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Background: Spiroergometry is important for modern performance diagnostics, and reference values have been evaluated for bicycle and treadmill ergometers. The aim of this study is to assess the comparability of bicycle and hand-crank spiroergometry and its associated parameters, as hand-crank spiroergometry can be used during rehabilitation in patients with definitive or temporally impairment of the lower extremity. Methods: Thirty-seven healthy volunteers completed 2 exhausting performance diagnostics on hand-crank and bicycle spiroergometry. Participants' anthropometric characteristics, maximum power, multiple exertion criteria, maximum aerobic capacity, and maximum heart rate were detected, and ventilatory and metabolic thresholds were determined. Results: The maximum power, maximum heart rate, maximum aerobic capacity, and ventilatory thresholds were significant higher on the bicycle ergometer (P <.001). The metabolic thresholds occurred on higher lactate values on the hand-crank ergometer. Equations for calculating maximum aerobic capacity from the maximum power measured in either hand-crank or bicycle ergometer could be found through regression analysis. Conclusions: Although there are problems in interpreting results of different ergometries due to severe physiology differences, the equations can be used for patients who are temporally unable to complete the established ergometry due to a deficit in the lower extremity. This could improve training recommendations for patients and para-athletes in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine the utility of countermovement-jump and Keiser leg-press tests for tracking changes in elite athletes of different sports. Methods: Elite athletes of the Norwegian Olympic Federation (126 individuals from 18 sports) performed countermovement-jump and Keiser tests on 2 to 11 occasions between 2014 and 2021. Separate analyses were performed for male and female alpine skiing, male and female handball, male ice hockey, and males and females of other sports. Means and standard deviations of consecutive change scores were combined with short-term error of measurement (3.7%–7.0%) and smallest important changes (2.0%–3.6%, defined by standardization) to determine the proportions of athletes who experienced decisive changes in 2 senses: first, the athlete did not get substantially worse or better (>90% chance of either), and second, the athlete did get substantially worse or better (>90% chance of either). Results: Averaged over sports, Keiser peak power and relative peak power had the highest proportions of decisive changes in the first (60% and 55%) and second senses (25% and 28%). The velocity intercept of the force–velocity relationship had the lowest proportions in the first and second senses (29% and 11%), while jump height, Keiser mean power, relative mean power, the force intercept, and the slope of the force–velocity relationship had similar proportions (40%–53% and 15%–21%). Conclusions: With the possible exception of the Keiser test velocity intercept, the proportions of observed decisive changes in elite athletes using Keiser measures and countermovement-jump height between tests appear adequate for the measures to be useful for routine monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The present study aimed to investigate the effects of a single bout of resistance exercise on mitophagy in human skeletal muscle (SkM). Methods: Eight healthy men were recruited to complete an acute bout of one‐leg resistance exercise. SkM biopsies were obtained one hour after exercise in the resting leg (Rest‐leg) and the contracting leg (Ex‐leg). Mitophagy was assessed using protein‐related abundance, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and fluorescence microscopy. Results: Our results show that acute resistance exercise increased pro‐fission protein phosphorylation (DRP1Ser616) and decreased mitophagy markers such as PARKIN and BNIP3L/NIX protein abundance in the Ex‐leg. Additionally, mitochondrial complex IV decreased in the Ex‐leg when compared to the Rest‐leg. In the Ex‐leg, TEM and immunofluorescence images showed mitochondrial cristae abnormalities, a mitochondrial fission phenotype, and increased mitophagosome‐like structures in both subsarcolemmal and intermyofibrillar mitochondria. We also observed increased mitophagosome‐like structures on the subsarcolemmal cleft and mitochondria in the extracellular space of SkM in the Ex‐leg. We stimulated human primary myotubes with CCCP, which mimics mitophagy induction in the Ex‐leg, and found that BNIP3L/NIX protein abundance decreased independently of lysosomal degradation. Finally, in another human cohort, we found a negative association between BNIP3L/NIX protein abundance with both mitophagosome‐like structures and mitochondrial cristae density in the SkM. Conclusion: The findings suggest that a single bout of resistance exercise can initiate mitophagy, potentially involving mitochondrial ejection, in human skeletal muscle. BNIP3L/NIX is proposed as a sensitive marker for assessing mitophagy flux in SkM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic resistance exercise (RE) produces sinusoidal fluctuations in blood pressure with simultaneous fluctuations in middle cerebral artery blood velocity (MCAv). Some evidence indicates that RE may alter cerebrovascular function. This study aimed to examine the effects of habitual RE training on the within‐RE cerebrovascular responses. RE‐trained (n = 15, Female = 4) and healthy untrained individuals (n = 15, Female = 12) completed four sets of 10 paced repetitions (15 repetitions per minute) of unilateral leg extension exercise at 60% of predicted 1 repetition maximum. Beat‐to‐beat blood pressure, MCAv and end‐tidal carbon dioxide were measured throughout. Zenith, nadir and zenith‐to‐nadir difference in mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) and mean MCAv (MCAvmean) for each repetition were averaged across each set. Two‐way ANOVA was used to analyse dependent variables (training × sets), Bonferroni corrected t‐tests were used for post hoc pairwise comparisons. Group age (26 ± 7 trained vs. 25 ± 6 years untrained, P = 0.683) and weight (78 ± 15 vs. 71 ± 15 kg, P = 0.683) were not different. During exercise average MAP was greater for the RE‐trained group in sets 2, 3 and 4 (e.g., set 4: 101 ± 11 vs. 92 ± 7 mmHg for RE trained and untrained, respectively, post hoc tests all P = < 0.012). Zenith MAP and zenith‐to‐nadir MAP difference demonstrated a training effect (P < 0.039). Average MCAvmean and MCAvmean zenith‐to‐nadir difference was not different between groups (interaction effect P = 0.166 and P = 0.459, respectively). Despite RE‐trained individuals demonstrating greater fluctuations in MAP during RE compared to untrained, there were no differences in MCAvmean. Regular RE may lead to vascular adaptations that stabilise MCAv during RE. What is the central question of this study?Resistance exercise produces vascular adaptations within the central arteries: do these adaptations extend to the cerebral circulation? What are the effects of habitual resistance exercise training on the within‐resistance exercise cerebrovascular responses?What is the main finding and its importance?During dynamic resistance‐exercise, resistance‐trained individuals demonstrated greater mean arterial pressure, but mean middle cerebral artery blood velocity did not differ from untrained individuals, indicating improved cerebral blood flow regulation. These findings suggest that functional cerebrovascular adaptations may have occurred during repetitive exposure to fluctuations in blood pressure. [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.)

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.)

Background: There are a myriad of exercise variations in which upper body (UB) and lower body (LB) exercises have been intermittently used. However, it is still unclear how training of one body region (e.g. LB) affects adaptations in distant body areas (e.g. UB), and how different UB and LB exercise configurations could help facilitate physiological adaptations of either region; both referred to in this review as vertical strength transfer. Objective: We aimed to investigate the existence of the vertical strength transfer phenomenon as a response to various UB and LB exercise configurations and to identify potential mechanisms underpinning its occurrence. Methods: A systematic search using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) for Scoping Reviews protocol was conducted in February 2024 using four databases (Web of Science, MEDLINE, Scopus and CINAHL) to identify peer-reviewed articles that investigated the vertical strength transfer phenomenon. Results: Of the 5242 identified articles, 24 studies met the inclusion criteria. Findings suggest that the addition of UB strength training to LB endurance exercise may help preserve power-generating capacity for the leg muscle fibres. Furthermore, systemic endocrine responses to high-volume resistance exercise may beneficially modulate adaptations in precedingly or subsequently trained muscles from a different body region, augmenting their strength gains. Last, strength training for LB could result in improved strength of untrained UB, likely due to the increased central neural drive. Conclusions: Vertical strength transfer existence is enabled by neurophysiological mechanisms. Future research should involve athletic populations, examining the potential of vertical strength transfer to facilitate athletic performance and preserve strength in injured extremities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the influence of short‐ and long‐interval cycling exercise with blood flow restriction (BFR) on neuromuscular fatigue, shear stress and muscle oxygenation, potent stimuli to BFR‐training adaptations. During separate sessions, eight individuals performed short‐ (24 × 60 s/30 s; SI) or long‐interval (12 × 120 s/60 s; LI) trials on a cycle ergometer, matched for total work. One leg exercised with (BFR‐leg) and the other without (CTRL‐leg) BFR. Quadriceps fatigue was quantified using pre‐ to post‐interval changes in maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), potentiated twitch force (QT) and voluntary activation (VA). Shear rate was measured by Doppler ultrasound at cuff release post‐intervals. Vastus lateralis tissue oxygenation was measured by near‐infrared spectroscopy during exercise. Following the initial interval, significant (P < 0.05) declines in MVC and QT were found in both SI and LI, which were more pronounced in the BFR‐leg, and accounted for approximately two‐thirds of the total reduction at exercise termination. In the BFR‐leg, reductions in MVC (–28 ± 15%), QT (–42 ± 17%), and VA (–15 ± 17%) were maximal at exercise termination and persisted up to 8 min post‐exercise. Exercise‐induced muscle deoxygenation was greater (P < 0.001) in the BFR‐leg than CTRL‐leg and perceived pain was more in LI than SI (P < 0.014). Cuff release triggered a significant (P < 0.001) shear rate increase which was consistent across trials. Exercise‐induced neuromuscular fatigue in the BFR‐leg exceeded that in the CTRL‐leg and was predominantly of peripheral origin. BFR also resulted in diminished muscle oxygenation and elevated shear stress. Finally, short‐interval trials resulted in comparable neuromuscular and haemodynamic responses with reduced perceived pain compared to long‐intervals. What is the central question of this study?Does modifying exercise–rest durations during low‐intensity blood‐flow‐restricted (BFR) interval aerobic exercise modulate neuromuscular fatigue development, shear stress and muscle oxygenation?What is the main finding and its importance?BFR interval exercise resulted in significantly greater neuromuscular fatigue, predominantly of peripheral origin, compared to exercise with unrestricted blood flow. Furthermore, shorter BFR intervals elicited comparable neuromuscular and haemodynamic responses compared to longer intervals. These findings have important implications for developing optimized BFR training interventions and for future studies assessing whether these acute stimuli translate into enhanced physiological adaptations and subsequent improvements in performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusions Consequences of spinal cord injury (SCI) with a sedentary lifestyle will progress to muscle weakness and muscle atrophy, leading to muscle fatigue. This study aimed to determine the feasibility and preliminary effects of high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) using functional electrical stimulation (FES) cycling on changes in thigh muscle volume and muscle strength, in patients with incomplete SCI.Eight incomplete SCI patients (mean age 50 years; 6 women) with stable SCI paraplegia (mean 6.75 years since injury) participated in the HIIT FES cycling (85%–90% peak Watts; 4 × 4–min intervals) three times a week (over 6 weeks). The main outcomes were adherence, participant acceptability, and adverse events. Secondary outcomes were muscle strength (peak torque) and leg volume changes.Our findings revealed that the program was well‐received by participants, with high levels of adherence, positive feedback, and satisfaction, suggesting that it could be a promising option for individuals seeking to enhance their lower body strength and muscle mass. Additionally, all participants successfully completed the training without any serious adverse events, indicating that the program is safe for use. Finally, we found that the 6‐week HIIT FES leg cycling exercise program resulted in notable improvements in isometric peak torque of the quadriceps (range 13.9%–25.6%), hamstring muscle (18.2%–23.3%), and leg volume (1.7%–18.2%).This study highlights HIIT FES leg cycling exercise program potential as an effective intervention for improving lower limb muscle function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulin resistance is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, and exercise can improve insulin sensitivity. However, following exercise, high circulating fatty acid (FA) levels might counteract this. We hypothesized that such inhibition would be reduced by forcibly increasing carbohydrate oxidation through pharmacological activation of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC). Insulin-stimulated glucose uptake was examined with a crossover design in healthy young men (n = 8) in a previously exercised and a rested leg during a hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp 5 h after one-legged exercise with 1) infusion of saline, 2) infusion of intralipid imitating circulating FA levels during recovery from whole-body exercise, and 3) infusion of intralipid + oral PDC activator, dichloroacetate (DCA). Intralipid infusion reduced insulin-stimulated glucose uptake by 19% in the previously exercised leg, which was not observed in the contralateral rested leg. Interestingly, this effect of intralipid in the exercised leg was abolished by DCA, which increased muscle PDC activity (130%) and flux (acetylcarnitine 130%) and decreased inhibitory phosphorylation of PDC on Ser293 (∼40%) and Ser300 (∼80%). Novel insight is provided into the regulatory interaction between glucose and lipid metabolism during exercise recovery. Coupling exercise and PDC flux activation upregulated the capacity for both glucose transport (exercise) and oxidation (DCA), which seems necessary to fully stimulate insulin-stimulated glucose uptake during recovery. Article Highlights: Increased muscle insulin sensitivity following one-legged exercise is reduced by circulating fatty acid levels mimicking those observed in recovery from whole-body exercise. The fatty acid–induced inhibition of postexercise insulin action in muscle is alleviated by pharmacologically increasing PDC activation and flux to forcibly increase carbohydrate oxidation. Lipid infusion leading to fatty acid levels in the physiological range does not cause muscle insulin resistance in a rested leg. Muscle glucose uptake is linked to PDC activation state and flux during recovery from exercise in the presence of elevated plasma lipid availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Muscle cramps are a common and significant complication during haemodialysis, with a prevalence ranging from 35% to 86% among patients. These cramps can greatly impact the quality of life and overall well-being of those undergoing dialysis. Understanding the causes and exploring various treatment and prevention strategies is crucial for managing this condition effectively. Muscle cramps among haemodialysis patients, especially the elderly, can be effectively managed through various interventions. Intradialytic stretching exercises have shown significant promise in reducing cramp severity. Additional therapies like SCDs and acupressure further offer complementary benefits. By implementing these strategies, healthcare providers can enhance the quality of life for hemodialysis patients, ensuring better management of this common and troubling complication. Methodology: The study utilized a Quasi-Experimental Research Design, specifically a one-group pretest and posttest design. This design allows the researchers to measure changes in muscle cramp severity before and after the intervention (leg exercises) within the same group of participants. A Non-Probability Purposive Sampling Technique was employed. This method involves selecting subjects based on specific characteristics and relevance to the study, rather than random sampling. Patients undergoing haemodialysis from Selected government hospitals in Dehradun, Uttrakhand were included in the study Patients who were experiencing frequent muscle cramps during dialysis sessions In-Total 50 patients undergoing haemodialysis in the selected hospitals were included in the study. To assess the effectiveness of leg exercises on muscle cramps among haemodialysis patients, the following tools were used: Structured Questionnaire-Designed to gather demographic information and baseline data on the frequency and severity of muscle cramps. Cramp Severity Scale: A validated scale to quantify the severity of muscle cramps before and after the intervention. Data Collection Process Pre-Intervention Assessment: Demographic Data: Collected using the structured questionnaire. Baseline Cramp Severity; Measured using the cramp severity scale before the implementation of leg exercises .Intervention:-Leg Exercises: Patients performed specific leg exercises during their dialysis sessions over a period of one month. Exercises included ankle pumps, leg raises, quadriceps stretches, and hamstring stretches. Post-Intervention Assessment: Cramp Severity: Re-assessed using the same severity scale to measure the effectiveness of the intervention. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of leg exercises on muscle cramps among patients on haemodialysis in selected Government Hospitals. Conclusion: The study concluded that leg exercises are highly effective in reducing the frequency and severity of muscle cramps among haemodialysis patients. Implementing these exercises as part of the standard care protocol in dialysis units can greatly enhance patient comfort and overall well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) is a common procedure for patients with coronary artery disease. This study aimed to investigate the effect of selected physical exercises on the expression of FGF-2 and VEGF-A in patients post-CABG. Material & Methods: In this semi-experimental study, 20 male patients from Afshar Hospital (Yazd City) who had undergone CABG were selected and randomly divided into two groups: a combined training group and a control group. The combined training group performed an 8-week program consisting of endurance training (15-20 minutes at 50-60% of HRmax) and resistance training (10-20 minutes, including three upper limb and two lower limb movements, each with three sets of 10 repetitions at 3060% of 1RM), conducted three times per week. Gene expression of Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 (FGF-2) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (VEGF-A) was measured using Real-Time PCR. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and one-way ANOVA with a significance level set at P<0.05. Results: An increase in the expression of VEGF and FGF-2 genes was observed in the combined training group post-test compared to pre-test (p=0.019). Additionally, there was a significant difference in VEGF gene expression between the control and training groups (p=0.016). Significant differences were also found in FGF-2 expression between the combined exercise group and both the healthy control and patient control groups (p=0.001 for both). Conclusion: The results suggest that combined exercises may enhance physiological adaptations and improve the functional capacity of the heart and vessels in CABG patients by increasing growth factor expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increases in power output and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) occur in response to sprint interval exercise (SIE), but common use of "all-out" intensities presents a barrier for many adults. Furthermore, lower-body SIE is not feasible for all adults. We compared physiological and perceptual responses to supramaximal, but "non-all-out" SIE between leg and arm cycling exercise. Twenty-four active adults (mean ± SD age: [25 ± 7] y; cycling VO2max: [39 ± 7] mL•kg-1•min-1) performed incremental exercise using leg (LCE) and arm cycle ergometry (ACE) to determine VO2max and maximal work capacity (Wmax). Subsequently, they performed four 20 s bouts of SIE at 130% Wmax on the LCE or ACE at cadence = 120-130 rev/min, with 2 min recovery between intervals. Gas exchange data, heart rate (HR), blood lactate concentration (BLa), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and affective valence were acquired. Data showed significantly lower (p < 0.001) absolute mean ([1.24 ± 0.31] L•min-1 vs. [1.59 ± 0.34] L•min-1; d = 1.08) and peak VO2 ([1.79 ± 0.48] L•min-1 vs. [2.10 ± 0.44] L•min-1; d = 0.70) with ACE versus LCE. However, ACE elicited significantly higher (p < 0.001) relative mean ([62% ± 9%] VO2max vs. [57% ± 7%] VO2max, d ¼ 0.63) and peak VO2 ([88% ± 10%] VO2max vs. [75% ± 10%] VO2max, d = 1.33). Post-exercise BLa was significantly higher ([7.0 ± 1.7] mM vs. [5.7 ± 1.5] mM, p = 0.024, d = 0.83) for LCE versus ACE. There was no significant effect of modality on RPE or affective valence (p > 0.42), and lowest affective valence recorded (2.0 ± 1.8) was considered "good to fairly good". Data show that non "all-out" ACE elicits lower absolute but higher relative HR and VO2 compared to LCE. Less aversive perceptual responses could make this non-all-out modality feasible for inactive adults. [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.)

Velocity-based resistance training is a fundamental component of sports science, offering a systematic approach to investigating the load variables of resistance exercises. This research focused on assessing the load across various resistance exercises by examining the barbell velocity during the concentric phase. The study involved 11 male athletes representing the China badminton team, who underwent 1RM testing for bench press, hip thrust, back squat, and single leg press exercises and the maximum repetition testing at load intensities of 60%, 70%, 80%, and 90% of 1RM. Simultaneously, measurements were taken of the barbell's concentric phase velocity during each exercise. The findings revealed a robust negative correlation between barbell velocity and load intensity. Furthermore, exercises engaging greater muscle strength displayed smoother fitting curves. Analysis of velocity loss rates indicated that the hip thrust exhibited a higher completion percentage compared to the back squat and the bench press. Similarly, the non-dominant leg press showed a higher completion percentage than the dominant leg press. The study emphasizes the significance of delineating barbell velocity distributions in resistance training involving large muscle groups, as well as the accurate determination of load intensity. Precise load determination can be facilitated by employing fitting curves derived from distinct movement patterns and varying load intensities. The utilization of velocity data offers a quantifiable approach to achieving targeted training outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the combination of video-based kinematic variables adjusted by intrinsic covariates to predict the relative eccentric force (RelF) during the Nordic curl. The participants (n = 21) performed Nordic curls (3 trials; 3-min rest) on a device measuring the eccentric force. The peaks were normalized by body weight. Kinovea software was used to track angular and linear velocity and acceleration from recorded videos. Two prediction models with multiple linear regression equations associated kinematic, anthropometric, and age variables to adjust the actual RelF. The equations obtained the predicted RelF. The actual RelF was inversely correlated with height (r = −.52), tangential (r = −.50) and centripetal accelerations (r = −.715), and angular velocity (r = −.70). The best prediction models combined angular velocity with age (F2,18 = 15.1, P =.001, r =.792, r2 =.627) and with height (F2,18 = 14.5, P =.001, r =.785, r2 =.616). No differences were observed between actual and predicted values (P =.993−.994), with good levels of agreement and consistency (intraclass correlation coefficient =.77−.78; Cronbach α =.86−.87). Bland–Altman results showed high levels of agreement and low biases. The standard error of measurement and minimal detectable change ranges were 0.46 to 0.49 N/kg and 1.28 to 1.36 N/kg, respectively. Also, the percentage of standard error of measurement was below 10% (7.92%–8.35%). The coefficient of variation analysis returned a 14.54% and 15.13% for each model, respectively. Kinematic analysis offers portability and low cost to current expensive or technical impaired dynamometry-based techniques to assess the RelF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When locomoting bipedally at higher speeds, macaques preferred unilateral skipping (galloping). The same skipping pattern was maintained while hurdling across two low obstacles at the distance of a stride within our experimental track. The present study investigated leg and trunk joint rotations and leg joint moments, with the aim of clarifying the differential leg and trunk operation during skipping in bipedal macaques. Especially at the hip, the range of joint rotation and extension at lift off was larger in the leading than in the trailing leg. The flexing knee absorbed energy and the extending ankle generated work during each step. The trunk showed only minor deviations from symmetry. Hurdling amplified the differences and notably resulted in a quasi‐elastic use of the leading knee and in an asymmetric operation of the trunk. Highlights: Macaques trained for bipedal locomotion liked to skip. With a single double support and a flight phase during a stride skipping represents a gait between walking and running. Skipping enforced differential operation of the trailing and leading leg, respectively. Thereby, a quasi‐elastic behavior of the whole leg is organized without a quasi‐elastic operation of the knee. However, when the macaques skipped across hurdles, a strong rebound was observed in the leading leg. While hurdling, the asymmetric operation of the trunk segments supported the differential operation of the legs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the acute effects of lower body resistance exercise on brachial flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (PWV). This study included 22 untrained male subjects 18 and 25 years of age. The participants engaged in a single bout of resistance exercise with leg extensions at 70% of the one-repetition maximum, 10 repetitions per set for 5 sets with a 1-minute rest per set. FMD and PWV were measured immediately at intervals of 10, 15, 30, and 60 minutes. The results demonstrated no significant change in FMD, PWV, diatolic blood pressure, or mean arterial pressure (P>0.05). Only an increment in systolic blood pressure was observed immediately after exercise (P<0.05). In conclusion, the results of this study showed that a single bout of lower body resistance exercise had no influence on the acute brachial FMD and PWV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine whether short‐term outcomes from exercise therapy and patient education for osteoarthritis (OA) are associated with hip or knee replacement within two years. Methods: Individual‐level data from the Good Life with osteoArthritis in Denmark (GLA:D) Registry were linked to the Danish National Patient Registry and other national registries. Cox proportional hazards models were used to investigate associations between program outcomes (baseline to three‐month changes) and time to primary hip or knee replacement. Patients who did not receive joint replacement were censored at two years, time of death, or emigration. Results: A total of 2,304 and 7,035 patients with clinically diagnosed hip and knee OA, respectively, were included. Of these, 30% with hip OA and 10% with knee OA had joint replacement within two years. Postprogram improvements in hip‐related quality of life and arthritis self‐efficacy (pain subscale) were associated with a reduced hazard of hip replacement (adjusted hazard ratios [HRs] for a 10‐unit improvement: 0.74 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.69–0.80] and 0.90 [95% CI 0.85–0.96], respectively). Improvements in knee pain, knee‐related quality of life, and arthritis self‐efficacy (pain subscale) were associated with a lower hazard of knee replacement (adjusted HRs for 10‐unit improvement: 0.81 [95% CI 0.76–0.86] to 0.90 [95% CI 0.86–0.95], 0.70 [95% CI 0.63–0.78] to 0.79 [95% CI 0.72–0.86], and 0.89 [95% CI 0.83–0.94], respectively). Conclusion: The magnitude of improvement in key measures after exercise therapy and education was significantly associated with the likelihood of surgery. Progression to hip replacement was three times higher than progression to knee replacement. This information can guide patient–clinician conversations around anticipated program outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine if the intention to perform an exercise at speed leads to beneficial alterations in kinematic and kinetic components of the movement in people with post-stroke hemiplegia. Design: Comparative study. Setting: Subacute metropolitan rehabilitation hospital. Participants: Convenience sample of patients admitted as an inpatient or outpatient with a diagnosis of stroke with lower limb weakness, functional ambulation category score ≥3, and ability to walk ≥14metres. Methods: Participants performed a single leg squat exercise on their paretic and nonparetic legs on a leg sled under three conditions: 1) self-selected speed (SS), 2) fast speed (FS), 3) jump squat (JS). Measures of displacement, flight time, peak concentric velocity, and muscle excitation (via electromyography) were compared between legs and conditions. Results: Eleven participants (age: 56 ± 17 years; median time since stroke onset: 3.3 [IQR 3,41] months) were tested. All participants achieved a jump during the JS, as measured by displacement and flight time respectively, on both their paretic (0.25 ± 0.16 m and 0.42 ± 0.18 s) and nonparetic (0.49 ± 0.36 m and 0.73 ± 0.28 s) legs; however it was significantly lower on the non-paretic leg (p < 0.05). Peak concentric velocity increased concordantly with intended movement speed (JS-FS paretic: 0.96 m/s, non-paretic: 0.54 m/s; FS-SS paretic 0.69 m/s, nonparetic 0.38 m/s; JS-SS paretic 1.66 m/s, non-paretic 0.92 m/s). Similarly, muscle excitation increased significantly (p < 0.05) with faster speed for the paretic and nonparetic vastus lateralis. For gastrocnemius, the only significant difference was an increase during nonparetic JS vs. SS and FS. Conclusions: Speed affects the kinematic and kinetic components of the movement. Performing exercises ballistically may improve training outcomes for people post-stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physiotherapy plays a pivotal role in the treatment of neurological and musculoskeletal disorders. With significant advancements in mechatronics, orthotic devices have garnered interest across various sectors, including medicine and industry. Orthotic devices are external wearable machines powered by electric motors and can be applied to different body parts such as upper and lower limbs, heels, or toes, serving various purposes including rehabilitation, power assistance, diagnostics, monitoring, and ergonomics. However, existing wearable devices suffer from issues related to size, cost, and weight, being bulky, expensive, and heavy. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to design a portable, lightweight, and cost-effective rehabilitation system for individuals with a paralyzed leg, leveraging the Internet of Things (IoT). The proposed wearable device, utilizing a PIC microcontroller, aims to monitor and control the lower limb and toes. Additionally, the inclusion of accelerometer and electromyography (EMG) sensors enhances the functionality of the device, allowing for precise movement monitoring and muscle activity detection. By integrating IoT capabilities, users can perform specific movements and exercises tailored to train the patient's impaired leg remotely, gradually restoring its functionality. This paper bridges the gap between traditional rehabilitation methods and modern IoT-enabled technology, offering a versatile solution for individuals with paralyzed legs. The lightweight and portable nature of the device, coupled with its affordability, makes it accessible to a wider demographic, potentially revolutionizing the fields of physiotherapy and rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study validates real-time biofeedback for lumbopelvic control training in baseball. The lumbopelvic region is crucial for generating kinetic energy in pitching. Real-time biofeedback enhances training effectiveness and reduces injury risk. The validity and reliability of this system were examined. Purpose: This study was to investigate the validity and reliability of the real-time biofeedback system for lumbopelvic control training. Methods: Twelve baseball players participated in this study, with data collected in two sessions separated by a week. All participants needed to do the lateral slide exercise and single-leg squat exercise in each session. Pelvic angles detected by the real-time biofeedback system were compared to the three-dimensional motion capture system (VICON) during training sessions. Additionally, pelvic angles measured by the biofeedback system were compared between the two training sessions. Results: The real-time biofeedback system exhibited moderate to strong correlations with VICON in both exercises: lateral slide exercise (r = 0.66–0.88, p < 0.05) and single-leg squat exercise (r = 0.70–0.85, p < 0.05). Good to excellent reliability was observed between the first and second sessions for both exercises: lateral slide exercise (ICC = 0.76–0.97) and single-leg squat exercise (ICC = 0.79–0.90). Conclusions: The real-time biofeedback system for lumbopelvic control training, accurately providing the correct pelvic angle during training, could enhance training effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the acute hypoalgesic and neurophysiological responses to low‐load resistance exercise with and without blood flow restriction (BFR), and free‐flow, high‐load exercise. Participants performed four experimental conditions where they completed baseline measures of pain pressure threshold (PPT), maximum voluntary force (MVF) with peripheral nerve stimulation to determine central and peripheral fatigue. Corticospinal excitability (CSE), corticospinal inhibition and short interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) were estimated with transcranial magnetic stimulation. Participants then performed low‐load leg press exercise at 30% of one‐repetition maximum (LL); low‐load leg press with BFR at 40% (BFR40) or 80% (BFR80) of limb occlusion pressure; or high‐load leg press of four sets of 10 repetitions at 70% one‐repetition maximum (HL). Measurements were repeated at 5, 45 min and 24 h post‐exercise. There were no differences in CSE or SICI between conditions (all P > 0.05); however, corticospinal inhibition was reduced to a greater extent (11%–14%) in all low‐load conditions compared to HL (P < 0.005). PPTs were 12%–16% greater at 5 min post‐exercise in BFR40, BFR80 and HL compared to LL (P ≤ 0.016). Neuromuscular fatigue displayed no clear difference in the magnitude or time course between conditions (all P > 0.05). In summary, low‐load BFR resistance exercise does not induce different acute neurophysiological responses to low‐load, free‐flow exercise but it does promote a greater degree of hypoalgesia and reduces corticospinal inhibition more than high‐load exercise, making it a useful rehabilitation tool. The changes in neurophysiology following exercise were not related to changes in PPT. What is the central question of this study?Does low‐load, blood flow restricted, resistance exercise promote greater hypoalgesic and neurophysiological changes in the 24 h period post‐exercise, in comparison to high‐load resistance exercise?What is the main finding and its importance?Blood flow restriction exercise augments hypoalgesia compared to free‐flow, low‐load exercise and induces similar hypoalgesia to high‐load exercise, but does not result in any different alterations to corticospinal excitability or inhibition. However, corticospinal inhibition was reduced to a greater extent with low‐load exercise, compared to high‐load exercise. Therefore, low‐load BFR resistance exercise is a suitable method for exercise rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endothelial dysfunction develops with age and may precede cardiovascular disease. Animal data suggest that T‐type calcium channels play an important role in endothelial function, but data from humans are lacking. This study included 15 healthy, sedentary, elderly males for a double blinded, randomized controlled trial. For 8 weeks, they were given 40 mg/day of either efonidipine (L‐ and T‐type calcium channel blocker (CCB)) or nifedipine (L‐type CCB). Vascular function was evaluated by graded femoral arterial infusions of acetylcholine (ACh; endothelium‐dependent vasodilator) and sodium nitroprusside (endothelium‐independent vasodilator) both with and without co‐infusion of N‐acetylcysteine (NAC; antioxidant). We measured leg blood flow and mean arterial pressure and calculated leg vascular conductance to evaluate the leg vascular responses. Despite no significant change in blood pressure in either group, we observed higher leg blood flow responses (Δ 0.43 ± 0.45 l/min, P = 0.006) and leg vascular conductance (Δ 5.38 ± 5.67 ml/min/mmHg, P = 0.005) to intra‐arterial ACh after efonidipine, whereas there was no change in the nifedipine group, and no differences between groups. We found no upregulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase in vastus lateralis muscle biopsies within or between groups. Smooth muscle cell responsiveness was unaltered by efonidipine or nifedipine. Intravenous co‐infusion of NAC did not affect endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation in either of the CCB groups. These results suggest that 8 weeks' inhibition of T‐ and L‐type calcium channels augments endothelium‐dependent vasodilatory function in healthy elderly males. Further studies are required to elucidate if T‐type calcium channel inhibition can counteract endothelial dysfunction. What is the central question of this study?Does T‐type calcium channel inhibition prevent age‐related endothelium dysfunction in humans?What is the main finding and its importance?Eight weeks of L+T‐type calcium channel blockade (CCB) increased endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation in the leg of otherwise healthy elderly males, while 8 weeks of L‐type CCB only did not. Thus, T‐type calcium channels may be involved in endothelium dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Review summarizes current best practices for risk stratification, clinical assessment, and selection of risk reduction interventions for falls in community-dwelling older adults. Importance: Falls are reported by more than 14 million US adults aged 65 years or older annually and can result in substantial morbidity, mortality, and health care expenditures. Observations: Falls result from age-related physiologic changes compounded by multiple intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors. Major modifiable risk factors among community-dwelling older adults include gait and balance disorders, orthostatic hypotension, sensory impairment, medications, and environmental hazards. Guidelines recommend that individuals who report a fall in the prior year, have concerns about falling, or have gait speed less than 0.8 to 1 m/s should receive fall prevention interventions. In a meta-analysis of 59 randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in average-risk to high-risk populations, exercise interventions to reduce falls were associated with 655 falls per 1000 patient-years in intervention groups vs 850 falls per 1000 patient-years in nonexercise control groups (rate ratio [RR] for falls, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.71-0.83; risk ratio for number of people who fall, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.81-0.89; risk difference, 7.2%; 95% CI, 5.2%-9.1%), with most trials assessing balance and functional exercises. In a meta-analysis of 43 RCTs of interventions that systematically assessed and addressed multiple risk factors among individuals at high risk, multifactorial interventions were associated with 1784 falls per 1000 patient-years in intervention groups vs 2317 falls per 1000 patient-years in control groups (RR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.67-0.87) without a significant difference in the number of individuals who fell. Other interventions associated with decreased falls in meta-analysis of RCTs and quasi-randomized trials include surgery to remove cataracts (8 studies with 1834 patients; risk ratio [RR], 0.68; 95% CI, 0.48-0.96), multicomponent podiatry interventions (3 studies with 1358 patients; RR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.61-0.99), and environmental modifications for individuals at high risk (12 studies with 5293 patients; RR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.61-0.91). Meta-analysis of RCTs of programs to stop medications associated with falls have not found a significant reduction, although deprescribing is a component of many successful multifactorial interventions. Conclusions and Relevance: More than 25% of older adults fall each year, and falls are the leading cause of injury-related death in persons aged 65 years or older. Functional exercises to improve leg strength and balance are recommended for fall prevention in average-risk to high-risk populations. Multifactorial risk reduction based on a systematic clinical assessment for modifiable risk factors may reduce fall rates among those at high risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Exercise produces an immediate lessening of pain sensitivity (Exercise-Induced Hypoalgesia (EIH)) in healthy individuals at local and distant sites, possibly through a shared mechanism with conditioned pain modulation (CPM). Dynamic resistance exercise is a recommended type of exercise to reduce pain, yet limited research has examined the effects of intensity on EIH during this type of exercise. Therefore, the primary purpose of this study is to compare changes in PPT at a local and distant site during a leg extension exercise at a high intensity, a low intensity, or a quiet rest condition. A secondary purpose is to examine if CPM changes after each intervention. The final purpose is to examine if baseline pain sensitivity measures are correlated with response to each intervention. Methods: In a randomized controlled trial of 60 healthy participants, participants completed baseline pain sensitivity testing (heat pain threshold, temporal summation, a cold pressor test as measure of CPM) and were randomly assigned to complete a knee extension exercise at: 1) high intensity (75% of a 1 Repetition Maximum (RM), 2) low intensity (30% 1RM), or 3) Quiet Rest. PPT was measured between each set at a local (quadriceps) and distant (trapezius) site during the intervention. CPM was then repeated after the intervention. To test the first purpose of the study, a three-way ANOVA examined for time x site x intervention interaction effects. To examine for changes in CPM by group, a mixed-model ANOVA was performed. Finally, a Pearson Correlation examined the association between baseline pain sensitivity and response to each intervention. Results: Time x site x intervention interaction effects were not significant (F(5.3, 150.97) = 0.87, p = 0.51, partial eta2 = 0.03). CPM did not significantly change after the interventions (time x intervention F(1,38) = 0.81, p = 0.37, partial eta2 = 0.02. EIH effects at the quadriceps displayed a significant, positive moderate association with baseline HPT applied over the trapezius (r = 0.61, p<0.01) and TS (r = 0.46, p = 0.04). Discussion: In healthy participants, PPT and CPM did not significantly differ after a leg extension exercise performed at a high intensity, low intensity, or quiet rest condition. It is possible pre-intervention CPM testing with a noxious stimuli may have impaired inhibitory effects frequently observed during exercise but future research would need to examine this hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to reduce the treatment cost required for the recovery of patients with nerve injury, a rehabilitation training robot based on single-degree-of-freedom eight-link leg mechanism is proposed. The robot imitates human gait by repeatedly and naturally moving the legs. Clinical cases show that this training can help patients to carry out targeted exercises, such as leg activity exercises, improving balance, physical training and so on. The motion cycle of the mechanism is matched with the generalized gait cycle in clinic. Then, based on the support phase and swing phase of the gait cycle, the mechanism is optimized by adjusting the link length through kinematic analysis. The theoretical calculation and virtual simulation are carried out by using SOLIDWORKS, MATLAB and ADAMS software, and the feasibility of the mechanism is verified. The conclusion of theory and simulation is that the design of this single-degree-of-freedom eight-link leg walking mechanism can provide a basis for low-cost rehabilitation training based on patients with spinal injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: It is a matter of curiosity what effect the blood flow restriction (BFR) method, which is usually combined with low-intensity resistance exercises, will have when used with high-intensity eccentric exercises. (2) Methods: The present study examined the effects of combining BFR with nordic hamstring exercises (NHEs) on hamstring muscle strength, bilateral deficit (BLD), and training volume. Thirty young female volleyball players, who trained three times a week, participated voluntarily in the study. These players were stratified into three groups, each comprising ten individuals: a control group (CG), an NHE group, and an NHE + BFR group. Hamstring muscle strength and BLD values were determined using an H-BORD device, while training volume was measured in terms of sets and repetitions. (3) Results: Statistical analysis revealed that there were no statistically significant differences in non-dominant and dominant leg peak torque parameters in the exercise groups (F = 2.65; p = 0.097; ηp2 = 0.17; F = 1.15; p = 0.0334; ηp2 = 0.084), while the total training volume was lower in the NHE + BFR group. (4) Conclusions: As a result, it was seen that adding the BFR method to NHE did not provide additional gains. However, due to the low training volume of BFR + NHE, it may be recommended to apply BFR together with NHE to athlete groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonoperative management of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) includes activity modification, medication, injections, and physical therapy. Conventional physical therapy includes a multimodal approach of exercise, manual therapy, and electro-thermal modalities. There is a paucity of evidence supporting the use of spinal manipulation and dry needling as an adjunct to conventional physical therapy in patients with LSS. This study aimed to determine the effects of adding thrust spinal manipulation and electrical dry needling to conventional physical therapy in patients with LSS. Randomized, single-blinded, multi-center, parallel-group clinical trial. One hundred twenty-eight (n=128) patients with LSS from 12 outpatient clinics in 8 states were recruited over a 34-month period. The primary outcomes included the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Secondary outcomes included the Roland Morris Disability Index (RMDI), Global Rating of Change (GROC), and medication intake. Follow-up assessments were taken at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months. Patients were randomized to receive either spinal manipulation, electrical dry needling, and conventional physical therapy (MEDNCPT group, n=65) or conventional physical therapy alone (CPT group, n=63). At 3 months, the MEDNCPT group experienced greater reductions in overall low back, buttock, and leg pain (NPRS: F=5.658; p=.002) and related-disability (ODI: F=9.921; p<.001; RMDI: F=7.263; p<.001) compared to the CPT group. Effect sizes were small at 2 and 6 weeks, and medium at 3 months for the NPRS, ODI, and RMDI. At 3 months, significantly (p=.003) more patients in the MEDNCPT group reported a successful outcome (GROC≥+5) than the CPT group. Patients with LSS who received electrical dry needling and spinal manipulation in addition to impairment-based exercise, manual therapy and electro-thermal modalities experienced greater improvements in low back, buttock and leg pain and related-disability than those receiving exercise, manual therapy, and electro-thermal modalities alone at 3 months, but not at the 2 or 6 week follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim/Background: Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) affects the lower limbs. Globally there is a growing disease burden among the patients suffering from cardio-vascular disease and metabolic disorders. The purpose of this review is to generate evidence on the efficacy of CAM therapies in PAD. Materials and Methods: This systematic review was performed across the five electronic databases i.e. PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Ovid SP, ISI Web of Science, Elsevier Science Direct, and Wiley Online Library as per the PRISMA guidelines from inception till April 2022. Results: After screening n=55,410 articles, n=77 articles were found to fulfill the eligibility criteria and were selected for this review. The nature of interventions investigated in the clinical trials were physical interventions including exercises of different forms, oral supplements, and other interventions such as chelation therapy, Tai Chi Chuan (TCC), Intermittent Mechanical Compression (IMC) device, connective tissue reflex massage, Remote Ischemic Preconditioning (RIC), Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and heat therapy. Upon final assessment, it was revealed that physical activity had a positive effect on peripheral arterial disease patients' quality of life. In addition, Ginkgo biloba and nitrate supplements were found effective for Intermittent Claudication (IC) and PAD patients. Conclusion: This review suggests a positive impact of physical activity on peripheral arterial disease patients' quality of life. Evidence also shows that Physical activity/exercise-based intervention alone or in combination with the supplement is found to be effective among PAD patients and has shown significant results in intermittent claudication. [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.)

(1) Background: Cardiac rehabilitation often emphasizes aerobic capacity while overlooking the importance of muscle strength. This study evaluated the impact of an enhanced remote strength training program (RCR-ST) on cardiac rehabilitation. (2) Methods: In this randomized prospective study (RCT registration number SMC-9080-22), 50 patients starting cardiac rehabilitation were assessed for muscle strength, aerobic capacity, and self-reported outcomes at baseline and after 16 weeks. Participants were divided into two groups: the RCR-ST group received a targeted resistance training program via a mobile app and smartwatch, while the control group received standard care with general resistance training advice. (3) Results: The RCR-ST group demonstrated significant improvements in muscle endurance, notably in leg extension and chest press exercises, with increases of 92% compared to 25% and 92% compared to 13% in the control group, respectively. Functional assessments (5-STS and TUG tests) also showed marked improvements in agility, coordination, and balance. Both groups improved in cardiorespiratory fitness, similarly. The RCR-ST group reported enhanced physical health and showed increased engagement, as evidenced by more frequent use of the mobile app and longer participation in the rehabilitation program (p < 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Incorporating a focused strength training regimen in remote cardiac rehabilitation significantly improves muscle endurance and patient engagement. The RCR-ST program presents a promising approach for optimizing patient outcomes by addressing a crucial gap in traditional rehabilitation protocols that primarily focus on aerobic training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pain neuroscience education (PNE) and graded exposure have not been explored in occupational settings for low back pain (LBP). To pilot feasibility and assess preliminary effectiveness of PNE and graded exposure for LBP. A pilot study where workers were randomized to either PNE and graded exposure or Pilates and postural education. Both interventions consisted of weekly individual face-to-face sessions for 8 weeks (a total of 8 sessions). The primary outcome was pain intensity. Secondary outcomes were disability, catastrophizing, fear-avoidance, sleep, endurance of back extensor muscles, and patient's perceived impression of change. Seventeen participants entered the PNE and graded exposure group and 20 the Pilates and postural education group. PNE and graded exposure were feasible to implement. Between-group comparisons suggest higher improvements in the PNE group for extensor muscle endurance (p <.001, η2p =.29), pain catastrophizing (p <.001; η2p =.56) and fear-avoidance related to physical activity (p <.001; η2p =.48) and work (p <.001; η2p =.47). In the PNE group, at least 13 (76.5%) participants reported being at least "moderately better" against 6 (30%) participants in the Pilates group. PNE and graded exposure can be successfully implemented in an occupational context and is potentially more beneficial than Pilates and postural education for extensor muscle endurance, catastrophizing, and fear avoidance and similarly as beneficial for pain intensity and disability. Further studies are needed to confirm these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this systematic review with meta-analysis is to methodically discern and compare the impact of diverse warm-up strategies, including both static and dynamic stretching, as well as post-activation potentiation techniques, on the immediate performance of gymnasts. Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, this paper evaluated studies that examined the gymnasts' performance after different warm-up strategies namely stretching (static [SS] or dynamic), vibration platforms (VP) or post-activation, in comparison to control conditions (e.g., mixed warm-up routines; no warm-up). The principal outcomes were centered on technical performance metrics (e.g., split, gymnastic jumps) and physical performance metrics (e.g., squat jump, countermovement jump, drop jump, balance, range of motion). Methodological assessments of the included studies were conducted using the Downs and Black Checklist. From the initial search across PubMed, Scopus, and the Web of Science databases, a total of 591 titles were retrieved, and 19 articles were ultimately incorporated in the analysis. The results revealed a non-significant differences (p > 0.05) between the SS condition and control conditions in squat jump performance, countermovement jump and gymnastic technical performance (e.g., split; split jump). Despite the difference in warm-up strategies and outcomes analyzed, the results suggest that there is no significant impairment of lower-limb power after SS. Additionally, technical elements dependent on flexibility appear to be enhanced by SS. Conversely, dynamic stretching and VP seem to be more effective for augmenting power-related and dynamic performance in gymnasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Study Aim As it is known, chronic resistance exercises cause limitations in some joints and this negatively affects the normal range of motion. In the present study, it was aimed to analyse the quadriceps-hamstring balance by analysing different vertical jump performances after six weeks of leg press exercise. Material and Methods Eleven university students aged between 18-30 years were included in this study. The hamstring muscle length, 1 repetition maximum (1-RM) leg press performance were analysed before and after six weeks of leg press exercise. In addition, the vertical jump performances of the participants were analysed with My Jump 2 software programme. In this study, counter movement jumps (CMJ) and squat jump (SJ) performances of the participants were determined. Results According to the findings, 1 repetition maximum (1-RM) leg press performance and hamstring length of the participants improved significantly (t=-7.609, ES: -2.29, p<.001; t=-2.540, -0.76, p=.029, respectively). CMJ and SJ parameters of the participants did not change (p<0.05). It was concluded that the lengthened hamstring length after the leg press exercise programme had a positive relationship with vertical jump height (r=0.656, p=0.028), flight duration (r=0.663, p=0.026), speed (r=0.657, p=0.028), and average speed (r=0.669, p=0.024). These relationships were observed among CMJ parameters following the exercise programme. Likewise, a positive correlation was found between hamstring length, which lengthened after the leg press exercise programme, and vertical jump height (r=0.625, p=0.040), flight duration (r=0.646, p=0.032), speed (r=0.646, p=0.032), and average speed (r=0.637, p=0.035). These correlations were identified among the SJ parameters after the exercise. Conclusions As a result, it was determined that chronic leg press exercises positively affected hamstring muscle length and muscle strength. Different vertical jump performances such as CMJ and SJ did not change. However, the relationship between hamstring length and vertical jump parameters is interesting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Studia Universitatis Babes-Bolyai, Educatio Artis Gymnasticae is the property of Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania 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.)

Muscle function is compromised by gravitational unloading in space affecting overall musculoskeletal health. Astronauts perform daily exercise programmes to mitigate these effects but knowing which muscles to target would optimise effectiveness. Accurate inflight assessment to inform exercise programmes is critical due to lack of technologies suitable for spaceflight. Changes in mechanical properties indicate muscle health status and can be measured rapidly and non-invasively using novel technology. A hand-held MyotonPRO device enabled monitoring of muscle health for the first time in spaceflight (> 180 days). Greater/maintained stiffness indicated countermeasures were effective. Tissue stiffness was preserved in the majority of muscles (neck, shoulder, back, thigh) but Tibialis Anterior (foot lever muscle) stiffness decreased inflight vs. preflight (p < 0.0001; mean difference 149 N/m) in all 12 crewmembers. The calf muscles showed opposing effects, Gastrocnemius increasing in stiffness Soleus decreasing. Selective stiffness decrements indicate lack of preservation despite daily inflight countermeasures. This calls for more targeted exercises for lower leg muscles with vital roles as ankle joint stabilizers and in gait. Muscle stiffness is a digital biomarker for risk monitoring during future planetary explorations (Moon, Mars), for healthcare management in challenging environments or clinical disorders in people on Earth, to enable effective tailored exercise programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this research is to examine the impact of eccentric training on hamstring flexibility and strength in young dancers during the concluding stages of their foundational dance training program. A total of 24 female, second-year dance students from Hebei Normal University were selected as participants. They were divided into three distinct groups: Nordic hamstring exercise and single-leg deadlift group (NHE&SLD), forward bending exercises and standing leg lift group (FBE&SLL), and a control group (CG). The study was designed around a 6-week training regimen. An isokinetic dynamometer was used to measure seated knee flexor–extensor strength, while electronic goniometry was employed to measure hamstring flexibility in the supine position. Paired sample t-tests were conducted within each group, and one-way analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was utilized for comparisons between groups. In the NHE&SLD group, significant disparities were observed in both concentric (T = − 5.687, P = 0.001) and eccentric (T = − 3.626, P = 0.008) hamstring strength pre and post-intervention. The pre-intervention dominant leg concentric strength test values significantly influenced the post-intervention outcomes (F = 5.313, P = 0.001, η2 = 0.840). Similarly, the pre-intervention dominant leg eccentric strength test values impacted the post-intervention results (F = 4.689, P = 0.043, η2 = 0.190). Following the intervention, the NHE&SLD group displayed marked changes in the active straight leg raising angle on both left (T = − 4.171, P = 0.004) and right (T = − 6.328, P = 0.001) sides. The FBE&SLL group also revealed significant changes in the active straight leg raising angle on both left (T = − 4.506, P = 0.003) and right (T = − 4.633, P = 0.002) sides following the intervention. The pre-intervention left leg concentric strength test value significantly influenced the post-intervention outcomes (F = 25.067, P = 0.001, η2 = 0.556). Likewise, the pre-intervention right leg eccentric strength test value significantly influenced the post-intervention results (F = 85.338, P = 0.01, η2 = 0.810). Eccentric training can better enhance the flexibility and strength of hamstring muscles in dance students. Traditional stretching training significantly improves the flexibility of the hamstring muscles. Eccentric training has more training benefits than traditional stretching training. It is recommended for dance students to use eccentric training when increasing hamstring flexibility and strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of wearable sensors for real-time monitoring of exercise-related measures has been extensively studied in recent years (e.g., performance enhancement, optimizing athlete's training, and preventing injuries). Surface electromyography (sEMG), which measures muscle activity, is a widely researched technology in exercise monitoring. However, due to their cumbersome nature, traditional sEMG electrodes are limited. In particular, facial EMG (fEMG) studies in physical training have been limited, with some scarce evidence suggesting that fEMG may be used to monitor exercise-related measurements. Altogether, sEMG recordings from facial muscles in the context of exercise have been examined relatively inadequately. In this feasibility study, we assessed the ability of a new wearable sEMG technology to measure facial muscle activity during exercise. Six young, healthy, and recreationally active participants (5 females), performed an incremental cycling exercise test until exhaustion, while facial sEMG and vastus lateralis (VL) EMG were measured. Facial sEMG signals from both natural expressions and voluntary smiles were successfully recorded. Stable recordings and high-resolution facial muscle activity mapping were achieved during different exercise intensities until exhaustion. Strong correlations were found between VL and multiple facial muscles' activity during voluntary smiles during exercise, with statistically significant coefficients ranging from 0.80 to 0.95 (p<0.05). This study demonstrates the feasibility of monitoring facial muscle activity during exercise, with potential implications for sports medicine and exercise physiology, particularly in monitoring exercise intensity and fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to analyse differences in acceleration and movement variability caused by adding whole-body vibration (WBV) and an implement (stick) while performing a slide-board (SB) skating exercise. A total of 10 professional ice-hockey players (age 20.4 ± 2.07 years) participated in the study. Participants performed 30 s of lateral sliding on a slide vibration board (SVB). Four conditions were analysed: no vibration and no stick (NVNS), no vibration with a stick (NVS), vibration without a stick (VNS) and vibration with a stick (VS). Peak acceleration, mean acceleration and movement variability (MV) were analysed in the dominant and non-dominant legs in each condition. Peak acceleration was higher in the non-dominant leg (p < 0.01). However, MV was higher in the dominant leg (p < 0.01). Regarding differences between conditions, mean acceleration was higher in VNS and VS than in NVS (p < 0.05). Regarding MV (sample entropy), there were differences in NVNS compared to VNS and VS (p < 0.01) and in NVS compared to VNS and VS (p < 0.01), with the values being superior in VNS and VS. The addition of WBV during an SB skating exercise results in an increase in MV and mean acceleration. The dominant leg shows greater MV regardless of the addition of vibration and a stick during sliding on an SVB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose was to quantify trunk and lower extremity biomechanics among back and front squats with a straight bar and four squats with different anterior-posterior load placements imposed by a transformer bar. Ten males and eight females performed six squat conditions: back and front squats with a straight bar, back and front squats with a transformer bar, and squats with more posteriorly or anteriorly placed loads with a transformer bar. A constant load of 70% of the participant's one-repetition maximum in the straight-bar front squat was used. Kinematic and kinetic data were collected to quantify joint biomechanics at an estimated parallel squat position in the descending and ascending phases. Squats with more anteriorly placed load significantly decreased trunk flexion and pelvis anterior tilt angles with large effect sizes but increased low-back extension moments with medium to large effect sizes. Hip, knee, and ankle extension moments were generally similar among most conditions. Participants adjusted their trunk and pelvis to mediate the effects of load placements on low-back and lower extremity moments. While lower extremity loading was similar among different squats, the different trunk and pelvis angles and low-back moments should be taken into consideration for people with low-back impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Restless legs syndrome is a prevalent, sensorimotor sleep disorder temporarily relieved by movement, with evidence of symptomatic improvement with regular exercise. The present study describes perceptions of the effects of exercise on symptoms of restless legs syndrome. Participants (N = 528) completed a mixed‐methods (i.e. numerical and narrative), nationwide survey including items assessing personal experiences with exercise and restless legs syndrome (both positive and negative), as well as restless legs syndrome diagnosis, restless legs syndrome severity, and demographic and clinical characteristics. Responses varied widely on specific experiences with exercise, but a higher percentage of participants indicated positive experiences with exercise than those who reported negative experiences (72%–40%, respectively) with exercise. Further, 54% of respondents reported that exercise only improves restless legs syndrome, while 24% reported exercise only worsens symptoms. Participants described that any abrupt change in exercise routine would almost always elicit restless legs syndrome symptoms (e.g. hiking for a long time, stopping an exercise routine), and that a consistent pattern of exercise improved restless legs syndrome symptoms with an overall beneficial effect on the frequency of symptomatic bouts. Participants further described time of day as impactful for their exercise experience, with > 50% indicating morning exercise improves symptoms and evening exercise worsens symptoms. Participants described several questions that they wanted answered regarding the evidence for exercise in restless legs syndrome and specific exercise prescription recommendations. The present study describes information crucial to the creation of stakeholder‐informed health promotion programs for individuals with restless legs syndrome to optimize personalized treatment plans that could prevent and manage symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: There are increasing scientific and technological ways to promote the recovery of muscle fatigue after sports, such as vibrating foam shaft, fascia gun relaxation, and ultra-low temperature cold therapy. Fascia gun relaxation has been widely used in practice, but there is still relatively little research on fascial guns. OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of three relaxation methods (fascia gun, stretching, fascia gun+stretching) on muscle status and muscle strength during the recovery of exercise-induced muscle fatigue, and to provide scientific basis for the application of the three methods in practice. METHODS: Forty college students were randomly divided into control group (n=10), stretching group (n=10), fascia gun group (n=10), and fascia gun+stretching group (n=10). All subjects completed leg flexion and extension training at 60%1 RM, 15 times per set, for 10 sets in total, to make exercise fatigue models. After modeling, the subjects were intervened with supine rest, static stretching, fascia gun relaxation, fascia gun+stretching relaxation respectively. Muscle status and muscle strength indexes were tested before exercise, immediately after exercise, immediately after relaxation, 24 and 48 hours after exercise. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The muscle tension and dynamic hardness of the control group and the stretching group immediately after relaxation were significantly higher than those before training (P < 0.01). However, there was no significant difference in the fascia gun group and fascia gun+stretching group before and after training (P > 0.05). At 24 hours after training, the peak torque of the control group and fascia gun group was significantly lower than that before training (P < 0.01), and there was no significant difference in the stretching group and fascia gun+stretching group before and 24 hours after training (P > 0.05). To conclude, the fascia gun can immediately and effectively improve the muscle state of sports fatigue and stretching can promote the effective recovery of muscle strength within 24 hours after sports fatigue. Relaxation using fascia gun plus stretching can achieve the superposition of the two effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The correct adjustment of leg length is a major goal in the implantation of total hip replacements (THRs). Differences in leg length can lead to functional impairment and patient dissatisfaction. By determining leg length at an early stage, before the patient is discharged from hospital, compensatory measures such as the production of special insoles or orthopaedic footwear can be initiated promptly if there is a difference in leg length. Due to shortening of the period of time spent in hospital, the traditional measurement of leg length in a standing position may be increasingly subject to error. A protective posture immediately after surgery or the presence of a twisted pelvis, for example, due to scoliotic spinal misalignments, falsifies the measurement result in the standing position. Here, the measurement of leg length in the supine position may prove to be accurate immediately postoperatively, regardless of potential sources of error, and is to be compared with measurement in the standing position versus radiological measurement on the AP pelvic survey. Material and methods: The present retrospective study included 190 patients who had undergone primary total hip arthroplasty. The leg length difference (LLD) of the patients was determined pre- and postoperatively both in the supine and standing position and compared with the postoperative radiological pelvic survey image. Results: Postoperatively, it was shown that the mean length measured was 0.35 mm too long in the supine position and 0.68 mm too short in the standing position (p value < 0.001). Determination of the average absolute measurement error produces a deviation of 4.06 mm in the standing and 4.51 mm in the supine position (p value 0.126). Conclusions: It is shown that the postoperative measurement of LLD in the supine and standing position is equally valid and sufficiently accurate, compared with the gold standard of measurement on a radiograph. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nordic hamstring curls (NHC) are a commonly used injury intervention method in amateur team sports. Seventeen elite male academy soccer players performed an 8-week low volume NHC programme. Pre-post intervention measures of isokinetic eccentric knee flexor (KF) strength, linear speed, COD performance, hamstring muscle thickness, pennation angle and fascicle length were recorded. No significant main effects were observed for measures of isokinetic KF strength (P ≥ 0.19), linear sprint speed (P ≥ 0.47) or hamstring muscle architecture (P ≥ 0.30). However, significance was noted for improved COD performance (P < 0.01; mean difference, −0.06, p = 0.001, 95% CI = 0.03 to 0.09; d = 0.80), exceeding the minimal detectable difference (MDD = 0.05 s). A low-volume NHC intervention may contribute to significant improvements in COD ability, independent of no significant changes in eccentric KF strength, linear sprint speed or muscle architectural properties in elite youth soccer players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The barbell squat is a multijoint exercise often employed by athletes and fitness enthusiasts due to its beneficial effects on functional and morphological neuromuscular adaptations. This study compared the effects of squat variations on lower limb muscle strength and hypertrophy adaptations. Twenty‐four recreationally trained females were assigned to a 12‐week front squat (FS; n = 12) or back squat (BS; n = 12) resistance training protocol (twice per week). Maximum dynamic strength (1‐RM) on the 45° leg press, a nonspecific strength test, and muscle thickness of the proximal, middle, and distal portions of the lateral thigh were assessed at baseline and post‐training. A significant time versus group interaction was observed for 1‐RM values (F(1,22) = 10.53; p = 0.0004), indicating that BS training elicits greater improvements in muscle strength compared with FS training (p = 0.048). No time versus group interactions were found for muscle thickness (F(1,22) = 0.103; p = 0.752); however, there was a significant main effect of time for the proximal (F(1,22) = 7.794; p = 0.011), middle (F(1,22) = 7.091; p = 0.014), and distal portions (F(1,22) = 7.220; p = 0.013) of the lateral thigh. There were no between‐group differences for any muscle thickness portion (proximal: p = 0.971; middle: p = 0.844; and distal: p = 0.510). Our findings suggest that BS elicits greater improvements in lower limb muscle strength on the 45° leg press than FS, but hypertrophic adaptations are similar regardless of variations during the squat exercise. Highlights: Back squat training elicited greater strength‐related improvements in a nonspecific strength test than front squat training.Hypertrophic adaptations of the lateral thigh are similar between both squat variations.Both squat variations elicited similar growth at proximal, middle, and distal regions of the lateral thigh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat stress (HS) induces Akt/mTOR phosphorylation and FoxO3a signaling; however, whether a prior increase in heat shock protein 72 (HSP72) expression affects intracellular signaling following eccentric exercise remains unclear. We analyzed the effects of HS pretreatment on intramuscular signaling in response to acute exercise in 10‐week‐old male Wistar rats (n = 24). One leg of each rat was exposed to HS and the other served as an internal control (CT). Post‐HS, rats were either rested or subjected to downhill treadmill running. Intramuscular signaling responses in the red and white regions of the gastrocnemius muscle were analyzed before, immediately after, or 1 h after exercise (n = 8/group). HS significantly increased HSP72 levels in both deep red and superficial white regions. Although HS did not affect exercise‐induced mTOR signaling (S6K1/ERK) responses in the red region, mTOR phosphorylation in the white region was significantly higher in CT legs than in HS legs after exercise. Thr308 phosphorylation of Akt showed region‐specific alteration with a decrease in the red region and an increase in the white region immediately after downhill running. Overall, a prior increase in HSP72 expression elicits fiber type‐specific changes in exercise‐induced Akt and mTOR phosphorylation in rat gastrocnemius muscle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]