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The purpose of the present study was to investigate the additive effects of ballistic training to a traditional heavy resistance training program on upper- and lower-body maximal strength. Seventeen resistance-trained men were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: (i) a combined ballistic and heavy resistance training group (COM; age = 21.4 +/- 1.7 years, body mass = 82.7 +/- 15.1 kg) or (ii) a heavy resistance training group (HR; age = 20.1 +/- 1.2 years, body mass = 81.0 +/- 9.2 kg) and subsequently participated in an 8-week periodized training program. Training was performed 3 days per week, that is, 6-8 exercises per workout (6-8 traditional exercises for HR; 4-6 traditional + 2 ballistic exercises in COM) for 3-8 repetitions. A significant increase in 1-repetition maximum (1RM) squat was shown in both groups (COM = 15.2%; HR = 17.3%) with no difference observed between groups. However, 1RM bench press increased to a significantly greater extent (P = 0.04) in COM than HR (11.6% vs. 7.1%, respectively). For peak power attained during the jump squat, an interaction (P = 0.02) was observed where the 5.4% increase in COM and -3.2% reduction in HR were statistically significant. Nonsignificant increases were observed in peak plyometric push-up power in COM (8.5%) and HR (3.4%). Lean body mass increased significantly in both groups, with no between-group differences observed. The results of this study support the inclusion of ballistic exercises into a heavy resistance training program for increasing 1RM bench press and enhancing lower-body power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Mangine, GT, Hines, A, Grazer, J, Esmat, TA, and McLester, J. Can video annotation software with minimal standardization be used as a back-up for a marker-free motion tracking system when monitoring barbell thruster velocity during a repeated circuit? J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2024-This study examined the agreement between a marker-free motion tracking system (PERCH) and a free video annotation software (KINOVEA) for measuring barbell thruster velocity using minimal standardization. For a larger placebo-controlled supplement intervention, 10 men (28.7 ± 8.0 years, 175 ± 8 cm, 91.0 ± 12.0 kg) and 10 women (31.3 ± 5.2 years, 167 ± 4 cm, 70 ± 13 kg) completed a circuit of rowing, 6 barbell thrusters (men: 43.1 kg, women: 29.5 kg), and 3 box jumps for "as many repetitions as possible" (AMRAP) in either 5 or 15 minutes. Barbell velocity (m × second -1 ) was monitored by PERCH from the frontal plane, whereas all sessions were video recorded from the same view and subsequently analyzed by KINOVEA using natural barbell landmarks. Fifty repetitions were randomly and equally drawn from each participant ( n = 1,000 repetitions) across all workout and supplement conditions. Although Wilcoxon signed-rank test revealed no differences (mean difference = 0.03 m × second -1 , p = 0.332), KINOVEA only explained 2.6% of PERCH variance, and Spearman's correlation analysis of Bland-Altman plots suggested that differences between technologies were exacerbated by the magnitude of velocity ( ρ = -0.62, p < 0.001). Cross-validated, regression analysis using KINOVEA and readily available participant demographics (arm reach and biological sex) improved prediction by 13.4% but agreement remained inconsistent ( ρ = 0.73, p < 0.001). Neither KINOVEA nor KINOVEA combined with participant demographics are interchangeable with PERCH for monitoring barbell velocity during an AMRAP. Still, researchers and athletes might use this free and accessible software as back-up for whenever PERCH fails to detect repetitions, as some information is better than none., (Copyright © 2024 National Strength and Conditioning Association.)

Research examining the changes in muscle oxygen saturation across multiple sets of resistance exercise is limited. The purpose of this study was to describe the physiological response of muscle oxygenation parameters during upper-body resistance exercise and examine the differential effects of relevant participant characteristics on resistance training performance and muscle oxygen saturation dynamics. Sixty-one recreationally trained men (n = 44; 21.8 ± 2.6 years) and women (n = 17; 20.2 ± 1.8 years) completed five-repetition maximum sets of barbell bench presses at a load equal to 75% 1-RM with a 2 min rest interval. Muscle oxygen saturation (SmO 2 ) dynamics within the anterior deltoid were monitored using a portable near-infrared spectroscopy sensor. The percent change in SmO 2 (∆%SmO 2 ), the muscle oxygen re-saturation rate (SmO 2 RecSlope), and the highest measured SmO 2 value during recovery periods (SmO 2 Peak) were measured. Two-way (sex [men, women] x time [sets 1-5]) repeated measures analyses of variance (ANOVA) were performed on muscle saturation variables. To examine the effect of relevant controlling variables, separate analyses of covariance (ANCOVA) with repeated measures were also performed. No differences were seen with ∆%SmO 2 across sets. The main effects for sets occurred for SmO 2 RecSlope, whereby a decline was noted on sets 4 and 5 ( p = 0.001) compared to set 1. Additionally, SmO 2 Peak was the lowest on set 5 ( p < 0.001) compared to all other sets. Moreover, body mass ( p = 0.013), diastolic blood pressure ( p = 0.044), and mean arterial pressure ( p = 0.033) for ∆%SmO 2 were the only significant covariates noted amongst the muscle oxygenation variables. In conclusion, no sex differences and only a few set differences in muscle oxygen saturation dynamics were seen without employing any covariates. Body mass, diastolic blood pressure, and mean arterial pressure were identified as factors that could influence observed responses.

To observe workout pacing strategies and determine which best predicted performance, this retrospective study analyzed recorded efforts from a random selection of 160 high-ranking (top 10,000) men and women ( n  = 80 each) in the 2020 CrossFit® Open (CFO). Video recordings submitted to the official competition leaderboard for all five tests were analyzed to quantify overall test completion rates (and tie-break time for test 5 only) and within-test repetition completion rate (repetitions × sec -1 ) for each exercise, as well as the quantity of failed repetitions, break strategy (count and duration), and transition times. Each variable was aggregated into first-half, last-half, and total-test averages, slopes, and coefficient of variation; except on test 5 (total-test only). Spearman's rank correlation coefficients were calculated between test completion rates, each test's respective pacing variables, competitor demographics (height and body mass) and CFO experience (i.e., past participation, consecutive competitions, and ranks). Stepwise regression using significantly ( p  < 0.05) correlated variables produced two prediction models for test performance (best predictor only and best overall model within 8 variables) in a validation group (50% of valid efforts) and then cross-validated against remaining athletes. When no between-group differences were seen, data were combined and used to create the final prediction models for test 1 ( r 2 adj = 0.64-0.96, SEE = 0.4-1.2 repetitions × sec -1 ), test 2 ( r 2 adj = 0.28-0.85, SEE = 2.0-4.5 repetitions × sec -1 ), test 3 ( r 2 adj = 0.49-0.81, SEE = 1.1-1.7 repetitions × sec -1 ), test 4 ( r 2 adj = 0.63-0.78, SEE = 0.6-0.9 repetitions × sec -1 ), and test 5 (rate: r 2 adj = 0.71-0.84, SEE = 1.2-1.6 repetitions × sec -1 ; tie-break time: r 2 adj = 0.06-0.62, SEE = 1.4-2.3 min). Across the five 2020 CFO tests, the data suggested that repetition pace, breaking strategy, and/or consistency in completing calisthenic-gymnastics components (when prescribed) was most predictive of performance. However, their influence was affected by the complexity of prescribed resistance training exercises and their relative loads. Athletes should prioritize calisthenic-gymnastics components but divert attention to more complex resistance training exercises when prescribed at higher relative intensity loads. Neither previous competition experience nor sex-division altered the hierarchal importance of these considerations., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (© 2024 Mangine, Zeitz, Dexheimer, Hines, Lively and Kliszczewicz.)

Introduction: The CrossFit® Open (CFO) acts a preliminary round that qualifies men and women for later stages of its annual Games competition. The CFO typically consists of 4-6 workouts that variably challenge an athlete's weightlifting strength, gymnastic skill, and endurance capacity. Except for differences in prescribed intensity loads, workouts are designed the same for men and women to elicit a similar challenge. While all workouts within a single year are unique to each other, one has been repeated from a previous CFO each year between 2012 and 2021. Because previous CFO workouts are often integrated into training, improvements are expected when a workout is officially repeated. However, besides documented record performances, it is unclear whether most athletes are improving, if these improvements affect ranking, or if differences exist between men and women., Purpose: To examine sex-division differences and performance changes across repeated CFO workouts, as well as their effect on CFO and workout ranking., Methods: Eleven separate samples of 500 men and 500 women, who were representative of the same overall percent rank within each year involving one of the nine repeated CFO workouts (2011-2021) were drawn for this study. Each athlete's age (18-54 years), rank (overall and within each workout), and reported workout scores were collected from the competition's publicly-available leaderboard. Each sample had excluded any athlete who had not met minimum performance criteria (e.g., at least one completed round) for all prescribed (Rx) workouts within a given year (including those not analyzed). Since some workouts could be scored as repetitions completed or time-to-completion (TTC), and because programming was often scaled between men and women, all scores were converted to a repetition completion rate (repetitions divided by TTC [in minutes])., Results: Separate sex-division x time analyses of variance with repeated measures revealed significant (p < 0.05) interactions in all but one repeated workout comparison. Initially, men were faster in four workouts (~18.5%, range = 3.9-35.0%, p < 0.001), women in two (~7.1%, range = 5.2-9.0%, p < 0.001), and they tied in the remaining three workouts. When workouts were repeated in subsequent years, men were faster in three workouts (~5.4%, range = 0.9-7.8%, p < 0.05), while women were faster in two (~3.8%, range = 3.5-4.1%, p < 0.01). Though performance improved in seven of the nine workouts (~14.3%, p < 0.001) and percentile rank was controlled, athletes earned a lower rank (overall and within workout) on each repeated workout (p < 0.001)., Conclusions: Performance (measured as repetition completion rate) has improved in most repeated CFO workouts, particularly for women. However, improvements seen among all athletes, along with increased participation, have made it more difficult for athletes to improve their overall rank. To rank higher, individual athletes must improve their pace to a greater degree than the average improvements seen across the competitive field., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright: © 2023 Mangine et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

This retrospective study collected video recordings of a random selection of eighty men and women ( n = 160) completing all five tests of the 2020 CrossFit ® Open. All competitors were ranked within the top 10,000 overall but were sub-divided based on whether they ranked within the top 10% of their respective divisions. To examine the effect of sex and rank on pacing strategy, video analysis quantified the overall repetition completion rate on each test, as well as per minute (or round) repetition completion rates for each test's individual exercises, quantity of failed repetitions, break times, and transition times. All per minute (or round) data were aggregated into first- and last-half or total test average, slopes, and coefficient of variation. Sex and rank analyses of variance were performed on averages, slopes, and coefficients of variation for each variable calculated over the first and last halves of each test, except test 5 (total only). The top 10% of men were 17.5% faster ( p < 0.001) than everyone else in tests 1, 3, and 5. The top 10% of women and remaining men were ~9.5% faster than remaining women in tests 1 and 3. In test 5, the remaining men were faster than top 10% of women (~11.2%, p < 0.001), and both were faster than the remaining women. In tests 2 and 4, the top 10% of athletes were 9.7% faster ( p < 0.001) than remaining athletes, and at the same time, men were 7.7% faster ( p < 0.001) than women. Analysis of each test's components revealed the top 10% of competitors to be faster and more consistent in most areas, while men were generally faster than women in gymnastics components and more consistent with their pace for resistance training exercises. These data provide insight into the differential factors linked to success in the men's and women's CFO divisions.

L-citrulline serves as a nitric oxide precursor with the potential to increase blood flow and improve resistance exercise performance, yet more research is needed to examine its ergogenic potential. To examine the effect of L-citrulline supplementation on resistance exercise performance, muscle oxygenation, and the subjective perception of effort, energy, focus, fatigue, and muscle pump, eighteen resistance-trained men ( n = 11) and women ( n = 7) (21.4 ± 1.8 years; 172.3 ± 7.5 cm; 76.9 ± 10.8 kg) were randomly assigned for supplementation with 8 g of L-citrulline (CIT) or a placebo (PL) in a cross-over fashion one hour prior to testing. Participants completed an isometric mid-thigh pull test (IMTP), a ballistic bench press protocol [two sets of two repetitions at 75% 1-repetition maximum (1 RM) with maximum ballistic intent], and a strength-endurance bench press protocol [five repetition-maximum sets at 75% 1RM]. Barbell velocity and power were measured via a linear position transducer during the ballistic protocol, while the repetitions completed, volume load and muscle oxygenation were quantified during the strength-endurance protocol. Subjective measures were assessed at the baseline and immediately pre- and post-exercise. Repeated measures of the analysis of variance and Bayesian equivalents revealed no significant interactions, providing evidence favoring the null hypothesis (BF10 < 1) for IMTP (PL 497.5 ± 133.6 vs. CIT 492.5 ± 129.4 N), barbell velocity, and power, and repetitions completed (PL 36.7 ± 7.2 vs. CIT 36.9 ± 8.1 repetitions). There were also no significant interactions for muscle oxygenation parameters or subjective measures except perceived fatigue. Women reported greater fatigue across all time points compared to men (~1.88 au, p = 0.045, BF10 = 0.2). The results indicate that a single 8 g dose of L-citrulline did not enhance isometric force production, muscle endurance, or muscle oxygenation parameters during the protocol implemented in this study.

To create normative scores for all CrossFit ® Open (CFO) workouts and compare male and female performances, official scores were collected from the official competition leaderboard for all competitors of the 2011-2022 CFO competitions. Percentiles were calculated for athletes (18-54 years) who completed all workouts within a single year 'as prescribed' and met minimum scoring thresholds. Independent t-tests revealed significant ( p < 0.05) sex differences for 56 of 60 workouts. In workouts scored by repetitions completed, men completed more repetitions in 18 workouts by small to large differences ( d = 0.22-0.81), whereas women completed more repetitions in 6 workouts by small to medium differences ( d = 0.36-0.77). When workouts were scored by time to completion, men were faster in 10 workouts by small to large differences ( d = 0.23-1.12), while women were faster in 3 workouts by small differences ( d = 0.46). In three workouts scored by load lifted, men lifted more weight by large differences ( d = 2.00-2.98). All other differences were either trivial or not significant. Despite adjusted programming for men and women, the persistence of performance differences across all CFO workouts suggests that resultant challenges are not the same. These normative values may be useful for training and research in male and female CrossFit ® athletes., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest. The views presented herein are those of the authors and do not represent the views of the American College of Sports Medicine, its executive leadership, or any of its members. Statements contained in this document should not be considered endorsements of the American College of Sports Medicine and/or any of its sponsors.

To examine relationships between Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) descriptors (belt rank, experience, gi preference, and fighting style), resistance training (RT) experience, and measures of body composition, strength (maximal handgrip, 3-5-repetition maximum [RM] in barbell glute bridge [GB], prone bench row [PBR], and bench press [BP]), and velocity (GB, PBR, and BP at 7 kg and 30−60% 1-RM), 13 experienced (4.3 ± 3.4 years) BJJ athletes were recruited for this cross-sectional, pilot study. Significant (p < 0.05) Kendall’s tau and Bayesian relationships were seen between belt rank and body fat percentage (τ = −0.53, BF10 = 6.5), BJJ experience and body fat percentage (τ = −0.44 to −0.66, BF10 = 2.6−30.8) and GB velocity (τ = −0.45 to −0.46, BF10 = 2.8−3.1), RT experience and strength (τ = 0.44 to 0.73, BF10 = 2.6−75.1) and velocity (τ = −0.44 to 0.47, BF10 = 2.6−3.3), gi preference-training and relative PBR strength (τ = 0.70, BF10 = 51.9), gi preference-competition and height and lean mass (τ = −0.57 to 0.67, BF10 = 5.3−12.4) and BP velocity (τ = −0.52 to 0.67, BF10 = 3.5−14.0). The relevance of body composition and performance measures to sport-specific training and research interpretation are differentially affected by a BJJ athlete’s experience (BJJ, belt rank, RT), gi preferences, and fighting style.

Background: Systematic reviews and meta-analyses related to high-intensity functional training (HIFT) have been conducted. However, due to a restricted pool of available research, these investigations are often limited in scope. As such, a scoping review investigating the present literature surrounding the acute physiological response to HIFT-based exercise was chosen as a more appropriate structured review., Methodology: A scoping review was conducted following Arksey and O'Malley's framework. Three large scale databases were searched to reveal any article pertaining to HIFT and related exercise terminology., Results: A total of 2,241 articles were found during the initial search. Following this, titles, then abstracts, and full-texts were reviewed to determine inclusion eligibility. A total of 60 articles which investigated a combined total of 35 unique HIFT workouts were included within this review., Conclusions: A variety of physiological parameters and HIFT workouts have been examined. Markers of intensity ( e.g ., blood lactate concentrations, heart rate) have been most consistently assessed across all studies, and these support the idea that HIFT workouts are typically performed at high-intensity. In contrast, the inclusion of most other measures ( e.g ., hormonal, markers of inflammation and damage, energy expenditure, performance) has been inconsistent and has thus, limited the possibility for making generalized conclusions. Differences in study methodologies have further impacted conclusions, as different studies have varied in sample population characteristics, workouts assessed, and time points. Though it may be impossible to comprehensively research all possible HIFT workouts, consistent adoption of population definitions and workload quantification may overcome this challenge and assist with future comparisons., Competing Interests: Gerald T. Mangine is an Academic Editor for PeerJ., (© 2023 McDougle et al.)

The design of high-intensity functional training (HIFT; e. g., CrossFit ® ) workouts and targeted physiological trait(s) vary on any given training day, week, or cycle. Daily workouts are typically comprised of different modality and exercise combinations that are prescribed across a wide range of intensities and durations. The only consistent aspect appears to be the common instruction to maximize effort and workout density by either completing "as many repetitions as possible" within a time limit (e.g., AMRAP, Tabata) or a list of exercises as quickly as possible. However, because effort can vary within and across workouts, the impact on an athlete's physiology may also vary daily. Programming that fails to account for this variation or consider how targeted physiological systems interrelate may lead to overuse, maladaptation, or injury. Athletes may proactively monitor for negative training responses, but any observed response must be tied to a quantifiable workload before meaningful changes (to programming) are possible. Though traditional methods exist for quantifying the resistance training loads, gymnastic movements, and cardiorespiratory modalities (e.g., cycling running) that might appear in a typical HIFT workout, those methods are not uniform, and their meaning will vary based on a specific exercise's placement within a HIFT workout. To objectively quantify HIFT workloads, the calculation must overcome differences in measurement standards used for each modality, be able to account for a component's placement within the workout and be useful regardless of how a workout is commonly scored (e.g., repetitions completed vs. time-to-completion) so that comparisons between workouts are possible. This review paper discusses necessary considerations for quantifying various HIFT workout components and structures, and then details the advantages and shortcomings of different methods used in practice and the scientific literature. Methods typically used in practice range from being excessively tedious and not conducive for making comparisons within or across workouts, to being overly simplistic, based on faulty assumptions, and inaccurate. Meanwhile, only a few HIFT-related studies have attempted to report relevant workloads and have predominantly relied on converting component and workout performance into a rate (i.e., repetitions per minute or second). Repetition completion rate may be easily and accurately tracked and allows for intra- and inter-workout comparisons. Athletes, coaches, and sports scientists are encouraged to adopt this method and potentially pair it with technology (e.g., linear position transducers) to quantify HIFT workloads. Consistent adoption of such methods would enable more precise programming alterations, and it would allow fair comparisons to be made between existing and future research., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Mangine and Seay.)

Introduction: Watermelon shows promise as an ergogenic aid due to its high concentration of L-citrulline, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants., Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of watermelon supplementation on exercise performance, muscle oxygenation, and vessel diameter., Methods: In a crossover design fashion, 15 resistance-trained men (22.4 ± 2.9 years; 177.5 ± 7.1 cm; 82.7 ± 11.2 kg) were randomly assigned to supplement with either watermelon juice concentrate (WM; 2.2 g·day -1 L-citrulline) or placebo (PL) for 7 days prior to completing an experimental trial consisting of an isometric mid-thigh pull test and acute bench press protocol. Participants completed two sets of two repetitions at 75% 1 repetition maximum (1-RM) with maximum ballistic intent followed by five repetition-maximum (RM) sets at the same load. Barbell velocity and power were measured via linear position transducer during the first two sets, while volume load and muscle oxygenation were quantified during RM sets. Brachial artery diameter and subjective perception measures were assessed at baseline and immediately pre- and post-exercise., Results: Except for a greater percent change in skeletal muscle oxygenation during WM compared to PL on average and across sets (mean difference = + 4.1%, p = 0.033, BF 10  = 2.2-54.5), separate traditional and Bayesian analyses of variance with repeated measures, as well as paired-samples t tests for calculated summary measures, revealed no evidence favoring conditional differences in any measure of performance, perception, or muscle oxygenation., Conclusion: Short-term watermelon supplementation does not appear to enhance isometric force production, bench press performance, blood vessel diameter, or muscle oxygenation parameters compared to PL in resistance-trained men., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

This study examined relationships between body composition and high-intensity functional training (HIFT) workout performance. Fifty-seven men (31.4 ± 6.9 years, 177.2 ± 7.5 cm, 84.7 ± 8.5 kg) and thirty-eight women (29.2 ± 6.4 years, 166.6 ± 6.1 cm, 66.5 ± 7.7 kg) with HIFT experience (≥6 months) reported completing "Fran" (21-15-9 repetitions of barbell thrusters and pull-ups) in 4.78 ± 2.22 min and 6.05 ± 2.84 min, respectively, and volunteered to complete dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry assessments. Participants were grouped by competition class (men, women, master's men, master's women) and percentile rank in "Fran" (≤25th percentile, 25-75th percentiles, ≥75th percentile). Two-way analyses of variance revealed expected differences ( p < 0.001) between men and women in non-bone lean mass (NBLM), fat-free mass index, and fat mass, and more NBLM (10.6-10.8 kg) and less fat mass (2.7-5.2 kg) in >75th percentile compared to other percentiles. Most body composition measures were significantly ( p < 0.05) related to performance in men and women but limited in master's men; no relationships were seen in master's women. "Fran" time was negatively correlated to NBLM and fat-free mass index in all percentile groups ( ρ = -0.37 to -0.64) and bone mineral characteristics for >25th percentile ( ρ = -0.41 to -0.63), and positively correlated to fat mass in 25-75th percentiles ( ρ = 0.33-0.60). No other relationships were seen in ≤25th percentile. The influence of body composition on "Fran" time appears to vary by both competition class and percentile rank. Though training to increase lean mass always seems relevant, reducing body fat only appears relevant in mid-skilled trainees and when it is outside healthy parameters., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Mangine, McDougle and Feito.)

Purpose: To examine the relationships between past competition performances and 2020 CrossFit® Open (CFO) performance., Methods: A random selection from the top one thousand athletes (n = 220, 28.5 ± 4.4 years, 178 ± 7 cm, 87.5 ± 10.2 kg) were selected for this study. Overall and weekly performances (including ranks and scores) of the 2020 CFO, as well as overall ranks from all previous CFO, regional, and Games™ competitions in which they competed, were recorded from their publicly available online profile. The highest, lowest, average, and standard deviation (SD) of past rankings, as well as participation statistics (i.e., years since first appearance, total and consecutive appearances, and participation rate), were calculated for each competition stage. Relationships were then assessed between 2020 CFO performance and all past competition experience variables by calculating Kendall's tau (τ) correlation coefficients and Bayes factors (BF 10 )., Results: Overall and weekly ranking of the 2020 CFO was extremely favored (p < 0.001, BF 10  > 100) to be related to the athlete's highest previous CFO rank (τ = 0.26-0.39) and individual regional appearances (τ = - 0.26 to - 0.34), as well as individual Games™ appearances (overall and for weeks 1, 3, and 4; τ = - 0.20 to - 0.22, p < 0.001, BF 10  > 100). Evidence for all other significant relationships ranged from moderate to very strong (p < 0.05, BF 10  = 3-100) and varied among specific 2020 CFO workouts. Few associations were noted for team competition experience, and these were generally limited to Games™ appearances (τ = - 0.12 to - 0.18, p < 0.05, BF 10  = 3.3-100)., Conclusions: Although specific relationships were found between 2020 CFO performance and individual appearances at regional and Games™ competitions, the most consistent relationships were seen with participation and ranking in past CFO competitions., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Abstract: Mangine, GT, Serafini, PR, Stratton, MT, Olmos, AA, VanDusseldorp, TA, and Feito, Y. Effect of the repetitions-in-reserve resistance training strategy on bench press performance, perceived effort, and recovery in trained men. J Strength Cond Res 36(1): 1-9, 2022-This study examined the effects of the repetitions-in-reserve (RIR) strategy on resistance exercise performance, perceived effort, and recovery. Fourteen resistance-trained men (24.6 ± 3.0 years, 176 ± 5 cm, 85.7 ± 14.0 kg) completed 2 bench press protocols in a randomized crossover fashion. The protocols consisted of 4 sets at 80% of 1 repetition maximum (1RM) to a self-reported 3-RIR and a fifth set to failure or all 5 sets to failure (0-RIR). Barbell kinetics (velocity, rate of force development, and impulse), repetition volume, total work, and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were quantified on each set. Barbell kinetics were reassessed during one set of 3 repetitions at 80% 1RM completed at 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour postexercise. Blood samples were collected before and after exercise at 6 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours and analyzed for concentrations of creatine kinase (CK). Separate, 2-way repeated-measures analysis of variance revealed significant interactions (p < 0.001) where 3-RIR better maintained repetitions and work at greater average velocity (+0.6 m·s-1) and lower RPE (0-RIR = 10; 3-RIR = 8.2) across all sets. No differences were seen between conditions for CK at 6 hours postexercise (3-RIR: 32.2 ± 55.3%; 0-RIR: 40.8 ± 66.0%) or for CK and barbell kinetics at 24 hours to 72 hours postexercise. Although no differences were seen for recovery, the RIR strategy enabled work to be better sustained across sets at a lower perceived effort and higher average velocity. This strategy could be used to manage fatigue and better sustain effort and volume during a resistance training session., (Copyright © 2021 National Strength and Conditioning Association.)

Abstract: Mangine, GT, McNabb, JA, Feito, Y, VanDusseldorp, TA, and Hester, GM. Increased resisted sprinting load decreases bilateral asymmetry in sprinting kinetics among rugby players. J Strength Cond Res 35(11): 3076-3083, 2021-To examine the effect of resistance on sprinting kinetics and their bilateral symmetry, 15 male collegiate rugby players completed 3 maximal, 40-m sprints (S1-S3) while tethered to a robotic resistance device. Minimal resistance (9.81 N) was used on S1 (familiarization) and S2, while S3 was loaded at 147.1 N. Peak and average (AVG) power (P), velocity (V), force (F), and rate of force development (RFD) were averaged within the first stride, the acceleration and peak velocity phases, as well as across the 40-m sprint. Bilateral percent differences were calculated from step values within each stride for each variable. Friedman's rank tests revealed differences (p ≤ 0.02) between sprint trials and phases for each variable. During both trials, most kinetic measures increased from the first stride through the peak velocity phase (p ≤ 0.036), although reductions in RFDPEAK (p ≤ 0.015) and RFDAVG (S3 only; p < 0.001) were observed within the peak velocity phase. Comparatively, sprinting velocity and average stride (length and duration) were less during S3, while all other measures were greater within each phase. Across the entire 40-m sprint, S3 reduced (p < 0.05) asymmetry for average stride length (-2.1 to -17.0%), VPEAK (-0.8 to -4.9%), VAVG (-2.3 to -6.0%), FPEAK (-5.6 to -8.7%), FAVG (-3.4 to -7.1%), RFDPEAK (-4.3 to -36.7%), PPEAK (-5.9 to -12.4%), and PAVG (-5.4 to -9.8%). Applying sprinting resistance may be a tool for reducing acute bilateral asymmetries in sprinting kinetic measures., (Copyright © 2020 National Strength and Conditioning Association.)

Abstract: Mangine, GT, Eggerth, A, Gough, J, Stratton, MT, Feito, Y, and VanDusseldorp, TA. Endocrine and body composition changes across a competitive season in collegiate speed-power track and field athletes. J Strength Cond Res 35(8): 2067-2074, 2021-Maintaining lean mass is important for track and field (TF) athletes who compete in speed-power events, but little is known about how lean mass and related hormones might change over an 8- to 10-month collegiate season. Therefore, to monitor changes in free testosterone (T), cortisol (C), and body composition in TF athletes across their entire competitive season, 9 female (20.3 ± 1.2 years, 169 ± 5 cm, and 67.6 ± 8.5 kg) and 7 male (21.1 ± 2.0 years, 181 ± 9 cm, and 77.3 ± 5.9 kg) Division I TF athletes provided resting and fasted blood samples at the onset of their indoor season (baseline), before and on returning from the indoor conference championships (ICCs), at the beginning and end of a heavy midseason training week (HVY), and before leaving for the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Championships. Body composition was also assessed at each of these periods using a 4-compartment model. Except for a 20% reduction (p = 0.030) from ICCs to the onset of HVY in men only, linear mixed models with repeated measures did not reveal any changes in hormone concentrations. Compared with baseline, an overall increase in fat-free mass was observed at HVY (∼2.74%, p = 0.023) before it reduced by 3.81% before the NCAA Championships (p = 0.022). Despite variations in training and competition, resting concentrations of hormones indicative of anabolic status remained relatively consistent over the course of an entire season in speed-power TF athletes. Coaches and athletes may consider monitoring these variables to assess the athlete's response to the changing demands of a competitive season., (Copyright © 2021 National Strength and Conditioning Association.)

Abstract: Boone, JB, VanDusseldorp, TA, Feito, Y, and Mangine, GT. Relationships between sprinting, broad jump, and vertical jump kinetics are limited in elite, collegiate football athletes. J Strength Cond Res 35(5): 1306-1316, 2021-To evaluate the relationships and agreement in kinetics measured during a 10-yd sprint, a standing broad jump (SBJ), and a vertical jump (VJ), 73 collegiate football players (22.3 ± 0.8 years, 188 ± 7 cm, 113 ± 23 kg) volunteered for this cross-sectional study over a 3-year period. At the beginning of each athlete's off-season training phase and after a standard warm-up, each athlete completed 2-3 maximal trials of each test while tethered to a robotic, cable-resistance device (10-yd sprint and SBJ) or a linear position transducer (VJ alone). Force (N), velocity (m·s-1), and power (W) were measured during the first 2 steps, acceleration phase (units·step-1), and entire 10-yd sprint, and the entire SBJ and VJ. Spearman and partial correlations (controlling for stature) revealed small-to-moderate relationships (r = -0.30 to -0.34) between the second sprinting step and VJ force. Small negative relationships were also noted between sprinting and VJ force and power, but not when controlling for height. Agreement was determined by examining relationships between the differences in and averaged kinetics measured on each test. Trivial-to-small relationships (r < 0.29) were observed between sprinting (first step and 10-yd) and VJ velocity, and between VJ and SBJ velocity, although coefficient of variation (CV) ranged between 64 and 104%. All other relationships ranged from moderate-to-practically perfect with CVs exceeding 500%. Although some relationships exist between sprinting and jumping kinetics, their agreement is variable. These data suggest that coaches and athletes should not use one of these assessments in place of, or to predict performance in, the other assessments., (Copyright © 2021 National Strength and Conditioning Association.)

To observe workout repetition and rest interval pacing strategies and determine which best predicted performance during the 2016 CrossFit® Open, five male (34.4 ± 3.8 years, 176 ± 5 cm, 80.3 ± 9.7 kg) and six female (35.2 ± 6.3 years, 158 ± 7 cm, 75.9 ± 19.3 kg) recreational competitors were recruited for this observational, pilot study. Exercise, round, and rest time were quantified via a stopwatch for all competitors on their first attempt of each of the five workouts. Subsequently, pacing was calculated as a repetition rate (repetitions·s -1 ) to determine the fastest, slowest, and average rate for each exercise, round, and rest interval, as well as how these changed (i.e., slope, Δ rate / round) across each workout. Spearman's rank correlation coefficients indicated that several pacing variables were significantly (p < 0.05) related to performance on each workout. However, stepwise regression analysis indicated that the average round rate best predicted (p < 0.001) performance on the first (R 2 = 0.89), second (R 2 = 0.99), and fifth (R 2 = 0.94) workouts, while the competitors' rate on their slowest round best predicted workout three performance (R 2 = 0.94, p < 0.001). The wall ball completion rate (R 2 = 0.89, p = 0.002) was the best predictor of workout four performance, which was improved by 9.8% with the inclusion of the deadlift completion rate. These data suggest that when CrossFit ® Open workouts consist of multiple rounds, competitors should employ a fast and sustainable pace to improve performance. Otherwise, focusing on one or two key exercises may be the best approach., (© 2021 Gerald T. Mangine, Yuri Feito, Joy E. Tankersley, Jacob M. McDougle, Brian M. Kliszczewicz, published by Sciendo.)

Toohey, JC, Townsend, JR, Johnson, SB, Toy, AM, Vantrease, WC, Bender, D, Crimi, CC, Stowers, KL, Ruiz, MD, VanDusseldorp, TA, Feito, Y, and Mangine, GT. Effects of probiotic (Bacillus subtilis) supplementation during offseason resistance training in female Division I athletes. J Strength Cond Res 34(11): 3173-3181, 2020-We examined the effects of probiotic (Bacillus subtilis) supplementation during offseason training in collegiate athletes. Twenty-three Division I female athletes (19.6 ± 1.0 years, 67.5 ± 7.4 kg, and 170.6 ± 6.8 cm) participated in this study and were randomized into either a probiotic (n = 11; DE111) or placebo (n = 12; PL) group while counterbalancing groups for sport. Athletes completed a 10-week resistance training program during the offseason, which consisted of 3-4 workouts per week of upper- and lower-body exercises and sport-specific training. Athletes consumed DE111 (DE111; 5 billion CFU/day) or PL supplement daily for the entire 10-week program. Before and after training, all athletes underwent 1 repetition maximum (1RM) strength testing (squat, deadlift, and bench press), performance testing (vertical jump and pro-agility), and isometric midthigh pull testing. Body composition (body fat [BF]%) was completed using BODPOD and bioelectrical impedance analysis, as well as muscle thickness (MT) measurement of the rectus femoris (RF) and vastus lateralis using ultrasonography. Separate repeated-measures analyses of variance were used to analyze all data. Significant (p ≤ 0.05) main effects for time were observed for improved squat 1RM, deadlift 1RM, bench press 1RM, vertical jump, RF MT, and BF%. Of these, a significant group × time interaction was noted for BF% (p = 0.015), where greater reductions were observed in DE111 (-2.05 ± 1.38%) compared with PL (-0.2 ± 1.6%). No other group differences were observed. These data suggest that probiotic consumption in conjunction with post-workout nutrition had no effect on physical performance but may improve body composition in female Division I soccer and volleyball players after offseason training.

Fish oils (FOs) are rich in omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, which have been purported to enhance recovery of muscular performance and reduce soreness post-exercise. However, the most effective FO dose for optimizing recovery remains unclear. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effect of FO supplementation dosing on the recovery of measures of muscular performance, perceived soreness, and markers of muscle damage following a rigorous bout of eccentric exercise. Thirty-two college-aged resistance-trained males (~23.6 years, 71.6 kg, 172.1 cm) were supplemented with 2, 4, 6 g/day (G) FO or placebo (PL) for ~7.5 weeks. Following 7 weeks of supplementation, pre-exercise (PRE) performance assessments of vertical jump (VJ), knee extensor strength, 40-yard sprint, T-test agility, and perceived soreness were completed prior to a bout of muscle-damaging exercise and were repeated immediately post (IP), 1-, 2-, 4-, 24-, 48-, and 72-h (H) post-exercise. Repeated measures analysis of variance indicated a treatment × time interaction ( p < 0.001) for VJ and perceived soreness, but no group differences were observed at any time point. VJ returned to PRE (54.8 ± 7.9 cm) by 1H (51.8 ± 6.5 cm, p = 0.112) for 6G, while no other groups returned to baseline until 48H. Lower soreness scores were observed in 6G compared to PL at 2H (mean difference [MD] = 2.74, p = 0.046), at 24H (MD: 3.45, p < 0.001), at 48H (MD = 4.45, p < 0.001), and at 72H (MD = 3.00, p = 0.003). Supplementation with 6G of FO optimized the recovery of jump performance and muscle soreness following a damaging bout of exercise.

The 2018 CrossFit Open (CFO) was the initial stage of an annual competition that consisted of five weekly workouts. Current evidence suggests that a variety of fitness parameters are important for progressing beyond this stage, but little is known about which are the most important. To examine relationships between CFO performance, experience, and physiological fitness, sixteen experienced (>2 years) athletes (30.7 ± 6.9 years, 171 ± 12 cm, 78.0 ± 16.2 kg) volunteered to provide information about their training and competitive history, and then complete a battery of physiological assessments prior to competing in the 2018 CFO. Athletes' resting energy expenditure, hormone concentrations, body composition, muscle morphology, cardiorespiratory fitness, and isometric strength were assessed on two separate occasions. Spearman correlations demonstrated significant ( p < 0.05) relationships between most variables and performance on each workout. Stepwise regression revealed competition experience (R 2 = 0.31-0.63), body composition (R 2 = 0.55-0.80), vastus lateralis cross-sectional area (R 2 = 0.29-0.89), respiratory compensation threshold (R 2 = 0.54-0.75), and rate of force development (R 2 = 0.30-0.76) to be the most common predictors. Of these, body composition was the most important. These fitness parameters are known targets with established training recommendations. Though preliminary, athletes may use these data to effectively train for CFO competition.

Background: Muscular damage sustained while playing rugby may hinder performance across a season. β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyrate (HMB) may help attenuate muscle damage and maintain lean mass and performance. This study sought to determine the effect of combining HMB with creatine monohydrate supplementation on measures of stress and muscle damage, body composition, strength and sprinting kinetics throughout a rugby season., Methods: This double-blind, cross-over investigation recruited 16 male collegiate rugby players to provide resting blood samples and complete assessments of body composition, strength and sprinting performance prior to their fall season (PRE FALL ). After testing, the athletes were matched for fat-free mass and assigned to consume one of two supplementation regimens for 6 weeks: 5 g HMB + 5 g creatine per day (HMB-Cr: 20.9 ± 1.1 years; 177 ± 2 cm; 88.4 ± 4.9 kg) or 5 g creatine + 5 g placebo per day (Cr: 21.4 ± 2.1 years; 179 ± 2 cm; 88.3 ± 4.9 kg). After 6 weeks (POST FALL ), PRE FALL testing was repeated in 13 of the original 16 athletes before a 10-wk wash-out period. Athletes who returned for the spring season (n = 8) repeated all fall-season procedures and testing prior to (PRE SPRING ) and following (POST SPRING ) their 6-wk spring season, except they were assigned to the opposite supplementation regimen., Results: Linear mixed models with repeated measures revealed group x time interactions (p <  0.05) for observed for several measures but did not consistently and positively favor one group. During the fall season, knee extensor peak torque was reduced by 40.7 ± 28.1 Nm (p = 0.035) for HMB-Cr but remained consistent for Cr, and no group differences or changes were noted in the spring. In the spring, greater knee flexor rate of torque development (~ 149 Nm·sec - 1 , p = 0.003) and impulse (~ 4.5 Nm·sec, p = 0.022) were observed in Cr at PRE SPRING but not at POST SPRING . Although significant interactions were found for cortisol concentrations, vastus lateralis pennation angle, and sprinting force, post-hoc analysis only revealed differences between fall and spring seasons. No other differences were observed., Conclusions: The combination of HMB and creatine monohydrate supplementation does not provide a greater ergogenic benefit compared to creatine monohydrate supplementation alone. Body composition, strength, and sprinting ability did not change across the season with creatine monohydrate supplementation.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare early and late rapid torque parameters of the plantar flexors (PFs) in middle-aged (MM) and older (OM) males, and determine the effect of normalization to peak torque (PT) and muscle cross-sectional area (CSA)., Methods: Twenty-nine healthy, MM (n = 14; 45 ± 2 yrs) and OM (n = 15; 65 ± 3 yrs) performed rapid, maximal isometric contractions of the PFs. PT, as well as rate of torque development and impulse during the early (0-50 ms; RTD0-50, IMP0-50) and late (100-200 ms; RTD100-200, IMP100-200) contraction phases were calculated. Torque at 50 (TQ50), 100 (TQ100), and 200 (TQ200) ms was also obtained. CSA and echo-intensity (EI) of the gastrocnemii were acquired via ultrasonography. Torque variables were normalized to PT and CSA. Rate of EMG rise (RER) for the medial gastrocnemius was calculated at 30, 50 and 75 ms., Results: TQ100 (MM = 69.71 ± 16.85 vs. OM = 55.99 ± 18.54 Nm; p = 0.046), TQ200 (MM = 114.76 ± 26.79 vs. OM = 91.56 ± 28.10 Nm; p = 0.031), and IMP100-200 (MM = 4.79 ± 1.11 vs. OM = 3.83 ± 1.17 Nm·s; p = 0.032) were lower in OM. PT, TQ50, RTD0-50, IMP0-50, RTD100-200, RER, CSA, and EI were similar between groups (p > 0.05). No differences were found for normalized torque variables (p > 0.05). EI was moderately associated with normalized torque parameters only (r = -0.38 --0.45). RER, at 75 ms, was moderately correlated with early, absolute torque measures and rapid torque variables made relative to PT and CSA (r = 0.41 --0.64)., Conclusion: Late rapid torque parameters of the PFs were preferentially impaired in OM compared to MM, and PT as well as CSA appeared to mediate this result., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Recently, interest in time-restricted feeding (TRF) has increased from reports highlighting improvements in body composition and muscular performance measures. Twenty-six recreationally active males were randomly assigned to either TRF ( n = 13; ~22.9 years; 82.0 kg; 178.1 cm; 8 h eating window, 25% caloric deficit, 1.8 g/kg/day protein) or normal diet (ND; n = 13; ~22.5 years; 83.3 kg; 177.5 cm; normal meal pattern; 25% caloric deficit, 1.8 g/kg/day protein) groups. Participants underwent 4-weeks of supervised full body resistance training. Changes in body composition (fat mass (FM), fat free mass (FFM), and body fat percentage (BF%)), skeletal muscle cross sectional area (CSA) and muscle thickness (MT) of the vastus lateralis (VL), rectus femoris, (RF), and biceps brachii (BB) muscles, resting energy expenditure (REE), muscular performance, blood biomarkers, and psychometric parameters were assessed. Significant ( p < 0.05) decreases were noted in BM, FM, BF%, testosterone, adiponectin, and REE, along with significant increases in BP 1RM , LP 1RM , VJ HT , VJ PP , VL CSA , BB CSA , and BB MT in both groups. Plasma cortisol levels were significantly elevated at post ( p = 0.018) only in ND. Additionally, FFM was maintained equally between groups. Thus, a TRF style of eating does not enhance reductions in FM over caloric restriction alone during a 4-week hypocaloric diet.

This investigation examined anthropometric, hormonal, and physiological differences between advanced (ADV; n = 8, 27.8 ± 4.2 years, 170 ± 11 cm, 79.8 ± 13.3 kg) and recreational (REC; n = 8, 33.5 ± 8.1 years, 172 ± 14 cm, 76.3 ± 19.5 kg) CrossFit (CF) trained participants in comparison to physically-active controls (CON; n = 7, 27.5 ± 6.7 years, 171 ± 14 cm, 74.5 ± 14.3 kg). ADV and REC were distinguished by their past competitive success. REC and CON were resistance-trained (>2 years) and exercised on 3-5 days·wk-1 for the past year, but CON utilized traditional resistance and cardiovascular exercise. All participants provided a fasted, resting blood sample and completed assessments of resting metabolic rate, body composition, muscle morphology, isometric mid-thigh pull strength, peak aerobic capacity, and a 3-minute maximal cycle ergometer sprint across two separate occasions (separated by 3-7 days). Blood samples were analyzed for testosterone, cortisol, and insulin-like growth factor-1. Compared to both REC and CON, one-way analysis of variance revealed ADV to possess lower body fat percentage (6.7-8.3%, p = 0.007), greater bone and non-bone lean mass (12.5-26.8%, p ≤ 0.028), muscle morphology characteristics (14.2-59.9%, p < 0.05), isometric strength characteristics (15.4-41.8%, p < 0.05), peak aerobic capacity (18.8-19.1%, p = 0.002), and 3-minute cycling performance (15.4-51.1%, p ≤ 0.023). No differences were seen between REC and CON, or between all groups for resting metabolic rate or hormone concentrations. These data suggest ADV possess several physiological advantages over REC and CON, whereas similar physiological characteristics were present in individuals who have been regularly participating in either CF or resistance and cardiovascular training for the past year., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Gonzalez, AM, Pinzone, AG, Bram, J, Salisbury, JL, Lee, S, and Mangine, GT. Effect of multi-ingredient preworkout supplementation on repeated sprint performance in recreationally active men and women. J Strength Cond Res 34(4): 918-923, 2020-The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effects of acute supplementation of a multi-ingredient preworkout supplement (MIPS), containing a proprietary blend of ancient peat and apple extracts, creatine monohydrate, taurine, ribose, and magnesium, on sprint cycling performance. Seventeen recreationally active men and women (23.2 ± 5.9 years; 172.9 ± 14.3 cm; 82.4 ± 14.5 kg) underwent 2 testing sessions administered in a randomized, counterbalanced, double-blind fashion. Subjects were provided either MIPS or placebo (PL) one hour before performing a sprint cycling protocol, which consisted of ten 5-second "all-out" sprints interspersed by 55 seconds of unloaded pedaling. Average power (PAVG), peak power (PPK), average velocity (VAVG), and distance covered were recorded for each sprint. Separate linear mixed models revealed decrements (p < 0.05) compared to the first sprint in PAVG (75-229 W) and PPK (79-209 W) throughout all consecutive sprints after the initial sprint during PL. Likewise, diminished (p ≤ 0.029) VAVG (3.37-6.36 m·s) and distance covered (7.77-9.00 m) were noted after the third and fifth sprints, respectively, during PL. By contrast, during MIPS, only VAVG decreased (2.34-5.87 m·s, p ≤ 0.002) on consecutive sprints after the first sprint, whereas PAVG and PPK were maintained. In addition, a significant decrease (p = 0.045) in distance covered was only observed on the ninth sprint during MIPS. These data suggest that recreational athletes who consumed the MIPS formulation, one hour before a repeated sprinting session on a cycle ergometer, better maintained performance compared with PL.

Methylliberine (Dynamine ® ; DYM) and theacrine (Teacrine ® ; TCR) are purine alkaloids purported to have similar neuro-energetic effects as caffeine. There are no published human safety data on DYM, and research on TCR is limited. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of four weeks of DYM supplementation with and without TCR on cardiovascular function and blood biomarkers. One-hundred twenty-five men and women (mean age 23.0 yrs, height 169.7 cm, body mass 72.1 kg; n = 25/group) were randomly assigned to one of five groups: low-dose DYM (100 mg), high-dose DYM (150 mg), low-dose DYM with TCR (100 mg + 50 mg), high-dose DYM with TCR (150 mg + 25 mg) , and placebo. Regardless of group and sex, significant main effects for time were noted for heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and QTc ( p < 0.001), high-density lipoproteins ( p = 0.002), mean corpuscular hemoglobin ( p = 0.018), basophils ( p = 0.006), absolute eosinophils ( p = 0.010), creatinine ( p = 0.004), estimated glomerular filtration rate ( p = 0.037), chloride ( p = 0.030), carbon dioxide ( p = 0.023), bilirubin ( p = 0.027), and alanine aminotransferase ( p = 0.043), among others. While small changes were found in some cardiovascular and blood biomarkers, no clinically significant changes occurred. This suggests that DYM alone or in combination with TCR consumed at the dosages used in this study does not appear to negatively affect markers of health over four weeks of continuous use., Competing Interests: T.A.V. received a grant from Compound Solutions, Inc. to complete this research. All funding was handled by the Kennesaw State University Grant’s Office. No authors, including T.A.V, have a financial or business interest related to the studied products.

This double-blind study examined effects of a protease enzyme blend (Prohydrolase ® ) added to whey protein on post-resistance exercise aminoacidemia and intramuscular anabolic signaling were investigated in ten resistance-trained males. Participants completed 4 sets of 8-10 repetitions in the leg press and leg extension exercises at 75% of 1-repetition maximum. Participants then consumed either 250 mg of Prohydrolase ® + 26 g of whey protein (PW), 26 g whey alone (W), or non-nutritive control (CON) in counterbalanced order. Blood samples were obtained prior to exercise (baseline) and then immediately-post (IP), 30-, 60-, 90-, 120-, and 180-min post-exercise. Muscle biopsies were taken at baseline, 1-h (1H), and 3-h (3H) post-exercise. Phosphorylation of AKT Ser437 was decreased (3H only: p < 0.001), mTOR Ser2448 was increased (1H: p = 0.025; 3H: p = 0.009), and p70S6K Thr412 remained unchanged similarly for each condition. Plasma leucine, branch-chained amino acids, and essential amino acid concentrations for PW were significantly higher than CON ( p < 0.05) at 30 min and similar to W. Compared to IP, PW was the only treatment with elevated plasma leucine levels at 30 min ( p = 0.007; ∆ = 57.8 mmol/L, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 20.0, 95.6) and EAA levels at 180 min ( p = 0.003; ∆ = 179.1 mmol/L, 95% CI: 77.5, 280.7). Area under the curve amino acid analysis revealed no differences between PW and W. While no different than W, these data indicate that PW was the only group to produce elevated amino acid concentrations 30-min and 180-min post-ingestion., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Townsend, JR, Bender, D, Vantrease, WC, Hudy, J, Huet, K, Williamson, C, Bechke, E, Serafini, PR, and Mangine, GT. Isometric midthigh pull performance is associated with athletic performance and sprinting kinetics in Division I men and women's basketball players. J Strength Cond Res 33(10): 2665-2673, 2019- The relationships between isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) force, athletic performance measures, and sprint kinetics in Division I men's and women's basketball players were investigated. Twenty-three (male = 8, female = 15) Division 1 basketball players completed a maximal 20-m sprint trial while tethered to a device that provided kinetic feedback (peak and average sprinting power, velocity and force). Additionally, 1 repetition maximum (1RM) front squat, 1RM hang clean, vertical jump height, and agility (proagility and lane agility) tests were performed. Rate of force development (RFD) at 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 milliseconds of IMTP and peak force (PF) were also collected. Pearson's product-moment correlation analysis was used to examine the relationships between these measures. Significant (p ≤ 0.05) relationships were observed between IMTP PF and sprint time over all distances (5-20 m; r = -0.62 to 0.69), average sprint velocity (r = 0.50-0.70), peak sprint velocity (r = 0.50-0.54), average sprint force (r = 0.48-0.69), and average sprint power (r = 0.62-0.73). Sprinting kinetic measures (average force and power) over the first 5 m were also significantly (p ≤ 0.05) related to IMTP RFD (50-250 ms; r = 0.42-0.62). Results indicate that IMTP variables are significantly associated with 20-m sprint kinetics. Specifically, IMTP RFD appears to be related to the initial acceleration kinetics of a sprint. Strength and conditioning professionals can possibly implement the IMTP for improved assessment and monitoring of athletic performance and training.

Little evidence exists regarding the contribution of torque and velocity to the age-related decrease in peak power (PP) for the plantar flexors (PFs). A comprehensive assessment of PF neuromuscular function is necessary to elucidate age-related changes, especially between middle-aged and older adults, in order to identify early, age-related decrements. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine neuromuscular function of the PFs in middle-aged and older males, and identify predictors of PP. Twenty-eight healthy, middle-aged (n = 13; 45.1 ± 2.7 yrs) and older (n = 15; 65.3 ± 3.2 yrs) males performed concentric isotonic PF contractions ranging in intensity from 20% to 70% isometric strength using a dynamometer. PP in addition to velocity and torque at the moment in time PP occurred, as well as the rate of velocity, torque (RTD), and power (RPD) development were recorded. The rate of electromyography rise (RER) was derived from the linear slope of the normalized electromyography signal. Isometric and concentric dynamic strength were assessed, as well as cross-sectional area and muscle quality (i.e., echo intensity) of the PFs via panoramic ultrasonography. The relationship between serum c-terminal agrin levels and select variables was examined to explore the potential role of neuromuscular junction deterioration. Appendicular lean mass and physical activity level were similar between groups (p > 0.05), and only PP (p = 0.046; d = 0.79), RPD (p = 0.026; d = 0.90), RTD (p = 0.022; d = 0.91), and RER (p = 0.010; d = 1.04) were lower in older males. When groups were collapsed, RTD was the only significant predictor of PP, while c-terminal agrin levels were not associated with any variables. Our findings indicate that PP and time-dependent parameters of muscle activation and contractile function of the PFs are dramatically diminished in older adults compared to middle-aged adults. PP is produced at the same velocity and relative intensity in middle-aged and older males, and RTD is most influential for PP. The inability of the PFs to be rapidly activated appeared to be influential for the age-related impairment in PP and time-dependent contractile parameters., (Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Ultrasonography of the lower body typically encompasses supine rest due to fluid shifts affecting tissue size and composition. However, vastus lateralis (VL) examination is completed in the lateral recumbent position, and this positional change may influence morphology and its ability to predict function. This study aimed to examine the effect of position on VL morphology and its relationship with lower-body performance. Cross-sectional area (CSA), muscle thickness (MT), pennation angle (PA), echo intensity (UnCorEI), subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness (SFT), and echo intensity corrected for SFT (CorEI) were assessed in 31 resistance-trained males (23.0 ± 2.1 yrs; 1.79 ± 0.08 m; 87.4 ± 11.7 kg) immediately after transitioning from standing to supine (IP), after 15 min of standing (ST), and after 15 min of rest in three recumbent positions: supine (SUP), dominant lateral recumbent (DLR), non-dominant lateral recumbent (NDLR). Participants also completed unilateral vertical jumps, isometric/isokinetic tests, and a one-repetition maximum leg press. CSA, MT, PA, and SFT were greater in ST compared to NDLR, DLR, and SUP ( p < 0.05). CSA, UnCorEI, and CorEI were different between recumbent positions; however no differences were observed for MT, PA, and SFT. Different magnitudes of relationships were observed between muscle morphological characteristics measured after rest in different positions and performance variables. Muscle morphology in IP generally appears to be the best predictor of performance for most variables, although utilizing the NDLR and DLR positions may provide comparable results, whereas morphology measured in ST and SUP provide weaker relationships with physical performance. IP also requires less time and fewer requirements on the technician and subject, thus researchers should consider this positioning for VL examination.

To evaluate the feasibility of on-site collection of subjective anxiety, autonomic nervous system activity, and salivary catecholamines surrounding high-intensity functional training (HIFT) competition, ten experienced HIFT competitors completed baseline assessments of anxiety and heart rate variability (HRV). Then, in two consecutive weeks (Workout 1 and 2) within the competition, HRV was recorded and examined in 5-min segments prior to exercise (PRE) and across a 30-min period after competitors completed their choice of the prescribed or scaled each workout. Subjective anxiety ratings and saliva samples were collected at PRE and immediately-(IP), 30-min (30P), and 60-min post-exercise (60P). Saliva samples were analyzed for concentrations of epinephrine and norepinephrine. Generalized linear mixed models with repeated measures revealed significant ( p < 0.05) differences between workouts for all measures. Compared to Workout 1, anxiety (~50%), epinephrine (173-340%), norepinephrine (29-234%) were greater in Workout 2 and various HRV-derived indices were more depressed. Additionally, some HRV-derived indices appeared to be modulated ( p < 0.05) by competitive level and sex at PRE and throughout the 30-min recovery period. These data suggest that autonomic activity may differ between the competitive and laboratory settings, and that the response may be further modulated by the workout's design, the athlete's sex, and competitive level.

High-intensity functional training (HIFT) (i.e., CrossFit (CF) training) uses a combination of movements and self-selected time periods of work and rest. However, little is known about the physiological responses to an acute bout of HIFT exercise or about the physical parameters that distinguish performance. The purpose of this study was to examine the physiological responses in advanced CF athletes to consecutive Wingate trials with short, active recovery periods. Twenty-nine advanced-level CF-trained athletes volunteered for this study. The participants were required to complete 4 consecutive Wingate anaerobic tests (WAnTs) and a 15-min CF-style workout. Across the 4 WAnT trials, significant ( p < 0.001) changes were observed in oxygen consumption, respiratory exchange ratio, and heart rate. Significant ( p ≤ 0.001) differences among WAnT trials were observed in all anaerobic performance measures. Compared with all other trials, greater peak power ( p < 0.04), relative peak power ( p < 0.02), average power ( p < 0.001), relative average power ( p < 0.001), and total work ( p < 0.001), together with a lower fatigue index ( p < 0.01), were observed during WAnT 1. Overall, the 4 consecutive WAnT trials resulted in a significant ( F = 177.0, p < 0.001) increase in blood lactate response. Stepwise regression revealed that the ability to predict total repetitions completed during the 15-min trial to complete as many repetitions as possible improved as the participants progressed from the first to the third WAnT trial. Our data suggest that, combined with the ability to better maintain performance across high-intensity exercise bouts, the ability to quickly recover between bouts is the most important factor in CF performance.

To determine the agreement between the Open Barbell (OB) and Tendo weightlifting analyzer (TWA) for measuring barbell velocity, eleven men (19.4 ± 1.0 y) performed one set of 2-3 repetitions at four sub-maximal percentage loads, [i.e., 30, 50, 70, and 90% one-repetition maximum (1RM)] in the back (BS) and front squat (FS) exercises. During each repetition, peak and mean barbell velocity were recorded by OB and TWA devices, and the average of the 2-3 repetitions was used for analyses. Although the repeated measures analysis of variance revealed significantly ( p ≤ 0.005) greater peak and mean velocity scores from OB across all intensities, high intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC 2,K = 0.790-0.998), low standard error of measurement (SEM 2,K = 0.040-0.119 m·s -1 ), and coefficients of variation (CV = 2-4%) suggested consistency between devices. Positive ( r = 0.491-0.949) Pearson correlations between averages and differences (between devices) in peak velocity, as well as associated Bland-Altman plots, showed greater differences occurred as the velocity increased, particularly at low-moderate intensity loads. OB consistently provides greater barbell velocity scores compared to TWA, and the differences between devices were more apparent as the peak velocity increased with low-to-moderate loads. Strength coaches and athletes may find better agreement between devices if the mean velocity scores are only considered.

Spitz, RW, Gonzalez, AM, Ghigiarelli, JJ, Sell, KM, and Mangine, GT. Load-velocity relationships of the back vs. front squat exercises in resistance-trained men. J Strength Cond Res 33(2): 301-306, 2019-The purpose of this investigation was to describe and compare changes in barbell velocity in relation to relative load increases during the back squat (BS) and front squat (FS) exercises. Eleven National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I baseball position players (19.4 ± 1.0 years; 182.4 ± 6.5 cm; and 87.2 ± 7.4 kg) performed trials at maximum speed with loads of 30, 50, 70, and 90% of their predetermined 1 repetition maximum (1RM) for both BS and FS. Peak and mean velocity was recorded during each repetition using an accelerometer. Differences between exercises and relative loading were assessed by separate 2 × 4 (condition × relative load) repeated-measures analysis of variance for mean and peak velocity. In addition, the load-velocity relationship across submaximal loadings in BS and FS were further assessed by calculating their respective slopes and comparing slopes through a paired-samples t-test. No significant condition × relative load interactions were noted for mean velocity (p = 0.072) or peak velocity (p = 0.203). Likewise, no significant differences in the slope for BS and FS were noted for mean velocity (p = 0.057) or peak velocity (p = 0.196). However, significant main effects for relative load were noted for both mean and peak velocity (p < 0.001), whereby mean and peak velocity were progressively reduced across all relative loads (i.e., 30, 50, 70, and 90% 1RM) for both the BS and FS. Our results demonstrate that the load-velocity relationships of the BS and FS exercises seem to be similar; therefore, similar approaches may be used with these squat variations when monitoring barbell velocity or implementing velocity-based strength training.

Serafini, PR, Feito, Y, and Mangine, GT. Self-reported measures of strength and sport-specific skills distinguish ranking in an international online fitness competition. J Strength Cond Res 32(12): 3483-3493, 2018-To determine if self-reported performance measures could distinguish ranking during the 2016 CrossFit Open, data from 3,000 male (n = 1,500; 27.2 ± 8.4 years; 85.2 ± 7.9 kg; 177.0 ± 6.5 cm) and women (n = 1500, 28.7 ± 4.9 years; 63.7 ± 5.8 kg; 163.7 ± 6.6 cm) competitors was used for this study. Competitors were split by gender and grouped into quintiles (Q1-Q5) based upon their final ranking. Quintiles were compared for one-repetition maximum (1RM) squat, deadlift, clean and jerk (CJ), snatch, 400 m sprint, 5,000 m run, and benchmark workouts (Fran, Helen, Grace, Filthy-50, and Fight-Gone-Bad). Separate one-way analyses of variance revealed that all competitors in Q1 reported greater (p ≤ 0.05) 1RM loads for squat (men: 201.6 ± 19.1 kg; women: 126.1 ± 13.0 kg), deadlift (men: 232.4 ± 20.5 kg; women: 148.3 ± 14.5 kg), CJ (men: 148.9 ± 12.1 kg; women: 95.7 ± 8.4 kg), and snatch (men: 119.4 ± 10.9 kg; women 76.5 ± 7.6 kg) compared with other quintiles. In addition, men in Q1 (59.3 ± 5.9 seconds) reported faster (p ≤ 0.05) 400 m times than Q3 only (62.6 ± 7.3 seconds), but were not different from any group in the 5,000 m run. Women in Q2 (67.5 ± 8.8 seconds) reported faster (p ≤ 0.05) 400 m times than Q3-Q5 (73.5-74.8 seconds), and faster (21.3 ± 1.8 minutes, p < 0.02) 5,000 m times than Q4 (22.6 ± 2.2 minutes) and Q5 (22.6 ± 1.9 minutes). Faster (p ≤ 0.05) Fran times were reported by Q1 (men: 138.2 ± 13.3 seconds; women: 159.4 ± 28.3 seconds) compared with other groups, while the results of other workouts were variable. These data indicate that the most successful athletes excel in all areas of fitness/skill, while lower-ranking athletes should focus on developing strength and power after achieving sufficient proficiency in sport-specific skills.

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effects of 28 days of a dietary supplement on body composition, mood, and satiety in overweight adults. Twenty healthy adults (25.5 ± 3.8 years; 87.3 ± 20.7 kg; 169.9 ± 10.6 cm; 29.9 ± 5.1 body mass index) participated in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled investigation. Ten participants were provided with a dietary supplement containing 178 mg satiereal, 100 mg naringin, and 2,000 IU vitamin D3 daily (SUPP), and ten participants were provided a placebo (PL) for 28 days. Baseline (PRE) and post (POST) assessments included body mass, BMI, and waist circumference measures. In addition, participants provided self-reported food records and completed study questionnaires twice weekly. Questionnaires consisted of profile of mood states, visual analog scales, modified trait food-cravings questionnaire, and a modified state food-cravings questionnaire. No significant differences were noted between groups for total calorie or macronutrient intake (p = 0.65-0.92), body mass (p = 0.34), BMI (p = 0.24), or waist circumference measures (p = 0.56-0.94). In addition, no significant differences between groups were observed for mood states, subjective measures of food cravings, or feelings of anxiety, fullness, bloating, hunger, craving, and stress (p >.05). In conclusion, 28 days of a dietary supplement containing satiereal, naringin, and vitamin D3 did not have any detectable beneficial effects on body-weight management.

Gonzalez, AM, Spitz, RW, Ghigiarelli, JJ, Sell, KM, and Mangine, GT. Acute effect of citrulline malate supplementation on upper-body resistance exercise performance in recreationally resistance-trained men. J Strength Cond Res 32(11): 3088-3094, 2018-To investigate the effect of citrulline malate (CM) supplementation on upper-body resistance exercise performance, 12 recreationally resistance-trained men (21.4 ± 1.6 years; 163.0 ± 46.2 cm; 85.0 ± 12.4 kg) underwent 2 testing sessions administered in a randomized, double-blind fashion. During each visit, participants were provided either 8 g of CM or a placebo (PL) 40 minutes before beginning a standardized warm-up and initiating a barbell bench press resistance exercise protocol consisting of 5 sets of 15 repetitions at 75% 1 repetition maximum with 2-minute rest intervals. Participants were instructed to complete as many repetitions as possible until either reaching 15 repetitions or muscular failure. Total number of repetitions performed and power output were recorded for each set. Subjective measures of energy, focus, fatigue, and perceived exertion, along with muscle thickness of the triceps brachii, were assessed before and after exercise. Significant (p ≤ 0.05) main effects for time were observed for all variables except for subjective feelings of energy (p = 0.085). A group × time interaction (F = 2.86, p = 0.034, n = 0.21) was observed for repetitions performed, where participants performed more (p = 0.015) repetitions on set 3 during PL (5.7 ± 1.2 repetitions) compared with CM (4.6 ± 1.2 repetitions). However, during set 4, participants tended (p = 0.089) to perform more repetitions during CM (4.8 ± 1.8 repetitions) compared with PL (4.3 ± 1.3 repetitions). No other differences were observed between trials. Supplementation with 8 g of CM 40 minutes before the barbell bench press resistance exercise protocol did not increase exercise performance, augment the muscle swelling response to training, or alter subjective measures of focus, energy, and fatigue in recreationally resistance-trained men.

Resistance training may differentially affect morphological adaptations along the length of uni-articular and bi-articular muscles. The purpose of this study was to compare changes in muscle morphology along the length of the rectus femoris (RF) and vastus lateralis (VL) in response to resistance training. Following a 2-wk preparatory phase, 15 resistance-trained men (24.0 ± 3.0 y, 90.0 ± 13.8 kg, 174.9 ± 20.7 cm) completed pre-training (PRE) assessments of muscle thickness (MT), pennation angle (PA), cross-sectional area (CSA), and echo-intensity in the RF and VL at 30, 50, and 70% of each muscle's length; fascicle length (FL) was estimated from respective measurements of MT and PA within each muscle and region. Participants then began a high intensity, low volume (4 x 3-5 repetitions, 3min rest) lower-body resistance training program, and repeated all PRE-assessments after 8 weeks (2 d ∙ wk-1) of training (POST). Although three-way (muscle [RF, VL] x region [30, 50, 70%] x time [PRE, POST]) repeated measures analysis of variance did not reveal significant interactions for any assessment of morphology, significant simple (muscle x time) effects were observed for CSA (p = 0.002) and FL (p = 0.016). Specifically, average CSA changes favored the VL (2.96 ± 0.69 cm2, p < 0.001) over the RF (0.59 ± 0.20 cm2, p = 0.011), while significant decreases in average FL were noted for the RF (-1.03 ± 0.30 cm, p = 0.004) but not the VL (-0.05 ± 0.36 cm, p = 0.901). No other significant differences were observed. The findings of this study demonstrate the occurrence of non-homogenous adaptations in RF and VL muscle size and architecture following 8 weeks of high-intensity resistance training in resistance-trained men. However, training does not appear to influence region-specific adaptations in either muscle., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Background: CrossFit® practitioners commonly track progress by monitoring their ability to complete a variety of standardized benchmark workouts within a typical class setting. However, objective assessment of progress is challenging because normative data does not currently exist for any of these benchmark workouts. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to develop normative values for five common benchmark workouts (i.e., Fran, Grace, Helen, Filthy-50 [F50], and Fight-Gone-Bad [FGB])., Methods: Performance data from 133,857 male ( M ) and female ( F ) profiles located on a publicly available website were collected and sorted by sex (i.e., male [ M ] and female [ F ]) and competitive age classification (i.e., teen [T], individual [I], or masters [M]) and screened for errors. Subsequently, 10,000 valid profiles were randomly selected for analysis., Results: Means and standard deviations were calculated for each category for Fran (I M 250 ± 106 s; I F 331 ± 181 s; M M 311 ± 138 s; M F 368 ± 138 s; T M 316 ± 136 s; and T F 334 ± 120 s), Grace (I M 180 ± 90 s; I F 213 ± 96 s; M M 213 ± 93 s; M F 238 ± 100 s; T M 228 ± 63 s; and T F 223 ± 69 s), Helen (I M 9.5 ± 1.9 min; I F 11.1 ± 2.4 min; M M 10.2 ± 2.0 min; M F 11.5 ± 2.3 min; T M 9.4 ± 1.6 min; and T F 12.7 ± 1.9 min), F50 (I M 24.4 ± 5.9 min; I F 27.3 ± 6.9 min; M M 26.7 ± 6.1 min; M F 28.2 ± 6.0 min; T M 25.9 ± 7.9 min; and T F 28.3 ± 8.1 min), and FGB (I M 335 ± 65 repetitions; I F 292 ± 62 repetitions; M M 311 ± 59 repetitions; M F 280 ± 54 repetitions; T M 279 ± 44 repetitions; and T F 238 ± 35 repetitions). These values were then used to calculate normative percentile (in deciles) values for each category within each workout. Separate, one-way analyses of variance revealed significant (p < 0.05) differences between categories for each workout., Conclusions: These normative values can be used to assess proficiency and sport-specific progress, establish realistic training goals, and for standard inclusion/exclusion criteria for future research in CrossFit® practitioners.

Background: Specific mood states were examined during the CrossFit Open, a consecutive 5-week fitness competition involving five separate CrossFit ® workouts, to determine whether the unique design or strenuous workouts of the competition resulted in acute and/or chronic mood state alterations., Methods: Participants ( n = 8) completed the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire one-week prior to the competition (baseline), prior to (PRE), immediately post (IP), 30-min post- (30P) and 60-min post-workout (60P) each week. Tension, depression, anger, confusion, fatigue and vigor were derived from the POMS, as was Total Mood Disturbance (TMD) and an Energy Index (EI)., Results: Workout intensity exceeded 93% HR max each week. No differences were observed between baseline and PRE-workout mood states across weeks, indicating little effect of the unique competition design. Significant (week x time) interactions were observed for TMD ( p = 0.037), EI ( p = 0.038) and fatigue ( p = 0.005). Acute mood state fluctuations were consistent across each week, where mood states improved to and beyond PRE values 60-min post-workout., Conclusions: In competitors, the differences in workout design between each week did not influence mood states. This may be related to adaptation to this style of training, while the acute mood state alterations are likely due to the workout intensity.

To determine the salivary steroid response to high-intensity functional training (HIFT) competition workouts, saliva samples were collected from ten recreationally trained male and female competitors during a 5-week (WK1⁻WK5) international competition. Competitors arrived at their local affiliate and provided samples prior to (PRE) their warm-up, immediately (IP), 30-min (30P), and 60-min (60P) post-exercise. Samples were analyzed for concentrations of testosterone (T), cortisol (C), and their ratio (TC). Generalized linear mixed models with repeated measures revealed significant main effects for time ( p < 0.001) for T, C, and TC. Compared to PRE-concentrations, elevated ( p < 0.05) T was observed at IP on WK2⁻WK5 (mean difference: 135⁻511 pg·mL -1 ), at 30P on WK3 (mean difference: 81.0 ± 30.1 pg·mL -1 ) and WK5 (mean difference: 56.6 ± 22.7 pg·mL -1 ), and at 60P on WK3 (mean difference: 73.5 ± 29.7 pg·mL -1 ) and WK5 (mean difference: 74.3 ± 28.4 pg·mL -1 ). Compared to PRE-concentrations, elevated ( p < 0.05) C was noted on all weeks at IP (mean difference: 9.3⁻15.9 ng·mL -1 ) and 30P (mean difference: 6.0⁻19.9 ng·mL -1 ); significant ( p < 0.006) elevations were noted at 60P on WK1 (mean difference: 9.1 ± 3.0 ng·mL -1 ) and WK5 (mean difference: 12.8 ± 2.9 ng·mL -1 ). Additionally, TC was significantly reduced from PRE-values by 61% on WK1 at 60P ( p = 0.040) and by 80% on WK5 at 30P ( p = 0.023). Differences in T, C, and TC were also observed between weeks at specific time points. Although each workout affected concentrations in T, C, and/or the TC ratio, changes appeared to be modulated by the presence of overload and workout duration. During periods of elevated training or competition, athletes and coaches may consider monitoring these hormones for consistency and as a means of assessing workout difficulty.

The purpose of this study was to determine if back squat cluster sets (CS) with varying inter-repetition rest periods would potentiate greater sprint performance compared with a traditional set parallel back squat in collegiate soccer players. Twelve collegiate male soccer players (age, 21.0 ± 2.0 years; height, 180.0 ± 9.0 cm; body mass, 79.0 ± 9.5 kg) performed a 20-m sprint prior to a potentiation complex and at 1, 4, 7, and 10 min postexercise on 3 separate, randomized occasions. On each occasion, the potentiation complex consisted of 1 set of 3 repetitions at 85% 1-repetition maximum (1RM) for the traditional parallel back squat. However, on 1 occasion the 3-repetition set was performed in a traditional manner (i.e., continuously), whereas on the other 2 occasions, 30s (CS 30 ) and 60 s (CS 60 ) of rest were allotted between each repetition. Repeated-measures ANOVA revealed greater (p = 0.022) mean barbell velocity on CS 60 compared with the traditional set. However, faster (p < 0.040) 20-m sprint times were observed for CS 30 (3.15 ± 0.16 s) compared with traditional (3.20 ± 0.17 s) only at 10 min postexercise. No other differences were observed. These data suggest that a single cluster set of 3 repetitions with 30-s inter-repetition rest periods at 85% 1RM acutely improves 20-m sprinting performance. Strength and conditioning professionals and their athletes might consider its inclusion during the specific warm-up to acutely improve athletic performance during the onset (≤10 min) of training or competition.

Mangine, GT, Huet, K, Williamson, C, Bechke, E, Serafini, P, Bender, D, Hudy, J, and Townsend, J. A resisted sprint improves rate of force development during a 20-m sprint in athletes. J Strength Cond Res 32(6): 1531-1537, 2018-This study examined the effect of a resisted sprint on 20-m sprinting kinetics. After a standardized warm-up, 23 (male = 10, female = 13) Division I basketball players completed 3 maximal 20-m sprint trials while tethered to a robotic resistance device. The first sprint (S1) used the minimal, necessary resistance (1 kg) to detect peak (PK) and average (AVG) sprinting power (P), velocity (V), and force (F); peak rate of force production (RFD) was also calculated. The second sprint (S2) was completed against a load equal to approximately 5% of the athlete's body mass. Minimal resistance (1 kg) was again used for the final sprint (S3). Approximately 4-9 minutes of rest was allotted between each sprint. Separate analyses of variance with repeated measures revealed significant (p ≤ 0.05) main effects for all sprinting kinetic measures except VPK (p = 0.067). Compared with S1, increased (p < 0.006) 20-m sprint time (3.4 ± 4.9%), PAVG (115.9 ± 33.2%), PPK (65.7 ± 23.7%), FAVG (134.1 ± 34.5%), FPK (65.3 ± 16.2%), and RFD (71.8 ± 22.2%) along with decreased (p < 0.001) stride length (-21 ± 15.3%) and VAVG (-6.6 ± 4.6%) were observed during S2. During S3, only RFD was improved (5.2 ± 7.1%, p < 0.001) compared with S1. In conclusion, completing a short, resisted sprint with a load equating to 5% of body mass before a short sprint (∼20-meters) does not seem to affect sprinting time or kinetics. However, it does appear to enhance RFD.

The influence of baseline strength or muscle size on adaptations to training is not well-understood. Comparisons between novice and advanced lifters, and between stronger and weaker experienced-lifters, have produced conflicting results. This study examined the effect of baseline muscle strength and size on subsequent adaptations in resistance-trained individuals following a traditional high-volume, short-rest resistance training protocol. Fourteen resistance-trained men (24.0±2.7 y; 90.1±11.7 kg; 169.9±29.0 cm) completed pre-training (PRE) ultrasound measurements of muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) in the rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL), pectoralis major, and triceps brachii (TRI) prior to strength assessments (e.g., one-repetition maximum strength bench press and back-squat). Post-training (POST) assessments were completed following 8-wks (4 d·wk -1 ) of resistance training. Comparisons were made between stronger (STR) and weaker (WKR) participants, and between larger (LGR) and smaller (SMR) participants, based upon PRE-muscle strength and size, respectively. When groups were based on upper-body strength, repeated measures analysis of variance indicated a significant group × time interaction where greater improvements in bench press strength were observed in WKR (12.5±8.6%, p = 0.013) compared to STR (1.3±5.4%, p=0.546). Within this comparison, STR also possessed more resistance training experience than WKR (mean difference=3.1 y, p=0.002). No other differences in experience or adaptations to training were observed. These data suggest that following a short-duration training program (8-weeks), baseline size and strength have little impact on performance gains in resistance-trained individuals who possess similar years of experience. However, when training experience is different, baseline strength may affect adaptations.

Introduction: Muscle activation was investigated during resistance exercise with 2 relatively high-intensity loads., Methods: Ten resistance-trained men performed the leg press exercise to repetition failure: a set at 70% of 1-repetition maximum (1RM) and a set at 90% of 1RM. Surface electromyography (EMG) was used to assess peak and mean muscle activation of the vastus lateralis, rectus femoris, and vastus medialis., Results: Peak and mean EMG remained greater at 90% than 70% 1RM across all repetitions (P =  0.03 and P = 0.02, respectively). Main effects for trial were also significant for mean EMG activity of the final common repetitions (P = 0.03) favoring 90% 1RM; however, peak EMG activity was similar during the final common repetitions of the 70% and 90% 1RM sets., Conclusions: Across all repetitions, 90% 1RM appears to produce greater muscle activation during the leg press exercise, but similar peak EMG was observed during the final common repetitions of each set. Muscle Nerve 56: 505-509, 2017., (© 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Attenuating TNFα/TNFr1 signaling in monocytes has been proposed as a means of mitigating inflammation. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a milk protein supplement on TNFα and monocyte TNFr1 expression. Ten resistance-trained men (24.7 ± 3.4 years; 90.1 ± 11.3 kg; 176.0 ± 4.9 cm) ingested supplement (SUPP) or placebo (PL) immediately post-exercise in a randomized, cross-over design. Blood samples were obtained at baseline (BL), immediately (IP), 30-min (30P), 1-h (1H), 2-h (2H), and 5-h (5H) post-exercise to assess plasma concentrations of myoglobin; tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα); and expression of tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFr1) on classical, intermediate, and non-classical monocytes. Magnitude-based inferences were used to provide inferences on the true effects of SUPP compared to PL. Plasma TNFα concentrations were "likely attenuated" (91.6% likelihood effect) from BL to 30P in the SUPP group compared with PL (d = 0.87; mean effect: 2.3 ± 2.4 pg mL -1 ). TNFr1 expressions on classical (75.9% likelihood effect) and intermediate (93.0% likelihood effect) monocytes were "likely attenuated" from BL to 2H in the SUPP group compared with PL (d = 0.67; mean effect: 510 ± 670 RFU, and d = 1.05; mean effect: 2500 ± 2300 RFU, respectively). TNFr1 expression on non-classical monocytes was "likely attenuated" (77.6% likelihood effect) from BL to 1H in the SUPP group compared with PL (d = 0.69; mean effect: 330 ± 430 RFU). Ingestion of a milk protein supplement immediately post-exercise appears to attenuate both plasma TNFα concentrations and TNFr1 expression on monocyte subpopulations in resistance-trained men.