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This study investigated the test–retest reliability of running economy (RE) and metabolic and cardiorespiratory parameters related to endurance running performance using a multistage incremental treadmill test. On two occasions separated by 21–28 days, 12 male middle- and long-distance runners ran at 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14 km/hr for 8 min each stage, immediately followed by a ramp test to volitional exhaustion. Carbohydrate (10% maltodextrin solution) was consumed before and during the test to provide ∼1 g/min of exercise. RE, minute ventilation ( V ˙ E), oxygen consumption ( V ˙ O 2 ), carbon dioxide production ( V ˙ CO 2 ), respiratory exchange ratio (RER), heart rate (HR), ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), and blood glucose and lactate concentrations were recorded for each stage and at volitional exhaustion. Time-to-exhaustion (TTE) and peak oxygen consumption ( V ˙ O 2 peak) during the ramp test were also recorded. Absolute reliability, calculated as the coefficient of variation (CV) between repeated measures, ranged from 2.3% to 3.1% for RE, whereas relative reliability, calculated as the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), ranged from.42 to.79. V ˙ E , V ˙ O 2 , V ˙ O 2 peak , V ˙ CO 2 , RER, and HR had a CV of 1.1%–4.3% across all stages. TTE and RPE had a CV of 7.2% and 2.3%–10.8%, respectively, while glucose and lactate had a CV of 4.0%–17.8%. All other parameters, except for blood glucose, were demonstrated to have good-to-excellent relative reliability assessed by ICC. Measures of RE, V ˙ O 2 peak , and TTE were reliable during this two-phase multistage incremental treadmill test in a cohort of trained and highly trained male middle- and long-distance runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An increasing number of studies have explored the effects of precooling on endurance exercise performance in the heat, yet the available results remain inconsistent. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of different precooling strategies on endurance exercise performance in the heat. A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, Scopus, and EBSCO database. The Cochrane risk assessment tool was employed to evaluate the methodological quality of the included studies. A meta-analysis was subsequently conducted to quantify the standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval for the effects of precooling on endurance exercise performance in the heat. Out of the initially identified 6982 search records, 15 studies were deemed eligible for meta-analysis. Our results showed that precooling significantly improved time trial (TT) performance (SMD, −0.37, p < 0.01, I2 = 0%) and time to exhaustion (TTE) performance in the heat (SMD, 0.73, p < 0.01, I2 = 50%). Further subgroup analyses revealed that external precooling is more effective in improving TT performance (SMD, −0.43, p = 0.004, I2 = 0%) and TTE performance (SMD, 1.01, p < 0.001, I2 = 48%), particularly in running-based performances (TT, SMD, −0.41, p = 0.02, I2 = 0%; TTE, SMD, 0.85, p = 0.0001, I2 = 31%). Precooling is an effective approach to improve endurance exercise performance in the heat. External precooling is more effective in improving endurance exercise performance, particularly in running-based performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Inorganic nitrate (NO3−) supplementation, via its conversion to nitric oxide (NO), has been purported to be ergogenic in healthy individuals. Many disease states are characterized by reduced NO bioavailability and are expected to derive a benefit from NO3−. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate the current literature on the ergogenic effect of NO3− supplementation in individuals with cardiopulmonary and metabolic diseases (CPMD). Methods: Relevant databases were searched up to December 2023 for randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trials for aerobic exercise outcome variables with CPMD. Results: Twenty-two studies were included, and 46% reported ergogenic benefits of inorganic nitrate supplementation. NO3− supplementation had no effect on aerobic performance with respect to maximal (SMD = 0.11, 95% CI: −0.12 to 0.34, p = 0.34) and submaximal (SMD = 0.16, 95% CI: −0.13 to 0.46, p = 0.27) TTE, VO2peak (SMD = 0.002, 95% CI: −0.37 to 0.38, p = 0.99), or 6MW (SMD = 0.01, 95% CI: −0.29 to 0.28, p = 0.96). When the studies were limited to only cardiovascular disease conditions, NO3− supplementation had trivial effects on aerobic performance with respect to Timed Trials (SMD = 0.14, 95% CI: −0.04 to 0.33, p = 0.13), VO2 (SMD = −0.02, 95% CI: −0.32 to 0.27, p = 0.87), and small effects on Distance Trials (SMD = 0.25, 95% CI: −0.18 to 0.69, p = 0.25). Sunset funnel plots revealed low statistical power in all trials. Conclusions: The results of this systematic review revealed that 46% of the individual studies showed a positive benefit from inorganic nitrate supplementation. However, the meta-analysis revealed a trivial effect on physical function in CPMD populations. This is likely due to the large heterogeneity and small sample sizes in the current literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of occlusal splints on sport performance have already been studied, although their biomechanical impacts are often overlooked. We investigated the kinematical changes during running until exhaustion at severe intensity while wearing a mandibular advancement occlusal splint. Twelve trained runners completed (i) an incremental protocol on a track to determine their velocity corresponding to maximal oxygen uptake and (ii) two trials of square wave transition exercises at their velocity corresponding to maximal oxygen until exhaustion, wearing two occlusal splints (without and with mandibular advancement). Running kinematics were compared within laps performed during the square wave transition exercises and between splint conditions. The mandibular advancement occlusal splint increased the running distance covered (~1663 ± 402 vs. 1540 ± 397 m, p = 0.03), along with a noticeable lap effect in decreasing stride frequency (p = 0.04) and increasing stride length (p = 0.03) and duty factor (p < 0.001). No spatiotemporal differences were observed between splints, except for improved balance foot contact times in the mandibular advancement condition. An increased knee flexion angle at initial contact (p = 0.017) was noted along laps in the non-advancement condition, despite the fact that no differences between splints were found. Running patterns mainly shifted within laps rather than between conditions, indicating that a mandibular advancement occlusal splint had a trivial kinematical effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of the present study was to compare the acute effects of different rest period durations after general warm-up (GWU) and dynamic stretching (DS) on endurance running performance. Methods: Eight male runners performed endurance running performance tests after three types of intervention. The interventions were as follows: (1) GWU + 5 min Rest, (2) GWU + DS + 5 min Rest, and (3) GWU + DS + 10 min Rest. The GWU consisted of running exercises on a treadmill at a velocity equivalent to 70% of maximum oxygen uptake (V̇O2max) for 15 min. The DS consisted of performing 10 repetitions as quickly as possible for the five muscle groups of the lower extremities. Endurance running performance was measured by time to exhaustion (TTE) during running on the treadmill at a velocity equivalent to 90% V̇O2max. Results: TTE (884.5 ± 244.9 s) after GWU + DS + 10 min Rest intervention was significantly (p < 0.05) longer than that (719.8 ± 227.9 s) after GWU + 5 min Rest. TTE (734.5 ± 274.2 s) after GWU + DS + 5 min Rest intervention was not significantly different than that of the other two interventions. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that the endurance running performance at the velocity equivalent to 90% V̇O2max was enhanced by GWU + DS + 10 min Rest, but not GWU + DS + 5 min Rest. We recommend that runners rest for approximately 10 min after GWU + DS to enhance endurance running performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has been shown to improve chronic diseases. Probiotics have been found to have similar effects. However, the additive effects of HIIT in combination with probiotics supplementation are unclear. The aim of current study was to investigate whether there were additive effects when implementing both HIIT and probiotics simultaneously.Methods Forty-seven obese middle-aged women (Age: 44.5 ± 5.94 years, body fat percentage: 40.0 ± 4.1%) were recruited and assigned into four groups: control group (C, n = 12), probiotics group (P, n = 12), HIIT group (H, n = 11), and HIIT with probiotics group (HP, n = 12). All the participants consumed probiotics (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum TWK10, 6 × 1010 CFU/day) or placebo supplements daily. Exercise intervention groups conducted HIIT training (85–90% vVO2max for 2 min, followed by a 1-min inactive rest interval, repeated for 7 cycles) 3 sessions per week for 8 weeks. Anthropometry, cardiorespiratory endurance, blood glucose, and lipid profile were measured at baseline and after the 8-week intervention.Results After the intervention, there were significant changes between groups in the variations and rates of change in waist circumference, hip circumference, and TTE. The waist circumference in group H significantly increased compared to groups C and P, while group HP did not show significant difference compared to group C. On the other hand, the hip circumference decreased significantly in group HP compared to group C, and the decreased rate in group HP was significantly greater than in groups C and P. Furthermore, the increase rates in TTE were higher in group H and HP compared to group C.Conclusion HIIT improves TTE but negatively affects waist circumference compared to the control group. However, when combined with probiotics, the probiotics not only help enhance TTE but also counteract the negative impact on waist circumference and further reduce hip circumference, resulting in a synergistic effect.Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT06285578

Background Athletes require proper nutrition to enhance training and performance. Studies indicate that alternative sources of caffeine, such as caffeinated chewing gum, mouth rinses, energy gels, and coffee can improve performance. Therefore, this study investigated the impact of consuming caffeinated gum (CG) and repeated coffee mouth rinsing (CMR) on professional male table tennis players’ aerobic capacity and explosive power.Method A randomized, cross-over, placebo-controlled, and double-blinded study was conducted with eighteen male table tennis players (Age: 21.86 ± 2.40 yr, Height: 173.80 ± 6.88 cm, Weight: 61.81 ± 10.32 kg). In each test session, the participants were randomly placed in one of the three conditions including i) Chewing caffeinated gum (CG, n = 6), ii) Coffee mouth rinsing (CMR, n = 6), iii) Starch capsule as a placebo (PLA, n = 6). All participants consumed caffeine with an average dose of ∼3 to 4.5 mg·kg−1. Also, a one-week interval was considered a washout period for each condition. First, the participants were given the required supplement and performed functional tests such as throwing medicine balls and Sargent’s jump tests. Then, the maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), time to exhaustion (TTE), oxygen consumption equivalent at primary ventilatory threshold (VO2 at VT1), and oxygen consumption equivalent at respiratory compensation point (VO2 at RCP) were measured during the Bruce test. All data were analyzed using SPSS Windows software, repeated measure analysis ANOVA, and Bonferroni post hoc tests at p

Putti, Germano Marcolino, Gabriel Peinado Costa, Matheus Silva Norberto, Carlos Dellavechia de Carvalho, Rômulo Cássio de Moraes Bertuzzi, and Marcelo Papoti. Use of inter-effort recovery hypoxia as a new approach to improve anaerobic capacity and time to exhaustion. High Alt Med Biol. 25:68–76, 2024. Background: Although adding hypoxia to high-intensity training may offer some benefits, a significant problem of this training model is the diminished quality of the training session when performing efforts in hypoxia. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of training and tapering combined with inter-effort recovery hypoxia (IEH) on anaerobic capacity, as estimated by alternative maximum accumulated oxygen deficit (MAODALT) and time to exhaustion (TTE). Methods: Twenty-four amateur runners performed, for 5 weeks, 3 sessions per week of training consisted of ten 1-minute bouts at 120% (weeks 1–3) and 130% (weeks 4 and 5) of maximum velocity (VMAX) obtained in graded exercise test, separated by a 2-minute interval in IEH (IEH, n = 11, FIO2 = 0.136) or normoxia (NOR, n = 13, fraction of inspired oxygen = 0.209). Before training, after training, and after 1 week of tapering, a graded exercise test and a maximal effort to exhaustion at 120% of VMAX were performed to determine TTE and MAODALT. The results were analyzed using generalized linear mixed models, and a clinical analysis was also realized by the smallest worthwhile change. Results: MAODALT increased only in IEH after training (0.8 ± 0.5 eq.lO2) and tapering (0.8 ± 0.5 eq.lO2), with time x group interaction. TTE increased for the pooled groups after taper (23 ± 11 seconds) and only for IEH alone (29 ± 16 seconds). Clinical analysis revealed a small size increase for NOR and a moderate size increase for IEH. Conclusions: Although the effects should be investigated in other populations, it can be concluded that IEH is a promising model for improving anaerobic performance and capacity. World Health Organization Universal Trial Number: U1111-1295-9954. University's ethics committee registration number: CAAE: 32220020.0.0000.5659 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We tested whether a single session of heavy-load resistance priming conducted in the morning improved double-poling (DP) performance in the afternoon. Methods: Eight national-level male cross-country skiers (mean [SD]: 23 [3] y, 184 [6] cm, 73 [7] kg, maximum oxygen consumption = 69 [6] mL·kg−1·min−1) carried out 2 days of afternoon performance tests. In the morning, 5 hours before tests, subjects were counterbalanced to either a session of 3 × 3 repetitions (approximately 85%–90% 1-repetition maximum) of squat and sitting pullover exercises or no exercise. The performance was evaluated in DP as time to exhaustion (TTE) (approximately 3 min) on a treadmill and 30-m indoor sprints before and after TTE (30-m DP pre/post). Furthermore, submaximal DP oxygen cost, countermovement jump, and isometric knee-extension force during electrical stimulation were conducted. Participants reported perceived readiness on test days. Results: Resistance exercise session versus no exercise did not differ for TTE (approximately 3 min above) (mean ± 95% confidence interval = 3.6% ± 6.0%; P =.29; effect size [ES], Cohen d = 0.27), 30-m DP pre (−0.56% ± 0.80%; P =.21; ES = 0.20), 30-m DP post (−0.18% ± 1.13%; P =.76; ES = 0.03), countermovement jump (−2.0% ± 2.8%; P =.21; ES = 0.12), DP oxygen cost (−0.13% ± 2.04%; P =.91; ES = 0.02), or perceived readiness (P ≥.11). Electrical stimulation force was not different in contraction or relaxation time but revealed low-frequency fatigue in the afternoon for the resistance exercise session only (−12% [7%]; P =.01; ES = 1.3). Conclusion: A single session of heavy-load, low-volume resistance exercise in the morning did not increase afternoon DP performance of short duration in high-level skiers. However, leg low-frequency fatigue after resistance priming, together with the presence of small positive effects in 2 out of 3 DP tests, may indicate that the preconditioning was too strenuous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Inorganic nitrate (NO3 −) supplementation is purported to benefit short-term exercise performance, but it is unclear whether NO3 − improves longer-term exercise training responses (such as improvements in VO2peak or time to exhaustion (TTE)) versus exercise training alone. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the effects of NO3 − supplementation combined with exercise training on VO2peak and TTE, and to identify potential factors that may impact outcomes. Methods Electronic databases (PubMed, Medscape, and Web of Science) were searched for articles published through June 2022 with article inclusion determined a priori as: (1) randomized placebo-controlled trials, (2) exercise training lasted at least three weeks, (3) treatment groups received identical exercise training, (4) treatment groups had matched VO2peak at baseline. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias 2 tool. Standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using restricted maximum likelihood estimation between pre- and post-training differences in outcomes. Moderator subgroup and meta-regression analyses were completed to determine whether the overall effect was influenced by age, sex, NO3 − dosage, baseline VO2peak, health status, NO3 − administration route, and training conditions. Results Nine studies consisting of eleven trials were included: n = 228 (72 females); age = 37.7 ± 21 years; VO2peak: 40 ± 18 ml/kg/min. NO3 − supplementation did not enhance exercise training with respect to VO2peak (SMD: 0.18; 95% CI: -0.09, 0.44; p = 0.19) or TTE (SMD: 0.08; 95% CI: − 0.21, 0.37; p = 0.58). No significant moderators were revealed on either outcome. Subset analysis on healthy participants who consumed beetroot juice (BRJ) revealed stronger trends for NO3 − improving VO2peak (p = 0.08) compared with TTE (p = 0.19), with no significant moderators. Sunset funnel plot revealed low statistical power in all trials. Conclusions NO3 − supplementation combined with exercise training may not enhance exercise outcomes such as VO2peak or TTE. A trend for greater improvement in VO2peak in healthy participants supplemented with BRJ may exist (p = 0.08). Overall, future studies in this area need increased sample sizes, more unified methodologies, longer training interventions, and examination of sex as a biological variable to strengthen conclusions.

Molecular hydrogen (H2 gas) dissolved in water to produce Hydrogen-Rich Water. Hydrogen-Rich Water (HRW) is considered as ergogenic aid in different exercise modes. However, acute pre-exercise HRW ingestion effect is unclear regarding athlete performance. This study aimed at investigating acute effect of HRW ingestion on aerobic and anaerobic exercise performance. Twenty-two male amateur middle-distance runners volunteered to participate in this study. In a randomized, double-blind study design, all players ingested 500 mL of HRW or placebo (PLA) supplement 30 min before the start of the tests. Over 4 days, maximal aerobic speed of Vameval test (MAS), time to exhaustion at MAS (Tlim), squat jump (SJ), counter-movement jump (CMJ) and five jump test (5JT) were evaluated. Also, rate of perceived exertion (RPE) and peak heart rate (HRpeak) were measured during the aerobic tests. For Vameval test, HRW ingestion improved MAS, HRpeak and RPE compared with the placebo condition. For Tlim test, HRW ingestion demonstrated improvements in time to exhaustion, RPE and HRpeak. However, no significant change was observed between HW and placebo conditions in SJ, CMJ, 5JT. 500 mL of HRW can significantly improve HRpeak, time to exhaustion, RPE, with no significant effect on MAS, jumping performance in amateur endurance athletes.

Grip and elbow flexor strength and endurance are crucial performance surrogates in competitive climbing. Thus, we examined the effects of blood flow restricted (BFR) climbing on grip and elbow flexor performance. Fifteen trained climbers (8 females; 20.8 ± 7.0 yrs; 1.72 ± 0.08 m; 63.0 ± 9.7 kg; 21.7 ± 2.7 IRCRCA grade) were either assigned to the intervention (BFR) or control (noBFR) group, using the minimization method (Strata: age, height, body mass, gender, and IRCRA grade). While BFR was used during low-intensity climbing training (2-times 10 min/session; 3-times/week), noBFR followed identical training protocols without BFR over 5 weeks. BFR of the upper limb was applied via customized pneumatic cuffs (occlusion pressure: 120 ± 23 mmHg, 75%; occlusion pressure). Endurance and strength performances were assessed via one-handed rung pulling (GripSTRENGTH), one-handed bent arm lock off at 90° (ArmSTRENGTH), static-intermitted finger hang (GripENDURANCE), and bent arm hang (ArmENDURANCE). Bayesian credible intervals revealed increased GripENDURANCE (+21 s (95% credible interval: −2 to 43 s)) and ArmENDURANCE +11 s (−5 to 27 s); adaptations via BFR. In contrast, GripSTRENGTH +4 N (−40 to 48 N) and ArmSTRENGTH +4 N (−68 to 75 N) were not affected by the BFR intervention. Fifteen cumulative sessions of BFR application with a cumulative total BFR load of 5 h over a 5 weeks macrocycle remarkably increased grip and elbow flexor endurance. Thus, BFR might serve as a promising means to improve relevant performance surrogates in trained climbers. Blood flow restricted (BFR) climbing induced superior grip and elbow flexor endurance adaptations compared to non-restricted climbing training over a 5-week lasting training period BFR and non-BFR climbing training induced similar grip and elbow flexor strength adaptations Therefore, BFR served as a feasible, promising and beneficial complementary training stimuli additionally to the sheduled climbing training program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inorganic nitrate (NO3−) supplementation is purported to benefit short-term exercise performance, but it is unclear whether NO3− improves longer-term exercise training responses (such as improvements in VO2peak or time to exhaustion (TTE)) versus exercise training alone. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the effects of NO3− supplementation combined with exercise training on VO2peak and TTE, and to identify potential factors that may impact outcomes. Methods: Electronic databases (PubMed, Medscape, and Web of Science) were searched for articles published through June 2022 with article inclusion determined a priori as: (1) randomized placebo-controlled trials, (2) exercise training lasted at least three weeks, (3) treatment groups received identical exercise training, (4) treatment groups had matched VO2peak at baseline. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias 2 tool. Standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using restricted maximum likelihood estimation between pre- and post-training differences in outcomes. Moderator subgroup and meta-regression analyses were completed to determine whether the overall effect was influenced by age, sex, NO3− dosage, baseline VO2peak, health status, NO3− administration route, and training conditions. Results: Nine studies consisting of eleven trials were included: n = 228 (72 females); age = 37.7 ± 21 years; VO2peak: 40 ± 18 ml/kg/min. NO3− supplementation did not enhance exercise training with respect to VO2peak (SMD: 0.18; 95% CI: -0.09, 0.44; p = 0.19) or TTE (SMD: 0.08; 95% CI: − 0.21, 0.37; p = 0.58). No significant moderators were revealed on either outcome. Subset analysis on healthy participants who consumed beetroot juice (BRJ) revealed stronger trends for NO3− improving VO2peak (p = 0.08) compared with TTE (p = 0.19), with no significant moderators. Sunset funnel plot revealed low statistical power in all trials. Conclusions: NO3− supplementation combined with exercise training may not enhance exercise outcomes such as VO2peak or TTE. A trend for greater improvement in VO2peak in healthy participants supplemented with BRJ may exist (p = 0.08). Overall, future studies in this area need increased sample sizes, more unified methodologies, longer training interventions, and examination of sex as a biological variable to strengthen conclusions. Key Points: Despite the increased use and study of NO3− supplementation, most of these data have shown benefits during acute supplementation on exercise rather than a benefit to chronic training outcomes. This systematic review and meta-analysis revealed non-significant improvements in VO2peak or time to exhaustion after exercise training with NO3- supplementation compared to exercise alone. A trend for improvement was found for improvements in healthy participants taking beetroot juice supplementation. These results suggest that NO3- may not have an impact on improving longer term training outcomes, but studies in this area suffer from low sample sizes and inconsistent study designs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The VO2 max test is the gold standard measure for aerobic fitness. A standardised treadmill protocol was developed years ago for individuals with Down syndrome but with variations in terms of starting speed, load increases and time spent at each stage. However, we realised that the most widely used protocol for adults with Down syndrome, trouble participants with high treadmill speeds. Consequently, the purpose of the current study was to determine whether an adapted protocol provided improved maximal test performance. Method: Twelve adults (33 ± 6 years) randomly performed two variations of the standardised treadmill test. Results: The protocol that added another incremental incline stage increase yielded a significant improvement in absolute and relative VO2 peak, time to exhaustion, minute ventilation and heart rate max. Conclusion: A treadmill protocol with the addition of an incremental incline stage allowed for a significant improvement in maximal test performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been shown to have positive effects on exercise performance and cognitive function in the normal ambient condition. Hypoxia is deemed a stressful situation with detrimental effects on physiological, psychological, cognitive, and perceptual responses of the body. Nevertheless, no study has evaluated the efficacy of tDCS for counteracting the negative effects of hypoxic conditions on exercise performance and cognition so far. Hence, in the present study, we investigated the effects of anodal tDCS on endurance performance, cognitive function, and perceptual responses in hypoxia. Participants and methods Fourteen endurance-trained males participated in five experimental sessions. After familiarization and measuring peak power output in hypoxia, in the first and second sessions, through the 3rd to 5th sessions, participants performed a cycling endurance task until exhaustion after 30 min hypoxic exposure at resting position followed by 20 min of anodal stimulation of the motor cortex (M1), left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), or sham-tDCS. Color-word Stroop test and choice reaction time were measured at baseline and after exhaustion. Time to exhaustion, heart rate, saturated O2, EMG amplitude of the vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and rectus femoris muscles, RPE, affective response, and felt arousal were also measured during the task under hypoxia. Results The results showed a longer time to exhaustion (+ 30.96%, p=0.036), lower RPE (− 10.23%, p = 0.045) and higher EMG amplitude of the vastus medialis muscle (+ 37.24%, p=0.003), affective response (+ 260%, p=0.035) and felt arousal (+ 28.9%, p=0.029) in the DLPFC tDCS compared to sham. The choice reaction time was shorter in DLPFC tDCS compared to sham (− 17.55%, p=0.029), and no differences were seen in the color-word Stroop test among the conditions under hypoxia. M1 tDCS resulted in no significant effect for any outcome measure. Conclusions We concluded that, as a novel finding, anodal stimulation of the left DLPFC might provide an ergogenic aid for endurance performance and cognitive function under the hypoxic condition probably via increasing neural drive to the working muscles, lowering RPE, and increasing perceptual responses.

Purpose: Growing evidence suggests that respiratory frequency (fR) is a marker of physical effort and a variable sensitive to changes in exercise tolerance. The comparison between arm+leg cycling (Arm+leg) and leg cycling (Leg) has the potential to further test this notion because a greater exercise tolerance is expected in the Arm+leg modality. We systematically compared Arm+leg vs. Leg using different performance tests. Methods: Twelve males underwent six performance tests in separate, randomized visits. Three tests were performed in each of the two exercise modalities, i.e. an incremental test and two time-to-exhaustion (TTE) tests performed at 90% or 75% of the peak power output reached in the Leg incremental test (PPOLeg). Exercise tolerance, perceived exertion, and cardiorespiratory variables were recorded during all the tests. Results: A greater exercise tolerance (p < 0.001) was found for Arm+leg in the incremental test (337 ± 32W vs. 292 ± 28 W), in the TTE test at 90% of PPOLeg (638 ± 154 s vs. 307 ± 67 s), and in the TTE test at 75% of PPOLeg (1,675 ± 525 s vs. 880 ± 363 s). Unlike ...O2 and heart rate, both fR and minute ventilation were lower (p < 0.003) at isotime in all the Arm+leg tests vs. Leg tests. Furthermore, a lower perceived exertion was observed in the Arm+leg tests, especially during the TTE tests (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Minute ventilation, fR and perceived exertion are sensitive to the improvements in exercise tolerance observed when comparing Arm+leg vs. Leg, unlike ...O2 and heart rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: It has been established that napping or listening to motivational music during warm-up is an effective strategy to enhance cognitive and physical performances. However, which could provide better enhancement warrants further investigation. This study aimed to examine the effect of a 30-min nap opportunity (N30), a warm-up with self-selected motivational music (WUMM), and the combination of N30 with WUMM (WUMM + N30) on cognitive and physical performances in karate athletes. Method: In a randomized order, 14 national-level male karate athletes performed four experimental sessions: control, N30, WUMM, andWUMM+ N30. Simple (SRT) and choice (CRT) reaction times, selective attention, subjective sleepiness (ESS), mood state (POMS), countermovement jump (CMJ), and karate agility test (KAT) were evaluated before and after an all-out exhaustive task [i.e., the Karate Specific Test (KST)]. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were measured immediately after the KST. Results: Compared to the control, all interventions improved cognitive outcomes, mood, and sleepiness. No effects on physical performances (CMJ and KAT) were found after N30. Compared to N30, WUMM + N30 improved SRT pre- and postexercise (pre: p < 0.05, d = 0.72; post: p < 0.001, d = 0.14), CRT (pre: p < 0.001, d = 0.07; post: p < 0.001, d = 0.10), attention (pre: p < 0.05, d = 0.06; post: p < 0.01, d = 0.06), mood (pre: p < 0.001, d = 2.53; post: p < 0.001, d = 0.23), and decreased ESS scores (pre: p < 0.01, d = 1.41; post: p < 0.05, d = 1.18). However, there was no significant difference betweenWUMM and N30. KST performance was not affected by the experimental conditions. However, the KST-induced performance deficit in CMJ and KAT was smaller following WUMM + N30 compared to WUMM and N30. RPE scores were lower following WUMM + N30 and WUMM. Conclusion: These findings suggest that a combination of listening to selfselected motivational music during warm-up with a 30-min nap could be an effective strategy to enhance cognitive and physical performance decline caused by fatigue induced by exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Purpose: Growing evidence suggests that respiratory frequency (fR) is a marker of physical effort and a variable sensitive to changes in exercise tolerance. The comparison between arm+leg cycling (Arm+leg) and leg cycling (Leg) has the potential to further test this notion because a greater exercise tolerance is expected in the Arm+leg modality. We systematically compared Arm+leg vs. Leg using different performance tests.Methods: Twelve males underwent six performance tests in separate, randomized visits. Three tests were performed in each of the two exercise modalities, i.e. an incremental test and two time-to-exhaustion (TTE) tests performed at 90% or 75% of the peak power output reached in the Leg incremental test (PPOLeg). Exercise tolerance, perceived exertion, and cardiorespiratory variables were recorded during all the tests.Results: A greater exercise tolerance (p < 0.001) was found for Arm+leg in the incremental test (337 ± 32 W vs. 292 ± 28 W), in the TTE test at 90% of PPOLeg (638 ± 154 s vs. 307 ± 67 s), and in the TTE test at 75% of PPOLeg (1,675 ± 525 s vs. 880 ± 363 s). Unlike V˙O2 and heart rate, both fR and minute ventilation were lower (p < 0.003) at isotime in all the Arm+leg tests vs. Leg tests. Furthermore, a lower perceived exertion was observed in the Arm+leg tests, especially during the TTE tests (p < 0.001).Conclusion: Minute ventilation, fR and perceived exertion are sensitive to the improvements in exercise tolerance observed when comparing Arm+leg vs. Leg, unlike V˙O2 and heart rate.

Introduction: It has been established that napping or listening to motivational music during warm-up is an effective strategy to enhance cognitive and physical performances. However, which could provide better enhancement warrants further investigation. This study aimed to examine the effect of a 30-min nap opportunity (N30), a warm-up with self-selected motivational music (WUMM), and the combination of N30 with WUMM (WUMM + N30) on cognitive and physical performances in karate athletes.Method: In a randomized order, 14 national-level male karate athletes performed four experimental sessions: control, N30, WUMM, and WUMM + N30. Simple (SRT) and choice (CRT) reaction times, selective attention, subjective sleepiness (ESS), mood state (POMS), countermovement jump (CMJ), and karate agility test (KAT) were evaluated before and after an all-out exhaustive task [i.e., the Karate Specific Test (KST)]. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were measured immediately after the KST.Results: Compared to the control, all interventions improved cognitive outcomes, mood, and sleepiness. No effects on physical performances (CMJ and KAT) were found after N30. Compared to N30, WUMM + N30 improved SRT pre- and post-exercise (pre: p < 0.05, d = 0.72; post: p < 0.001, d = 0.14), CRT (pre: p < 0.001, d = 0.07; post: p < 0.001, d = 0.10), attention (pre: p < 0.05, d = 0.06; post: p < 0.01, d = 0.06), mood (pre: p < 0.001, d = 2.53; post: p < 0.001, d = 0.23), and decreased ESS scores (pre: p < 0.01, d = 1.41; post: p < 0.05, d = 1.18). However, there was no significant difference between WUMM and N30. KST performance was not affected by the experimental conditions. However, the KST-induced performance deficit in CMJ and KAT was smaller following WUMM + N30 compared to WUMM and N30. RPE scores were lower following WUMM + N30 and WUMM.Conclusion: These findings suggest that a combination of listening to self-selected motivational music during warm-up with a 30-min nap could be an effective strategy to enhance cognitive and physical performance decline caused by fatigue induced by exercise.

Background: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been shown to have positive effects on exercise performance and cognitive function in the normal ambient condition. Hypoxia is deemed a stressful situation with detrimental effects on physiological, psychological, cognitive, and perceptual responses of the body. Nevertheless, no study has evaluated the efficacy of tDCS for counteracting the negative effects of hypoxic conditions on exercise performance and cognition so far. Hence, in the present study, we investigated the effects of anodal tDCS on endurance performance, cognitive function, and perceptual responses in hypoxia. Participants and methods: Fourteen endurance-trained males participated in five experimental sessions. After familiarization and measuring peak power output in hypoxia, in the first and second sessions, through the 3rd to 5th sessions, participants performed a cycling endurance task until exhaustion after 30 min hypoxic exposure at resting position followed by 20 min of anodal stimulation of the motor cortex (M1), left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), or sham-tDCS. Color-word Stroop test and choice reaction time were measured at baseline and after exhaustion. Time to exhaustion, heart rate, saturated O2, EMG amplitude of the vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and rectus femoris muscles, RPE, affective response, and felt arousal were also measured during the task under hypoxia. Results: The results showed a longer time to exhaustion (+ 30.96%, p=0.036), lower RPE (− 10.23%, p = 0.045) and higher EMG amplitude of the vastus medialis muscle (+ 37.24%, p=0.003), affective response (+ 260%, p=0.035) and felt arousal (+ 28.9%, p=0.029) in the DLPFC tDCS compared to sham. The choice reaction time was shorter in DLPFC tDCS compared to sham (− 17.55%, p=0.029), and no differences were seen in the color-word Stroop test among the conditions under hypoxia. M1 tDCS resulted in no significant effect for any outcome measure. Conclusions: We concluded that, as a novel finding, anodal stimulation of the left DLPFC might provide an ergogenic aid for endurance performance and cognitive function under the hypoxic condition probably via increasing neural drive to the working muscles, lowering RPE, and increasing perceptual responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taurine is a well-known free amino acid that has gained prominence in recent years despite its little or no role in protein formation. Few studies on the ergogenic effect of taurine exist with inconsistent results. This study aimed to reach a consensus about whether taurine supplementation is effective on aerobic and anaerobic performance outputs. Google Scholar, Pubmed databases, clinical trial websites, and grey literature were reviewed until November 2021. Mean differences were pooled using random or fixed-effects models according to the heterogeneity degree of related outcomes. Although 17 studies were detected for the meta-analysis between 2001-2021, 15 studies were grouped. Only randomized controlled trials were considered. Taurine supplementation had a significant effect on vertical (MD = 3.60; 95% CI [2.32 to 4.89], p < 0.00001) and countermovement (MD = 8.50; 95% CI [4.78 to 12.22], p < 0.00001) jump performance when compared to a placebo group. Taurine supplementation had no significant effect on V̇ o 2max level and rate of perceived exertion (respectively, MD = –0.54 mL/kg/min; 95% CI [–6.84 to 5.75], p = 0.87; MD = –0.24; 95% CI [–0.74 to 0.27], p = 0.35) when compared to a placebo group. Taurine improves potentially jumping performance and time to exhaustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of high-nitrate beetroot juice (BRJ) supplementation has seen a recent explosion of interest in sports science. This study examined the potential influence of 7-day BRJ supplementation on the endurance performance of winter triathletes. Eighty young active winter triathletes (44 males, age = 21.50 ± 1.15 yrs; 36 females, age = 20.66 ± 1.45 yrs) participated in this study and were provided with either BRJ (6.5 mmol NO3−/70 mL) or a placebo (PL, 0.065 mmol NO3−/70 mL) for 7 days (a dose of ×3 per day) in a randomized, double-blind design. The athletes then completed a submaximal treadmill run, intraday cycling exhaustion testing, and a 10-km cross country (XC) skiing competition on the second day. There was a significant decrease in the oxygen uptake, respiratory exchange ratio, and blood lactic acid level (p < 0.05) between the BRJ and PL treatment groups during V3 speed running (males: 13.3 km·h−1, females: 11.6 km·h−1). BRJ treatment also remarkably increased the time to exhaustion (TTE) during cycling exhaustion testing (males: p = 0.02, females: p = 0.04). No significant differences were observed in medium- or low-speed submaximal treadmill runs and 10-km XC skiing performance. One week of daily nitrate-rich BRJ supplementation improved running economy at high speed during the submaximal treadmill running test and extended the TTE of athletes during cycling exhaustion testing. However, BRJ supplementation did not improve the performance in 10-km on-snow time trials in XC skiing. Regarding nutritional strategies to improve endurance performance in exercise training and competition, these results should be carefully considered owing to the different motor skill levels and competitive abilities of participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional preparatory resistance training for cyclists mainly relies on simultaneous bilateral movement patterns. This lack of movement specificity may impede transfer effects to specific aerobic and anaerobic requirements on the bike. Hence, this study investigated the effects of resistance training in alternating unilateral vs. simultaneous bilateral movement pattern on strength and anaerobic as well as aerobic cycling performance indices. Twenty-four trained triathletes and cyclists (age: 31.1 ± 8.1 years; VO2max: 57.6 ± 7.1 ml⋅min-1⋅kg-1) were randomly assigned to either an alternating unilateral (AUL), a simultaneous bilateral (BIL) training group or a control group (CON). Ten weeks of resistance training (4 x 4-10 repetition maximum) were completed by both training groups, although CON maintained their usual training regimen without resistance training. Maximal strength was tested during isometric leg extension, leg curl, and leg press in both unilateral and bilateral conditions. To compare the transfer effects of the training groups, determinants of cycling performance and time to exhaustion at 105% of the estimated anaerobic threshold were examined. Maximal leg strength notably increased in both training groups (BIL: ~28%; AUL: ~27%; p < 0.01) but not in CON (~6%; p > 0.54). A significant improvement in cycling time trial performance was also observed in both training groups (AUL: 67%; BIL: 43%; p < 0.05) but not for CON (37%; p = 0.43). Bilateral group exhibited an improved cycling economy at submaximal intensities (~8%; p < 0.05) but no changes occurred in AUL and CON (~3%; p > 0.24). While sprint cycling performance decreased in CON (peak power: -6%; acceleration index: -15%; p < 0.05), improvement in favor of AUL was observed for acceleration abilities during maximal sprinting (20%; d = 0.5). Our pilot data underpin the importance of resistance training independent of its specific movement pattern both for improving the endurance cycling performance and maximal leg strength. Further research should corroborate our preliminary findings on whether sprint cycling benefits favorably from AUL resistance training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International Journal of Exercise Science 15(7): 599-615, 2022. The anaerobic metabolism determination is complex and the applied methodologies present limitations. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of different calculations (MAOD vs. AOD) on the anaerobic contribution using the dynamic knee extension. Twenty-four male were recruited [Mean (SD); age 27 (1) years, body mass 90 (3) kg, height 181 (2) cm]. This study was divided into two independent experiments (EXP1: one-legged; EXP2: two-legged). In both experiments, it was performed a graded exercise test to determine maximal power (MP-GXT); 2-4 submaximal efforts (VO2-intensity relationship); and an exhaustive effort. The theoretical energy demand for the exhaustive effort (TEDex) was constructed from the submaximal efforts. Therefore, MAOD was assumed as the difference between the TEDex and the accumulated VO2 (AVO2). In contrast, the energy demand for AOD was calculated as the product between VO2 at the end of exercise and time to exhaustion (TEDaod). Thus, AOD was assumed as the difference between TEDaod and AVO2. Bayesian paired t-test was used to compare the differences between the applied methods. Also, correlations between the anaerobic indices and performance were verified. In EXP1, AOD was higher than MAOD [1855 (741) vs. 434 (245); BF10 = 2925; ES = 2.5]. In contrast, in EXP2, MAOD was higher than AOD [2832 (959) vs. 1636 (549); BF10 = 3.33; ES = 1.4]. Also, AOD was correlated to performance (r = .59; BF10 = 4.38). We concluded that MAOD and AOD are a distinct phenomenon and must be utilized according to the exercise model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the validity and compared the precision and accuracy of a distance-time linear model (DTLM), a power law and a nomogram to predict the distance running performances of female runners. Official rankings of French women ("senior" category: between 23 and 39 years old) for the 3000-m, 5000-m, and 10,000-m track-running events from 2005 to 2019 were examined. Performances of runners who competed in the three distances during the same year were noted (n=158). Mean values and standard deviation (SD) of actual performances were 11.28±1.33, 19.49±2.34 and 41.03±5.12 for the 3000-m, 5000-m, and 10,000-m respectively. Each performance was predicted from two other performances. Between the actual and predicted performances, only DTLM showed a difference (p< 0.05). The magnitude of the differences in these predicted performances was small if not trivial. All predicted performances were significantly correlated with the actual ones, with a very high correlation coefficient (p< 0.001; r> 0.90), except for DTLM in the 3000-m, which showed a high correlation coefficient (p< 0.001; r >0.895). Bias and 95% limits of agreement were acceptable because, whatever the method, they were≤–3.7±10.8% on the 3000-m, 1.4±4.3% on the 5000-m, and -2.5±7.4% on the 10,000-m. The study confirms the validity of the three methods to predict track-running performance and suggests that the most accurate and precise model was the nomogram followed by the power law, with the DTLM being the least accurate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antioxidant supplementation has become a common practice among athletes to boost sport achievement. Likewise, melatonin (MEL) has been ingested as an ergogenic aid to improve physical performance. To date, no study has checked whether the multiple beneficial effects of MEL have an outcome during a maximum running exercise until exhaustion. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of MEL ingestion on physical performance and biochemical responses (i.e., oxidative stress) during exhaustive exercise. In a double blind randomized study, thirteen professional soccer players [age: 17.5 ± 0.8 years, body mass: 70.3 ± 3.9 kg, body height: 1.80 ± 0.08 m; maximal aerobic speed (MAS): 16.85 ± 0.63 km/h; mean ± standard deviation], members of a first league squad, performed a running exercise until exhaustion at 100% of MAS, after either MEL or placebo ingestion. Physical performance was assessed, and blood samples were obtained at rest and following the exercise. Compared to placebo, MEL intake prevented the increase in oxidative stress markers (i.e., malondialdehyde), alleviated the alteration of antioxidant status (i.e., glutathione peroxidase, uric acid and total bilirubin) and decreased post‑exercise biomarkers of muscle damage (i.e., creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase) (p 0.05). In conclusion, acute MEL intake before a maximal running exercise protected athletes from oxidative stress and cellular damage but without an effect on physical performance.

This study examined the validity, precision and accuracy of the predictions of distance running performances in female runners from three nomograms. Official rankings of French women for the 3000-m, 5000-m, and 10 000-m track-running events from 2005 to 2019 were examined. Only female runners who performed in the three distance events within the same year were included (n=158). Each performance over any distance was predicted using the three nomograms from the two other performances. The 3000-m, 5000-m and 10 000-m performances were 11min17 s±1min20 s, 19min29 s±2min20 s, 41min18 s±5min7 s, respectively. No difference was found between the actual and predicted running performances regardless of the nomogram (p>0.05). All predicted running performances were significantly correlated with the actual ones, with a very high correlation coefficient (p<0.001; r>0.90). Bias and 95% limits of agreement were acceptable because, whatever the nomogram, they were less than or equal to − 0.0±6.2% on the 3000-m, 0.0±3.7% on the 5000-m, and 0.1±9.3% on the 10 000-m. The study confirms the validity of the three nomograms to predict track-running performance with a high level of accuracy. The predictions from these nomograms are similar and may be used in training programs and competitions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kluai Namwa (Musa Sapientum Linn.; Banana; BAN) is one of the most ancient species of banana well-grown in Thailand. BAN has a long history of use as a nutritional supplement and medical food due to its beneficial nutritional and therapeutic effects. Being an ergogenic aid, BAN has shown signifiicant changes in the lipid protile, muscle and liver glycogen, enzyme activity, and Nitric Oxide (NO) activity inhibition, which results in prolonged exercise time. The objectives of this study were to develop a BAN energy gel and examine the effects of BAN energy gel on endurance running performance. The nutrition values of the developed BAN energy gel, glucose, sucrose, fructose, sodium, potassium, magnesium, protein, fat, ash, and total carbohydrate were assessed. The BAN energy gel nutrition values were 1.20±0.02 (g), 8.77±0.08 (g), 1.31±0.01 (g), 25.67±0.13 (mg), 184.83±0.54 (mg), 14.07±0.09 (mg), 0.43±0.08 (g), 0.14 ±0.02 (%), 1.23±0.19 (g), 0.55±0.01 (g), 15.95±0.21 (%) per 100 g sample, respectively. BAN energy gel had total energy of 66.75±0.84 Kcal/100 g of sample. For examining the effects of BAN energy gel, eleven Thai male runners (aged 27.36±8.89 years and VO2 max 69.43±12.69 ml/kg/min) participated in this study to investigate Time To Exhaustion (TTE). TTE in subjects who consumed BAN energy gel was signitticantly longer than in subjects who consumed placebo (PLA) (55.23±10.32 min. vs. 46.13±9.87 min). The potassium level in the blood of subjects who consumed BAN energy gel was significantly higher than in subjects who consumed PLA (p<.05). This study found that BAN energy gel can prolong time to exhaustion. Therefore, BAN energy gel can be used as an ergogenic aid for runners, which is suitable to be consumed before and during the competition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antioxidant supplementation has become a common practice among athletes to boost sport achievement. Likewise, melatonin (MEL) has been ingested as an ergogenic aid to improve physical performance. To date, no study has checked whether the multiple beneficial effects of MEL have an outcome during a maximum running exercise until exhaustion. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of MEL ingestion on physical performance and biochemical responses (i.e., oxidative stress) during exhaustive exercise. In a double blind randomized study, thirteen professional soccer players [age: 17.5 ± 0.8 years, body mass: 70.3 ± 3.9 kg, body height: 1.80 ± 0.08 m; maximal aerobic speed (MAS): 16.85 ± 0.63 km/h; mean ± standard deviation], members of a first league squad, performed a running exercise until exhaustion at 100% of MAS, after either MEL or placebo ingestion. Physical performance was assessed, and blood samples were obtained at rest and following the exercise. Compared to placebo, MEL intake prevented the increase in oxidative stress markers (i.e., malondialdehyde), alleviated the alteration of antioxidant status (i.e., glutathione peroxidase, uric acid and total bilirubin) and decreased post-exercise biomarkers of muscle damage (i.e., creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase) (p < 0.05). However, physical performance was not affected by MEL ingestion (p > 0.05). In conclusion, acute MEL intake before a maximal running exercise protected athletes from oxidative stress and cellular damage but without an effect on physical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetics have many disabilities, including neuronal damege hippocampus, and BDNF is an effective factor in this field. This factor has the most impact on the hippocampus, also TNF-α is an inflammatory factor that increases in diabetes, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of 6 weeks of High Intensity interval training on the gene expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus of male Wistar rats. Methods: For this study, 48 male Wistar rats (4 weeks old) with 150± 10 g weight were categorized in 4 groups of: diabetic rats (n= 12), exercise diabetic (n= 12), control (n= 12) and exercise control (n= 12). For induction of diabetes, peritoneal injection of STZ solution (50 mg/kg) was used. After a week of familiarization with the environment and practice, high Intensity interval training protocol consisted of 3 days of training per week for 6 weeks with 50% to 110% of maximum oxygen consumption was performed. 24 hours after the completion of the exercise, the functional test was taken and the animals were autopsy 48 hours after the functional test. Finally, BDNF gene expression was evaluated using Real Time PCR technique. Results: Regarding the results, it was found that the high Intensity interval training intensified the expression of the BDNF gene and decreased the expression of the TNF-α protein. also The weight gain of the hippocampus has been observed along with increased expression of BDNF gene in the diabetic high Intensity interval training group. Conclusion: Exercise can help prevent hippocampus tissue loss, and also prevent memory damage that caused by diabetes. Also, high Intensity interval training are effective in maintaining the physical fitness of diabetics, therefore high Intensity interval training are recommended for improvement in the physical condition and life of diabetics.

AimQuercetin has been reported to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties on health promotion in human studies. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of short-term oral quercetin supplementation on post-exercise whole-body energy metabolism. This study also aimed to determine the effects of supplementation on oxygen stress, inflammation, muscle damage, and high-intensity cycling exercise performance.MethodTwelve healthy participants, physically active students, were recruited to perform a randomized, single-blind crossover study. All subjects completed 7-days of quercetin (quercetin:1,000 mg per day for 7-days) and placebo supplementation in a randomized order. Supplement/placebo was combined with exercise consisting of 70% V̇O2max cycling for 60-min, followed by 3-h of recovery, then a subsequent single bout of cycling exercise with 75% V̇O2max to exhaustion. Time to exhaustion, indicators of muscle damage, as well as blood and gaseous parameters relating to energy metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammatory response, respectively, were determined.ResultsThe results showed that 7-day quercetin supplementation significantly attenuated the post-exercise glucose-induced insulin response, increased total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and superoxidase dismutase (SOD) activities, and mitigated malondialdehyde (MDA) levels during the recovery period (p < 0.05). While subsequent 75% V̇O2max cycling performance was significantly improved after quercetin treatment and accompanied by lower responses of interleukin 6 and creatine kinase at 24-h. However, it’s noted that there were no significant responses in glucose, respiratory exchange rate, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), myoglobin, and high sensitivity C-reactive protein between quercetin and placebo trials.ConclusionOur findings concluded that 7-day oral quercetin supplementation enhances high-intensity cycling time to exhaustion, which may be due in part to the increase in whole-body insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and attenuation of exercise-induced oxygen stress and pro-inflammation. Therefore, quercetin may be considered an effective ergogenic aid for enhancing high-intensity cycling performance among young adults.

Taurine (TAU) has been shown to improve time to exhaustion (TTE) and fat oxidation during exercise; however, no studies have examined the effect of acute TAU supplementation on maximal fat oxidation (MFO) and related intensity to MFO (FATmax). Our study aimed to investigate the effect of acute TAU supplementation on MFO, FATmax, VO2peak, and TTE. Eleven recreationally trained male endurance runners performed three incremental running tests. The first visit included a familiarization to the test, followed by two subsequent visits in which exercise was performed 90 min after ingestion of either 6-g TAU or placebo (PLA) using a triple-blind randomized crossover design. There was no effect of TAU on MFO (p = .89, d = -0.07, TAU: 0.48 ± 0.22 g/min; PLA: 0.49 ± 0.15 g/min or FATmax (p = .26, d = -0.66; TAU: 49.17 ± 15.86 %V˙O2peak; PLA: 56.00 ± 13.27 %V˙O2peak). TTE was not significantly altered (TAU: 1,444.8 ± 88.6 s; PLA: 1,447.6 ± 87.34 s; p = .65, d = -0.04). TAU did not show any effect on V˙O2peak in comparison with PLA (TAU: 58.9 ± 8.4 ml·kg-1·min-1; PLA: 56.5 ± 5.7 ml·kg-1·min-1, p = .47, d = 0.48). However, V˙O2 was increased with TAU at most stages of exercise with large effect sizes. The acute ingestion of 6 g of TAU before exercise did not enhance MFO, FATmax, or TTE. However, it did increase the oxygen cost of running fixed intensities in recreationally trained endurance runners.

Purpose: To adapt the work endurance recovery (WER) method based on rnndori maximal time to exhaustion (RMTE) for combat situations in judo. Methods: Eleven international-standard judo athletes (7 men and 4 women; mean age 20.73 ± 2.49 y, height 1.72 ±0.11 m, body mass 67.36 ± 10.67 kg) were recruited to take part in the study. All participants performed a maximal incremental test (MIT), a Wingate test (WIN), a Special Judo Fitness Test (SJFT), and 2 RMTE tests. They then took part in a session at an international training camp in Barcelona, Spain, in which 4 methods of load quantification were implemented: the WER method, the Stagno method, the Lucia method, and the session rating of perceived exertion (RPEsession). Results: RMTE demonstrated a very high test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient =.91), and correlations of the performance tests ranged from moderate to high: RMTE and MIT (r= .66), RMTE and WIN variables (r = .38-.53), RMTE and SJFT variables (r = .74-77). The correlation between the WER method, which considers time to exhaustion, and the other systems for quantifying training load was high: WER and RPEsession (r = .87), WER and Stagno (r = .77), WER and Lucia (r = .73). A comparative repeated-measures analysis of variance of the normalized values of the quantification did not yield statistically significant differences. Conclusions: The WER method using RMTE is highly adaptable to quantify rondori judo sessions and enables one to plan a priori individualized training loads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study examined the effect of performance level on the validity and accuracy of middle-distance running-performance predictions obtained from the nomogram of Mercier et al in male runners. Methods: Official French track-running rankings for the 3000-, 5000-, and 10,000-m events from 2006 to 2014 were examined. The performance level was determined from the official reference table of the Fédération Française d'Athlétisme, and the runners were divided in 3 groups (ie, low, moderate, and high levels). Only male runners who performed in the 3 distance events within the same year were included (N = 443). Each performance over any distance was predicted using the nomogram from the 2 other performances. Results: No difference was found in low- and moderate-performance-level athletes (0.02 ≤ effect size [ES] ≤ 0.06, 95% limits of agreement [LoA] ≤ 6%). By contrast, a small difference in high-performance-level athletes (P < .01, 0.23 ≤ ES ≤ 0.45, 95% LoA ≤ 11.6%) was found. Conclusion: The study confirms the validity of the nomogram to predict track-running performance with a high level of accuracy, except for male runners with high performance level (ie, national or international). Consequently, the predictions from the nomogram may be used in training programs (eg, to prescribe tempo runs with realistic training velocities) and competitions (eg, to plan realistic split times to reach the best performance). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been proven to induce positive effects on athletic performance. The present study aimed to analyse the effect of anodal-tDCS on endurance (time to exhaustion [TTE] or endurance time trial [ETT]) and sprint performance during cycling and running tasks. We performed a systematic literature review in the databases Medline (via PubMed), SPORTDiscus and Science Direct. We included only randomised controlled trials conducted with healthy individuals in which an anodal-tDCS protocol was applied prior to cycling or running tests. The effect of anodal-tDCS (experimental condition) was compared against sham stimulation (control condition). A total of 15 interventions from 13 studies were included. The sub-group analysis revealed a positive effect of anodal-tDCS on TTE (standardised mean differences [SMD] = 0.37; 90% confidence interval [CI] = 0.13, 0.61; p = 0.01), but not on ETT (SMD = 0.00; 90% CI = −0.29, 0.30; p = 1.00) or sprint performance (SMD = 0.19; 90% CI = −0.23, 0.60; p = 0.46). The current meta-analysis suggests that the effect of anodal-tDCS on whole-body dynamic exercises (running and cycling) could be task dependent. Specifically, anodal-tDCS enhance running and cycling time to exhaustion performance during TTE tasks but not ETT or sprint tasks. The increase in cortical excitability induced by anodal-tDCS may lead to lower ratings of perceived exertion by reducing the input required to perform the physical task. Task should be taken into account, because it is probably influencing the result obtained by anodal-tDCS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this case study was to examine the short-term development of performance and aerobic endurance following prolonged low-intensity ski trekking (LIST) in an Arctic region. Two male recreational athletes (aged 24 and 26 years) with high aerobic fitness performed LIST 7 ± 2 h·day−1 for 23 consecutive days, while hauling sledges (∼80 kg initially) with supplies from the north to the south of Svalbard (∼640 km). Time to exhaustion, maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max), lactate threshold (LT) and work economy were evaluated at pre- and post-trek. The results showed that the absolute and relative exercise intensity during LIST were ∼3.9 km·h−1 and ∼60% of maximal heart rate, respectively. Time to exhaustion during a ∼4–6 min ramp walking test, and a >45 min stepwise walking test, while pulling 12.5 kg weights (simulation of ski trekking with loaded sledge), increased by 11–17% and 3–9%, respectively, following LIST. Body mass and V̇O2max relative to body mass (ml·kg−1·min−1) decreased by 5–8% and increased by 3–8%, respectively. Furthermore, the workload associated with LT and LT percentage of V̇O2max increased by 39–69% and 12–13%, respectively. No notable change in work economy was observed. The mean pace during LIST (∼3.9 km·h−1) corresponded to the treadmill walking speed (4 km·h−1) with the lowest oxygen cost (mL·kg−1·m−1) in both participants. It can be concluded that short-term prolonged LIST can improve ski trek-simulated performance and fractional utilisation of V̇O2max in recreational athletes with high aerobic fitness. Moreover, highly aerobically fit ski trekkers appear to instinctively choose the most energy-efficient pace during LIST. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of Cordyceps sinensis supplementation on reducing fatigue in endurance sport athletes. Twelve male long-distance runners (age 37.3 ± 3.4 years, VO2 max 53.8 ± 3.7 mL·kg-1·min-1) participated in this randomized, repeated measures, counterbalanced single-blind study design. After baseline testing, the 2-week ingestion of Cordyceps sinensis (CS), Sodium bicarbonate (SB), and placebo (ST) alternately assigned to all subjects with separated by a 1-week washout period. Time to exhaustion (TTE), ventilatory threshold (VT1 and VT2), and VO2 max were measured after each supplementation period. The results demonstrated a statistically significant difference in time to exhaustion (TTE), ventilatory threshold (VT2), and VO2 max between CS and ST (P<0.05), but no significant difference between CS and SB (P>0.05). When compared with baseline, CS and SB improved TTE, VT2, and VO2 max (P<005); whereas, ST did not change (P>0.05). However, there were no significant differences in VT1 (P>0.05). The results indicate that Cordyceps sinensis (CS) may improve tolerance to fatigue in long-distance runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim was to investigate the impact of maximal aerobic speed (MAS), maximal anaerobic speed (MANS), and time to exhaustion (TTE) at 130% MAS, on 800-m running time performance (800TT). A second aim was to investigate the impact of anaerobic speed reserve (ASR), i.e., the relative difference between MAS and MANS, on TTE. A total of 22 healthy students classified as recreational runners participated in a cross-sectional study. They were tested for maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), oxygen cost of running (CR), time performance at 100 m (100TT), time performance at 800 m (800TT), and TTE. MAS was calculated as VO2max × CR–1, and MANS was calculated as 100TT velocity. Both MAS and MANS correlated individually with 800TT (r = –0.74 and –0.67, respectively, p < 0.01), and the product of MAS and MANS correlated strongly (r = –0.82, p < 0.01) with 800TT. TTE did not correlate with 800TT. Both ASR and % MANS correlated strongly with TTE (r = 0.90 and –0.90, respectively, p < 0.01). These results showed that 800TT was first and foremost dependent on MAS and MANS, and with no impact from TTE. It seemed that TTE was merely a product of each runner’s individual ASR. We suggest a simplified model of testing and training for 800TT, namely, by focusing on VO2max, CR, and short sprint velocity, i.e., MAS and MANS.

The main aim was to investigate the impact of maximal aerobic speed (MAS), maximal anaerobic speed (MANS), and time to exhaustion (TTE) at 130% MAS, on 800-m running time performance (800TT). A second aim was to investigate the impact of anaerobic speed reserve (ASR), i.e., the relative difference between MAS and MANS, on TTE. A total of 22 healthy students classified as recreational runners participated in a cross-sectional study. They were tested for maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), oxygen cost of running (CR), time performance at 100 m (100TT), time performance at 800 m (800TT), and TTE. MAS was calculated as VO2max × CR–1, and MANS was calculated as 100TT velocity. Both MAS and MANS correlated individually with 800TT (r = –0.74 and –0.67, respectively, p < 0.01), and the product of MAS and MANS correlated strongly (r = –0.82, p < 0.01) with 800TT. TTE did not correlate with 800TT. Both ASR and % MANS correlated strongly with TTE (r = 0.90 and –0.90, respectively, p < 0.01). These results showed that 800TT was first and foremost dependent on MAS and MANS, and with no impact from TTE. It seemed that TTE was merely a product of each runner's individual ASR. We suggest a simplified model of testing and training for 800TT, namely, by focusing on VO2max, CR, and short sprint velocity, i.e., MAS and MANS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this case study, a 32-yr-old moderately trained male recreational runner, with a pre-training relative maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) of 55.8 mL·kg-1·min-1, performed 10 min of high-intensity continuous running (HICR, 90% to 95% of maximal heart rate (HR max) 3 times·wk-1, for 5 wks. Following the training intervention period, time to exhaustion during a ~4 min to ~6 min treadmill ramp test procedure increased by 57 sec (23%), which indicates a substantial improvement in running performance. Velocity at VO2 max and velocity at lactate threshold increased by 1.8 km·hr-1 (13%) and 1.4 km·hr-1 (14%), respectively. Furthermore, the participant increased absolute and relative VO2 max by 0.33 L·min-1 (9.5%) and 7.5 mL·kg-1 ·min-1 (13%), respectively. Oxygen pulse at VO2 max increased by 2.1 mL·beat-1 (13%), and submaximal heart rate decreased by 12 beats·min-1 (7.9%), while no notable change in running economy was observed, indicating an increase in maximal cardiac stroke volume. Moreover, the results indicated an increase in relative fat oxidation from ~36% to ~43% of the total HICR of short exercise duration can be effective in improving running performance and aerobic capacity when the initial aerobic fitness level is moderate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ice slurry ingestion is a simple cooling intervention purported to improve endurance performance. Despite its popularity in the fi eld, a recent meta-analysis suggested this intervention has no performance eff ect. The aim of the present meta-analysis was to determine the eff ect of ice slurry ingestion on endurance performance in the heat. Data for this meta-analysis were retrieved from the PubMed. Eff ect sizes were calculated as the standardized mean diff erence (Hedges’ g), and meta-analyses were completed using a random-eff ects model. A method-of-moments meta-regression was used to determined confounding factors. Sixteen studies using randomized controlled trials with a total of 152 subjects were included. Improvement in endurance performance in the heat was moderate: g=0.54 (95% confi dence interval, 0.30-0.77, p

Purpose: To investigate the effects of work-to-rest-ratio manipulation on neuromuscular and metabolic responses during 2 high-intensity intermittent training (HIT) protocols to exhaustion. Since different exercise durations were expected, the authors hypothesized that the protocol registering a longer duration would have a more pronounced effect on neuromuscular responses, while the other would challenge the cardiopulmonary system more. Methods: Thirteen competitive cyclists (age 19 ± 2 y) performed a preliminary incremental test to identify their maximal power output and 2 intermittent protocols to exhaustion (40:20s and 30:30s) at a fixed work rate of 135%Pmax interspersed by passive recovery. Surface electromyographic (sEMG) parameters (including muscle-fiber conduction velocity), cardiopulmonary parameters, and blood lactate concentration [La-1] were recorded. Results: Time to exhaustion and total work were significantly higher for the 30:30s (38 ± 13 min, 495+161 kJ) than for the 40:20s (10 ± 3 min, 180 ± 51 kJ). No differences were found in sEMG parameters for the 2 protocols. Mean and peak values of VO2, heart rate, ventilatory parameters (except for the peak value of respiratory frequency), and [La-1] were significantly higher in the 40:20s than in the 30:30s. Conclusions: These results do not support the hypothesis that a longer time spent at high intensity has a more pronounced effect on neuromuscular responses, as no differences in EMG parameters were found in the 2 HIT protocols. Regarding metabolic responses, while the 40:20s led to maximal values of VO2, [La-1], and ventilatory parameters within a few minutes, the 30:30s allowed maintenance of moderately high values for a considerably longer period, especially for [La-1] and ventilatory parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is a complementary tool for therapeutic exercise for muscle strengthening and may potentially enhance exercise performance. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and continuous aerobic training (CA) coupled with NMES enhance the changes in the eccentric/concentric muscle contraction patterns of hamstring and quadriceps. METHODS: Forty-five healthy sedentary male participants performed cycling training 3 times per week for 8 weeks combined with/without NMES performed at a load equivalent to 65% and 120% of I VO 2max (intensity associated with the achievement of maximal oxygen uptake). Anthropometrics, blood lactate measurements, I VO 2max , T Lim VO 2max (time-to-exhaustion) and isokinetic strength parameters were measured at baseline and post-training using a randomized controlled trial. RESULTS: The conventional hamstring-to-quadriceps-ratio (HQR: Hcon/Qcon) at 60 ∘ /s and the Dynamic Control Ratio (DCR: Hecc/Qcon) at 180 ∘ /s significantly increased both in the dominant (D) and non-dominant (ND) limb in the HIIT + NMES group (p < 0.05). There was a positive significant correlation between the individual changes in D HQR at 60 ∘ /s and I VO 2max (r = 0.94, p = 0.005) and the DCR at 180 ∘ /s and T Lim VO 2max (r = 0.90, p = 0.015), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The increases in the eccentric muscle contraction and DCR following HIIT + NMES seem to improve fatigue tolerance, cause less fatigue and oxidative stress on the lower limb during pedaling at high intensities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetics have many disabilities, including neuronal damege hippocampus, and BDNF is an effective factor in this field. This factor has the most impact on the hippocampus, also TNF-α is an inflammatory factor that increases in diabetes, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of 6 weeks of High Intensity interval training on the gene expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus of male Wistar rats. Methods: For this study, 48 male Wistar rats (4 weeks old) with 150± 10 g weight were categorized in 4 groups of: diabetic rats (n= 12), exercise diabetic (n= 12), control (n= 12) and exercise control (n= 12). For induction of diabetes, peritoneal injection of STZ solution (50 mg/kg) was used. After a week of familiarization with the environment and practice, high Intensity interval training protocol consisted of 3 days of training per week for 6 weeks with 50% to 110% of maximum oxygen consumption was performed. 24 hours after the completion of the exercise, the functional test was taken and the animals were autopsy 48 hours after the functional test. Finally, BDNF gene expression was evaluated using Real Time PCR technique. Results: Regarding the results, it was found that the high Intensity interval training intensified the expression of the BDNF gene and decreased the expression of the TNF-α protein. also The weight gain of the hippocampus has been observed along with increased expression of BDNF gene in the diabetic high Intensity interval training group. Conclusion: Exercise can help prevent hippocampus tissue loss, and also prevent memory damage that caused by diabetes. Also, high Intensity interval training are effective in maintaining the physical fitness of diabetics, therefore high Intensity interval training are recommended for improvement in the physical condition and life of diabetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The consumption of sport supplements and their effects on the performance of athletes needs to be evaluated. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of L-citrulline supplementation on nitric oxide (NO) and blood lactate in young women after a maximal exercise session. Materials and Methods: The research method was quasi-experimental with double blind design. After filling out the health questionnaire, 24 voluntary inactive young women with body mass index less than 25 kg/m2 were randomly divided into two groups of supplement (n=12) and placebo (n=12). Subjects referred to the laboratory twice; in the first session, the first blood sample was taken immediately after the exercise protocol. After 5 minutes of warm-up, they performed the Bruce treadmill test protocol up to the time to exhaustion. Then the supplement group consumed 6 gr daily Lcitrulline powder. The second session was performed one week later in the same conditions as the first session. Immediately after the test, time to exhaustion was recorded, blood samples collected and lactate and NO plasma levels were measured. Data were analyzed by variance with repeated measures (2×2) with significant level of P<0.05. Results: The results showed that there was no significant difference between time to exhaustion, plasma levels of lactate and NO between the two groups (placebo and supplement) in two sessions. Conclusion: It seems that acute supplementation of L-citrulline has no effect on nitric NO and blood lactate in young women after a maximal exercise session. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation examined the effect of intramuscular iron injections on aerobic-exercise performance in iron-deficient women. Sixteen athletes performed a 10-min steady-state submaximal economy test, a VO2max test, and a timed test to exhaustion at VO2max workload. Subjects were randomly assigned to an iron-supplemented group (IG) receiving intramuscular iron injections or to a placebo group (PG). Twenty days after the first injection, exercise and blood testing were repeated. A final blood test occurred on Day 28. Postsupplementation, no differences were found between the groups' submaximal or maximal VO2, heart rate, or blood lactate (P > 0.05). Time to exhaustion was increased in the IG (P < 0.05) but was not greater than that of the PG (P > 0.05). The IG's serum ferritin (SF) was significantly increased on Days 20 and 28 (mean ± standard error: 19 ± 3 to 65 ± 11 to 57 ± 12 µg/L; P < 0.01), with a percentage change from baseline significantly greater than in the PG (P < 0.01). It was concluded that intramuscular iron injections can effectively increase SF without enhancing submaximal or maximal aerobic-exercise performance in iron-depleted female athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined whether the prior consumption of coffee (COF) decreased the ergogenic effect of the subsequent ingestion of anhydrous caffeine (CAF). Thirteen subjects performed 6 rides to exhaustion at 80% VO2max 1.5 h after ingesting combinations of COF, decaffeinated coffee (DECOF), CAF, or placebo. The conditions were DECOF + placebo (A), DECOF + CAF (5 mg/kg) (B), COF (1.1 mg/kg caffeine) + CAF (5 mg/kg) (C), COF + CAF (3 mg/kg) (D), COF + CAF (7 mg/kg) (E), and colored water + CAF (5 mg/kg) (F). Times to exhaustion were significantly greater for all trials with CAF versus placebo (trial A). Exercise times (in minutes) were: 21.7 ± 8.1, 29.0 ± 7.4, 27.8 ± 10.8, 25.1 ± 7.9, 26.4 ± 8.0 and 26.8 ± 8.1 for trials A through F, respectively. In conclusion, the prior consumption of COF did not decrease the ergogenic effect of the subsequent ingestion of anhydrous CAF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A suplementação de cafeína pode fazer corredores correrem mais e melhorar estratégia de ritmo A cafeína pode estimular o sistema nervoso central e aumentar a tolerância ao exercício por meio de mudanças na percepção subjetiva de esforço (PSE), isso pode mudar a estratégia de ritmo (ER) durante uma corrida. Nosso objetivo foi verificar se a suplementação de cafeína promove mudanças na ER durante um teste de corrida de laboratório (TCL). De modo duplo-cego, cruzado, randomizado e contrabalançado, quinze homens saudáveis (idade: 24 ± 4,4 anos, VO2max. 53 ± 5 ml.Kg-1.min-1) ingeriram 6 mg/kg-1 de cafeína ou placebo, 60 minutos antes do TCL. O TCL consistiu de séries de três minutos (velocidade fixada à 1 km/h acima do “Onset Blood Lactate Accumulation”) até fadiga volicional; O Intervalo de Tempo de Descanso (ITD) entre as séries foi escolhido pelos participantes no primeiro teste (entre 30 a 60s). PSE, frequência cardíaca (FC) e lactato ([La]p) foram coletados em repouso, imediatamente após cada série e ao final do teste. O tempo de exaustão foi maior na situação cafeína (p= 0,014); o ITD foi significativamente menor na situação cafeína (p= 0,048), isso fez diminuir significativamente o tempo para realizar uma mesma distância (p= 0,034). A FC e [La]p foram semelhantes para ambas as condições (p= 0,252, p= 0,129, respectivamente). Apesar da semelhança da PSE ao longo do teste (p= 0,380), na situação cafeína não houve um aumento abrupto ao longo do teste como ocorreu na situação placebo. A suplementação de cafeína pode influenciar positivamente a ER durante uma corrida, além de aumentar a capacidade de correr mais (no mesmo evento). ABSTRACT Caffeine supplementation can make runners run firther and improve pace strategy Caffeine can stimulate the central nervous system and thus increase exercise tolerance throughout rating perceived exertion (RPE) changes and it can change the pace strategy (PS) during a physical task. The aim of this study was to check if caffeine supplementation might promote changes in PS during a laboratory run test (LRT). In a double-blind, crossover, randomized and counterbalanced fashion, fifteen healthy-male (age: 24 ± 4.4 years; VO2max. 53 ± 5 ml.Kg-1.min-1) ingested 6 mg•kg-1 of CAF or placebo supplementation, 60 minutes before the LRT. The LRT was three-minutes sets (at fixed speed, 1 km/h above Onset Blood Lactate Accumulation) until volitional exhaustion; Rest Time Interval (RTI) between sets were chosen by the participants in the first test (ranging from 30 to 60s). RPE, Heart Rate (HR) and blood plasma lactate concentration ([La]p) were collected at rest, immediately after each set and at the end of test. Time to exhaustion was higher for CAF (p= 0.014). RTI between sets was significantly lower in caffeine (p= 0.048) and this decreased significantly the time to perform a same distance (p= 0.034). Overall HR and [La]p was similar for both conditions (p= 0.252, p= 0.129, respectively). Despite similar overall RPE throughout test (p= 0.380), in caffeine, there was not a RPE abrupt increase similar to placebo. Caffeine supplementation can positively influence running PS (to decrease the RTI required for recovery between moments of high-intensity exercise), as well as, can make an individual run further (in the same event).