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Summary Aims The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is somewhat linked to perceived stress. This relationship may be modulated by the individual's training status. The aim was to assess whether heart rate variability (HRV) and perceived stress were interrelated in healthy subjects with various levels of training status. Methods One hundred and seventeen healthy participants (mean age 20 ± 3 yrs) were divided into 3 groups according to their training status: power-trained athletes (n = 43), endurance-trained athletes (n = 36), and untrained volunteers (n = 38). The perception of stress was measured using the perceived stress scale questionnaire, heart rate (HR) was recorded at rest, and HRV analyses were made in time and frequency domain using the Kubios application. Results Endurance-trained athletes showed higher levels of HRV compared to untrained and, to a lesser extent, to power athletes. HRV parameters of untrained subjects perceiving less stress did not differ from those of endurance-trained athletes who also perceived less stress. Power-trained athletes who perceived less stress had higher values of SD1, RMSSD, HF, and log HF (P Conclusion These results may be important in terms of understanding ANS modulation and stress perception for better managements of stress and/or training/recovery processes in athletes with various training status.

This controlled study investigated the effects of 7 weeks pre-season supplemental jump and sprint exercise training on sand (JSETS) on athletic ability in male handball players. Males (n = 40; 16.3 ± 0.4 years) were randomly assigned to a jump and sprint training (JSTG; n = 24) or a control (CG; n = 18) group. The JSETS replaced a part of the regular handball training of players. The tests included jumps (squat, counter-movement, and 5 jump tests), sprint times (5 m, 10 m and 20 m), agility (modified T and modified Illinois tests), repeated sprint T-test, and balance (standing stork and Y balance tests). JSTG showed relative to CG significant decreases in sprint times over all distances (5 m (p = 0.002, d = 0.735 (medium); 10 m (p = 0.012, d = 0.577 (medium) and 20 m (p = 0.012, d = 0.573 (medium)), and gains in both measures of agility (p = 0.001, d = 0.859 (large) and p = 0.004, d = 0.670 (medium) for T-Half and Illinois-tests respectively), and in jumping squat (p

The onset and worsening of some diseases are related to the variation and instability of gut microbiota. However, studies examining the personal variation of gut microbiota in detail are limited. Here, we evaluated the yearly variation of individual gut microbiota in 218 Japanese subjects aged 66–91 years, using Jensen-Shannon distance (JSD) metrics. Approximately 9% of the subjects showed a substantial change, as their formerly predominant bacterial families were replaced over the year. These subjects consumed fermented milk products less frequently than their peers. The relationship between the intake frequencies of fermented milk products containing Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota (LcS) and JSD values was also investigated. The intra-individual JSD of subjects ingesting LcS products ≥ 3 days/week over the past 10 years was statistically lower than the P = 0.045). Focusing on subjects with substantial gut microbiota changes, only 1.7% of the subjects were included in the LcS intake ≥ 3 days/week group whereas 11.3% were found in the P = 0.029). These results suggest that about one-tenth of the elderly Japanese could experience a substantial change in their gut microbiota during a 1-year period, and that the habitual intake of probiotics may stabilize their gut microbiota.

Objective To review the achievements of cardiac exercise rehabilitation programs retrospectively and to identify continuing challenges to their success. Methods A review of files accumulated while working with the Toronto Rehabilitation Center, updated by articles identified by PUB-MED, OVID, and Google Scholar through February 2019. Results After the early lead of Israeli physicians, cardiac rehabilitation began in Ontario during the 1960s and quickly attracted a large case load. Recurrence rates of the patients recruited were low relative to those receiving standard medical treatment, even after allowing for differences in risk factors at entry to programs. Controlled trials began but were individually of insufficient in size to show a significant reduction in recurrences or mortality. Subsequently, multiple meta-analyses demonstrated a 20% to 25% reduction of all-cause and cardiac mortality over the first few years of follow-up in patients who persisted with their rehabilitation. Compliance continued a problem at many centers, but special features of the Toronto cardiac rehabilitation program sustained a compliance of 82.8% over 3 years. Although vigorous exercise increased the immediate risks of a recurrence 5- to 10-fold, this was more than offset by the long-term benefits of enhanced physical condition, and cardiac deaths were a rarity during either supervised or home-based exercise sessions. About a half of patients developed a depression immediately after infarction, but if encouraged to persist with prescribed exercise, their quality of life progressively improved. Among the wide variety of mechanisms underlying the benefits of exercise, gains of aerobic power seemed particularly important. With sustained training, the physical condition of some younger patients progressed to the point of participating successfully in marathon events. Older patients also benefited from sustained training, but for them, optimal results were likely associated with less rigorous physical demands. Conclusions Research conducted in Toronto and elsewhere has established the benefits of exercise-centered cardiac rehabilitation. However, there remains a need to define the optimum timing of program onset, and the frequency, intensity, and duration of supervised training sessions. Return to blue-collar occupations also needs to be boosted, and the limited participation of eligible patients in available programs remains a continuing challenge.

Bouteraa, I, Negra, Y, Shephard, RJ, and Chelly, MS. Effects of combined balance and plyometric training on athletic performance in female basketball players. J Strength Cond Res 34(7): 1967-1973, 2020-The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of 8 weeks combined balance and plyometric training on the physical fitness of female adolescent basketball players. Twenty-six healthy regional-level players were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (E; n = 16, age = 16.4 ± 0.5) or a control group (C; n = 10, age = 16.5 ± 0.5). C maintained their normal basketball training schedule, whereas for 8 weeks E replaced a part of their standard regimen by biweekly combined training sessions. Testing before and after training included the squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), drop jump (DJ), 5-, 10-, and 20-m sprints, Stork balance test (SBT), Y-balance test (YBT) and modified Illinois change of direction test (MICODT). Results indicated no significant intergroup differences in SJ and CMJ height; however, E increased their DJ height (p < 0.05, Cohens'd = 0.11). No significant intergroup differences were found for sprint performance or SBT, but dynamic YBT tended to a significant group interaction (p = 0.087, d = 0.006). Post hoc analysis also showed a significant increase of MICODT for E (Δ 6.68%, p = 0.041, d = 0.084). In summary, the addition of 8 weeks of balance and plyometric training to regular in-season basketball training proved a safe and feasible intervention that enhanced DJ height, balance, and agility for female adolescent basketball players relative to the standard basketball training regimen.

Purpose: To analyze the effects of a 9-week plyometric training program on the sprint times (5, 10, 20, and 30 m), change-of-direction speed (modified T test and modified Illinois test), jumping (squat jump, countermovement jump, countermovement jump with arms, and horizontal 5-jump test), upper-body strength (right and left handgrip, back extensor strength, and medicine ball throw), and balance (Y and stork balance tests) of female handball players. Methods: Athletes were randomly divided into experimental (n = 21; age = 13.5 [0.3] y) and control (n = 20; age = 13.3 [0.3] y) groups. Training exercises and matches were performed together, but the experimental group replaced a part of their normal regimen by biweekly upper- and lower-limb plyometric training. Results: Both groups improved performance, but to a greater extent in the experimental group compared with controls for 20- and 30-m sprint times (Δ% = 9.6, P d = 0.557 and Δ% = 20.9, P d = 1.07, respectively), change of direction (T test: P d = 0.993 and Illinois test: P d = 0.769), vertical and horizontal jumping (P P P d = 1.07). Conclusions: A plyometric training program allows female junior handball players to improve important components of their physical performance.

Hammami, M, Gaamouri, N, Shephard, RJ, and Chelly, MS. Effects of contrast strength vs. plyometric training on lower-limb explosive performance, ability to change direction and neuromuscular adaptation in soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 33(8): 2094-2103, 2019-The aim was to compare the effects of 2 differing 8-week in-season strength training programs (contrast strength training [CST] vs. plyometric training [PT]) on selected performance tests (5 and 40 m sprints, S 4 × 5 m change of direction test, squat jump [SJ] and countermovement jump [CMJ], leg peak power on a cycle-ergometer force-velocity test, 1 repetition maximal half-squat, and electromyographic [EMG] activity of the vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and rectus femoris muscles during vertical jump tests). Forty male soccer players (age = 15.8 ± 0.4 years; body mass = 58.8 ± 6.3 kg; body height = 1.74 ± 0.06 m; body fat = 10.5 ± 1.9%) were divided between a contrast strength group (CSG, n = 14), plyometric group (PG, n = 14), and control group (CG, n = 12). Both training programs enhanced sprint performance (p < 0.001 in 5 m; p ≤ 0.05 in 40 m) and change of direction test scores (p < 0.001) relative to controls. The plyometric group and CSG increased SJ height relative to the CG, with a slightly greater response in CSG compared with PG (p ≤ 0.05). Most CMJ scores increased significantly in both CSG and PG relative to the CG, with no intergroup differences in training response. Most force-velocity scores increased significantly in the CSG relative to PG and CG. The EMG parameters also increased in the CSG relative to both PG and CG. In summary, most measures of athletic performance in male soccer players were enhanced after CST and PT. However, the improvement of physical performance was better with 8 weeks of CST than with PT. Thus, coaches should be encouraged to include CST as an element of in-season conditioning.

The effects of plyometric jump training on the physical fitness of male youth (age = 10-17 years) soccer players was examined in relation to inter-set recovery intervals and the maturity of the players in a single-blind, randomized-and controlled crossover trial. Jumping tests and kicking velocities were measured before (T

Growth has been particularly rapid in North America, where as many as 20% of major companies currently offer fitness facilities of varying sophistication. The stated intent has been to boost the morale of employees, or to improve health, rather than to make fiscal savings. But often there has been an underlying hope of improving productivity or containing rising medical costs. An economist may undertake a cost/benefit, a cost/utility, or a cost/effectiveness analysis of a work-site fitness programme. The cost/benefit approach has usually been applied. In this approach, programme expenditures are compared with the estimated monetary benefits, usually to persuade a company to begin, continue or expand its investment in fitness programming. A fitness programme may generate both costs and benefits for the government, the private sector and the individual participant. Participation in a programme is time consuming. Both individual and society lose benefits that might have accrued from an alternative use of the time that is invested in the programme.

© 2020 Elsevier Masson SAS Objectives: In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effects of 6-month table tennis (TT) training on bone health, muscle mass, and physical performance in older men. Material and methods: Forty older men aged of ≥ 65 years were randomly assigned to an experimental group (EXP; n = 20) or control group (CON; n = 20). Before and after the intervention, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, a short physical performance test battery and one-leg balance tests were used to assess body composition and physical function. Results: TT increased whole body and regional bone mineral density (range from 2.6% to 8.7%; p < 0.05), and lean mass (range from 2.2% to 11.1%; p < 0.05), while total and regional body fat mass decreased (range from 4.8% to 24.7%; p < 0.05). TT also improved the performance test score, 4-m walk, 5-chair stands, 400-m walk and balance (range from 4.0% to 13.7%; p < 0.05). Conclusion: This indicates that TT can effectively mitigate changes in bone health, muscle mass and physical performance associated with aging and a sedentary lifestyle.

This study examined the effects of incorporating 8 weeks of biweekly upper limb loaded plyometric training (elastic band) into the in-season regimen of handball players. Trial participants were assigned between control (n = 15, age: 18.1±0.5 years, body mass: 73.7±13.9 kg) and experimental (n = 14, age: 17.7±0.3 years, body mass: 76.8±10.7 kg) groups. Measures obtained pre- and post- included a cycle ergometer force-velocity test, ball throwing velocity in three types throw, 1-RM bench press and pull-over, and anthropometric estimates of upper limb muscle volumes. Gains in the experimental group relative to controls included absolute muscle power (W) (Δ23.3%; t-test p

The aim of this study was to compare the impact of two differing plyometric training programs (loaded plyometrics (with 2.5% of body mass placed above the ankle joint) vs. unloaded plyometrics), performed biweekly for 10 weeks, on the physical fitness of elite junior male soccer players. Participants aged 16.0 &plusmn, 0.5 years were randomly assigned between unloaded plyometrics (UP, n = 12), loaded plyometrics (LP, n = 14) and control (C, n = 12) groups. Two-way analyses of performance (group x time) were assessed by 40-m sprint times, 9&ndash, 3&ndash, 6&ndash, 9 m sprints with 180&deg, turns (S180&deg, ), 9 m sprints with backward and forward running (SBF), and 4 &times, 5 m sprints (S4 &times, 5 m), four jump tests, measures of static and dynamic balance, repeated change of direction tests and the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test. Both LP and UP enhanced sprinting performance relative to C (p &lt, 0.05) but performance increased more in LP relative to UP (p &lt, 0.05) in all sprints except 40 m. Change of direction times were also significantly shortened by LP relative to UP (p &lt, 0.05) and C (p &lt, 0.01) in all tests, with no significant differences between UP and C. Jumps heights increased similarly in both LP and UP relative to C (p &lt, 0.05), with no significance between LP and UP. LP and UP also enhanced repeated change of direction scores relative to C (p &lt, 0.01) with greater changes in LP than in UP (p &lt, 0.01). Finally, LP enhanced some balance scores relative to UP (p &lt, 0.05). We conclude that the introduction of 10 weeks of in-season loaded plyometrics into the regimen of U17 male soccer players yields gains in several physical performance scores relative to either unloaded plyometrics or the control training regimen.

To evaluate the effects of Ramadan observance on dietary intake, body mass and body composition of adolescent athletes (design: systematic review and meta-analysis; data sources: PubMed and Web of Science; eligibility criteria for selecting studies: single-group, pre-post, with or without control-group studies, conducted in athletes aged th, 2020). Studies assessing body mass and/or body composition and/or dietary intake were deemed eligible. The methodological quality was assessed using ‘QualSyst’. Of the twelve selected articles evaluating body mass and/or body composition, one was of strong quality and eleven were rated as moderate. Ten articles evaluated dietary intake; four were rated as strong and the remaining moderate in quality. Continuation of training during Ramadan did not change body mass from before to the first week (trivial effect size (ES) = −0.011, p = 0.899) or from before to the fourth week of Ramadan (trivial ES = 0.069, p = 0.277). Additionally, Ramadan observance did not change body fat content from before to the first week (trivial ES = −0.005, p = 0.947) and from before to the fourth week of Ramadan (trivial ES = -0.057, p = 0.947). Lean body mass remained unchanged from before to the fourth week of Ramadan (trivial ES = −0.025, p = 0.876). Dietary data showed the intake of energy (small ES = -0.272, p = 0.182), fat (trivial ES = 0.044, p = 0.842), protein (trivial ES = 0.069, p = 0.720), carbohydrate (trivial ES = 0.075, p = 0.606) and water (trivial ES = −0.115, p = 0.624) remained essentially unchanged during as compared to before Ramadan. Continued training of adolescent athletes at least three times/week during Ramadan observance has no effect on body mass, body composition or dietary intake.

Objectifs : C’est une etude preliminaire dont le but est de comparer l’effet d’un traitement compose de therapie cognitive et comportementale (TCC), par rapport a un programme associant TCC et relaxation profonde (R), applique chez des enfants atteint de trouble de deficit de l’attention avec hyperactivite (TDAH). Methodes : Trente patients atteints de TDAH ont ete repartis en trois groupes de dix : TCC + R (E1), TCC (E2) et un groupe control (GC). Les trois groupes ont ete evalues avant et apres 52 semaines de traitement. L’echelle de Conners et le test d’attention concentre (test D2) ont ete utilises avant et apres traitement. Resultats : Apres traitement, une comparaison intra-groupe a montre que les deux groupes experimentaux (E1 et E2) ont ameliore leurs scores dans le test D2, contrairement a GC qui n’a presente aucun changement. De plus, la majorite des patients atteint de TDAH ont montre une baisse remarquable dans les signes d’inattention, bien que les progres enregistres chez E1 soient statistiquement meilleurs que ceux chez E2. Conclusion : La therapie cognitive et comportementale semble etre efficace pour ameliorer les competences fonctionnelles et sociales chez des enfants atteints de TDAH. Cette therapie devrait etre recommandee comme alternative a l’utilisation des produits pharmaceutiques pour le traitement des sujets atteints de TDAH.

Background: An age-related decrease in functional capacity is consistently reported, but it is not consistently related to a worsening of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) or psychological adjustment. A poor functional capacity and HRQOL have been associated with anxiety or depression, but the possible causal nature and direction of the relationship remain to be explored using long-term longitudinal data. Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine age-related changes in functional capacity, HRQOL, and scores on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and possible causal interrelationships between these variables. Methods: Study participants were 5,124 Japanese aged ≥65 years. After the baseline study (2003), annual follow-up observations continued for 10 years. Generalized linear mixed models examined age-related changes in Barthel index (BI), Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence (TMIG-IC), HRQOL, and HADS. Cross-lagged effects models tested possible causal interrelationships. Results: With age, functional capacity and HRQOL scores showed similar declines in both sexes. Changes in mental health, anxiety, and depression developed more slowly than decreases in physical health (BI, TMIG-IC, and physical functioning scores). Cross-lagged effects models demonstrated that functional capacity had positive effects on psychological adjustment, and that psychological adjustment had positive effects on functional capacity 5 years later. Interactions between functional capacity and psychological adjustment showed no sex differences. A decline in functional capacity negatively affected psychological adjustment, but reduced psychological adjustment had no significant impact on functional capacity 5 and 10 years later. Moreover, functional capacity and poor psychological adjustment showed no interactions in either sex. Conclusion: Functional capacity and mood state are interrelated. Greater function could sustain vitality and mental health, possibly reducing anxiety and depression.

Summary Background To assess the effects of various walking rehabilitation programs on body composition, heart rate variability, aerobic fitness and perceptual responses of overweight and obese young adolescents. Methods A total of 31 young overweight and obese adolescents (12 boys and 19 girls) were randomly assigned to one of 4 groups: a group walking at 70% of maximal aerobic speed (70%MAS G, n = 7), a group walking at 50% of maximal aerobic speed (50%MAS group, n = 8), a self-selected walking pace group (SSWP group, n = 8), and a control group (C, n = 8). Anthropometric, metabolic, and perceptual parameters were measured before and after a 2-month rehabilitation program. Results Decreases in body mass, BMI, and body fat were seen in MAS, 70%MAS, and SSWP groups (P Conclusions Rehabilitation programs based on 50% MAS and 70%MAS were more effective strategies to make positive changes on body composition, heart rate variability, aerobic fitness and perceptual responses than the self-selected walking pace, and could be used to ensure an effective intensity of effort in the rehabilitation of overweight and obese adolescents.

Occupational epidemiology studies in the 1980s and 1990s demonstrated a beneficial effect of physically active employment on risks of premature death,1 with HR of ~1.50 for sedentary employees (see the online supplement for a detailed discussion). However, that accepted wisdom was disputed in a recent meta-analysis which claimed that male employees faced ‘detrimental health consequences associated with high-level occupational activity, even after adjusting for relevant factors’.2 Such a view challenges existing physical activity guidelines and poses the intriguing problem why occupational activity might be bad for men but not women. Here the author scrutinises the choice of articles for this meta-analysis, the characteristics of apparently hazardous activity and potential confounding by covariates, focusing on the male data. Possible reasons why women do not show an occupational paradox are discussed in the online supplemental material. ### Supplementary file [bjsports-2018-100344supp001.docx] Articles for the meta-analysis were drawn from 13 countries, but 5 of 16 were written by the study authors, leading to some similarities in the determination of active individuals and choice of co-variates. Moreover, participants in 5 of 16 studies lived around Copenhagen, with a potential for subject overlap; the author does not believe that this was evaluated. Studies provided ~30 to 5668 male …

Since 2013, this journal has promoted the publication of thematic reviews (Taylor in Eur J Appl Physiol 113:1634, 2013), where leading groups were invited to review the critical literature within each of several sub-topics. The current theme is historically based, and is focussed on estimating the metabolic rate in humans. This review charts the development of our understanding of those methods, from the discovery of oxygen and carbon dioxide, to the introduction of highly sophisticated modern apparatus to examine the composition of expired gas and determine respiratory minute volume. An historical timeline links the six thematic vignettes on this theme. Modern advances have greatly enhanced data collection without significant decrements in measurement accuracy. At the same time, however, conceptual errors, particularly steady-state requirements, are too often ignored. Indeed, it is recognised that we often neglect the past, leading to errors in research design, experimental observations and data interpretation, and this appears to be increasingly prevalent within the open-access literature. Accordingly, the Editorial Board, in recognition of a widening gap between our experimental foundations and contemporary research, embarked on developing a number of thematic review series, of which this series is the first. The intent of each accompanying overview is to introduce and illuminate seminal investigations that led to significant scientific or intellectual breakthroughs, and to thereby whet the appetite of readers to delve more deeply into the historical literature; for it is only when the foundations are understood that we can best understand where we are now, and in which directions we should head.

The purpose of this study was to examine relationships between lower body muscular strength, anthropometric characteristics and several measures of explosive performance in elite team-handball players. 22 male elite team-handball players (age: 19.1 ± 1.7 years) were studied during the competitive season. Standard anthropometric and body composition measures included body mass index, lower limb and thigh muscle volume, and body fat percentage. Maximal leg strength was determined by a one-repetition maximum (1-RM) half back-squat. Vertical jump performance was assessed using a squat jump (SJ) and a counter movement jump (CMJ). Repeated shuttle-sprint ability (RSA) was tested by 6 (2 × 15 m) shuttle sprints with 20 s of active recovery intervals. The best time in a single shuttle sprint (30m; RSA The explained variance of 1-RM half-back-squats ranged from 0.2 % (RSA% Fatigue Index) to 70.1 % (CMJ). Four out of 8 variables (RSA Best Time, CMJ, SJ, throwing velocity of jump shoot) demonstrated an r The anthropometric characteristics and some physical performance tests are closely related to the maximal strength performance of handball players. Coaches should focus on maximal strength training programs for the lower limbs when seeking improvements in the throwing velocity and jump performance of handball players. Ziel dieser Studie war es, die Zusammenhänge zwischen der Muskelkraft der unteren Extremitäten, anthropometrischen Eigenschaften und mehreren Messgrößen der Explosivkraftleistung bei Handballspielern im Spitzensport zu untersuchen. 22 Leistungshandballer (Alter: 19,1 ± 1,7 Jahre) wurden während der Wettbewerbssaison untersucht. Als Standardgrößen für die anthropometrischen Messungen und die Körperzusammensetzung wurden der Body-Mass-Index, die Muskelvolumina der unteren Extremitäten und Oberschenkel sowie der prozentuale Körperfettanteil bestimmt. Die maximale Beinkraft wurde anhand des Wiederholungsmaximums (1-RM) von Halbkniebeugen gemessen. Die Beurteilung der Vertikalsprungleistung erfolgte durch einen Squat-Jump (SJ) und einen Counter-Movement-Jump (CMJ). Die Repeated-Shuttle-Sprint-Ability (RSA) wurde anhand von 6 Shuttle-Sprints (2 × 15 m) mit aktiven Erholungsintervallen von 20 s überprüft. Desweiteren wurden die Bestzeit im Single-Shuttle-Sprint (30m; RSA Die erklärte Varianz des 1-RM der Halbkniebeugen reichte von 0,2 % (RSA% Fatigue Index) bis 70,1 % (CMJ). 4 von 8 Variablen (RSA -Bestzeit, CMJ, SJ, Wurfgeschwindigkeit beim Jump-Shooting) zeigten ein r Die anthropometrischen Eigenschaften und einige physikalische Leistungstests sind bei Handballspielern eng mit der Maximalkraftleistung verbunden. Trainer, die Verbesserungen der Wurfgeschwindigkeit und Sprungleistung bei Handballspielern anstreben, sollten den Trainingsschwerpunkt auf ein Maximalkrafttraining für die unteren Extremitäten legen.

Hammami, M, Negra, Y, Billaut, F, Hermassi, S, Shephard, RJ, and Chelly, MS. Effects of lower-limb strength training on agility, repeated sprinting with changes of direction, leg peak power, and neuromuscular adaptations of soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 32(1): 37-47, 2018-We examined the effects on explosive muscular performance of incorporating 8 weeks strength training into the preparation of junior male soccer players, allocating subjects between an experimental group (E, n = 19) and a matched control group (C, n = 12). Controls maintained their regular training program, but the experimental group replaced a part of this schedule by strength training. Performance was assessed using running times (5, 10, 20, 30 and 40 m), a sprint test with 180° turns (S180°), a 9-3-6-3-9 m sprint with backward and forward running (SBF), a 4 × 5 m sprint test with turns, repeated shuttle sprinting, repeated changes of direction, squat (SJ) and counter-movement (CMJ) jumping, back half-squatting, and a force-velocity test. Electromyographic (EMG) activity of the vastus lateralis (VL), vastus medialis (VM), and rectus femoris (RF) muscles was recorded during jumping. Two-way ANOVA showed significant gains in E relative to C during the straight sprint (all distances). Scores of E increased substantially (p ≤ 0.01) on S4 × 5 and SBF and moderately on S180°. Leg peak power, SJ, and CMJ were also enhanced, with significant increases in EMG activity. However, repeated-sprint parameters showed no significant changes. We conclude that biweekly strength training improves key components of performance in junior soccer players relative to standard in-season training.

The aim of this article is to assess the practical clinical value of measures used to examine physiological

During the month of Ramadan, many Muslims continue to exercise and/or to compete in sporting events. However, the combination of Ramadan observance (RO) and physical activity (PA) is likely to be associated with disrupted sleep-wake patterns.to (i) evaluate the effects of RO on sleep patterns in practitioners of PA and (ii) provide some evidence-based practical recommendations to improve an active individual's sleep patterns during RO.The entire content of two databases, PubMed/MEDLINE and Web of Science was searched for relevant articles through March, 25 2019. All accepted articles concerned healthy practitioners of PA and have assessed sleep quantity and/or quality and/or daily naps, whether based on objective or subjective methods.Thirteen studies evaluated total sleep time (TST) of active individuals in relation to RO; TST decreased in five studies, increased in one and remained unchanged in seven studies. Sleep quality was self-estimated in five studies, with three noting a decreased quality of sleep and two reporting no change. The duration of daily naps was increased in two studies. Conclusions and practical recommendations: Continuation of PA during RO did not decrease TST. However, no firm conclusions can be drawn regarding sleep quality/characteristic and daily naps durations. Sleep quantity and quality should be evaluated in order to counteract sleep disturbances. Physically active individuals should avoid large late night meal, and if possible take 20- to 30- minute daytime naps. A 10- minute shower at ∼40°C and a self-administered 6-min mindfulness induction video may be helpful immediately before bedtime. Tryptophan (1g/day) or melatonin (5- 8mg) supplements may also improve sleep characteristics.

To evaluate the effects of Ramadan fasting on hematological data in athletes through a systematic appraisal of the literature.Systematic review Data sources: The entire content of two databases, PubMed/MEDLINE and Web of Science Eligibility criteria for selecting studies: Ramadanrelated measurements of any hematological indices in athletes were considered. Both single-group pre-post with and without a control group studies conducted in athletes and published in English language before December 31, 2018 were included. Study appraisal: The methodological quality of the studies identified was assessed using 'QualSyst'.Of nine selected articles, eight were of moderate quality and only one was of strong quality. The main problem to date has been a lack of appropriate controls. Compared to before Ramadan, hematocrit and hemoglobin values increased in three studies, decreased in one study and did not change in one study during Ramadan fasting. Another study reported increased hematocrit and a puzzling decrease of hemoglobin during as compared to before Ramadan fasting. In most studies, blood platelet counts and the limited number of immune function used to date remainedunchanged.All reported changes in hematological indices remained within the normal reference range of the laboratory. Therefore, regular training can continue safely during Ramadan fasting from a hematological view point.

The main objective of the present review is to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of physical education (PE) teachers concerning dental trauma first-aid through a systematic appraisal of the literature, meta-analysis and meta-regressions. The entire content of PubMed and ISI/Web of Science was mined. Eligibility criteria for selecting studies were studies evaluating dental trauma first-aid knowledge and/or attitudes and/or the effectiveness of mouthguards use by PE teachers. Articles written in any language and published or accepted by peer-reviewed journals were considered. Methodological quality was assessed using an adapted version of the Downs and Black instrument. Of 15 selected articles, three were of strong quality, three were moderate, and the remaining nine were rated as weak. The majority of studies showed that PE teachers had an inadequate knowledge of the initial management of dental trauma. Specifically, there was a lack of knowledge concerning an appropriate washing and transporting medium and the extra-alveolar period of an avulsed tooth. Due to the inadequate knowledge of PE teachers regarding dental trauma management, specific education should be added to PE classes to improve the emergency treatment of dental injuries.

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of short-term resistance training and two weeks of tapering on physical performances in handball players. Following a ten-week progressive resistance training program, subjects were divided between an experimental (n = 10) and a control group (n = 10). The experimental group completed a resistance training program, followed by a two-week period when the training intensity was tapered by 60%, while the control group maintained their typical pattern of training. Muscle power (force-velocity test and squat and counter-movement jump tests), sprinting ability (10m and 30m), ability to change direction (T-half test) and throwing velocity (a 3-step throw with a run, and a jump throw) were evaluated before training, at the end of training and after tapering. The experimental group showed significantly larger interaction effects for the 10-week training period (12/15, 80%), than for the following 2 weeks of tapering (10/15, 67%), with the largest gains being in 15 m sprint times (d = 3.78) and maximal muscular strength in the snatch (d = 3.48). Although the performance of the experimental group generally continued to increase over tapering, the mean effect size for the training period was markedly higher (d = 1.92, range: 0.95-3.78) than that seen during tapering (d = 1.02, range: -0.17-2.09). Nevertheless the ten weeks of progressive resistance training followed by two weeks of tapering was an effective overall tactic to increase muscle power, sprint performance and ball throwing velocity in handball players.

Infrequent bowel movements decrease the number of beneficial bacteria in the human intestines, thereby potentially increasing the individual’s risk of colorectal cancer. The correction of such bowel problems could therefore make an important contribution to improving population health and quality-adjusted lifespan. We examined independent and interactive effects upon the fecal microbiota of two potentially favorable determinants of intestinal motility: the intake frequency of a fermented milk product containing Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota (LcS) and the quantity/quality of habitual physical activity in 338 community-living Japanese aged 65–92 years. Subjects were arbitrarily grouped on the basis of questionnaire estimates of LcS intake (0–2, 3–5, and 6–7 days/week) and pedometer/accelerometer-determined patterns of physical activity [3 metabolic equivalents (METs)]. After adjustment for potential confounders, the respective numbers of various beneficial fecal bacteria tended to be larger in more frequent consumers of LcS-containing products, this trend being statistically significant (mostly P < 0.001) for total Lactobacillus, the Lactobacillus casei subgroup, and the Atopobium cluster; in contrast, there were no statistically significant differences in fecal bacterial counts between the physical activity groups. A multivariate-adjusted logistic regression analysis estimated that the risk of infrequent bowel movements (arbitrarily defined as defecating ≤3 days/week) was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in subjects who ingested LcS-containing products 6–7 rather than 0–2 days/week [odds ratio (95% confidence interval) 0.382 (0.149–0.974)] and was also lower in those who took ≥7000 rather than 3 METs [0.412 (0.183–0.929)]. The risk of infrequent bowel movements in subjects who combined 6–7 days/week of LcS with ≥7000 steps/day or ≥15 min/day of activity at >3 METs was only a tenth of that for individuals who combined 0–2 days/week of LcS with 3 METs. These results suggest that elderly individuals can usefully ingest LcS-containing supplements regularly (≥6 days/week) and also engage in moderate habitual physical activity (≥7000 steps/day and/or ≥15 min/day at >3 METs) in order to enhance their gastrointestinal health.

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of observing Ramadan on athletes’ sleep patterns.DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis.Data sourcesThe entire content of PubMed/MEDLINE and Web of Science.Eligibility criteria for selecting studiesSingle-group, prepost and cross-over design studies conducted in athletes aged ≥18 years, training at least twice a week and published in English before 12 July 2018 were included. Studies assessing sleep quantity, quality, daytime sleepiness and/or daily naps based on objective or subjective methods were deemed eligible.Study appraisalThe methodological quality was assessed using ‘QualSyst’.ResultsOf 13 selected articles, 7 were of strong quality, 3 were moderate and 3 were weak. 11 studies evaluated total sleep time (TST); this decreased during Ramadan in 4 studies, increased in 1 and remained unchanged in 6. Pooled TST findings indicated a moderate effect size (− 0.97, SE=0.37, 95% CI −1.69 to −0.25, t=−2.64, p=0.01) with significant heterogeneity but no publication bias. Meta-regressions showed no effects of study year, age, sample size, type of sport or competition level, but there were effects of country (with France and Tunisia being the most affected countries and Turkey the least affected, Q=32.14, pConclusionWhen athletes continue to train at least two times/week while observing Ramadan, TST is decreased compared with athletes’ baseline levels.

Team handball is an intense sport with special requirements on technical and tactical skills as well as physical performance. The ability of handball players to make repeated powerful muscular contractions in pushing and throwing the ball is crucial to success. This study investigated the effects of elastic band training on upper body peak power output, ball throwing velocity, and local muscle volume of junior handball players. Thirty handball players (a single national-level Tunisian team) were randomly assigned to a control group (CG; n = 15) and an experimental group (EG; n = 15). Pre- and post-interventional measurements included force-velocity tests, one-repetition maximum (1RM) bench press and pull-over strength, ball throwing velocity in three types of throw (jumping shot, 3-step running throw, and standing throw), and anthropometric estimates of limb volumes. The EG additionally performed an elastic band training programme twice a week for 8 weeks immediately before engaging in regular handball training. The control group underwent no additional elastic band training. The EG demonstrated greater improvements in absolute and relative peak power (p 0.001; 49.3 ± 22.9 % and 47.9 ± 24.6 %, respectively), 1RM strength (p 0.001; 25.3 ± 2.2 % and 44.1 ± 9.0 % for 1RM bench press and pull over, respectively), and throwing velocity in all three types of ball throws (p 0.001; 25.1-26.1 %), compared to the CG (3.9-4.4 %). Limb volumes increased significantly (p = 0.001, 8.0 ± 7.5 %) in the EG, with no significant change (p = 0.175, 2.6 ± 7.0 %) in the CG. We conclude that additional elastic band training performed twice a week for 8 weeks improves measures relevant to game performance, particularly strength, power, and ball throwing velocity. Teamhandball ist gekennzeichnet durch intervallartige Belastungen mit besonderen Anforderungen an technische und taktische Fertigkeiten sowie die körperliche Leistungsfähigkeit. Besonders wichtig für den sportlichen Erfolg sind die unterschiedlichen Dimensionen der Kraft sowie die Ballwurfgeschwindigkeit und Schnelligkeitsausdauer. Die Studie untersuchte die Auswirkungen des elastischen Bandtrainings auf die Maximalkraft der oberen Extremität, die Ballwurfgeschwindigkeit und das lokale Muskelvolumen von Nachwuchshandballspielern. 30 professionelle tunesische Handballspieler wurden der Kontrollgruppe (CG; n = 15) und der Experimentalgruppe (EG; n = 15) randomisiert zugeteilt. Messungen vor und nach der Intervention beinhalteten Kraft-Geschwindigkeitstests und Maximalkrafttests (1RM) in den Übungen Bench press und Pull over. Überdies wurden die Ballwurfgeschwindigkeit (Sprungwurf, Schlagwurf aus der Bewegung (3 Schritte) mit Stemmschritt, Schlagwurf aus dem Stand) und lokale Muskelvolumina ermittelt. Unmittelbar vor dem regulären Handballtraining absolvierte die EG 2-mal pro Woche über 8 Wochen ein Trainingsprogramm mit elastischen Bändern. Die Kontrollgruppe unterzog sich indes keinem zusätzlichen elastischen Bandtraining. Die EG zeigte sowohl in der absoluten als auch relativen Maximalkraftleistung (p 0,001; 49,3 ± 22,9 %, 47,9 ± 24,6 %) als auch im 1RM (p 0,001; Bench press: 25,3 ± 2,2 %; Pull over: 44,1 ± 9,0 %) deutlich größere Leistungszuwächse als die CG. Seitens der Wurfgeschwindigkeit erzielte die CG in allen 3 Wurfarten (p 0,001; 25,1–26,1 %) signifikant größere Leistungssteigerungen als die CG (3,9–4,4 %). Das Muskelvolumen erhöhte sich signifikant in der EG (p = 0,001, 8,0 ± 7,5 %), wohingegen in der CG keine signifikanten Veränderungen zu beobachten waren (p = 0,175; 2,6 ± 7,0 %). Ein zusätzliches elastisches Bandtraining (2-mal pro Woche für 8 Wochen) ist in der Lage, den relevanten handballspezifischen Leistungsparameter Kraft (z. B. Ballfluggeschwindigkeit) nachhaltig zu verbessern.

The current study examined the relationships between the effects of consuming a caffeine-containing &ldquo, energy drink&rdquo, upon (i) short-term maximal performance, (ii) reaction times, and (iii) psychological factors (i.e., mood state, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), and affective load) and on physiological parameters (i.e., blood pressure and blood glucose). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, counterbalanced crossover design was implemented in this study. Nineteen male physical-education students (age: 21.2 &plusmn, 1.2 years, height: 1.76 &plusmn, 0.08 m, body-mass: 76.6 &plusmn, 12.6 kg) performed two test sessions: after drinking the &ldquo, Red Bull&rsquo, beverage (RB) and after drinking a placebo (PL). One hour after ingestion of each drink, resting blood glucose and blood pressure were measured and the participants completed the Profile of Mood States questionnaire. Then, after a 5-min warm-up, simple visual reaction time and handgrip force were measured, and the 30-s Wingate test was performed. Immediately after these tests, the RPE, blood glucose, and blood pressure were measured, and the affective load was calculated. Differences between treatments were assessed using two-way repeated measures analyses of variance and paired t-tests, as appropriate. Relationships between the test variables were assessed using Bland&ndash, Altman correlations. Significant (i) improvements in peak and mean power output, handgrip force, pre- and post-exercise blood glucose, blood pressure, and vigor and (ii) reductions in reaction times, depression, confusion, fatigue, anger, anxiety, RPE, and affective load scores were observed after RB compared to PL. There were significant correlations of (i) physical performances and reaction times with (ii) RPE, affective load, and pre- and post-exercise blood glucose levels. Gains in peak and mean power were significantly correlated with reductions in fatigue, anxiety (peak power only), and anger (mean power only). The reduction of reaction times was significantly correlated with decreases in confusion and anger and with increases in vigor. Handgrip force and reaction times were significantly correlated with pre- and post-exercise blood pressures. We conclude that RB ingestion has a positive effect on physical performance and reaction times. This effect is related to ergogenic responses in both psychological (i.e., RPE, affective load, and mood state) and physiological (i.e., blood glucose and blood pressure) domains.

The Douglas bag technique is reviewed as one in a series of articles looking at historical insights into measurement of whole body metabolic rate. Consideration of all articles looking at Douglas bag technique and chemical gas analysis has here focused on the growing appreciation of errors in measuring expired volumes and gas composition, and subjective reactions to airflow resistance and dead space. Multiple small sources of error have been identified and appropriate remedies proposed over a century of use of the methodology. Changes in the bag lining have limited gas diffusion, laboratories conducting gas analyses have undergone validation, and WHO guidelines on airflow resistance have minimized reactive effects. One remaining difficulty is a contamination of expirate by dead space air, minimized by keeping the dead space

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of soccer training on short-term heart-rate variability, blood pressure, and physical fitness in untrained healthy adolescents. Twenty-two adolescent boys took part in this study: 11 boys were randomly assigned to participate in an 8-week soccer training and 11 boys served as a control group. Soccer exhibited significant increases in high-frequency power (difference 52.9%, P = 0.03, effect size: ES = 1.2), root mean squared of the standard deviation rMSSD (10.8%, P = 0.02, ES = 1), and a significant decrease in sympathetic activity LF (26.3%, P = 0.004, ES = 1.4). The control group showed an increase in rMSSD (9.4%, P = 0.05, ES = 1). The soccer group showed increases in estimated aerobic fitness (30.9%, P = 0.001, ES = 1.50) and 20-m sprint performance (4.1%, P = 0.004, ES = 0.8) with a trend to an improvement in horizontal jumping (3.8%, P = 0.15, ES = 0.8). In conclusion, soccer-based training improved measures of both physical fitness and autonomic function making soccer an effective training strategy for improving health-related fitness measures in untrained adolescents.

Hammami, M, Negra, Y, Aouadi, R, Shephard, RJ, and Chelly, MS. Effects of an in-season plyometric training program on repeated change of direction and sprint performance in the junior soccer player. J Strength Cond Res 30(12): 3312-3320, 2016-We aimed to determine the gains in explosive movements of male junior soccer players induced by incorporating an 8-week plyometric training program (PTP) into a standard soccer conditioning regimen 5 months after the beginning of the competitive season. Our hypothesis was that PTP would enhance explosive movements, and thus sprint running, repeated shuttle sprint ability (RSSA), agility and the ability to make repeated changes of direction (RCOD). A group of junior soccer players were randomly divided into 2 groups: an experimental group (E, n = 15, age 15.7 ± 0.2 years) and a control group (C, n = 13, age 15.8 ± 0.2 years). The participants in E and C performed training exercises and matches together, but for an 8-week period in the latter part of the season, the experimental group replaced a part of the normal regimen (the tactical session) by a biweekly course of PTP (hurdle and drop jumps). Two familiarization sessions were held 2 weeks before definitive testing. The ability of the players was assessed by 3 agility tests (a sprint test with 180° turns, a 9-3-6-3-9 m sprint with backward and forward running, and a four 5-m sprint test with turns); 2 repeated sprint tests (RSSA and RCOD); and running times over 5-, 10-, 20-, 30-, and 40-m distances. Participants in E showed gains relative to C in sprint times (p ≤ 0.05 for 5, 10, and 20 m), and 2 of 3 the RCOD parameters (RCOD best, p ≤ 0.001; RCOD total, p ≤ 0.05). However, with the pattern of plyometric training that we adopted, and perhaps because participants were in good initial physical condition, the agility and RSSA test scores remained unchanged. Nevertheless, we conclude that our PTP can be commended to junior soccer players as a means of improving important components of their physical performance.

Prostate cancer affects a major proportion of older men, and effective preventive measures are few. Earlier suggestions of 10-30% risk reduction from vigorous physical activity thus merit further analysis. This narrative review updates information on associations between physical activity and prostate cancer, seeking activity patterns associated with maximal risk reduction. Systematic searches of Ovid/MEDLINE and PubMed databases from 1996 to June 2016 have linked the terms prostate neoplasms/prostate cancer with occupation, occupational title, sedentary job or heavy work, exercise, physical activity, sports, athletes, physical education/training or aerobic fitness. Combining these searches with findings from earlier reviews, 85 analyses were captured, although three were repeat analyses of the same data set. Seven analyses reported increased risk, and a further 31 showed no clear relationship. However, 24 analyses found a trend to diminished risk, and 21 a significant decrease (10-30% or more) in at least some subject subsets. Benefit was seen more consistently in occupational than in leisure studies, usually with adolescence or the early 20 s as the optimal age for preventive activity. In general, benefit showed a dose-response relationship, with vigorous activity required for maximal effect. Furthermore, several recent observational studies have indicated that physical activity is beneficial in preventing disease recurrence and improving survival following the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. Despite continued research, conclusive proof of an association between regular physical activity and a low risk of prostate cancer remains elusive. However, reports that exercise exacerbates risk are few, and despite issues around controls, covariates, and co-morbidities, an impressive number of studies have now found significant benefit, suggesting that regular physical activity is important in terms of disease development, progression, and therapy. Given also the many other health benefits of an active lifestyle, it can be recommended as a potentially useful measure in the prevention of prostate cancer.