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Purpose: To examine the reproducibility and sensitivity of a self-paced field running test (SFT) in monitoring positive and negative changes in endurance performance. Methods: A total of 27 (11 women) recreational runners participated in a 6-week training intervention. The intervention was divided into a 3-week baseline period, a 2-week overload period, and a 1-week recovery period. An incremental treadmill test was performed before the baseline period and a 3000-m running test before and after all periods (T1–T4). In addition, the participants performed once a week an SFT (SFT1–6), which consisted of submaximal (6 + 6 + 3-min test at perceived exertion of 9/20, 13/20, and 17/20) and maximal sections (6 × 3-min intervals at maximum sustainable effort). The associations between the incremental treadmill test and the SFT1 performance were examined with the Pearson correlation, and the intraclass correlation was analyzed for the parameters of SFT1 to SFT3 sessions during the baseline period. The repeated-measures correlation was calculated for the 3000-m speed at T1 to T4 and the corresponding speeds at SFT. Results: Significant associations (r =.68–.93; P <.001) were found between the speeds of the SFT and the peak and lactate threshold speeds of the incremental treadmill test. Intraclass correlations varied between.77 and.96, being the highest for the average speed of 6 × 3-minute intervals. Repeated-measures correlation was significant (P <.05) for the 9/20 (r =.24), 13/20 (r =.24), and 6 × 3-minute intervals (r =.29). Conclusions: The SFT seemed a reproducible method to estimate endurance performance in recreational runners. The sensitivity to track short-term and small-magnitude changes in performance seems more limited and might require more standardized conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guarana (GUA) seed extract, containing caffeine (CAF) and additional bioactive compounds, may positively affect mental performance, but evidence regarding exercise is limited. This investigation assessed acute GUA ingestion compared with CAF on endurance performance. Eleven endurance-trained noncyclists and cyclists (V ˙ O 2 peak = 49.7 ± 5.9, 60.4 ± 4.6 ml·kg·min−1) completed a double-blind, crossover experiment after ingesting (a) 100 mg CAF, (b) 500 mg GUA (containing 130 mg CAF), or (c) placebo (P) prior to 60-min fixed cycling workload (FIX) + 15-min time trial. Oxygen uptake, heart rate, respiratory exchange ratio, blood glucose, and lactate were not different (p ≥.052) during FIX. A significant interaction (p =.042) for perceived exertion was observed at 50-min FIX with lower rating (p =.023) for GUA versus CAF but not compared with P. Work accumulated over 15-min time trial was greater (p =.038) for GUA versus P due to higher early (1–11 min) work outputs. Work performance favored (effect size = 0.18; 95% confidence interval [0.003, 0.355], p =.046) GUA (241.4 ± 39.9 kJ) versus P (232.1 ± 46.6 kJ), but CAF (232.3 ± 43.9) was not different from GUA (effect size = 0.19; 95% confidence interval [−0.022, 0.410], p =.079) or P. Postexercise strength loss was not attenuated with GUA (−5.6 ± 8.5%) or CAF (−8.3 ± 9.4%) versus P (−10.3 ± 5.1%). Acute GUA ingestion improved work performance relative to P, but effects were trivial to small and unrelated to altered substrate oxidation or muscular strength. Ergogenicity may involve central mechanisms reducing perceived effort with GUA (containing 130 mg caffeine). Due to issues related to identical matching of dosage, whether GUA confers additional benefits beyond its CAF content cannot be determined at present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Growth in the use of video games has spurred innovations in the health sector, especially through exergames, which promote physical activity using interactive technologies like augmented reality. Exergames are shown to enhance exercise motivation and engagement, yet enjoyment remains inconsistent across studies. This pilot study aims to provide evidence on how different exergaming doses affect exercise heart rate, perceived exertion, adverse effects, and enjoyment in older adults. (2) Methods: A pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted to compare different doses of exercise through video games (13 vs. 28 min) in older adults living in a nursing home. A single bout of exergaming was provided to assess the outcomes: heart rate, rate of perceived exertion, physical activity enjoyment scale score, and adverse effects. (3) Results: Thirty-two older adults were recruited. This study revealed no significant differences in heart rate between groups (p = 0.1). There is a weak correlation between the rate of perceived exertion and the level of enjoyment (rs = −0.193) and between the total time of the intervention and the incidence of adverse effects (rs = 0.295). (4) Conclusions: The use of a higher dose of exergaming is effective in achieving moderate physical intensity. Also, the results suggest the intervention was generally well tolerated and enjoyed by older adults, with no serious adverse effects reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A promising approach to optimizing recovery in youth football has been the use of machine learning (ML) models to predict recovery states and prevent mental fatigue. This research investigates the application of ML models in classifying male young football players aged under (U)15, U17, and U19 according to their recovery state. Weekly training load data were systematically monitored across three age groups throughout the initial month of the 2019–2020 competitive season, covering 18 training sessions and 120 observation instances. Outfield players were tracked using portable 18-Hz global positioning system (GPS) devices, while heart rate (HR) was measured using 1 Hz telemetry HR bands. The rating of perceived exertion (RPE 6–20) and total quality recovery (TQR 6–20) scores were employed to evaluate perceived exertion, internal training load, and recovery state, respectively. Data preprocessing involved handling missing values, normalization, and feature selection using correlation coefficients and a random forest (RF) classifier. Five ML algorithms [K-nearest neighbors (KNN), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), support vector machine (SVM), RF, and decision tree (DT)] were assessed for classification performance. The K-fold method was employed to cross-validate the ML outputs. Results: A high accuracy for this ML classification model (73–100%) was verified. The feature selection highlighted critical variables, and we implemented the ML algorithms considering a panel of 9 variables (U15, U19, body mass, accelerations, decelerations, training weeks, sprint distance, and RPE). These features were included according to their percentage of importance (3–18%). The results were cross-validated with good accuracy across 5-fold (79%). Conclusion: The five ML models, in combination with weekly data, demonstrated the efficacy of wearable device-collected features as an efficient combination in predicting football players' recovery states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Study Aim. Small-sided games (SSGs) are widely used in football training to replicate match conditions while controlling the physical load on players. Variations in the number of players during these games can significantly influence key recovery markers. This study aims to investigate the effects of variations in player numbers on maximal heart rate, blood lactate levels, and perceived exertion in small-sided games acutely applied in football. Material and Methods. The study involved 28 male football players who were also university students (mean age 24.89±4.59 years, mean height 179±0.04 cm, mean body weight 73.21±4.34 kg). The participants were divided into three groups based on the number of players (2 vs. 2, 4 vs. 4, and 8 vs. 8). Heart rate and lactate levels were measured at three time points: before training, immediately after training, and 30 minutes post-training. Results. The study revealed that post-training maximal heart rates (MHR) and lactate levels were significantly higher across all groups compared to pre-training levels, while measurements taken 30 minutes post-training were significantly lower than post-training levels (P0.05). Post-training MHR values were similar between the 2 vs. 2 and 4 vs. 4 groups (P>0.05), whereas the 8 vs. 8 group showed significantly higher values (P0.05), but the 2 vs. 2 group had significantly lower levels (P0.05), while the 8 vs. 8 group reported significantly higher perceived exertion levels (P

Purpose: Music has the potential to produce several performance-enhancing effects on the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and power output, and these effects may be influenced by exercise intensity. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the effects of music on RPE, peak and mean power during high-intensity intermittent exercise. Methods: The databases searched for relevant studies included PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, SportDiscuss, and PsycInfo, from their inception until December 2022. Results: A total of 318 were found, 9 studies attained the eligibility criteria and were included in the final analyses. Eight studies applied a sprint interval exercise protocol and one applied a long-duration high-intensity interval exercise. Out of the six studies that measured the RPE, four reported no effect of music on this parameter. Four in six studies showed that music improved peak power and two in seven studies reported that music led to an improvement in mean power when compared to control conditions. Conclusion: Therefore, music does not seem to reduce the RPE or increase mean power, but it appears to have the ability to increase peak power during high-intensity intermittent exercise. The choice of music and timing of the intervention are important considerations when manipulating music during high-intensity intermittent exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exercise and nature exposure are independently recognised for their positive relationship with health, but their combined effects are not fully understood. The present review summarises the evidence that compares physiological and perceptual differences of a single bout of exercise performed outdoors versus indoors. Nine databases were searched for articles published before March 2021 which utilised controlled designs to assess at least one physiological outcome during or after a single acute bout of outdoor exercise. When appropriate, quantitative analyses were completed. Quality of articles was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool. The findings of 38 articles (Total N = 1168) were examined. Participants were primarily healthy. Summarised outcomes included objective exercise intensity, perceived exertion, performance, neuroendocrine and metabolic responses, cardiovascular responses, thermoregulation, enjoyment, intention for future exercise, and perceptions of the environment. Outdoor environments increased enjoyment (N = 234, K = 10, g = 1.24, 95% CI = [0.59, 1.89], p < 0.001). Findings for remaining outcomes were non-significant or inconclusive and challenging to interpret due to high risk of bias. Overall, outdoor exercise appears to feel more enjoyable than indoor exercise when matched for intensity, with equivocal physiological benefit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To perform a cross-cultural adaptation of the OMNI verbal descriptors to Brazilian-Portuguese and examine the validity of the Brazilian version for arm-crank activity. Cross-cultural adaptation stages were: permission, translation, synthesis, back translation, expert committee review, pretesting, and submission and appraisal. For the concurrent validity, a Brazilian OMNI-Wheel scale was used to obtain rating of perceived exertion for the overall body (RPEOverall) and arms (RPEArms) in participants (n = 9, 10–17 years) with spina bifida. Cardiopulmonary exercise test was used to measure heart rate (HR) and oxygen uptake (VO2). Repeated Measures Correlation (rrm) was used to examine the scale validity. The cross-cultural adaptation produced equivalence between English and Brazilian-Portuguese verbal descriptors based on successful translation and pretesting. The Brazilian OMNI-wheel was validated based on strong associations of RPEOverall with VO2 (rrm (35) = 0.86, 95% CI [0.93, 0.73], p < 0.001) and HR (rrm (35) = 0.89, 95% CI [0.94, 0.79], p < 0.001) and RPEArms with VO2 (rrm (33) = 0.82, 95% CI [0.91, 0.66], p < 0.001) and HR (rrm (33) = 0.82, 95% CI [0.91, 0.66], p < 0.001). The OMNI scale was cross-culturally adapted to Brazilian-Portuguese. The Brazilian OMNI-Wheel was validated based on strong associations of RPE with HR and VO2. The original English OMNI was cross-culturally adapted to Brazilian-Portuguese. A Brazilian wheelchair OMNI was concurrently validated for Arm-Crank Activity in adolescents with spina bifida. This OMNI scale version may aid health providers in monitoring perceived exertion in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy and user's impression of an arm-support exoskeleton in complex and realistic ceiling construction tasks. 11 construction workers performed 9 tasks. We determined objective and subjective efficacy of the exoskeleton by measuring shoulder muscle activity and perceived exertion. User's impression was assessed by questionnaires on expected support, perceived support, perceived hindrance and future intention to use the exoskeleton. Wearing the exoskeleton yielded persistent reductions in shoulder muscle activity of up to 58% and decreased perceived exertion. Participants reported limited perceived hindrance by the exoskeleton, as also indicated by no increase in antagonistic muscle activity. The findings demonstrate the high potential of an arm-support exoskeleton for unloading the shoulder muscles when used in the dynamic and versatile working environment of a ceiling construction worker, which is in line with the consistent intention of the workers to use the exoskeleton in the future. Practitioner Summary: The majority of research focuses on the effect of using an arm-support exoskeleton during isolated postures and prescribed movements. We investigated the efficacy of an exoskeleton during a complex and realistic work, namely ceiling construction. Shoulder muscle activity was lower in almost all tasks when wearing the exoskeleton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study investigates the effects of teacher verbal encouragement (VE) on strength, endurance, and psychophysiological responses, aiming to enhance teaching strategies in sports science education. Methods: Forty-eight sports science students, aged 21.3 ± 0.5 years, participated in this study. The sample was randomly divided into two groups, and a counterbalancing procedure was implemented. Participants completed strength and endurance testing sessions under normal conditions in the first week and repeated similar sessions in the second week with teacher VE. Strength was assessed using the 1RM bench press, squat, and deadlift tests, while endurance was evaluated through 8-minute time trials (8MTT: burpees, box jumps, hand-release push-ups, and sit-ups). Perceived exertion and physical activity enjoyment were investigated using self-reporting instruments. Results: The key findings showed that participants lifted greater weights in the 1RM bench press (p < 0.01; r = 0.45, medium to large effect), squat (p<0.001; Hedges' g = 1.36, large effect), and deadlift tests (p < 0.001; r = 0.79, large effect) and completed a greater number of repetitions in the 8MTT (p<0.001; r = 0.87, large effect) under VE. Perceived exertion was found to be lower under normal conditions (p<0.05; r = 0.29, small effect), yet physical activity enjoyment significantly increased under VE (p < 0.05; r = 0.81, large effect). Discussion: In conclusion, implementing teacher VE in sports science education can contribute to improved strength and endurance training outcomes and student psychophysiological response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The main objective of this research was to develop a questionnaire for the subjective evaluation of the quantity and magnitude of impacts experienced by rugby players. Methods: Thirty-six male rugby union players (mean ± SD, age; 23.5 ± 3.6 years, height; 179 ± 10.0 cm, body mass; 89.58 ± 13.6 kg) participated in this study, comprising eighteen forwards and fourteen backs. Participants were tasked with completing self-reported questionnaires assessing their perception of the quantity and magnitude of impacts after thirteen consecutive matches. Objective data were concurrently collected using Micro-Electrical Mechanical Systems (MEMS) integrated with a GPS device (WIMU, Realtrack Systems, Almeria, Spain). Results: The statistical analysis revealed that 49.7% of players overestimated and 39.8% underestimated the number of impacts above 8G, with a mean team error of 0.017 impacts. Bayesian methods indicated a 95% high-density interval for the mean error between −0.46 and 0.45, with 95.8% within the region of practical equivalence, signifying negligible bias at the team level. Positional variations were notable, with Halfbacks overestimating and Fullbacks and Second Row underestimating impacts. The errors and number of impacts displayed a non-linear relationship, better described by an exponential model. Additionally, the study identified significant correlations between the number of impacts players estimated and the actual impacts received, further underlined by position-specific trends, suggesting that players' estimation abilities are influenced by the actual exposure to impacts and their playing positions. Conclusions: The utilization of a subjective impact questionnaire is a valid tool to assess rugby players level of impacts during a match. This approach proves particularly valuable in situations where technology is unavailable, showcasing its adaptability as a practical tool in diverse sporting contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Recreational and competitive slalom waterskiing is increasingly popular among individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI), particularly for those with paraplegia using sit-skis. A key component of slalom skiing is the deepwater start (DWS), yet little is known about the physiological and physical demands of this activity when the athlete is seated. This study aims to fill this gap by focusing on the training requirements for a seated slalom athlete. Materials and methods: Focusing on a young male athlete with paraplegia, this case study evaluates the effectiveness and efficiency of traditional (TDWS) and alternative (ADWS) DWS techniques during seated slalom waterskiing sessions. It assesses internal training load (TL) through heart rate (HR) zones and session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE), alongside pre- and post-session handgrip strength measurements to gauge peripheral muscle fatigue. Results and conclusions: Performing the ADWS, achieving a full success rate, proved more effective but slightly more time-consuming than TDWS, which had limited success. HR during DWS maneuvers ranged from 63.2 to 81.3% of maximal HR, with most sessions occurring below the ventilatory threshold, thus perceived as hard effort. A moderate yet non-significant correlation was found between HR and sRPE-based TL. A significant reduction in handgrip strength post-session underscores the activity's demands. These insights illuminate the technical, physiological, and physical challenges in mastering DWS for seated slalom athletes with SCI, providing valuable guidance for the development of tailored training programs and techniques in this sport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Exergames can be used to train physical and cognitive abilities and have been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of falls in older adults. However, there is limited evidence about how people play exergames and how gameplay is affected by game settings and, thus, the potential training effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of repeated exergaming sessions over 4 weeks and two game settings (difficulty level and game speed) on gameplay (performance, physical activity and perceived exertion) in older adults over a four-week exergaming intervention. Methods: 28 independently living older adults (mean age 74.47 years; 14 females) played two different exergames (Puzzle and Fox) at two difficulty levels 3× per week for 4 weeks. Physical activity measures from an accelerometer at the lower back, performance as game scores from the exergaming system, and self-reported measures of physical and cognitive exertion were collected at sessions 1,2,3,6,9 and 12. Results: For the Puzzle game, performance and physical activity increased significantly across the 12 training sessions. For the Fox game, an increased game speed was associated with increased performance, physical activity, and exertion across the exergaming sessions. Across all exergaming sessions, increasing difficulty by adding cognitive elements decreased the performance and amount of physical activity. Conclusion: Game characteristics significantly influence how the exergames are played during a 4-week exergaming intervention. Hence, individual tailoring of the difficulty level and game speed is important. This study highlights the importance of understanding the interplay between game characteristics and gameplay during an exergaming intervention, thereby adding critical information for interpreting intervention effects – or the lack thereof.

IntroductionA promising approach to optimizing recovery in youth football has been the use of machine learning (ML) models to predict recovery states and prevent mental fatigue. This research investigates the application of ML models in classifying male young football players aged under (U)15, U17, and U19 according to their recovery state. Weekly training load data were systematically monitored across three age groups throughout the initial month of the 2019–2020 competitive season, covering 18 training sessions and 120 observation instances. Outfield players were tracked using portable 18-Hz global positioning system (GPS) devices, while heart rate (HR) was measured using 1 Hz telemetry HR bands. The rating of perceived exertion (RPE 6–20) and total quality recovery (TQR 6–20) scores were employed to evaluate perceived exertion, internal training load, and recovery state, respectively. Data preprocessing involved handling missing values, normalization, and feature selection using correlation coefficients and a random forest (RF) classifier. Five ML algorithms [K-nearest neighbors (KNN), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), support vector machine (SVM), RF, and decision tree (DT)] were assessed for classification performance. The K-fold method was employed to cross-validate the ML outputs.ResultsA high accuracy for this ML classification model (73–100%) was verified. The feature selection highlighted critical variables, and we implemented the ML algorithms considering a panel of 9 variables (U15, U19, body mass, accelerations, decelerations, training weeks, sprint distance, and RPE). These features were included according to their percentage of importance (3–18%). The results were cross-validated with good accuracy across 5-fold (79%).ConclusionThe five ML models, in combination with weekly data, demonstrated the efficacy of wearable device-collected features as an efficient combination in predicting football players’ recovery states.

(1) Prolonged life expectancy often leads to declining health, reduced physical activity, and dependence, especially in institutionalized elderly. Frailty, obesity, limited functionality, and cognitive impairment are common. Physical activity programs for this demographic can increase weekly energy expenditure and improve frailty. Understanding differences in walking indoors versus outdoors is crucial for tailored programs. This study aimed to compare time, energy expenditure, and perceived exertion in institutionalized elderly walking indoors versus outdoors. It also explored how body mass index and cognitive levels affected these factors. (2) Employing a cross-sectional descriptive observational approach, the study gathered data on height, weight, accelerometers, the modified Borg Scale, the Timed Up and Go test, and the Lobo Cognitive Mini-Exam from a sample of 30 institutionalized older adults. (3) Walking outdoors leads to shorter walking times, higher energy expenditure, and increased perceived effort. Overweight individuals expend more energy in both settings, while cognitive impairment does not significantly impact walking preferences. (4) The study concludes that indoor walking is preferable for frail elderly due to lower perceived exertion, but outdoor walking is recommended for overweight individuals. Cognitive status does not influence the choice of walking environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of muscle mass in modulating performance and perceived fatigability across the entire intensity spectrum during cycling remains unexplored. We hypothesized that at task failure (Tlim), muscle contractile function would decline more following single- (SL) versus double-leg (DL) cycling within severe and extreme intensities, but not moderate and heavy intensities. After DL and SL ramp-incremental tests, on separate days, 11 recreationally active males (V_ O2max: 49.5 ± 7.7 mL·kg-1·min-1) completed SL and DL cycling until Tlim within each intensity domain. Power output for SL trials was set at 60% of the corresponding DL trial. Before and immediately after Tlim, participants performed an isometric maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) coupled with one superimposed and three resting femoral nerve stimulations [100 Hz; 10 Hz; single twitch (Qtw)] to measure performance fatigability. Perceived fatigue, leg pain, dyspnea, and effort were collected during trials. Tlim within each intensity domain was not different between SL and DL (all P > 0.05). MVC declined more for SL versus DL following heavy- (-42 ± 16% vs. -30 ± 18%; P = 0.011) and severe-intensity cycling (-41 ± 12% vs. -31 ± 15%; P = 0.036). Similarly, peak Qtw force declined more for SL following heavy- (-31 ± 12% vs. -22 ± 10%; P = 0.007) and severe-intensity cycling (-49 ± 13% vs. -40 ± 7%; P = 0.048). Except for heavy intensity, voluntary activation reductions were similar between modes. Similarly, except for dyspnea, which was lower for SL versus DL across all domains, ratings of fatigue, pain, and effort were similar at Tlim between exercise modes. Thus, the amount of muscle mass modulates the extent of contractile function impairment in an intensity-dependent manner. NEW & NOTEWORTHY We investigated the modulatory role of muscle mass on performance and perceived fatigability across the entire intensity spectrum. Despite similar time-to-task failure, single-leg cycling resulted in greater impairments in muscle contractile function within the heavy- and severe-intensity domains, but not the moderate- and extreme-intensity domains. Perceived fatigue, pain, and effort were similar between cycling modes. This indicates that the modulatory role of muscle mass on the extent of performance fatigability is intensity domain-dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability of a single-trial determination of maximal accumulated oxygen deficit (MAOD) achieved via the aid of perceptually-regulated incremental exercise. Methods: 14 trained male cyclists (age: 45 ± 8 yrs; height: 1.82 ± 0.06 m; mass: 79.7 ± 6.7 kg; $${\dot{\rm{V}}{\rm{O}}_{2{\rm{max}}}}$$ V ˙ O 2 max : 4.09 ± 0.57 L·min−1) performed three trials of a submaximal incremental cycling test followed by a test to exhaustion at 116% of predicted $${\dot{\rm{V}}{\rm{O}}_{2{\rm{max}}}}$$ V ˙ O 2 max . The intensity for each stage of the incremental test was regulated by participants to elicit perceived exertion levels of 9–15 on the Borg (6–20) scale. Linear regression was used to estimate $${\dot{\rm{V}}{\rm{O}}_{2{\rm{max}}}}$$ V ˙ O 2 max at a perceived exertion level of 19. MAOD was calculated from the difference between predicted and actual oxygen demand in the test to exhaustion, reported in oxygen equivalents (O2 eq). A separate incremental test was used to measure $${\dot{\rm{V}}{\rm{O}}_{2{\rm{max}}}}$$ V ˙ O 2 max directly. Results: Correlation coefficients between perceived exertion and $${\dot{\rm{V}}{\rm{O}}_{2}}$$ V ˙ O 2 across trials were strong (r ≥0.99), and there were no between-trial differences in predicted $${\dot{\rm{V}}{\rm{O}}_{2{\rm{max}}}}$$ V ˙ O 2 max (4.03 ± 1.04, 3.76 ± 0.53, and 3.69 ± 0.64 L·min−1, respectively; p =.142) or MAOD (2.75 ± 2.28, 2.50 ± 1.53, and 2.93 ± 1.40 L O2 eq, respectively; p =.633). Nevertheless, the coefficients of variation for predicted $${\dot{\rm{V}}{\rm{O}}_{2{\rm{max}}}}$$ V ˙ O 2 max (14.2%) and MAOD (142.8%) were poor. Conclusions: The prediction of $${\dot{\rm{V}}{\rm{O}}_{2{\rm{max}}}}$$ V ˙ O 2 max from perceptually-regulated exercise displays a level of test-retest reliability which prevents its use as a means of evaluating MAOD reliably in a single-trial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) elicits similar and, in some cases, superior benefits vs. moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT). However, HIIT is typically more aversive than MICTbecause ofthe higher intensity and in turn, greater blood lactate accumulation (BLa). This study explored potential sex differences in perceptual responses to acute HIIT and sprint interval training. Fifteen men (age and ...O2max = 29 ± 8 years and 39 ± 3 ml⋅kg-1⋅min-1) and 13 women (age and ...O2max = 22 ± 2 years and 38 ± 5 ml⋅kg-1⋅min-1) who are healthy and recreationally active initially underwent testing of maximal oxygen uptake (...O2max) on a cycle ergometer. In randomized order on 3 separate occasions, they performed the 10 x 1-minute protocol at 85% of peak power output, 4 x 4-minute protocol at 85-95% maximal heart rate (%HRmax), or reduced exertion high intensity interval training consisting of 2 "all-out" 20-second sprints at a load equal to 5% body mass. Before and throughout each protocol, rating of perceived exertion (rating of perceived exertion [RPE] 6-20 scale), affective valence (+5 to -5 ofthe Feeling Scale), and BLa were assessed. Five minutes postexercise, enjoyment was measured using the Physical Activity Enjoyment scale survey. Results showed no difference in RPE(p = 0.17), affective valence (0.27), or enjoyment (p = 0.52) between men and women. Blood lactate accumulation increased in response to all protocols (p < 0.001), and men showed higher BLa than women (p = 0.03). Previous research suggests that interval exercise protocols are not interchangeable between men and women, yet our data reveal that men and women having similar ...O2max exhibit no differences in perceptual responses to interval exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Empty nose syndrome (ENS) is a complex condition characterized by symptoms such as dyspnea, nasal discomfort, and emotional challenges. This study aimed to evaluate functional exercise capacity and perceived exertion in patients with ENS. Patients with ENS who presented with a range of severe symptoms were prospectively enrolled. Pulmonary function was evaluated using spirometry, and functional exercise capacity was measured via the 6 min walk test (6-MWT). Perceived exertion was quantified using the Borg scale, and cardiopulmonary function was evaluated by monitoring peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2). These parameters were assessed before and after nasal reconstruction surgery. A total of 44 patients with ENS were enrolled and classified into mild-to-moderate (n = 20) and severe (n = 24) symptom groups. Spirometry results showed no significant differences before and after surgery in the entire cohort. Perceived exertion showed significant postoperative improvement (p = 0.006). The severe ENS symptom group experienced significant improvement in SpO2 (p = 0.013) and perceived exertion (p = 0.002) at the end of the 6-MWT after surgery. Surgical intervention significantly enhanced functional exercise capacity (p = 0.038) in patients with mild-to-moderate ENS symptoms. Surgical reconstruction positively affected perceived exertion and SpO2 at the end of the 6-MWT in patients with ENS. The severity of ENS symptoms, as assessed by SNOT-25 scores, influenced these outcomes. These findings underscore the potential benefits of surgical intervention for enhancing exercise tolerance and respiratory efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-intensity strength training with partial blood flow restriction has demonstrated its efficiency in provoking functional adaptations that allow an increase in absolute muscle size and strength, as well as in improving objective measures of physical functionality related to life activities. It has been proposed as a training method equivalent to traditional moderate and high intensity models, with relevant benefits for populations less tolerant or unable to train at high loads. Unfortunately, the information available on its effects on explosive actions, such as jumping ability, is so far less conclusive. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of twelve sessions of Smith press squats, utilizing low-intensity strength training with partial blood flow restriction, and high-intensity strength training on squat jump and countermovement jump performance, as well as the perceived intensity during training sessions. Recreational college athletes were divided into two intervention groups partial blood flow restriction and high-intensity resistance training and engaged in a four-week training regimen. Squat jump and countermovement jump flight times and pre-stretch increases were assessed at the beginning and end of the training protocol. Perceptual intensity was measured during four sessions of both training sessions. Squat jump performance increased at the end of both workouts, although the greatest difference occurred with high-intensity strength training. For the countermovement jump, only partial restriction of blood flow produced an increase in performance. Only high-intensity resistance training produced a change in prestretch augmentation. Perceptual intensity was greater in high-intensity strength training. The results demonstrate that low-intensity training with partial blood flow restriction is a useful alternative to improve squat jump and countermovement jump performance, producing a lower perceptual intensity in recreational athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effects of auditory stimulation with different frequency variations (increasing, decreasing, and constant) on performance, physiological parameters and perceived exertion in the shuttle run test. Twenty-four healthy sports science students participated in this experimental study and performed the shuttle run test under four different conditions: a) standard (as baseline); b) auditory stimulation with increasing frequency; c) auditory stimulation with decreasing frequency; and d) auditory stimulation with constant frequency. The results showed that maximal oxygen consumption in the decreasing-frequency condition was significantly higher than in any other condition and performance in the increasing-frequency condition was higher than that in the constant and standard conditions. The results also showed that in the initial and intermediate phases of the test, heart rate and perceived exertion were lower in both the increasing– and decreasing– frequency conditions than in the constant frequency and standard conditions. The results of the present study suggest that the use of auditory stimulation with decreasing frequency and increasing frequency can improve performance in endurance tasks. Future studies should better understand the different effects of these two types of stimulation and investigate whether they lead to long-term improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionThis study investigates the effects of teacher verbal encouragement (VE) on strength, endurance, and psychophysiological responses, aiming to enhance teaching strategies in sports science education.MethodsForty-eight sports science students, aged 21.3 ± 0.5 years, participated in this study. The sample was randomly divided into two groups, and a counterbalancing procedure was implemented. Participants completed strength and endurance testing sessions under normal conditions in the first week and repeated similar sessions in the second week with teacher VE. Strength was assessed using the 1RM bench press, squat, and deadlift tests, while endurance was evaluated through 8-minute time trials (8MTT: burpees, box jumps, hand-release push-ups, and sit-ups). Perceived exertion and physical activity enjoyment were investigated using self-reporting instruments.ResultsThe key findings showed that participants lifted greater weights in the 1RM bench press (p

(1) Background: Growth in the use of video games has spurred innovations in the health sector, especially through exergames, which promote physical activity using interactive technologies like augmented reality. Exergames are shown to enhance exercise motivation and engagement, yet enjoyment remains inconsistent across studies. This pilot study aims to provide evidence on how different exergaming doses affect exercise heart rate, perceived exertion, adverse effects, and enjoyment in older adults. (2) Methods: A pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted to compare different doses of exercise through video games (13 vs. 28 min) in older adults living in a nursing home. A single bout of exergaming was provided to assess the outcomes: heart rate, rate of perceived exertion, physical activity enjoyment scale score, and adverse effects. (3) Results: Thirty-two older adults were recruited. This study revealed no significant differences in heart rate between groups (p = 0.1). There is a weak correlation between the rate of perceived exertion and the level of enjoyment (rs = −0.193) and between the total time of the intervention and the incidence of adverse effects (rs = 0.295). (4) Conclusions: The use of a higher dose of exergaming is effective in achieving moderate physical intensity. Also, the results suggest the intervention was generally well tolerated and enjoyed by older adults, with no serious adverse effects reported.

Purpose: Brazilian jiu-jitsu is a martial art emphasizing ground combat with multiple ramifications to self-defense and military training. Some Brazilian jiu-jitsu athletes prefer fighting on their back (Guardadors), while others preferentially adopt a standing or kneeling position (Passadors). Whether the combat scenario leading to adopt a preferential or nonpreferential combat style influences the combat outcomes remains unexplored. Methods: In a counterbalanced design, 13 athletes performed simulated combats from either a congruent or incongruent scenario with regard to their preferred combat style. We collected combat scores from the official ranking system and measured upper- and lower-limb explosive performance before and after the combats, as well as the rating of perceived exertion and blood lactate concentrations to index fatigability. Results: Passadors had greater grip strength than Guardadors ( R p 2 =.23, P =.03), whereas Guardadors showed higher lower-limb performance ( R p 2 =.16, P =.05). When forced to combat as Passadors, Guardadors exhibited greater grip-strength impairment and a greater increase in perceived exertion ( R p 2 =.12, P =.04; R p 2 =.15, P =.05, respectively). They also had higher blood lactate concentrations ( R p 2 =.19, P =.02). Conclusion: Guardadors exhibited greater fatigability after fighting from an incongruent combat situation compared to Passadors, presumably due to greater difficulties to adjust to the loss of initiative when restricted to a primarily defensive role. Future studies should examine how combat style congruency might affect performance and influence recovery strategies during high-level competitive events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of the study is to thoroughly describe exercise programs that were performed during a firefighter training academy, including their effects on body composition and physical fitness. Methods: Fourteen recruits performed exercise programs during a 24-week training academy and several components of their body composition and physical fitness were measured. Moreover, their heart rate (HR) and session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) were recorded during and after every training session, respectively. Results: Fat-free mass, subcutaneous fat in the abdomen, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, lower-body power, and muscular endurance significantly improved during the study (P ≤ 0.05). The highest HR and sRPE responses were observed during aerobic training (AT) sessions. The average HR responses relative to maximum HR were similar during AT, high-intensity circuit training, multimodal high-intensity interval training, and high-intensity functional training; however, the sRPEs during high-intensity circuit training and multimodal high-intensity interval training were significantly lower than AT. Conclusions: Several effective exercise programs can be implemented during firefighter training academies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood flow occlusion (BFO) has been previously used to investigate physiological responses to muscle ischemia, showing increased perceptual effort (RPE) and pain along with impaired neuromuscular performance. However, at present, it is unclear how BFO alters corticomuscular activities when either applied to the exercising or nonexercising musculature. The present study therefore set out to assess the corticomuscular response to these distinct BFO paradigms during an isometric contraction precision task. In a repeated measures design, fifteen participants (age = 27.00 ± 5.77) completed 15 isometric contractions across three experimental conditions; no occlusion (CNTRL), occlusion of the contralateral (i.e., nonexercising) limb (CON‐OCC), and occlusion of the ipsilateral (i.e., exercising) limb (IPS‐OCC). Measures of force, electroencephalographic (EEG), and electromyographic (EMG) were recorded during contractions. We observed that IPS‐OCC broadly impaired force steadiness, elevated EMG of the vastus lateralis, and heightened RPE and pain. IPSI‐OCC also significantly decreased corticomuscular coherence during the early phase of contraction and decreased EEG alpha activity across the sensorimotor and temporoparietal regions during the middle and late phases of contraction compared with CNTRL. By contrast, CON‐OCC increased perceived levels of pain (but not RPE) and decreased EEG alpha activity across the prefrontal cortex during the middle and late phases of contraction, with no changes observed for EMG and force steadiness. Together, these findings highlight distinctive psychophysiological responses to experimental pain via BFO showing altered cortical activities (CON‐OCC) and altered cortical, corticomuscular, and neuromuscular activities (IPS‐OCC) when applied to the lower limbs during an isometric force precision task. Blood flow occlusion is a common experimental model to induce pain and fatigue during exercise. However, the corticomuscular mechanisms underlying this model remain poorly understood. In this study, we show that blood flow occlusion of non‐exercising musculature elicits a suppression of electromyographic (EEG) alpha activity across the prefrontal cortex. By contrast, occlusion of exercising musculature elicits a suppression of EEG alpha activity across central and posterior cortical regions and impairs both brain‐muscle communication and neuromuscular activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although differential rating of perceived exertion (RPE) scales have been supported in quantifying internal load across various sports, their application in basketball remains to be comprehensively investigated. Consequently, we aimed to: (1) quantify and compare session- and weekly-RPE loads using global and differential RPE scales; and (2) compare session-RPE load between individual sessions across the week using each scale in basketball players. Ten semiprofessional, male players reported RPE using global and differential (respiratory and muscular) scales following each training session and game during the in-season. RPE was multiplied by session duration to derive session-RPE load, which were summed to determine weekly-RPE load. Weekly-RPE load was higher using global (P = 0.003, η2 = 0.343, large) and muscular (P = 0.004, η2 = 0.209, large) scales than the respiratory scale. Likewise, session-RPE load was higher using global (P = 0.049, η2 = 0.314, large) and muscular (P = 0.054, η2 = 0.298, large) scales than the respiratory scale only in games, with differences between scales during other sessions being trivial-to-medium (P >0.05). Across all scales, higher session-RPE loads were apparent in the second training session than all other sessions in the week (P <0.05, η2 = 0.105-0.561, medium-to-large), and during games than the first training session (P <0.001, η2 = 0.202-0.223, large). While session-to-session load changes were similarly detected across scales, the greater weekly and game muscular loads than respiratory loads support the potential for differential RPE scales to provide more detailed internal load data in basketball settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of exercise-specific face masks (ESFMs) in aerobically fit individuals on physiological, perceptual, respiratory, and performance responses remains unclear. How ESFMs mitigate exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) is also unknown. Thus, this study aimed to determine how an ESFM altered within-exercise physiological, perceptual, respiratory, and performance responses to graded treadmill exercise. Twenty-four individuals (11 females) completed a discontinuous graded exercise test on a treadmill under two conditions (ESFM and unmasked). Physiological, respiratory function, and perceptual measures were assessed. Performance was determined by time to exhaustion. Statistical analyses included linear mixed-effects modeling, repeated measures analysis of variance, and pairwise comparisons using an alpha value of 0.05. ESFM use significantly impaired performance (median = −150.5 s) and decreased arterial oxygen saturation at maximal intensity (mean = −3.7%). Perceptions of air hunger and work of breathing were elevated across submaximal and maximal intensities. Perceived exertion and breathing discomfort were significantly elevated submaximally but not maximally. Spirometry measures were not significantly different at termination but were significantly improved at submaximal intensities in participants with and without EIB. ESFM use in fit individuals increased perceptual discomfort, impaired performance, and augmented arterial desaturation. Respiratory function improvements were observed but were accompanied by adverse perceptual sensations. Despite this, performance impairments may limit the real-world utility of ESFMs for athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Walking is the most accessible and common type of physical activity. Exercising at one’s self-selected intensity could provide long-term benefits as compared to following prescribed intensities. The aim of this study was to simultaneously examine metabolic, perceptual, spatiotemporal and stability parameters at an absolute 3 km·h−1 speed range around the individual preferred walking speed (PWS). Thirty-four young sedentary adults (18 women) volunteered to walk at seven speeds relative to their PWS in 3-min trials interspaced with 3-min rest intervals. Results indicated a significant main effect of speed on all studied variables. While metabolic, perceptual and spatiotemporal values were sensitive to the smallest change in speed (i.e., 0.5 km·h−1 ), a significant increase in the rate of carbohydrate oxidation and decrease in %fat oxidation were only observed at speeds above PWS. Results also revealed significantly higher coefficients of variation for stride characteristics at speeds below PWS only. Moreover, analyses of best fit models showed a quadratic relationship between most variables and speed, with the exceptions of metabolic cost of transport, rating of perceived exertion and stride duration that changed exponentially with speed. PWS coincided with optimized mechanical efficiency, fuel oxidation and gait stability. This indicated that walking below PWS decreased both mechanical efficiency and stability of gait, while walking above PWS increased carbohydrate oxidation. Those factors seem to play an important role as determinants of PWS. We suggest that walking at PWS may provide benefits in terms of fat oxidation while optimizing gait stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was twofold: (i) to analyze the relationship between weekly variations in ACWR, training monotony (TM), training strain (TS), s-RPE and the number of jumps; and (ii) to explore the association between tests based on the external and internal training intensity (TI) measures across weeks. An observational cohort study was conducted. Ten female elite volleyball players (two setters, three middle-blockers, three outside hitters, and two opposites) of a first Division Portuguese team (24.1 ± 6.12 years old; 66.48 ± 6.85 kg; and 175.4 ± 6.52 cm) participated in this study. Players were monitored for external and internal TI measures. The correlation coefficients between internal and external TI measures were determined using Pearson's r. The results showed a moderate relationship between weekly variations of ACWR, TM, TS, s-RPE, and the number of jumps. Additionally, a moderate association between external and internal TI measures were detected. In conclusion, s-RPE seems to be a more sensible measure than the number of jumps, since its percentage of variation was higher. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of postural control strategies on the recognition error (RE) of center-of-pressure (COP) sway forward based on perceived exertion. Participants were 43 middle-aged or elderly people. We measured the maximum COP sway forward (100% center-of-pressure distance(COP-D)), 60% and 30% COP-D of 100% COP-D based on perceived exertion, and participants were classified into the good balance group and bad balance group by RE. The RE and trunk and leg angles were evaluated during COP sway forward. Results showed that RE being significantly higher for 30% COP-D and the group with a larger RE had a significantly larger trunk angle. Therefore, they may have used hip strategy predominantly to perform postural control ability, not only maximum values, but also on perceived exertion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeRecreational and competitive slalom waterskiing is increasingly popular among individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI), particularly for those with paraplegia using sit-skis. A key component of slalom skiing is the deep-water start (DWS), yet little is known about the physiological and physical demands of this activity when the athlete is seated. This study aims to fill this gap by focusing on the training requirements for a seated slalom athlete.Materials and methodsFocusing on a young male athlete with paraplegia, this case study evaluates the effectiveness and efficiency of traditional (TDWS) and alternative (ADWS) DWS techniques during seated slalom waterskiing sessions. It assesses internal training load (TL) through heart rate (HR) zones and session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE), alongside pre- and post-session handgrip strength measurements to gauge peripheral muscle fatigue.Results and conclusionsPerforming the ADWS, achieving a full success rate, proved more effective but slightly more time-consuming than TDWS, which had limited success. HR during DWS maneuvers ranged from 63.2 to 81.3% of maximal HR, with most sessions occurring below the ventilatory threshold, thus perceived as hard effort. A moderate yet non-significant correlation was found between HR and sRPE-based TL. A significant reduction in handgrip strength post-session underscores the activity’s demands. These insights illuminate the technical, physiological, and physical challenges in mastering DWS for seated slalom athletes with SCI, providing valuable guidance for the development of tailored training programs and techniques in this sport.

This study aimed to verify whether peripheral perception, tactical behaviour, and physical performance are influenced by acute physical fatigue in soccer players. The study included 24 trained soccer players (18.6 ± 1.5 years) from two Brazilian clubs. The TSAFT90 test was used to induce acute physical fatigue. The results showed that physical fatigue did not affect peripheral perception (p = 0.360). Regarding tactical behaviour, improved efficiency was observed for the principles of offensive coverage (p = 0.029), width and length with the ball (p = 0.044), and concentration (p = 0.008). On the other hand, a reduction was observed in the number of tactical actions of offensive coverage (p = 0.020) and recovery balance (p = 0.042). Also, improved accuracy in the principles of defensive balance (p = 0.009), recovery balance (p = 0.021) and defensive unity (p = 0.003) occurred under physical fatigue. A reduction in the physical performance outcomes total distance covered (p

Purpose: The primary aim of this study was to evaluate whether the internal (session rating of perceived exertion [sRPE] and Edwards heart-rate-based method) and external training load (jumps) affect the presession well-being perception on the day after (ie, +22 h), according to age and tactical position, in elite (ie, Serie A2) female volleyball training. Methods: Ten female elite volleyball players (age = 23 [4] y, height = 1.82 [0.04] m, body mass = 73.2 [4.9] kg) had their heart rate monitored during 13 team (115 individual) training sessions (duration: 101 [8] min). Mixed-effect models were applied to evaluate whether sRPE, Edwards method, and jumps were correlated (P ≤.05) to Hooper index factors (ie, perceived sleep quality/disorders, stress level, fatigue, and delayed-onset muscle soreness) in relation to age and tactical position (ie, hitters, central blockers, opposites, and setters). Results: The results showed a direct relationship between sRPE (P <.001) and presession well-being perception 22 hours apart, whereas the relationship was the inverse for Edwards method internal training load. Age, as well as the performed jumps, did not affect the well-being perception of the day after. Finally, central blockers experienced a higher delayed-onset muscle soreness than hitters (P =.003). Conclusions: Findings indicated that female volleyball players' internal training load influences the pretraining well-being status on the day after (+ 22 h). Therefore, coaches can benefit from this information to accurately implement periodization in a short-term perspective and to properly adopt recovery strategies in relation to the players' well-being status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The main objective of this research was to develop a questionnaire for the subjective evaluation of the quantity and magnitude of impacts experienced by rugby players. Methods: Thirty-six male rugby union players (mean ± SD, age; 23.5 ± 3.6 years, height; 179 ± 10.0 cm, body mass; 89.58 ± 13.6 kg) participated in this study, comprising eighteen forwards and fourteen backs. Participants were tasked with completing self-reported questionnaires assessing their perception of the quantity and magnitude of impacts after thirteen consecutive matches. Objective data were concurrently collected using Micro-Electrical Mechanical Systems (MEMS) integrated with a GPS device (WIMU, Realtrack Systems, Almeria, Spain). Results: The statistical analysis revealed that 49.7% of players overestimated and 39.8% underestimated the number of impacts above 8G, with a mean team error of 0.017 impacts. Bayesian methods indicated a 95% high-density interval for the mean error between −0.46 and 0.45, with 95.8% within the region of practical equivalence, signifying negligible bias at the team level. Positional variations were notable, with Halfbacks overestimating and Fullbacks and Second Row underestimating impacts. The errors and number of impacts displayed a non-linear relationship, better described by an exponential model. Additionally, the study identified significant correlations between the number of impacts players estimated and the actual impacts received, further underlined by position-specific trends, suggesting that players’ estimation abilities are influenced by the actual exposure to impacts and their playing positions. Conclusions: The utilization of a subjective impact questionnaire is a valid tool to assess rugby players level of impacts during a match. This approach proves particularly valuable in situations where technology is unavailable, showcasing its adaptability as a practical tool in diverse sporting contexts.

Abstract Background Despite reporting the positive effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on endurance performance, very few studies have investigated its efficacy in anaerobic short all-out activities. Moreover, there is still no consensus on which brain areas could provide the most favorable effects on different performance modalities. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the effects of anodal tDCS (a-tDCS) targeting the primary motor cortex (M1) or left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) on physical performance, psychophysiological responses, and cognitive function in repeated all-out cycling. Methods In this randomized, crossover, and double-blind study, 15 healthy physically active men underwent a-tDCS targeting M1 or the left DLPFC or sham tDCS in separate days before performing three bouts of all-out 30s cycling anaerobic test. a-tDCS was applied using 2 mA for 20 min. Peak power, mean power, fatigue index, and EMG of the quadriceps muscles were measured during each bout. Heart rate, perceived exertion, affective valence, and arousal were recorded two minutes after each bout. Color-word Stroop test and choice reaction time were measured at baseline and after the whole anaerobic test. Results Neither tDCS montage significantly changed peak power, mean power, fatigue index, heart rate, affective valence, arousal, and choice reaction time (p> 0.05). a-tDCS over DLPFC significantly lowered RPE of the first bout (compared to sham; p = 0.048, Δ = -12.5%) and third bout compared to the M1 (p = 0.047, Δ = -12.38%) and sham (p = 0.003, Δ = -10.5%), increased EMG of the Vastus Lateralis muscle during the second (p = 0.016, Δ = + 40.3%) and third bout (p = 0.016, Δ = + 42.1%) compared to sham, and improved the score of color-word Stroop test after the repeated all-out task (p = 0.04, Δ = + 147%). The qualitative affective response (valence and arousal) was also higher under the M1 and DLPFC compared to the sham. Conclusion We concluded that tDCS targeting M1 or DLPFC does not improve repeated anaerobic performance. However, the positive effect of DLPFC montage on RPE, EMG, qualitative affective responses, and cognitive function is promising and paves the path for future research using different tDCS montages to see any possible effects on anaerobic performance. Trial registration This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Razi University (IR.RAZI.REC.1400.023) and registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT id: IRCT20210617051606N5; Registration Date: 04/02/2022).

BackgroundResearch suggests that engaging in active virtual reality (VR) video games can elicit light to moderate levels of physical activity (PA), making it a novel and fun mode of exercise. Further research is needed to understand the influence of VR on perceptions of exertion and enjoyment during PA.ObjectiveThe objectives of this study are (1) to compare actual and perceived exertion within and between active VR games with varying levels of difficulty and (2) to determine how playing active VR games influences PA enjoyment during gameplay.MethodsA total of 18 participants completed four separate study sessions, during which they engaged in either a 15-min bout of traditional exercise (stationary cycling) or played one VR game. Heart rate (HR) and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) using the Borg CR10 scale were assessed during VR gameplay and cycling. Enjoyment was measured after gameplay. VR games included playing Holopoint at level 2 and level 3 and Hot Squat. Repeated measures ANOVAs were used to examine (1) changes in HR and RPE across time within games and (2) differences in actual and perceived levels of intensity and enjoyment between games. Bivariate correlations examined the relationship between the degree of change in actual intensity and the degree of change in perceived intensity during each VR game and cycling.ResultsThe analyses revealed that RPE and HR significantly increased from baseline during each condition and generally increased across the 15-min of gameplay. Hot Squat and cycling elicited a significantly higher percentage of heart rate reserve (%HRR) than Holopoint at levels 2 and 3. Holopoint level 3 elicited a higher %HRR than Holopoint level 2. The participants reported greater average and max RPE during Hot Squat and cycling compared with Holopoint at levels 2 and 3. The correlations revealed a significant positive correlation between the degree of change in HR and RPE for cycling, but no significant correlations were observed for any of the VR conditions. The physical activity during Holopoint at both levels was rated as more enjoyable than Hot Squat and cycling.ConclusionOur data support the notion that VR has the potential to alter individuals’ perceptions of exertion during PA and, in particular, may reduce their awareness of increases in actual exertion.

Walking is the most accessible and common type of physical activity. Exercising at one’s self-selected intensity could provide long-term benefits as compared to following prescribed intensities. The aim of this study was to simultaneously examine metabolic, perceptual, spatiotemporal and stability parameters at an absolute 3 km·h−1 speed range around the individual preferred walking speed (PWS). Thirty-four young sedentary adults (18 women) volunteered to walk at seven speeds relative to their PWS in 3-min trials interspaced with 3-min rest intervals. Results indicated a significant main effect of speed on all studied variables. While metabolic, perceptual and spatiotemporal values were sensitive to the smallest change in speed (i.e., 0.5 km·h−1), a significant increase in the rate of carbohydrate oxidation and decrease in %fat oxidation were only observed at speeds above PWS. Results also revealed significantly higher coefficients of variation for stride characteristics at speeds below PWS only. Moreover, analyses of best fit models showed a quadratic relationship between most variables and speed, with the exceptions of metabolic cost of transport, rating of perceived exertion and stride duration that changed exponentially with speed. PWS coincided with optimized mechanical efficiency, fuel oxidation and gait stability. This indicated that walking below PWS decreased both mechanical efficiency and stability of gait, while walking above PWS increased carbohydrate oxidation. Those factors seem to play an important role as determinants of PWS. We suggest that walking at PWS may provide benefits in terms of fat oxidation while optimizing gait stability.

Applying appropriate training loads in accordance with the defined objectives promotes optimal physical and physiological adaptations, reduces the likelihood of illness and injury and therefore increases the possibility of success during the Rugby. The aim of this review was to compile and systematize the information in the literature on the association between training load variables (internal and external) and performance outcomes in Rugby. As such, the main objective will be to conduct a systematic review of the published literature to identify the physical and physiological performance variables in Rugby sport to monitor the training load. Following the preferred reporting item for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) and PICOS approach, the search was conducted systematically only in the PubMed database, which, in itself, also restricts the search spectrum of the paper, thus conferring a limitation to the present academic work. The search included specific terms - namely, Rugby; Training Load; - throughout the possible temporal spectrum in PubMed, since there is still little robustness in the literature of the content in question in the sport of Rugby. Articles were selected using pre-defined selection criteria, namely observational studies, randomized clinical studies, and clinical trial studies. The initial electronic search with the variables "Training Load", "Rugby" led to a set of 114 articles, of which only 96 articles were selected after the selection of variables for presenting observational study designs and/or randomized clinical trials. A further screening was carried out, and based on the inclusion criteria of the papers, the result of the analysis of the relevance of the studies was only 19 articles. Three duplicates were eliminated, therefore, the final set of analysis resulted in 16 articles. From the studies compiled in this review, it seems that there is a strong correlation between the perceived exertion (RPE) and the prescription and definition of the training load applied in Rugby athletes. The RPE reflects the most applied and analyzed variable throughout all the studies. Several articles reflect that there is a strong relationship between the training load, and the inter-individual capacity of each athlete and their tolerance to the load (player load).

This study aims to investigate the effects of self-paced high-intensity interval training (Sp-HIIT) vs. self-paced moderate-intensity continuous training (Sp-MICT) on aerobic fitness levels, psychophysiological responses, and antioxidant status to assess the relationship between aerobic fitness levels and antioxidant markers. Physically active young adults were randomised into Sp-HIIT and Sp-MICT groups. The intervention consisted of three weekly sessions during an eight-week period. Sp-HIIT consisted of performing two sets of 12–24 × 30 s high-intensity runs ≥ 85% HRmax followed by 30 s rest periods, while Sp-MICT consisted of performing 24–48 min of continuous running at 60–75% HRmax. Pre- and post-intervention testing included a maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) assessment during a 30-15 intermittent fitness test (30-15 IFT), as well as resting blood samples, which were analysed for oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde (MDA)) and activity of intracellular antioxidant enzymes (catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reduced (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG)). The Sp-HIIT group showed a greater improvement in velocity of 30-15 IFT, VO2max, and MDA responses. Furthermore, the Sp-HIIT group demonstrated higher psychophysiological responses than the Sp-MICT group, except for anger responses. In conclusion, these results suggest that Sp-HIIT has a higher level of beneficial exercise-induced effects in physiological responses with greater perceived exertion in physically active young adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

La popularité croissante du concept de charge d'entraînement (CE) fait apparaître d'évidentes incohérences dans les définitions et les méthodes de quantification utilisées dans la littérature. Pour les limiter, les principes fondateurs du concept ont été utilisés pour proposer une définition opérationnelle de la CE permettant par la suite d'analyser la pertinence des méthodes de quantification actuelles. La CE peut être définie comme la valeur décrivant la dose d'effort induite par la combinaison des variables d'exercice. Les mesures de CE ne doivent pas être faussées par une pondération excessive du volume, de l'intensité ou de la densité de l'exercice. Les premières méthodes de quantification fondées sur le produit de l'intensité, du volume et de la densité ne tiennent pas compte de la nature non linéaire de leur relation et surévaluent l'influence du volume dans leurs calculs. Inversement, l'atteinte de la fatigue peut refléter avec précision les effets combinés de toutes les variables d'exercice en signalant le stress psychophysiologique maximal et, par conséquent, la CE maximale réalisable. Les méthodes de quantification fondées sur la fatigue exigent une meilleure compréhension et connaissance des maximums d'exercice. Les nouvelles technologies de suivi des athlètes pourraient aider à déterminer et enregistrer ces maximums. Cet article suggère que, pour comparer les effets des exercices et pour accumuler des exercices dans une CE totale, la dose devrait être exprimée par rapport aux maximums des exercices résultant en CE fondées sur la fatigue. As the concept of training load grows in popularity, inconsistencies in definitions and quantification methods used in literature are more and more apparent. To limit such disagreements, principles founding the concept were studied to propose an operational definition of training load that was subsequently used to analyze the accuracy of quantification methods. Training load might be defined as the value describing the dose of effort induced by the combination of the exercise variables. Training load metrics should not be skewed by excess weighting of exercise volume, intensity, or density. Early methods based on the product of intensity, volume, and density do not take into account the non-linear nature of increases in their components, and volume is overexpressed in their training load calculations. Conversely, fatigue achievement may accurately reflect the combined effects of all exercise variables by signaling the maximal psychophysiological stress and in consequence maximal attainable training load. Fatigue-based quantification methods require better understanding and knowledge of exercise maximums. Probably new technologies for athletes monitoring might help to identify and record such maximums. The present paper supported that for comparisons of exercises effects and to accumulate exercises of a program in total training load, the dose should be expressed relative to exercises maximums what drives to fatigue-based quantification methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article summarizes a study that investigated the physiological responses of individuals with different body weights during uphill, level, and downhill walking. The study found that overweight individuals experienced higher perceived exertion during uphill walking compared to normal and underweight individuals. However, there were no significant differences in stride length or perceived exertion between the underweight and normal-weight groups. The study suggests that exercise is important for individuals of all body weights and provides insights for prescribing exercise based on body mass index (BMI) categories. The article was published in the National Journal of Physiology, Pharmacy and Pharmacology in 2023 and does not disclose any conflicts of interest or sources of support. [Extracted from the article]

Physical activity is critical to functional rehabilitation for youth with chronic pain, which may be especially true for those with co-occurring obesity. To facilitate the development of physical activity interventions for youth with chronic pain, the newly developed "Rating of Perceived Exertion—Pediatric" scale was modeled after the widely used pain numeric rating scale-11. This study is an initial evaluation of the scale in a sample of adolescents (n = 157, 13–17 years, 51% female) with four subgroups: (1) healthy controls (healthy weight/no pain); (2) chronic pain/healthy weight; (3) obese (no pain); (4) chronic pain/obese. Participants rated perceived exertion using the new scale and the Borg 6–20 Scale of Perceived Exertion while holding a three-minute yoga pose (Warrior II). In the whole sample, the Perceived Exertion—Pediatric scale showed good concurrent (p < 0.001), convergent (all ps < 0.05), discriminant (p = 0.431), and known-groups validity (all ps < 0.05). The chronic pain subgroup also showed good concurrent (p < 0.001), mixed convergent (ps < 0.001 to 0.315), and good discriminant validity (p = 0.607). Limitations include the restricted age range, lack of diversity, and lack of test-retest reliability. The RPE-P shows promise as an assessment tool for perceived exertion in adolescents with and without chronic pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Most adults are insufficiently active. Mindfulness training may increase moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) adoption and adherence. However, physiological and psychological factors underlying these effects are not well understood. This study examined the effects of an acute bout of MVPA, mindfulness training, and combined MVPA and mindfulness training on physiological and psychological outcomes. Methods: Healthy adults (N = 29, Mage = 28.6) completed 20-min counterbalanced conditions: (a) mindfulness training (MIND); (b) moderate intensity walking (PA), and (c) moderate intensity walking while listening to MVPA-specific guided mindfulness training (PAMIND). Heart rate (HR), Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE), Feeling Scale (FS) and Blood Pressure (BP) were measured at rest, at regular intervals during each condition, and post-condition. Mindfulness, state anxiety, and self-efficacy were assessed pre- and post-condition. Results: Average and peak HR, systolic BP (SBP), and RPE were significantly higher, and average and peak FS were significantly lower during the PA and PAMIND conditions compared to MIND (p<0.001). Average RPE was significantly higher for PA compared to PAMIND (p < 0.001). Heart rate, feeling scale, body and mental events mindfulness, and self-efficacy for walking increased from pre to post (all p's< 0.001) for all conditions. Time by condition interactions were significant for change in heart rate, mental events mindfulness, and state anxiety from pre- to post-condition. Conclusion: The physiological response to MVPA and PAMIND were similar. However, RPE was rated lower in the PAMIND condition, which could have implications for MVPA adoption and maintenance. Future work should further explore RPE combining MVPA and mindfulness training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract High-immersive virtual reality (VR) environments can increase enjoyment and frequency of exercise participation. As VR can also be used to manipulate sensory feedback it is possible that specialist environments can modulate exercise performance and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and breathlessness. We aimed to (i) assess whether cycling in a “congruent” VR environment (where perceived/virtual exercise intensity and actual pedaling resistance are matched) enhances exercise performance and reduces RPE and breathlessness, and (ii) to assess whether cycling in an “incongruent” VR environment can further manipulate these perceptions. Following familiarisation, 14 healthy (7 male, 26 ± 2 years) participants repeated a series of four cycling exercise trials on a gradient adjustable ergometer under two conditions: within VR (VR condition; comprising of a custom-made VR environment in a head mounted display) and without VR (nVR condition). Within VR, the hill gradient experienced was either congruent or incongruent with the pedalling resistance. Participants could choose their power output/RPM throughout. During congruent trials participants chose to perform at a higher power output in the VR condition (+11 W ± 14, p < 0.05) with no difference in RPE or breathlessness. There was also a significant interaction between condition (VR vs nVR) and congruence for RPE and breathlessness. Specifically, when the experienced hill gradient was steeper than pedalling resistance RPE and breathlessness was greater, and when experienced hill gradient was less steep than pedalling resistance RPE and breathlessness was lower. In conclusion, we have shown that congruent VR cycling environments can modulate exercise performance. Furthermore, the novel application of incongruent VR cycling exercise manipulated exercise perceptions in either direction. This technique has potential applications in exercise training or rehabilitation modalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]