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Purpose: This study explored endurance athletes' and coaches' views on recovery strategies, focusing on their use across competition levels, perceived importance and effectiveness, and common barriers. Methods: Endurance athletes (26.6% international, 35.7% national, 28.7% regional, and 9.1% other levels; mean experience 10.04 [7.84] y, n = 143) and coaches (mean experience 17.45 [12.44] y, n = 20) completed an online survey on frequency of usage, perceived importance, effectiveness, and common barriers of 25 recovery strategies. Data were coded and analyzed thematically. A Fisher exact test (P <.05) was conducted on 5-point Likert-scale responses. Results: Predominant strategies among athletes were hydration, hot showers, and carbohydrate (mean scores 4.62 [0.60], 4.32 [0.82], and 4.17 [0.87]). Only antioxidants showed significant variation in use across levels (P =.033). Coaches favored warm-down/cooling (4.56 [0.62]), hydration (4.41 [0.80]), and extra protein (4.12 [0.70]). Both groups ranked hydration as most important and effective. Athletes ranked extra protein and warm-down/cooling second and third, while coaches considered extra sleep/naps, warm-down/cooling, and extra protein equally important. Barriers of both populations included insufficient time (14.41%), limited knowledge (13.72%), lack of resources (12.63%), and skepticism regarding benefits and effectiveness (12.63%). Conclusions: Athletes show no significant differences in recovery choices based on competitive level, except for antioxidants. Coaches and athletes have partially different views on effective recovery. Furthermore, a lack of time, as well as a lack of (shared) knowledge and education, hinders the effective implementation of recovery strategies for athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the influence of menstrual-cycle (MC) phase on objective sleep and perceived recovery following high- (HIT) and low-intensity training (LIT) in endurance-trained women. Methods: Fifteen naturally menstruating, endurance-trained women completed standardized HIT and LIT sessions during the early follicular phase (EFP), ovulatory phase (OP), and midluteal phase (MLP) of 2 MCs. Overnight sleep was monitored using a Somnofy sleep monitor after each training session, and perceived recovery was assessed after 24 hours using self-report scales. MC phases were determined using the 3-step method, and noneumenorrheic MCs were retrospectively excluded from analysis. Results: MC phase had a main effect on wake after sleep onset (P ≤.001), with higher values in MLP (33 [22] min) than EFP (22 [19] min, P =.043) and OP (14 [9] min, P =.001), sleep efficiency (P =.033), with lower values in MLP (87% [6%]) than OP (90% [8%], P =.047), and light sleep (P =.023) with higher values in MLP (59% [6%]) than EFP (54% [7%], P =.037). Session type had a main effect on perceived recovery (P <.018) and perceived muscle soreness (P =.007), indicating lower perceived recovery and higher perceived muscle soreness following HIT compared to LIT (P <.001, P =.018, respectively). No interactions were found between MC phase and session type for any of the measured variables. Conclusions: Objective sleep quality, but not perceived recovery, was influenced by MC phase, as indicated by small impairments to multiple indices of objective sleep during MLP. There were no interactions between MC phase and session type, indicating that the effect of MC on sleep and recovery is consistent regardless of session type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Limited research has directly compared the effectiveness of aqua- and land-based exercises for postexercise recovery. This study aimed to fill this gap by comparing the effects of these 2 types of exercises on postexercise recovery. Methods: Sixteen male college athletes participated in an 8-day experimental study. The initial 2 days were dedicated to determining the intensity levels for the muscle-damaging exercise and recovery jogging. In a crossover design, participants underwent 2 sets of experimental trials. They were randomly assigned to either an aqua or land recovery intervention for days 3 to 5, and after a 1-week washout period they switched to the opposite intervention for days 6 to 8. Muscle soreness, creatine kinase, anaerobic performance, countermovement-jump height, and flexibility were assessed at different time points: baseline, immediately after downhill running, within 1 hour after jogging, and 24 hours and 48 hours after aqua or land jogging. Results: Significant group × time interaction effects were detected in the perceived soreness of the hamstring and quadriceps. However, the post hoc analysis showed no significant difference between aqua and land jogging groups. No significant group × time interaction effect was observed in creatine kinase, anaerobic performance, countermovement-jump height, or flexibility. Conclusion: Aqua and land jogging have similar recovery effects on muscle soreness and performance-based parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Antarctic expeditions are exceptional physiological challenges. Sleep plays a critical role in athletic performance, recovery, and wellness, with sleep disturbances having a negative impact on health and performance. Methods: The authors investigated sleep, fatigue, and recovery profiles of the longest solo unsupported one-way polar ski journey across Antarctica. A 33-year-old woman covered 1484.53 km from Hercules Inlet to the South Pole, finishing at the Ross Ice Shelf, in 70 days and 16 hours. Questionnaires on sleep (Pittsburgh Insomnia Rating Scale and Karolinska Sleepiness Scale), fatigue (Subjective Assessment of Fatigue), recovery (Total Quality Recovery), and wellness were completed at different time points (before, during, and after the expedition). Results: Average daily sleep time was between 4 and 5 hours, increasing to 7 hours for the final part of the expedition. Satisfaction of sleep and lack of energy deteriorated as the expedition progressed, alongside signs of clinical insomnia. Fatigue and muscle soreness increased with increasing milage, with extreme levels and very poor recovery toward the end of the expedition. Despite this, the adventurer continued to perform on extremely high levels. Postexpedition scores returned to baseline, demonstrating the incredible adaptation and ability to recovery. The postexpedition interview showed that prior experience of an Antarctic expedition may have prepared the athlete and made her more resilient for this challenge. Conclusions: The data provide unique insights into Antarctic expeditions and may help us understand the limits of human performance when planning future expeditions of this nature. Female athletes are capable of extreme challenges, breaking established performance boundaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study explored the effects of 4 bench-press (BP) training programs with different velocity-loss (VL) thresholds (0%, 15%, 25%, and 50%) on strength gains and neuromuscular adaptations. Methods: Forty-six resistance-trained men (22.8 [4.4] y) were randomly assigned into 4 groups that differed in the VL allowed within the set: 0% (VL0), 15% (VL15), 25% (VL25), and 50% (VL50). Training loads (40%–55% 1-repetition maximum), frequency (2 sessions/wk), number of sets (3), and interset recovery (4 min) were identical for all groups. Participants completed the following tests before and after an 8-week (16-session) BP training program: (1) maximal isometric test, (2) progressive loading test, and (3) fatigue test in the BP exercise. During all tests, triceps brachii muscle electromyography was assessed. Results: After completing the resistance-training program, no significant group × time interactions were noticed for isometric and dynamic BP strength variables. The dose–response relationship exhibited an inverted U-shaped relationship pattern, with VL25 showing the greatest effect sizes for almost all strength variables analyzed. The total number of repetitions performed during the training program increased as the VL magnitude increased. Conclusions: The group that trained with high VL threshold (50%), which performed a total of 876 repetitions, did not experience additional strength gains compared with those experienced by the 0%, 15%, and 25% of VL groups, which performed significantly fewer repetitions (48, 357, and 547, respectively). These findings suggest that when light loads (40%–55% 1-repetition maximum) are used, low and moderate VL thresholds (0%–25%) provide a higher training efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this placebo-controlled, triple-blind, balanced crossover study was to assess the acute effects of phenylcapsaicin (PC) intake (2.5 mg) on intraocular pressure (IOP), ocular perfusion pressure (OPP), and heart rate (HR) during a 30-min cycling task performed at 15% of the individual maximal power. Twenty-two healthy young adults performed the cycling task 45 min after ingesting PC or placebo. IOP was measured with a rebound tonometer before exercise, during cycling (every 6 min), and after 5 and 10 min of recovery. OPP was assessed before and after exercise. HR was monitored throughout the cycling task. We found an acute increase of IOP levels related to PC consumption while cycling (mean difference = 1.91 ± 2.24 mmHg; p =.007, η p 2 =.30), whereas no differences were observed for OPP levels between the PC and placebo conditions (mean difference = 1.33 ± 8.70 mmHg; p =.608). Mean HR values were higher after PC in comparison with placebo intake (mean difference = 3.11 ± 15.87 bpm, p =.019, η p 2 =.24), whereas maximum HR did not differ between both experimental conditions (p =.199). These findings suggest that PC intake before exercise should be avoided when reducing IOP levels is desired (e.g., glaucoma patients or those at risk). Future studies should determine the effects of different ergogenic aids on IOP and OPP levels with other exercise configurations and in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe how high-level European sprint coaches (from 100 to 400 m) work to improve important factors associated with the quality of the holistic training process and the quality of the specific training session. Methods: A descriptive analysis was conducted using questionnaires from 31 European elite sprint coaches (ie, training athletes defined as tiers 3, 4, and 5) who participated voluntarily. Results: The coaches used traditional periodization (45%) with a 10- to 15-day tapering phase (48%) that includes a reduction in volume, maintenance of intensity, and focus on correct technical execution. In the 3 mesophases, coaches prioritized the basic development of strength and sprint work in the first phases of the season and emphasized more sprint-specific work in the competitive phase. Before sessions, adjustments were made based on factors such as psychological (77%), technical (48%), and physical (39%) parameters. In-session load management relies on a combination of objective and subjective measures (55%), in which the dialogue with athletes (65%) was regarded as the main resource. Feedback during and after sessions covers technical (54%), psychological (48%), and physical (35%) aspects. Recovery protocols after sessions mainly involve rest and professional guidance (42%). For performance assessment and testing, coaches utilize countermovement jump (52%), force–velocity profile (45%), and 30-m flying (61%) as main tools. Conclusions: European sprint coaches demonstrated a comprehensive approach to planning and management, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of their training methodologies and the diverse tools employed for athlete testing and monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Without appropriate standardization of exercise doses, comparing high- (HI) and low-intensity (LI) training outcomes might become a matter of speculation. In athletic preparation, proper quantification ensures an optimized stress-to-recovery ratio. This review aims to compare HI and LI doses by estimating theoretically the conversion ratio, 1:x, between HI and LI: How many minutes, x, of LI are equivalent to 1 minute of HI using various quantification methods? A scrutinized analysis on how the dose increases in relation to duration and intensity was also made. Analysis: An estimation was conducted across 4 categories encompassing 10 different approaches: (1) "arbitrary" methods, (2) physiological and perceptual measurements during exercise, (3) postexercise measurements, and comparison to (4a) acute and (4b) chronic intensity-related maximum dose. The first 2 categories provide the most conservative estimation for the HI:LI ratio (1:1.5–1:10), and the third, slightly higher (1:4–1:11). The category (4a) provides the highest estimation (1:52+) and (4b) suggests 1:10 to 1:20. The exercise dose in the majority of the approaches increase linearly in relation to duration and exponentially in relation to intensity. Conclusions: As dose estimations provide divergent evaluations of the HI:LI ratio, the choice of metric will have a large impact on the research designs, results, and interpretations. Therefore, researchers should familiarize themselves with the foundations and weaknesses of their metrics and justify their choice. Last, the linear relationship between duration and exercise dose is in many cases assumed rather than thoroughly tested, and its use should be subjected to closer scrutiny. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whey protein ingestion during recovery from exercise increases myofibrillar but not muscle connective protein synthesis rates. It has been speculated that whey protein does not provide sufficient glycine to maximize postexercise muscle connective protein synthesis rates. In the present study, we assessed the impact of coingesting different amounts of collagen with whey protein as a nutritional strategy to increase plasma glycine availability during recovery from exercise. In a randomized, double-blind, crossover design, 14 recreationally active men (age: 26 ± 5 years; body mass index: 23.8 ± 2.1 kg·m−2) ingested in total 30 g protein, provided as whey protein with 0 g (WHEY), 5 g (WC05); 10 g (WC10), and 15 g (WC15) of collagen protein immediately after a single bout of resistance exercise. Blood samples were collected frequently over 6 hr of postexercise recovery to assess postprandial plasma amino acid kinetics and availability. Protein ingestion strongly increased plasma amino acid concentrations (p <.001) with no differences in plasma total amino acid availability between treatments (p >.05). The postprandial rise in plasma leucine and essential amino acid availability was greater in WHEY compared with the WC10 and WC15 treatments (p <.05). Plasma glycine and nonessential amino acid concentrations declined following whey protein ingestion but increased following collagen coingestion (p <.05). Postprandial plasma glycine availability averaged −8.9 ± 5.8, 9.2 ± 3.7, 23.1 ± 6.5, and 39.8 ± 11.0 mmol·360 min/L in WHEY, WC05, WC10, and WC15, respectively (incremental area under curve values, p <.05). Coingestion of a small amount of collagen (5 g) with whey protein (25 g) is sufficient to prevent the decline in plasma glycine availability during recovery from lower body resistance-type exercise in recreationally active men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine nocturnal sleep patterns, napping behaviors, and subjective wellness responses of elite water polo players within an in-season week and to identify whether sleeping patterns differ between men and women. Methods: Sleep characteristics of 10 male and 17 female professional water polo players were objectively assessed during 1 week of the in-season period, including 5 training days, 1 match day, and 1 day of rest. Internal load (rating of perceived exertion × duration of training or match) was assessed 30 minutes posttraining or postmatch, and the total quality of recovery was recorded every morning. A series of multilevel models were used to analyze the data. Results: Time in bed and wake-up time were earlier on both training (P <.001) and rest days (P <.001) than on the day of the match. Internal workload did not predict any of the players' sleeping patterns. Midday naps predicted less time in bed (P =.03) and likely less sleep time (P =.08). The total quality of recovery was predicted only by the total sleep time (P <.01). Women exhibited higher sleep efficiency (P <.001), less waking after sleep onset (P =.01), and a lower number of awakenings (P =.02) than men. Conclusions: The current results indicate that the nocturnal sleep patterns of elite water polo players are not associated with internal load and that women display better nocturnal sleep quality compared with men. As long naps interfere with nocturnal sleep, and total nocturnal sleep time predicts total quality of recovery, we suggest that athletes follow hygiene sleep strategies to facilitate adequate nocturnal sleep and next-day recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The monitoring of training loads and quantification of physical performance are common practices in youth soccer academies to support coaches in prescribing and programming training for individuals. The interaction between training load and physical performance is unknown during a preseason period in youth soccer players. The current study assessed changes in training load and physical assessments across a 4-week preseason period. The relationship between physical performance and match playing time in youth male soccer players was also investigated. Methods: The training loads of 25 professional youth academy male soccer players were monitored throughout a 4-week preseason period. Assessments of power, agility, speed, and aerobic capacity were undertaken in the first training session. Session ratings of perceived exertion (sRPE) and well-being questionnaires were collected during all training sessions and preseason matches. Playing time during subsequent competitive matches was recorded. Results: T test and 30-m-sprint assessments, conducted on the first day of preseason, were predictors of sRPE throughout preseason (t test χ2/df = 2.895, poor adjustment; 30-m sprint χ2/df = 1.608, good adjustment). YoYo Test performance was related with changes in perceived fatigue (χ2/df = 0.534, very good adjustment). Faster players reported higher values of sRPE, and players with higher aerobic capacity reported higher levels of fatigue across preseason. Well-being, perceived fatigue and soreness, and sRPE decreased across preseason. Greater match durations were related to higher levels of fatigue during preseason (P <.05). Conclusion: The current study highlights the relationship between training load, physical assessments, and playing time. Coaches and practitioners can use physical test data at the start of preseason as an indication of players that report higher sRPE, perceived fatigue, and reduced well-being across preseason, supporting decisions around individualized training prescriptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Fran is one of the most popular CrossFit benchmark workouts used to control CrossFitters' improvements. Detailed physiological characterization of Fran is needed for a more specific evaluation of CrossFitters' training performance improvements. The aim of the study was to analyze the oxygen uptake ( V ˙ O 2 ) kinetics and characterize the energy system contributions and the degree of postexercise fatigue of the unbroken Fran. Methods: Twenty trained CrossFitters performed Fran at maximal exertion. V ˙ O 2 and heart-rate kinetics were assessed at baseline and during and post-Fran. Blood lactate and glucose concentrations and muscular fatigue were measured at baseline and in the recovery period. Results: A marked increase in V ˙ O 2 kinetics was observed at the beginning of Fran, remaining elevated until the end (V ˙ O 2 peak : 49.2 [3.7] mL·kg−1·min−1, V ˙ O 2 amplitude: 35.8 [5.2] mL·kg−1·min−1, time delay: 4.7 [2.5] s and time constant: 23.7 [11.1] s; mean [SD]). Aerobic, anaerobic lactic, and alactic pathways accounted for 62% (4%), 26% (4%), and 12% (2%) of energy contribution. Reduction in muscle function in jumping ability (jump height: 8% [6%], peak force: 6% [4%], and maximum velocity: 4% [2%]) and plank prone test (46% [20%]) was observed in the recovery period. Conclusions: The Fran unbroken workout is a high-intensity effort associated with an elevated metabolic response. This pattern of energy response highlights the primary contribution of aerobic energy metabolism, even during short and very intense CrossFit workouts, and that recovery can take >24 hours due to cumulative fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Flossing is still a relatively new technique that has yielded varied results in the research literature; therefore, it requires further investigation. Previous research has shown that thigh tissue flossing might improve performance in countermovement jump, sprint time, maximum voluntary contraction, and rate of force development. Design. The present study aims to investigate the effect of the floss band on performance during the Wingate test (30-WAT), muscle oxygen saturation (SpO2), and total hemoglobin in vastus lateralis. Methods: Twenty-two students of physical education and sport (11 men and 11 women) were randomly selected to complete either the Wingate test with the application of a floss band in warm-up or the Wingate test without the use of a floss band, followed by the alternative 24 hours apart. Results: Throughout the testing, the floss band did not affect performance values during the Wingate test (relative peak power, relative average power, and fatigue index). However, there was a medium to large effect difference during 1 minute prior to 30-WAT (PRE), during the 30-WAT, and 10-minute recovery (REC) in values of SpO2 and total hemoglobin. Use of floss band displayed a higher SpO2 during PRE, 30-WAT, and REC by ~13.55%, d<2; ~19.06%, d = 0.89; and ~8.55%, d = 0.59, respectively. Conclusion: Collectively, these findings indicate that the application of thigh flossing during warm-up has no effect on 30-WAT performance; however, SpO2 was significantly increased in all stages of testing. This could lead to potential improvement in repeated anaerobic exercise due to increased blood flow. Increased muscle oxygen saturation can also lead to improved tissue healing as oxygen supply is essential for tissue repair, wound healing, and pain management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the effect of personalized sweat sodium replacement on drinking behavior, sodium and water balance, and thermophysiological responses during and after ultraendurance running in hot conditions. Methods: Nine participants (7 male, 2 female) completed two 5-hour treadmill runs (60% maximum oxygen uptake, 30°C ambient temperature), in a double-blind randomized crossover design, consuming sodium chloride (SODIUM) capsules to replace 100% of previously assessed losses or placebo (PLACEBO). Fluid was consumed ad libitum. Results: No effect of SODIUM was observed for ad libitum fluid intake or net fluid balance (P >.05). Plasma sodium concentration increased in both trials, but to a greater extent in SODIUM at 2.5 hours (mean [SD]: 4 [4] mmol·L−1 vs 1 [5] mmol·L−1; P <.05) and postexercise (4 [3] mmol·L−1 vs 1 [5] mmol·L−1; P <.05). Plasma volume change was not different between trials (P >.05) but was strongly correlated with sodium balance in SODIUM (r =.880, P <.01). No effect of sodium replacement was observed for heart rate, rectal temperature, thermal comfort, perceived exertion, or physiological strain index. During the 24 hours postexercise, ad libitum fluid intake was greater following SODIUM (2541 [711] mL vs 1998 [727] mL; P =.04), as was urinary sodium excretion (NaCl: 66 [35] mmol, Pl: 21 [12] mmol; P <.01). Conclusions: Personalized sweat sodium replacement during ultraendurance running in hot conditions, with ad libitum fluid intake, exacerbated the rise in plasma sodium concentration compared to no sodium replacement but did not substantially influence overall body-water balance or thermophysiological strain. A large sodium deficit incurred during exercise leads to substantial renal sodium conservation postexercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of exercise intensity on the proportion and rate of carbohydrate oxidation and glucoregulatory hormone responses during recovery from exercise. Six physically active participants completed 1 hr of low-intensity (LI; 50% lactate threshold) or moderate-intensity (MI; 100% lactate threshold) exercise on separate days following a randomized counterbalanced design. During exercise and for 6 hr of recovery, samples of expired air were collected to determine oxygen consumption, respiratory exchange ratio, energy expenditure, and substrate oxidation rates. Blood samples were also collected to measure glucoregulatory hormones (catecholamines, GH) and metabolites (glucose, free fatty acids, lactate, pH, and bicarbonate). During exercise, respiratory exchange ratio, energy expenditure, and the proportion and rate of carbohydrate (CHO) oxidation were higher during MI compared with LI. However, during recovery from MI, respiratory exchange ratio and the proportion and rate of CHO oxidation were lower than preexercise levels and corresponding LI. During exercise and early recovery, catecholamines and growth hormone were higher in MI than LI, and there was a trend for higher levels of free fatty acids in the early recovery from MI compared with LI. In summary, CHO oxidation during exercise increases with exercise intensity but there is a preference for CHO sparing (and fat oxidation) during recovery from MI exercise compared with LI exercise. This exercise intensity-dependent shift in substrate oxidation during recovery is explained, in part, by the pattern of change of key glucoregulatory hormones including catecholamines and growth hormone and plasma fatty acid concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After a successful three-year physics run underground at the LNGS in Italy and a significant detector overhaul at CERN, the ICARUS-T600 detector was installed at Fermilab. In 2020, the cryogenic commissioning began with detector cool down, liquid argon filling and recirculation. ICARUS then started its operation collecting the first neutrino events from the Booster Neutrino Beam (BNB) and the Neutrinos at the Main Injector (NuMI) beam off-axis, which were used to test the ICARUS event selection, reconstruction and analysis algorithms. ICARUS successfully completed its commissioning phase in June 2022, and started data taking for neutrino oscillation physics, aiming at first to either confirm or refute the claim by Neutrino-4 short-baseline reactor experiment. ICARUS will also perform measurements of neutrino cross-sections with the NuMI beam and several Beyond Standard Model searches. After the first year of operations, ICARUS will jointly search for evidence of sterile neutrinos with the Short-Baseline Near Detector (SBND), within the Fermilab Short-Baseline Neutrino (SBN) program. In this paper, preliminary technical results from the ICARUS data with the BNB and NuMI beams are presented to highlight the performance of all ICARUS subsystems and its capability to select and reconstruct neutrino events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare the perceptive responses, physiological measures, training volume and training duration comparing a superset vs. a traditional resistance training session in untrained adults. Thirty adults (29 ± 7 years, 1.72 ± 0.1 m, 77 ± 16 kg) performed one superset resistance training session and one traditional resistance training session in a randomized-crossover design. Both sessions consisted of eight exercises with two sets and a load of ∼10-repetition maximum. The outcomes included number of repetitions, training duration, blood lactate and heart rate in addition to rate of perceived exertion (RPE), rate of perceived discomfort (RPD), session displeasure/pleasure (sPDF) and exercise enjoyment (EES) which were recorded in the middle and post-exercise. Forty-eight hours after the last session the participants reported which session they would prefer as their regular routine if they had to choose. The main findings were that the superset session led to greater RPE compared to the traditional session (p = 0.012–0.16, d = 0.53–0.54). Further, there was a trend towards greater RPD after the superset session, although not reaching statistical significance (p = 0.092, d = 0.41). There were no differences for sPDF (p = 0.404) or EES (p = 0.829). Furthermore, the superset session demonstrated higher levels of blood lactate levels (18.3%. p < 0.001, d = 0.81) and average heart rate (7.8%, p < 0.001, d = 1.53) compared to the traditional session. The traditional session took 60% longer time (p < 0.001, d = 6.62), and had 4.6% more repetitions (p = 0.006, d = 0.54) compared to the superset session. Two out of three participants reported the superset session as their preferred regular training routine. In conclusion, the superset session led to a higher perceived effort and discomfort, higher metabolic stress, took less time, had a lower training volume and was more preferred compared to the traditional session in untrained adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a non-invasive therapeutic procedure that consists of irradiating a local area of the skin with red and near-infrared lasers or light emitting diodes (LEDs). Local PBM has been studied as a method to improve exercise performance and recovery. This review aims to evaluate the efficacy of whole-body PBM for exercise performance and recovery, comparing its findings to the established effects of localized PBM. Methods: This systematic review was conducted utilising PubMed, The Cochrane Library, EBSCO and Google Scholar, with the search terms (whole-body OR full-body) AND (photobiomodulation OR "light therapy"). We included studies on human participants that used whole-body PBM in the red or near-infrared spectrum, before or after exercise to enhance performance or recovery, and provided a qualitative synthesis of the findings. Results: A total of five studies were identified out of the 193 screened, with a total of 105 physically active participants, representing both sexes, engaging in different exercise modalities. Two studies reported better sleep quality, as determined by a subjective questionnaire and a commercial sleep tracker, including higher serum melatonin and lower nocturnal heart rate in participants using whole-body PBM. However, none of the five studies reported any benefit of whole-body PBM on biomarkers of fatigue and exercise performance. Conclusion: Whole-body PBM may improve sleep quality but shows no evidence of benefits for exercise recovery or performance. Further research is necessary to resolve discrepancies with the benefits observed in localized PBM studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Concurrent exercise (CE), an emerging exercise modality characterized by sequential bouts of aerobic (AE) and resistance exercise (RE), has demonstrated acute benefits on executive functions (EFs) and neuroelectric P3 amplitude. However, the effect of acute CE on inhibitory control, a sub-component of EFs, and P3 amplitude remains inconclusive. Moreover, exploring the mechanisms underlying the effects of acute exercise on EFs contributes to scientific comprehension, with lactate recognized as a crucial candidate positively correlated with EFs. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effects of acute CE on inhibitory control via behavioral and event-related potential approaches and to examine its potential mediational role on lactate. Methods: Seventy-eight adults (mean age = 22.95, SD = 1.75 years) were randomly assigned to either a CE, AE, or control (CON) group. Participants in the CE group engaged in 12-min of AE (40–59% of heart rate reserve [HRR]) coupled with 13-min of RE (1 set, with 75% of 10-repetition maximum, and 12 repetitions of 8 movements). The AE group participated in 25 min of AE (40–59% HRR). Prior to and following exercise onset, participants in both the CE and AE groups completed a 5-min warm-up and cool-down. Participants in the CON group read books for 35 min. Lactate concentrations were measured at timepoints of 0-, 17-, and 30-min relative to the treatment onset. Response time (RT) and accuracy in the Stroop test, as well as P3 amplitude, were assessed before and after the treatment. Results: The results revealed that both the CE and AE groups had significantly shorter RTs compared to the CON group, with no significant differences in accuracy among groups. A decrease in P3 amplitude was observed for the CE group compared to the AE and CON groups. The mediating effects of lactate between acute exercise and inhibitory control were insignificant. Conclusions: The findings suggest that both CE and AE improve inhibitory control and CE potentially enhances the efficient allocation of attention resources. The lack of a significant mediating effect of lactate warrants further investigation. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06370286. Registered 12 April 2024—Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06370286. Key Points: Acute concurrent exercise improves inhibitory control, and the effect is similar to aerobic exercise. Acute concurrent exercise potentially enhances the efficient allocation of attention resources. Lactate does not act as a mediator between acute exercise and inhibitory control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low carbohydrate availability during recovery from aerobic exercise alters skeletal muscle microRNA (miRNA) profiles, which may mechanistically regulate exercise recovery. However, its impact on circulating miRNA (c-miRNA) profiles remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the effects of low versus adequate carbohydrate availability on c-miRNA profiles during recovery from aerobic exercise. Nine males (22 ± 4 yr, 1.81 ± 0.09 m, 83.9 ± 11.9 kg, 25.7 ± 2.3 kg/m2, means ± SD) completed this randomized, crossover study comprising two glycogen depletion trials, followed by 24 h of isocaloric refeeding to induce low (LOW; 1.5 g/kg carbohydrate, 3.0 g/kg fat) or adequate (AD; 6.0 g/kg carbohydrate, 1.0 g/kg fat) carbohydrate availability. Total c-miRNA was extracted from serum 24 h following glycogen depletion exercise. Data were log-transformed and analyzed as fold change relative to AD. Bioinformatics was conducted on significant c-miRNA and associated pathways (miRTarBase/KEGG). Follow-up transfection of miR-375-3p mimic or inhibitor into C2C12 cells assessed metabolic, inflammatory, and catabolic pathways at the gene and protein levels. Of the 84 miRNAs assessed, miR-335-5p (–0.49 ± 0.60; P = 0.04) and miR-375-3p (–1.57 ± 1.25; P = 0.01) were significantly lower, and miR-214-3p (1.76 ± 1.85; P = 0.02) was significantly higher in AD versus LOW. In vitro experiments indicated that miR-375-3p regulates catabolic pathways at the gene and protein level. Low carbohydrate availability alters c-miRNA profiles, particularly miR-375-3p, which targets proteostasis and metabolism 24 h into recovery from aerobic exercise. These findings identify unique c-miRNA targets as potential biomarkers for the mechanistic effects of low carbohydrate availability on exercise recovery. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: Low carbohydrate consumption (LOW) 24 h in recovery from aerobic exercise elicits a distinct circulating miRNA profile compared with adequate carbohydrate consumption (AD). MicroRNA 375-3p was the most significantly different between the LOW and AD treatments. Follow-up in vitro experiments suggest that AD carbohydrate availability blunts catabolic signaling during postexercise recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is present in healthy individuals but is elevated in those undergoing physical exertion, trauma, sepsis, and certain cancers. Maintaining cfDNA concentrations is vital for immune homeostasis and preventing inflammatory responses. Understanding cfDNA release and clearance is essential for using cfDNA as a biomarker in clinical diagnostics. We focused on the fragment size of cfDNA and investigated cfDNA dynamics and half-life, particularly the 100–250 base pair fragments. Methods: Healthy, adult men (n = 5; age 40 ± 4.1 years) were subjected to a 30 min treadmill exercise. Blood samples were collected at 0, 5, 10, 15, 30, and 60 min post-exercise using PAXgene® Blood ccfDNA tubes to stabilize and prevent nuclease-mediated cfDNA degradation and minimize genomic DNA contamination risk. The cfDNA concentration was measured using an electrophoresis-based technique (4150 TapeStation system) to quantify the concentration based on cfDNA fragment size. Results: The results showed a cfDNA half-life of 24.2 min, with a transient increase in 100–250 base pair cfDNA fragments post-exercise, likely due to nuclease activity. These levels rapidly reverted to the baseline within an hour. Conclusions: The rapid clearance of cfDNA underscores its potential as a biomarker for real-time disease monitoring and the evaluation of treatment efficacy. This study is expected to standardize cfDNA investigations, enhancing diagnosis and treatment monitoring across various disease conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to compare variations between the earlobe and fingertip sampling sites in exercises dominated by upper body muscle exertion. It also sought to investigate capillary blood lactate differences between Lactate Scout 4 (LS4) and a bench-top analyzer (Biosen S-Line analyzer, BSL) during Double Poling. Methods: Blood samples were collected from the earlobe and fingertip immediately before exercise, at the end of each of five stages, and at 1-, 3-, 5-, and 7-min post-exercise. Forty healthy university students participated as volunteers. During the study, they performed double poling on a ski ergometer with progressively increasing load. Lactate levels were measured using both the BSL and LS4 analyzers. Results: Fingertip Bla values were significantly higher than earlobe values, with a mean bias of −0.66 mmol/L, reaching −0.86 mmol/L in the 4–8 mmol/L range. At the earlobe, the highest CCC between BSL and LS4-a was 0.84 (> 8 mmol/L), and for BSL and LS4-b, it was 0.85 (> 8 mmol/L). At the fingertip, the highest CCC between BSL and LS4-c was 0.68 (> 8 mmol/L), and for BSL and LS4-d, it was 0.52 (> 8 mmol/L). Comparing LS4-a and LS4-b at the earlobe, the highest CCC was 0.83 (0–4 mmol/L). At the fingertip, comparing LS4-c and LS4-d, the highest CCC was 0.68 (> 8 mmol/L). Conclusions: Blood lactate concentrations are higher at the fingertip than the earlobe during SkiErg double poling. The LS4 is less reliable, especially at the fingertip, so using the earlobe with the BSL analyzer is recommended for accurate measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Active breaks are suggested to support recovery and performance in sports. Previous research in ball and team sports focused on motor performance such as repetitive sprinting or change of direction. This does not account for the interaction between motor and cognitive task demands in sports. Therefore, this study is the first to investigate the effectiveness of an active motor‐cognitive break to support reactive agility performance. Twenty (7 female and 13 male) healthy trained young adults (mean age: 26 years) performed an active or passive 5 min break following a fatiguing protocol of six 100 m reactive agility runs with an intermittent break of 40 s. Prior to the experiment (pre), after fatigue (post), and following the rest condition (retention), a reactive agility test was performed using the SKILLCOURT technology. In addition, lactate, heartrate, and physical exertion were recorded. Active rest contained two motor‐cognitive training tasks on the SKILLCOURT combining low to moderate physical intensity with conflict inhibition and decision‐making. During passive rest, participants remained seated. When comparing post and retention agility tests, results indicate significantly stronger performance gains following the active when compared to the passive break condition (p = 0.02 and ηp2 = 0.24). This was not associated with any differences in physiological parameters such as lactate, heart rate, or RPE (p ≥ 0.25). The results suggest that active motor‐cognitive breaks support recovery and improve sport‐related reactive agility performance. Performance gains in the active break are likely attributable to cognitive performance effects rather than physiological recovery, which may benefit athletes especially in ball and team sports. Highlights: A 5 min active motor‐cognitive break after exhausting exercise is more effective than passive rest to improve reactive agility.No differences in physiological parameters following active and passive rest indicate that performance gains in reactive agility following motor‐cognitive breaks are mainly attributable to improved cognitive function.Motor‐cognitive active breaks may be promising for longer game interruption in ball and team sports (e.g., half time) or for breaks between matches in tournaments (e.g., in combat sports). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a microcycle of high‐intensity interval training (HIT) sessions with multiple short work intervals followed by an active recovery period, compared to a similar duration of regular training, on determinants and indicators of endurance performance in well‐trained cyclists. The participants in the BLOCK group performed a 6‐day HIT microcycle including five HIT sessions (5 × 8.75‐min 30/15 s short intervals) followed by a 6‐day active recovery period with reduced training load, while the regular training group (REG) performed 12 days of their regular training, including four HIT sessions. Physiological testing was performed before and after the training periods. From pre‐ to post‐ intervention, BLOCK demonstrated significantly larger improvements than REG in mean power output (PO) during the last min of the maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) test (POVO2max) (3.7 vs. 0.7%, p = 0.009, and effect size (ES) = 1.00) and mean PO during the 10‐s sprint (2.8 vs. 1.9%, p = 0.028, and ES = 0.63). No significant differences between BLOCK and REG were observed for VO2max, PO at 4 mmol·L−1 [blood lactate] (PO4mmol), 15‐min maximal mean power output (PO15‐min), and gross efficiency (p = 0.156–0.919). However, there was a tendency for larger improvements in the performance index (calculated from the main performance indicators POVO2max, PO4mmol, and PO15‐min) in BLOCK compared to REG (2.9% vs. 1.2%, p = 0.079, and ES = 0.71). A 6‐day high‐intensity short‐interval microcycle followed by a 6‐day active recovery period induces improvements in endurance performance indicators compared to regular training, demonstrating its potential as an efficient strategy for endurance training in well‐trained cyclists. Highlights: This study evaluated the effects of a microcycle of high‐intensity interval training (HIT) sessions with multiple short work intervals followed by an active recovery period against regular endurance training in well‐trained cyclists.A 6‐day HIT microcycle followed by a 6‐day active recovery period induces improvements in indicators of endurance performance compared to a similar time period of regular training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the effects of repeated sprint training (RST) session volume on acute physiological, neuromuscular, perceptual and performance outcomes. In a randomised, counterbalanced, and crossover design, 14 healthy and trained male and female athletes (age: 23 ± 3 years) completed two sets of 10 × 40 m (10 × 40), 5 × 40 m (5 × 40), 10 × 20 m (10 × 20) and 5 × 20 m (5 × 20) sprints with 30 s rest between repetitions and 3 min rest between sets for all protocols. Average and peak heart rate, average oxygen consumption (VO2), time >90% of maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), differential ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), session‐RPE training load (sRPE‐TL), percentage sprint decrement (Sdec), acceleration load and distance >90% of maximal sprint speed were recorded during each session. Neuromuscular performance (i.e. countermovement jump, lower‐limb stiffness and isometric hamstring strength) were measured post‐session, 24 h, and 48 h and compared to pre‐session. A univariate analysis of variance was used to compare within‐ and between‐protocol differences. To aid data interpretation, all effects were expressed as an effect size and accompanied by probability values (pMET). The 10 × 40 protocol induced the greatest training load compared to all other protocols (pMET < 0.05), including moderate to very large differences in breathlessness RPE, large differences in Sdec and time >90% VO2max and very large differences in sRPE‐TL. The 5 × 20 protocol induced the lowest training load compared to all other protocols (pMET < 0.05), including moderate to large differences in sRPE‐TL and leg muscle RPE. Heart rate, VO2, sRPE‐TL, leg muscle RPE and Sdec were similar between 5 × 40 and 10 × 20 (pMET < 0.05), but the acceleration load was greater for 10 × 20 when compared to 5 × 40 (pMET < 0.001), and this difference was large. Changes in neuromuscular performance across all timepoints and all protocols were unclear. Larger session volumes increase the demands of RST and by manipulating volume, sprint distance and the number of repetitions, practitioners can alter the internal and external training load. Highlights: The 10 × 40 protocol (i.e. 800 m volume) induced the greatest physiological and perceptual demands, which was demonstrated by a session average heart rate and VO2 of 89% ± 3% and 72% ± 8% of max, respectively, whereas differential RPE were rated hard to very hard on average.Performing 10 repetitions did not substantially increase the average VO2 demands when sprint distance was matched (e.g. 10 × 40 vs. 5 × 40). Rather than prescribing high repetition protocols, practitioners are encouraged to increase sprint distance if a greater aerobic stimulus is desired.There were no differences in the heart rate and VO2 recovery between the 2nd and 3rd minute of inter‐set recovery. Therefore, to reduce session duration while providing adequate recovery of cardiorespiratory function, 2‐min passive rest periods can be prescribed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondria are essential in supplying energy to skeletal muscle. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) was developed to noninvasively assess mitochondrial capacity (mV̇O2max) as a rate constant of metabolic recovery after exercise. Purpose: This study measured the time course mV̇O2max following both maximal and submaximal exercise. Methods: Healthy male and female participants were tested (n = 12 maximal and n = 8 submaximal exercise). A NIRS device was placed on the left medial gastrocnemius. Participants performed either 1 min of maximal, rapid (~2 Hz), or submaximal (~0.37 Hz) plantar flexion exercise on a custom pneumatic ergometer. mV̇O2max was measured before and immediately after exercise. mV̇O2max measurements consisted of four incomplete recovery curves of muscle metabolism taken after 30 s of electrical muscle stimulation except in the first post-exercise to be consistent with the use of pre-exercise trial. The four recovery curves were collected 50-, 156-, 260-, and 366-s postexercise, each producing an mV̇O2max rate constant. Results: After maximal exercise, muscle acceleration decreased to 52 ± 18% (P = 0.001) of prevalues. mV̇O2max was reduced from the pre-exercise mean at the first post-trial (2.16 ± 0.44 to 1.21 ± 0.52 min−1, P < 0.001). The fourth trial showed recovery from the first (2.2 ± 0.46 min−1 vs 1.21 ± 0.52 min−1, P < 0.001) and was not significantly different from pre-exercise values (2.2 ± 0.46 vs 2.16 ± 0.44 min−1, P = 0.41). No change in acceleration or mV̇O2max was seen after submaximal exercise (P > 0.05). Conclusions: The 56.7% reduction in mV̇O2max supports the hypothesis that in young, healthy individuals, a minute of maximal exercise transiently impairs mV̇O2max, which then recovers within 6 min. The NIRS method shows promise in tracking time course changes in mV̇O2max and warrants further investigation of the transient effects of exercise on mV̇O2max. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assessment of slippage in cryogenic space missions is fundamental from a mechanical point of view as it is one of the main failure modes of a bolt in a mechanical interface. It is usually performed on the basis of temperature maps obtained from the worst-case thermal design cases, with particular interest in the transient case during the cooldown. Traditionally, the thermal mapping has to be transferred to the detailed FEM model. This process requires a lot of interaction between the thermal and structural disciplines, which is often not easy. Moreover, the thermal mapping usually corresponds to the instant of maximum gradient between the clamped parts along the transient case. In this paper, a new methodology is proposed to speed up the evaluation of the temperature effect on the slippage from an analytical model correlated with the FEM model. Then, the interactions between the structural and the thermal responsible may be reduced. In addition, the proposed methodology evaluates the entire temperature curve of the transient case, rather than a single instant. In this way, the thermal effect on slippage can be evaluated in a robust and agile process, facilitating the definition of requirements in terms of the maximum allowable temperature gradient as a function of preload or vice versa. This methodology has been validated with the primary mirror of the ARIEL mission, which is a cryogenic European mission that aims to study exoplanets by making observations from a thermally stable orbit at L2 point of the Sun-Earth system. Therefore, the correct design of the primary mirror is essential for the successful science observations of the mission. • Slipping analysis of cryogenic spacecraft bolts. • Development of a simple analytical model for the definition of thermal gradient requirements based on bolt slippage analysis. • Bolt preload selection based on the slippage analysis. • Thermoelastic analysis of the ARIEL spacecraft. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated whether the adoption of a self-selected recovery interval (SSI) is more effective than the use of a fixed recovery interval (FRI) to elicit postactivation performance enhancement (PAPE). Ten male professional volleyball athletes (20.6 ± 1.5 years; 92.8 ± 4.9 kg; 195 ± 8 cm) participated in 3 experimental sessions, in random order, following familiarization with countermovement jump (CMJ) exercises and determination of the load for 5-repetition maximum (5RM: 146 ± 27 kg) squat exercise. The 3 experimental sessions consisted of (a) control session (CON), with measurement of CMJ height 4 minutes before and 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 minutes after subjects rested while sitting in a chair without performing any preactivation (PA) protocol; (b) session with FRI, with measurement of CMJ height 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 minutes after performing a PA exercise consisting of 5 squats with 5RM load; and (c) session with SSI, with evaluation of CMJ height once after performing the PA adopting a SSI based on a readiness scale. No significant differences were found between CMJ height in the CON session. Countermovement jump height was higher (p,0.05) than the baseline measurement at minutes 4, 6, and 8 post-PA in the FRI session, for the best CMJ performance during the FRI session, and after the PA in the SSI session. No significant differences were found between the heights of the best CMJ in the FRI session (49.2 ± 6.8 cm) and post-PA in the SSI session (49.6 ± 6.6 cm). Therefore, adopting FRI and SSI is equally effective in eliciting PAPE in elite athletes. Despite being as effective as adopting FRI to elicit PAPE, SSI is more intuitive and easily applicable in contexts where PAPE can be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes 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.)

This study investigated the effects of a 10-week intervention incorporating karate and yoga on the physical fitness of children aged 10–13. Conducted on a sample of 67 boys, the participants were divided into three groups: karate, yoga, and a control group. Each group underwent physical assessments before and after the intervention, focusing on various fitness components measured by the International Physical Fitness Test (MTSF). The intervention sessions were held twice a week and included warm-up exercises, karate or yoga elements, and cool-down. The results demonstrated significant improvements (p > 0.05) in most physical fitness parameters among the karate and yoga groups in trials: run 50 m, jump, run, endurance, hanging, run, agility, sit-ups, and forward bend. However, there was no significant improvement in hand strength, indicating that the intervention might not have adequately targeted this aspect of fitness. The overall MTSF values changed as follows. For the karate group, the results improved significantly, with the mean increasing by 6.95 ± 0.71. In the yoga group, the results also improved significantly, with the mean increasing by 8.74, while the standard deviation changed by −0.19. In contrast, the control group, which did not participate in additional activities, showed a decline in performance in some areas, notably hand strength and jumping ability. Total MTSF value decreased by −1.05, and the standard deviation changed by 0.71. The findings suggest that both karate and yoga can effectively enhance children's physical fitness, bringing their performance closer to age-adjusted norms. The study highlights the value of structured physical activity programs in promoting the physical development of children. Although no significant differences were observed between the karate and yoga groups, both interventions contributed similarly to overall fitness improvements. Future research should explore additional factors, such as diet and other physical activities, to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the intervention's effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The complex relationship among sleep, exercise, and the gut microbiome presents a unique opportunity to improve health and wellness. Here, we conducted the first large-scale investigation into the influence of a novel elite athlete-derived probiotic, consisting of a multi-strain Lactobacillus consortium, on sleep quality, exercise recovery, and gut microbiome composition in both elite athletes (n = 11) and the general population (n = 257). Results: Our two-phase study design, which included an open-label study followed by a controlled longitudinal study in a professional soccer team, allowed us to identify key interactions between probiotics, the gut microbiome, and the host. In the placebo-controlled study, we observed significant improvements in self-reported sleep quality by 69%, energy levels by 31%, and bowel movements by 37% after probiotic intervention relative to after placebo. These improvements were associated with a significant decrease in D-ROMS (a marker of oxidative stress) and a significantly higher free-testosterone/cortisol ratio. Multi-omics analyses revealed specific changes in microbiome composition and function, potentially providing mechanistic insights into these observed effects. Conclusion: This study provides novel insights into how a multi-strain Lactobacillus probiotic modulates sleep quality, exercise recovery, and gut microbiome composition in both the general population and elite athletes, and introduces potential mechanisms through which this probiotic could be influencing overall health. Our results emphasize the untapped potential of tailored probiotic interventions derived from extremely fit and healthy individuals in improving several aspects of health and performance directly in humans. 7acX3x-ZJN7KWMrJbRbZzQ Video Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermoregulating ectotherms may resort to different external heat sources to modulate their body temperature through an array of behavioural and physiological adaptations which modulate heat exchange with the environment and its distribution across the animal's body. Even small-bodied animals are capable of fine control over such rates and the subsequent re-allocation of heat across the body. Such thermal exchanges with the environment usually happen through two non-mutually exclusive modes: heliothermy (radiant heat gain from the sun) or thigmothermy (heat gained or lost via conduction). Classically, the study of these phenomena has relied on invasive methodologies which often disregard the effect of stress, behaviour and regional heterothermy on the rates and patterns of thermal exchange across the body of the animal. This study proposes a novel experimental methodology, capitalising on thermography, to provide an alternative method to less invasively obtain reliable body temperatures of thermoregulating ectotherms, while allowing behaviour and heating mode to be considered when quantifying thermal exchange rates. This methodology was tested in the gecko Tarentola mauritanica, where twenty males were allowed to heat up and cool down under a novel experimental set-up which isolates heliothermic and thigmothermic processes, while being recorded with a thermal camera. The study revealed differences in the heating and cooling rates of several body parts per treatment suggesting that thermal exchanges are complex even in small ectotherms. Ultimately, the described set-up provides the opportunity to revisit classical questions with a less invasive and more flexible experimental approach, enabling heliothermic and thigmothermic processes to be disentangled. The described methodology also better integrates behaviour and physiology while obtaining higher temporal and spatial resolution of body temperatures in a thermoregulating ectotherm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes 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.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes 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.)

The paper considers the concept of efficient liquid hydrogen (LH2) refuelling at hydrogen refuelling stations (HRS), presents modelling approach and 3D transient CFD simulation results. The concept is based on the advantages of transforming hydrogen from equilibrium to a non-equilibrium sub-cooled state (sLH2) during compression at pump. The modelling approach comprises a thermodynamic model of LH2 transfer from the HRS tank to the pump exit and a two-phase CFD model from the pump exit through the HRS equipment, i.e. pipes with bends, automatic valve, breakaway, nozzle, and manifold to onboard storage tanks. Due to the absence of published experimental data, the modelling approach and simulations are verified against conceptual LH2 refuelling process available in the literature. The CFD model reproduces key LH2 refuelling parameters: flow rate, pressure, temperature dynamics, including non-uniform temperature in onboard tanks and predicts pipe cooldown from 88K to allowable temperatures corridor of 23.9–26.5 K. [Display omitted] • The modelling approach of LH2 refuelling through HRS equipment is presented. • The thermodynamic model of LH2 transfer from HRS storage to pump exit is described. • The CFD model for LH2 refuelling from the pump exit to onboard storage is developed. • The CFD model encompasses all HRS components downstream of the pump. • The simulations are verified against the conceptual LH2 refuelling process dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. De Marco, K, Goods, PSR, Baldwin, KM, Hiscock, DJ, and Scott, BR. Resistance training prescription during planned deloading periods: A survey of strength and conditioning coaches across varying sporting codes. J Strength Cond Res 38(12): 2099–2106, 2024—The aim of this study was to investigate the resistance training (RT) prescription practices of strength and conditioning coaches throughout 4 common planned deloading periods (taper, competitive season, tournament, and travel). An anonymous online survey was shared globally to coaches, with data from 204 subjects included in analysis (current level of athlete coached: world class n = 68, elite/international n = 62, highly trained n = 64, trained n = 10). Coaches only provided answers about prescription for deloading periods, which they reported encountering. Where a coach indicated not prescribing RT for specific deloading periods, they detailed any barriers preventing RT prescription. Weekly deload RT prescription was typically reported as follows: 1–2 sessions, 30–60 minutes, 1–3 sets, 1–6 repetitions, and between 60 and 84% 1 repetition maximum. Most coaches reported decreasing volume during all deloading periods (taper: 89.1% [163/183 respondents], competitive season: 70.4% [133/189], tournament: 84.1% [74/88], travel: 74.6% [88/118]), with the most common reduction in RT volume reported as 0–25%. Most coaches also decreased intensity during a taper (52.9% [82/155]), tournament (54.8% [40/73]), and travel (53.6% [52/97]), with a 0–25% reduction the most common. Travel had the highest incidence of coaches not prescribing RT (38.5% [75/195]). The most cited barriers by these subjects were "scheduling/time" (60.0% [45/75]) and "lack of equipment and facilities" (57.3% [43/75]), which were also common in other periods. To address common barriers experienced by coaches, researchers should investigate time-efficient RT strategies requiring minimal equipment for periods of planned deloading to maintain training stimulus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. Grammenou, M, Kendall, KL, Wilson, CJ, Porter, T, Laws, SM, and Haff, GG. Effect of fitness level on time course of recovery after acute strength and high-intensity interval training. J Strength Cond Res 38(12): 2055–2064, 2024—The aim was to investigate time course of recovery after acute bouts of strength (STR) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). A secondary goal was to assess the influence of total fitness score (TFS), composed of handgrip strength and maximum aerobic power on recovery. Twenty-eight resistance-trained individuals completed 8 testing sessions within a 14- to 17-day period. Subjects performed a testing battery comprising isometric midthigh pull (IMTP), countermovement jump (CMJ), and a modified Wingate test (WINmod) at baseline, immediately after exercise, as well as at 6 and 24 hours after the training sessions. A one-way ANOVA was performed to examine time changes after the training sessions. Subjects were then grouped based on their TFS in high, medium, and low groups. To examine the influence of TFS on time course of recovery, we performed a linear mixed-effects model. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Both training sessions resulted in a significant reduction in peak force (PF) that persisted for up to 6 (p < 0.05) and 24 hours (p < 0.001). The STR session showed immediate and 24-hour postexercise declines in jump height and reactive strength index modified (RSImod) compared with baseline. The low TFS group exhibited a significant RSImod reduction immediately after HIIT (p < 0.001), compared with the medium TFS group (p = 0.0002). In the STR session, the high TFS group displayed an increased eccentric displacement during CMJ 24 hours after exercise compared with baseline (p = 0.033). Overall, subjects with high TFS may be able to recover CMJ performance at the same rate as other TFS groups, despite performing more work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the effects of manual therapy combined with dry needling (MTDN) to a control group, focusing on the impact on pressure pain threshold (PPT), muscle tone (MT), muscle stiffness (MS), muscle strength, and range of motion in the neck muscles of adult combat sports athletes. A randomized controlled study design was employed, with one group of athletes (n = 15) receiving MTDN intervention, while the other group (n = 15) underwent a control treatment (CG) involving a quasi-needle technique combined with manual therapy. Both groups participated in three sessions, either in the MTDN intervention or the control condition. All athletes, who were experiencing neck pain, were evaluated at rest, after one session, after three sessions, and again 72 hours after the third session. Muscle tone (MT) and muscle stiffness (MS) were measured using myotonometry, pressure pain threshold (PPT) was assessed with an algesiometer, muscle strength was evaluated using a handheld dynamometer, and range of motion was measured with an electronic goniometer. Group comparisons revealed significantly higher MT in CG compared to MTDN after the 3rd session (p < 0.001; d = 1.50). Additionally, CG showed significantly greater MS than MTDN after the 3rd session (p < 0.001; d = 1.75) and at 72 hours post-session (p < 0.001; d = 2.45). Conversely, MTDN exhibited significantly greater PPT than CG at 72 hours post-session (p < 0.001; d = 1.80). Our results suggest that MTDN is significantly more effective in improving muscle tone, stiffness, and acute pain compared to manual therapy alone. However, no significant impact was observed on maximal strength or neck range of motion. A combined approach may offer benefits by more rapidly reducing neck pain and better preparing muscle properties for future activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplementary high-intensity interval training (HIIT) programs, focusing on different aspects of fitness, are commonly used in soccer practice. This study examined the impact of two different HIIT formats applied during the competitive season on aerobic and neuromuscular performance. Twenty-six young players from two youth amateur soccer teams (aged 18.1 ± 0.7 and 18.7 ± 1.1 years) participated. In a randomized design, Team A served as an experimental group, performing either a 10s/10s linear running HIIT or a 15s/15s HIIT with changes of direction, both at 100% of maximum aerobic speed, twice per week for six weeks. In that period, team B acted as a control group, maintaining their usual training soccer regimen. Following two weeks of lower volume and frequency training, team B added the two HIIT formats in their training for six weeks, while team A acted as control. Before and after each 6-weeks period, aerobic fitness and neuromuscular performance was evaluated by the countermovement jump (CMJ). The 3-way ANOVA showed that both HIIT formats significantly enhanced Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (Yo-YO IR1) performance compared to the respective control periods. However, the main finding was that the 10s/10s compared with the 15s/15s HIIT format induced 45 - 50% greater improvements in Yo-YO IR1 (total distance: 18.5 ± 11.7% vs. 9.0 ± 8.5%, VO2max: 5.6 ± 3.2% vs. 3.0 ± 2.7%, and vVO2max: (3.3 ± 1.9% vs. 1.8 ± 1.7%, all p = 0.39, d = 0.85). Countermovement jump performance remained unchanged across both groups (p > 0.68). During HIIT rating of perceived exertion was higher in the 15s/15s vs. the 10s/10s format (6.4 ± 0.5 vs. 4.7 ± 1.2 a.u., p < 0.001). These findings suggest that while both HIIT formats effectively enhance aerobic performance during the season, the 10s/10s format offers superior benefits with less perceived exertion, while the 15s/15s format induces higher internal load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated inflammatory disease that primarily targets the myelin of axons. Extremities are frequently affected, resulting in a negative impact on both activities of daily living (ADL) and quality of life. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the potential benefits of exercise and blood flow restriction training (BFRT) programs as a therapeutic tool in people with neurological disorders. The aim of the present systematic review was to know the clinical effects of BFRT programs in people with MS. Methods: A systematically comprehensive literature search was conducted and registered in PROSPERO prior to its execution under the reference number CRD42024588963. The following data sources were used: Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science (WOS) and the Cochrane Library. The following data were extracted from the papers: study design, sample, interventions, dosage, outcome measures and results. To assess the methodological quality of the papers included, the Quality Index of Downs and Black was used. Additionally, the articles were classified according to the levels of evidence and grades of recommendation for diagnosis studies established by the Oxford Center for Evidence-Based Medicine. Also, the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions was used by two independent reviewers to assess risk of bias, assessing the six different domains. Results: Seven articles with a total of 71 participants were included in the review. Of the seven articles, five papers studied the effectiveness of BFRT combined with strengthening exercises and two papers studied the effect of BFRT combined with aerobic exercise. Of the five articles that analyzed BFRT combined with strengthening exercises, only two presented a control group. Both performed a low-load resistance training in combination with BFRT with four series, 30/15/15/15 repetitions and a rest of 1 min between the series and 3 min between the exercises. The control groups to which they were compared performed a high intensity strengthening exercise protocol which had the same exercises, sets, rests and duration of the protocol as the experimental groups. For those two papers which investigated the effects of BFRT combined with aerobic training, exercise was performed in two sessions per week for a period of 8 and 6 weeks, respectively. In both studies, the experimental protocol began with a warm-up phase and ended with a cool-down phase, and there were differences in cuff management. All these investigations found positive effects in the interventions that combined exercise with BFRT. The characteristics, outcome measures, effects of the interventions and the assessment of the methodological quality of the included studies and risk of bias are shown in the tables. Conclusions: BFRT in people with MS appears to be effective and safe for people with MS. BFRT might show positive clinical effects on strength, hypertrophy and balance outcomes. Nevertheless, future research should be conducted with better methodological quality to ensure the potential benefits of BFRT in people with MS since the studies analyzed present a high risk of bias and methodological limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The present study aims to evaluate the effects of intermittent sequential pneumatic compression (ISPC) in the short-term recovery of a repeated sprint interval exercise, including the assessment of power output performance, hematocrit, legs water, and perceptual recovery. Methods: A randomized, counterbalanced, crossover design was conducted. Sixteen healthy trained individuals (F=7, M=9; 27.7 ± 9.4 years; BMI 22.3 ± 2.9) performed two trials of a cycling fatiguing exercise, followed by a recovery phase (ISPC or Sham), and a subsequent performance assessment exercise to evaluate the effects of ISPC in post-exercise recovery. Results: There were no significant differences in cycling performance comparing both recovery modes. However, the decrease in the hematocrit levels after the recovery phase was less exacerbated in the ISPC condition compared to Sham (44.03 ± 1.33 vs. 42.38 ± 1.33 %; p = 0.047; d = 0.310). Likewise, the total quality recovery (TQR) was higher after the recovery in the ISPC condition (15.94 ± 0.16 vs. 14.75 ± 0.12 points; p = 0.045; d = 2.125), although no differences were shown previously in power output performance (371.8 ± 22.2 [46.5] vs. 372.4 ± 21.8 [47.2] W; p = 0.986) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) (17.69 ± 0.41 vs. 17.56 ± 0.31; p = 0.700). Conclusions: Contrary to our hypothesis, the application of intermittent sequential pneumatic compression after high-intensity exercise reduces the post-exercise hemodilution response and increases perceptual recovery. However, power output was similar between conditions, challenging the effectiveness of this recovery method in a short-term intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study compared the magnitude of excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) between kettlebell complexes (KC) and high-intensity functional training (HIFT) and identified predictors of the EPOC response. Methods: Active men (n = 11) and women (n = 10) (age 25 ± 6 yr) initially completed testing of resting energy expenditure and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), followed by lower and upper-body muscle endurance testing. On two subsequent days separated by ≥ 48 h, participants completed KC requiring 6 sets of kettlebell exercises (pushups, deadlifts, goblet squats, rows, and swings) with 60 s recovery between sets, and HIFT requiring 6 sets of bodyweight exercises (mountain climbers, jump squats, pushups, and air squats) with 60 s recovery. During exercise, gas exchange data and blood lactate concentration (BLa) were acquired and post-exercise, EPOC was assessed for 60 min. Results: Results showed no difference in EPOC (10.7 ± 4.5 vs. 11.6 ± 2.7 L, p = 0.37), and VO2 and ventilation (VE) were significantly elevated for 30 and 60 min post-exercise in response to KC and HIFT. For KC and HIFT, HRmean and post-exercise BLa (R2 = 0.37) and post-exercise BLa and VE (R2 = 0.52) explained the greatest shared variance of EPOC. Conclusion: KC and HIFT elicit similar EPOC and elevation in VO2 which is sustained for 30–60 min post-exercise, leading to 55 extra calories expended. Results show no association between aerobic fitness and EPOC, although significant associations were revealed for mean HR as well as post-exercise VE and BLa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Post-exercise passive heating has been reported to augment adaptations associated with endurance training. The current study evaluated the effect of a 4-week remotely administered, post-exercise passive leg heating protocol, using an electrically heated layering ensemble, on determinants of endurance performance. Methods: Thirty recreationally trained participants were randomly allocated to either a post-exercise passive leg heating (PAH, n = 16) or unsupervised training only control group (CON, n = 14). The PAH group wore the passive heating ensemble for 90–120 min/day, completing a total of 20 (16 post-exercise and 4 stand-alone leg heating) sessions across 4 weeks. Whole-body (peak oxygen uptake, gas exchange threshold, gross efficiency and pulmonary oxygen uptake kinetics), single-leg exercise (critical torque and NIRS-derived muscle oxygenation), resting vascular characteristics (flow-mediated dilation) and angiogenic blood measures (nitrate, vascular endothelial growth factor and hypoxia inducible factor 1−α) were recorded to characterize the endurance phenotype. All measures were assessed before (PRE), at 2 weeks (MID) and after (POST) the intervention. Results: There was no effect of the intervention on test of whole-body endurance capacity, vascular function or blood markers (p > 0.05). However, oxygen kinetics were adversely affected by PAH, denoted by a slowing of the phase II time constant; τ (p = 0.02). Furthermore, critical torque–deoxygenation ratio was improved in CON relative to PAH (p = 0.03). Conclusion: We have demonstrated that PAH had no ergogenic benefit but instead elicited some unfavourable effects on sub-maximal exercise characteristics in recreationally trained individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intense exercise training with insufficient recovery time is associated with reductions in neuromuscular performance. However, it is unclear how single muscle fibre mechanical function and myofibrillar Ca2+ sensitivity contribute to these impairments. We investigated the effects of overload training on joint-level neuromuscular performance and cellular-level mechanical function. Fourteen athletes (4 female and 10 male) underwent a 3-week intensified training protocol consisting of up to 150% of their regular training hours with three additional high-intensity training sessions per week. Neuromuscular performance of the knee extensors was assessed via maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) force, electrically evoked twitch contractions, and a force-frequency relationship. Muscle biopsies were taken from the vastus lateralis to assess single fibre mechanical function. Neither MVC force nor twitch parameters were altered following training (all p > 0.05), but a rightward shift in the force–frequency curve was observed with average reduction in force of 6%–27% across frequencies 5–20 Hz (all p < 0.05). In single fibres, maximal force output was not reduced following training, but there was a rightward shift in the force–pCa curve driven by a 6% reduction in Ca2+ sensitivity (p < 0.05). These data indicate intensified training leads to impaired Ca2+ sensitivity at the single fibre level, which in part explains impaired neuromuscular function at the joint level during lower frequencies of activation. This is an important consideration for athletes, as performance is often assessed at maximal levels of activation, and these underlying impairments in force generation may be less obvious. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbohydrate (CHO) and caffeine (CAF) mouth rinsing have been independently reported to benefit sport performance. The proposed mechanisms by which mouth rinsing CHO exerts an influence are reported to be different from those for mouth rinsing CAF. However, the potential ergogenic effects of combining CHO and CAF in a single mouth rinse solution, are unclear. This study aimed to review the available evidence of CHO–CAF combined mouth rinse on exercise and cognitive performance in human participants. A systematic literature search was conducted using five databases until April 2024, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations. Among the nine randomized crossover studies included, only one study showed significant improvements in lower-body muscular endurance with CHO–CAF mouth rinse (effect size (ES): 0.48; p < 0.05), while two studies reported non-statistically significant improvements in repeated sprint performance compared to other mouth rinse and placebo conditions (ES: 0.20–0.81; p = 0.07–0.18). However, for other performance measures, including repeated jumps, upper-body strength and endurance, endurance cycling, and intermittent recovery run, most evidence (five studies) did not demonstrate significant ergogenic effects. Notably, of the two studies that examined cognitive performance, both reported significant improvements with CHO–CAF mouth rinse compared with the placebo condition (ES: 0.45–3.45; p < 0.05). Overall, a synergistic influence of CHO–CAF mouth rinse on physical exercise performance is not evident, but preliminary evidence suggests potential benefits on cognitive performance. Future studies are required to address various methodological issues identified in this review, while practitioners and athletes should exercise caution when considering this novel nutritional strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whilst cold therapies such as cold-water immersion are regularly used in practice, the practical application does not always align with best practices. In this commentary, we highlight the key components of the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES) Expert Statement on the use of cooling therapies for post-exercise recovery and provide additional discussion on the empirical evidence and rationale that informed our perspective. We developed a series of specific questions to ensure that cold therapy recovery protocols are context-specific and tailored to the needs of the individual athletes. These questions, which cover the WHEN, WHAT, and HOW of cold therapy, were central to the development of the Expert Statement. This was presented as a decision tree to ensure that key messages could be concisely disseminated across a range of sporting environments and populations (e.g., gyms, locker rooms, and treatment rooms), supporting and informing decision-making for those wanting to use cold therapy to assist their recovery in line with previously published peer-reviewed work. Discussion points included the suitability of cooling therapies in some contexts, how athletes' choice of cooling mode should be largely driven by practicalities (e.g., budget and availability), and, lastly, future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a short-term passive post-exercise heat acclimation (HA) protocol on anaerobic performance in college students. Methods: In total, 28 participants (age 22.3 ± 2.1 years, height 168 ± 9.1 cm, mass 71.5 ± 16.6 kg) volunteered and were randomly divided into either an intervention (INT) or control (CON) group. Both groups followed a consecutive two-day protocol, consisting of a 25 min submaximal cycle @ 50–60% heart rate reserve (HRR), followed by a 25 min hot water immersion (INT) or nothing (CON). All participants performed a 30 s Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT) on four separate occasions—familiarization, pre-intervention, acutely post-intervention, and 24 h post intervention. The WAnT measured their peak power (W), relative peak power (W/kg), mean power (W), fatigue index (%), and total work (kJ). Results: From the results of the Factorial ANOVA, it was found that there were no significant differences, with no main effect for group (INT vs. CON) or time (Trials 1–4) and no significant interaction across all measured variables (p > 0.05). Conclusions: A two-day post-exercise passive HA protocol utilizing hot water immersion had no significant effect on the measurement of anaerobic performance in college students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In recent years, there has been significant advancement in the guidelines for recovery protocols involving heat or cold water immersion. However, comparison between the effects of hot and cold water immersion on key markers of neuromuscular recovery following exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) is lacking. Methods: Thirty physically active males completed an individualized and tailored EIMD protocol immediately followed by one of the following recovery interventions: cold water immersion (11°C, CWI11), hot water immersion (41°C, HWI41), or warm-bath control (36°C, CON36). Gastrointestinal temperature was tracked throughout HWI41. Knee extensors' maximal isokinetic strength (peak torque (T peak)) and explosive strength (late-phase rate of force development (RFD100–200)) were measured before EIMD (pre-), 24 h (post-24 h), and 48 h (post-48 h) post-EIMD. In addition, pressure pain threshold (PPT) was measured to quantify the recovery from muscle soreness. Surface electromyography signals (sEMG) from the vastus lateralis were captured to extract the rates of electromyography rise (REMGR) and the spectral power in the low-frequency band. Results: At post-48 h, T peak returned to baseline values following both CWI11 (−8.3% ± 6.8%, P = 0.079) and HWI41 (−1.4% ± 4.1%, P = 1). In contrast, RFD100–200 (−2.3% ± 29.3%, P = 1) and PPT (+5.6% ± 14.6%, P = 1) returned to baseline values at post-48 h only following HWI41. Spectral analysis of the sEMG signal revealed that the low-frequency band was significantly increased following CWI11 (+9.0% ± 0.52%, P = 0.012). REMGR was unchanged regardless of the condition (all P > 0.05). Conclusions: A single session of HWI41, rather than CWI11, improved the recovery of the late-phase rate of force development following EIMD in physically active males. This suggests that in athletic contexts where a rapid force development is a key performance determinant, hot bath should be preferred over cold bath. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Dysfunction of cardiac autonomic control (CAC) in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a predictor of cardiovascular disease mortality. The purpose of this study was to systematically review the literature on the effects of aerobic exercise training on CAC in people with T2DM. Methods: Electronic databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science) were systematically searched to retrieve relevant evidence from inception to April 2021. Studies investigating the effect of aerobic training on CAC assessed by heart rate variability, baroreflex sensitivity, and heart rate recovery were included in the review. Two authors independently assessed trial quality using the PEDro scale & extracted the following data: study design and participant characteristics, intervention protocol, outcome measures, & major findings of the study. Results: Ten studies enrolling 651 subjects met the eligibility criteria. Out of the 10 studies, only 4 were randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Eight out of ten studies showed a positive change in cardiac autonomic function. PEDro was used for quality and characteristic assessment which revealed fair-quality evidence. Six studies showed a high risk of bias according to the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Conclusion: Evidence from this systematic review suggests that aerobic training may positively influence CAC in people with T2DM. However, further large-scale, robust RCTs are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]