003). There were no significant differences in any of the fitness measures between high and low physical quality of life groups. CONCLUSION: The findings indicate that physical fitness of firefighters is not indicative of overall health. Firefighters might use exercise to cope for psychological stress and a holistic approach to improve firefighter quality of life is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To characterise self-reported nutrition practices and beliefs of powerlifters. Methods: Actively competing male (n = 240) and female (n = 65) powerlifters completed a cross-sectional online survey of self-reported nutrition practices across the competitive cycle, within specific competitive phases, and hard and easy training days. Data are presented as number (n) and percentage (%) of all powerlifters practicing a given strategy followed by a % of responses reporting various practices or beliefs within this strategy. Differences in categorical sub-groups (sex, age, and weight class; and competitive calibre) were analysed with a chi-square test and denoted where significant (p ≤ 0.05). Results: Most powerlifters reported following a specific diet long-term (n = 203, 66.6%) of which If It Fits Your Macros (IIFYM)/flexible dieting was most common (n = 159, 78.3%). Over half reported introducing a special diet for a competitive phase (n = 162, 53.1%), of which IIFYM/flexible dieting was most followed for competition preparation (n = 80, 63%) and off-season (n = 48, 71.6%). Compared to normal dietary intake, most reported eating more on harder training days (n = 219, 71.8%) and refraining from eating less on easier training days (n = 186, 61%). Conclusions: IIFYM/flexible dieting is commonly followed by powerlifters to support performance and body composition goals. Females seemed to report more often restricting energy and dieting for body composition reasons than males. Powerlifters tailor their energy intake on harder training days to the higher training demands but refrain from reducing energy intake on rest/easier training days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]