Body Mass and Aerobic Capacity are Robust Predictors of the 2000m Ergometer Rowing Performance: A Laboratory Study

137 Higher body mass index is negatively associated with aerobic capacity improvements one year following participation in cardiac rehabilitation

Introduction: Occupational lung illness is a significant problem among textile factory workers. Occupational cotton dust exposure has been linked to lung involvement in many epidemiological studies of cotton industry workers. The maximum oxygen intake is one of the measures used to estimate functional capacity (VO2 max) of cardiopulmonary efficiency. The integration of the ventilatory, cardiovascular and neuromuscular system is necessary for attainment of VO2 max. Aim: To assess the VO2 max among women employees in cotton textile industry and to study the correlation between VO2 max and anthropometric parameters like Body Mass Index (BMI), Body Surface Area (BSA), fat percent (fat %) and Lean Body Mass (LBM). Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2021 to June 2021 at Nootan Medical College and Research Centre/Nootan General Hospital, Visnagar, Dt. Mehsana, North Gujarat, India, which included study and control group which comprised 50 female workers of cotton industry and 50 age matched females respectively (n=50 each) who had never worked in the cotton industry or been exposed to cotton dust. The labourers of cotton industry were chosen from the Mehsana district’s numerous cotton factories. Physical examinations (resting heart rate, resting systolic and diastolic blood pressure) and a standardised proforma were used to gather data. VO2 max and anthropometric measurements such as BMI, BSA, fat % and LBM were measured by standard procedure. The statistical analysis was done by using Student’s t-test and Pearson correlation test. The correlation between BMI, BSA, fat percent and LBM with maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) was assessed by using Karl-Pearson’s correlation with level of significance was considered statistically significant if p<0.05. Results: The mean value of VO2 max in study and control group was 35.62±0.34 mL/kg/min and 36.80±0.58 mL/kg/min respectively. It was decreased significantly (p<0.001) in study group. The r values of BMI, BSA, LBM and body fat % were 0.262, 0.132, 0.236, 0.224 respectively. In the present study correlation between BMI, BSA, LBM, body fat % with VO2 max was reported as weak positive correlation which was not statistically significant. Conclusion: VO2 max was significantly decreased in cotton industry workers compared to non exposed control subjects. More studies on the effects of cotton dust on VO2 max should be conducted in future in both genders.

Aerobic work capacity is one of the main indicators of physical fitness and health. Aerobic work capacity depends on many factors, both physical activity level and age and gender and other factors. Aerobic work capacity falls down under the influence of sedentary lifestyle, but it can also decrease as a result of over-intensity loads. Applicants for the study program are young people who have recently graduated from the high school and people of different ages with different sporting experiences. The purpose of the research: to explore applicants aerobic work capacity of Rīga Stradiņš University study program "Health Care Specialist” and their relation to various factors and changes in the dynamics of 11 years. A total of 731 participants (268 males and 473 women) conducted the World Health Organization Bicycle ergometer test. The average level of aerobic work capacity for health care specialist applicants will increase from 2007 to 2013, but declines relatively fast between 2014 and 2017. Over the last 6 years, aerobic work capacity has fallen sharply for men as women. Body mass index does not change significantly over 11 years. The correlation between body mass index and aerobic capacity is weak. Over the last 3 years aerobic work capacity downturn trend has been particularly pronounced for women aged 20- 29.

Anthropometric measures such as the body mass index (BMI), reciprocal ponderal index (RPI), and waist-to-height ratio (WHR) have been proposed as predictors of physical fitness. This study aimed to identify the differences in explanatory capacity and fit of BMI, RPI, and WHR on physical fitness, which involves jumping, sprinting, change of direction, and aerobic capacity, by adjusting the polynomial regression. A sample of 297 healthy, recreationally active male university students between 18 and 20 years old was recruited for this study. Anthropometric measurements (height: 174.09 ± 6.27 cm, weight: 78.98 ± 20.27 kg, waist circumference: 93.74 ± 14.56 cm) were taken for each participant. Jumping tests (squat jump, countermovement jump), sprinting tests (20 m sprint), agility tests (agility T-test), and aerobic/endurance tests (6 min walk test, VAM-EVAL test) were performed. Nonlinear quadratic regression models were used to assess the relationship between the jump, sprint, and fitness test scores and the anthropometric indices. The models were compared based on R-squares and Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC). The significance level was set at p < 0.05. The results showed that all the indices predicted a portion of the variance because all variables and index relationships were significant. Regarding the fitted models, the Bayesian Information Criterion showed that BMI was the best indicator of performance, although the RPI was better for VO2max. These findings may be of great interest to practitioners because it appears that anthropometric measures can be used to predict physical fitness in certain tests although the accuracy raises any concerns.

Estimated versus achieved maximal oxygen consumption in severely burned children maximal oxygen consumption in burned children

Introduction Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is a key health indicator for assessing optimal physical function and overall well-being. Exploring the early impact of body mass index (BMI) and anthropometric measures on CRF in non-obese individuals is essential for identifying risk factors and guiding preventive strategies to address weight-related health challenges. This study aims to investigate the impact of BMI and anthropometric measures on CRF, focusing on maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and metabolic equivalents (METs) in non-obese adult males. Methods This cross-sectional study included 108 non-obese male participants aged 18-40 years, categorized by BMI into three groups: underweight, normal weight, and overweight. Anthropometric assessments, including height, weight, waist circumference, hip circumference, and skinfold thickness, were conducted. CRF was evaluated by measuring VO2max and METs. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for between-group comparisons, followed by Tukey's post hoc test for pairwise analysis and Pearson's correlation to examine associations between anthropometric measures and fitness parameters. Results Significant differences in VO2max (p < 0.001) and METs (p = 0.013) were found across the BMI categories. Fair negative correlations were observed between BMI and both VO2max (r = -0.382, p < 0.001) and METs (r = -0.384, p < 0.001). Additionally, waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio showed significant poor negative correlations with these fitness measures, while body density exhibited a fair positive correlation with VO2max (r = 0.37, p < 0.001). Conclusion The findings suggest that higher BMI is associated with reduced CRF, as indicated by lower VO2max and MET values, even within the non-obese category. Additionally, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and body density significantly influence these measures. These results highlight the importance of incorporating these crucial anthropometric factors into health strategies aimed at improving CRF in those with higher BMI, regardless of obesity status.

Pickett, CW, Nosaka, K, Zois, J, Hopkins, WG, and Blazevich, AJ. Maximal upper-body strength and oxygen uptake are associated with performance in high-level 200-m sprint kayakers. J Strength Cond Res 32(11): 3186-3192, 2018-Current training and monitoring methods in sprint kayaking are based on the premise that upper-body muscular strength and aerobic power are both important for performance, but limited evidence exists to support this premise in high-level athletes. Relationships between measures of strength, maximal oxygen uptake (V[Combining Dot Above]O2max), and 200-m race times in kayakers competing at national-to-international levels were examined. Data collected from Australian Canoeing training camps and competitions for 7 elite, 7 national, and 8 club-level male sprint kayakers were analyzed for relationships between maximal isoinertial strength (3 repetition maximum bench press, bench row, chin-up, and deadlift), V[Combining Dot Above]O2max on a kayak ergometer, and 200-m race time. Correlations between race time and bench press, bench row, chin-up, and V[Combining Dot Above]O2max were -0.80, -0.76, -0.73, -0.02, and 0.71, respectively (90% confidence limits ∼±0.17). The multiple correlation coefficient for 200-m race time with bench press and V[Combining Dot Above]O2max was 0.84. Errors in prediction of 200-m race time in regression analyses were extremely large (∼4%) in relation to the smallest important change of 0.3%. However, from the slopes of the regressions, the smallest important change could be achieved with a 1.4% (±0.5%) change in bench-press strength and a 0.9% (±0.5%) change in V[Combining Dot Above]O2max. Substantial relationships were found between upper-body strength or aerobic power and 200-m performances. These measures may not accurately predict individual performance times, but would be practicable for talent identification purposes. Training aimed at improving upper-body strength or aerobic power in lower performing athletes could also enhance the performance in 200-m kayak sprints.

Competing Impact of Excess Weight Versus Cardiorespiratory Fitness on Cardiovascular Risk

Longitudinal variations in maximal oxygen intake with age and activity.

People with HIV (PWH) are at increased risk for metabolic disorders affecting body mass index (BMI), chronic symptoms, and impaired physical function and capacity. Although physical activity improves health and well-being, PWH often do not meet activity recommendations necessary to achieve these benefits. Despite the known impact of symptoms, physical activity, and physical function on health, little is known about the relationships and interactions between these variables and BMI and maximum oxygen consumption during exercise (VO2 max) in a multinational population of PWH. We examined the relationship of BMI with PROMIS-29 measures, physical activity, strength, flexibility, and VO2 max in a diverse sample of PWH. Additionally, we examined the relationship of VO2 max with PROMIS-29 measures. Data from 810 PWH who participated in a cross-sectional study conducted by the International Nursing Network for HIV Research (Study VII) were analyzed. Participants were recruited from 8 sites across the United States, Thailand, and South Africa. BMI was calculated from collected height and weight data. Physical function and symptoms were assessed using the PROMIS-29 measure. Physical activity was assessed using the 7-day Physical Activity Recall. VO2 max was calculated using sex at birth, age, BMI and the 6-minute Walk Test. Data were analyzed using descriptive, correlational, and regression statistical analyses. Participants had an average age of 49.1 (± 11.1) years, 44% were female, and the average BMI of the sample group was 27 kg/m2 (± 6.7). Increased BMI was associated with decreased 6-minute Walk Test (β=-2.18, p < 0.001), flexibility (β=-0.279, p < 0.001), and VO2 max (β=-0.598, p < 0.001), even after controlling for covariates (age, sex at birth, country, years living with HIV, and antiretroviral therapy status). BMI was not associated with self-reported physical activity. Increased VO2 max was associated with increased physical function (β = 0.069, p < 0.001), and decreased pain (β=-0.047, p < 0.006), even after controlling for covariates (country, years living with HIV, and antiretroviral therapy status). Future research should explore development of effective and sustainable symptom self-management interventions in PWH accounting for the potential impact of BMI and VO2 max.

Effect of combined aerobic and resistance training exercise on Vo2 max and BMI in overweight collegiate population a randomized controlled trial.

To classify the health status of children, criterion standards for body composition and body mass index (BMI) have been established by FITNESSGRAM according to gender and age. Standards for aerobic capacity (AC) have also been established to assess cardiorespiratory function. Tri-Ponderal Mass Index (TMI) has been shown to better classify overweight and obesity than BMI in youth. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the association between TMI and FITNESSGRAM BMI classification in sixth-grade children. METHODS: Subjects were 439 sixth-grade boys and girls, ages 11-13, who completed each of the FITNESSGRAM components as a part of their yearly assessment. In addition to height and weight, subjects’ AC was determined from one-mile run/walk times, age, gender and BMI. 43% percent of these students were classified within the Healthy Fitness Zone (HFZ) for BMI. 42% percent of these students were classified as High Risk for BMI. RESULTS: The correlation between TMI and BMI was .98, and the correlation between BMI and AC was -.82. The correlation between TMI and AC was -.80. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis indicated that a TMI of 13.97 represents the best cut-off score for classifying girls within the HFZ for BMI, with 94% classified correctly, and AUC = .98. Also, a TMI of 13.41 represents the best cut-off score for classifying boys within the HFZ for BMI, with 94% classified correctly, and AUC = .98. For determining High Risk classification for BMI, a TMI of 14.90 represents the best cut-off score for classifying girls as High Risk for BMI, with 96% classified correctly, and AUC = .99. Also, a TMI of 15.24 represents the best cut-off score for classifying boys as High Risk for BMI, with 94% classified correctly, and AUC = .98. CONCLUSIONS: TMI is strongly associated with classification according to FITNESSGRAM BMI standards in sixth-grade children. These data suggest that a TMI of 13.97 for girls and 13.41 for boys are the best criteria for HFZ classification for FITNESSGRAM BMI. Also, a TMI of 14.90 for girls and 15.24 for boys are the best criteria for High Risk classification for FITNESSGRAM BMI. TMI is a substantial factor in determining overweight and obesity, and body size has been shown to be an important health-related outcome, especially in youth.

Diet-supported aerobic exercise reduces blood endothelin-1 and nitric oxide levels in individuals with impaired glucose tolerance

FITNESSGRAM® has established criterion standards for aerobic capacity (AC) to assess cardiorespiratory function. Standards for body composition and body mass index (BMI) have also been established. Waist-to-Height ratio (WHtR) has been shown to be a strong indicator of aerobic fitness in youth. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the association between WHtR and FITNESSGRAM® AC classification in sixth-grade children. METHODS: Subjects were 528 sixth-grade boys and girls, ages 11-13, who completed each of the FITNESSGRAM® test components as a part of their yearly physical education assessment. AC was determined from one-mile run/walk (1MRW) times, age, gender and BMI. In addition to height and weight, subjects were also measured for waist circumference. The percent of these students classified within the Healthy Fitness Zone (HFZ) were 46% for BMI, and 52% for AC. The percent of these students classified as High Risk were 43% for BMI, and 31% for AC. RESULTS: The correlation between WHtR and 1MRW was .41, and the correlation between BMI and 1MRW was .42. The correlation between WHtR and AC was .83, and the correlation between BMI and AC was .91. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis indicated that a WHtR of 0.45 represents the best cut-off score for classifying girls within the HFZ for AC, with 89% classified correctly, and AUC = .94. Also, a WHtR of 0.48 represents the best cut-off score for classifying boys within the HFZ for AC, with 93% classified correctly, and AUC = .96. For determining High Risk classification for AC, a WHtR of 0.51 represents the best cut-off score for classifying girls as High Risk for AC, with 91% classified correctly, and AUC = .98. Also, a WHtR of 0.55 represents the best cut-off score for classifying boys as High Risk for AC, with 92% classified correctly, and AUC = .97. CONCLUSIONS: As with BMI, WHtR is strongly associated with classification according to FITNESSGRAM® AC standards in sixth-grade children. These data suggest that a WHtR of .45 for girls and .48 for boys are the best criteria for HFZ classification for FITNESSGRAM® AC. Also, a WHtR of .51 for girls and .55 for boys are the best criteria for High Risk classification for FITNESSGRAM® AC. Interventions for reducing WHtR are important since children in the High Risk category are most likely to develop health problems as adults.

Physical activity is recognised as an important intervention in patients with CHD. However, more data on the actual magnitude of physical training impact on functional capacity in this group of patients are still warranted. We aim to assess effort tolerance in a contemporary cohort of patients with congenital heart disease, regularly following a training programme, in comparison with a matched control group. Patients with CHD followed at the sports medicine department, who had undergone cardiopulmonary exercise test between 2011 and 2019, were included. Variables recorded were maximum workload, absolute and indexed maximum oxygen consumption, maximum heart rate, absolute and indexed maximum O2 pulse, ventilatory equivalent of CO2 and oxygen consumption/Work. Trend of cardiopulmonary parameters was analysed over time. Maximal workload, maximum oxygen consumption and ventilatory equivalent of CO2 were compared with a control group of patients with a more sedentary lifestyle, matched for diagnosis, gender, age, and body mass index. Among one hundred and eleven patients, 73 males (66%) were analysed. Median age was 14 (12-17) years. Twenty-nine patients (27%) were practising sports at competitive level. Maximum oxygen consumption and oxygen consumption % of maximum predicted were not significantly different at follow-up as compared with baseline. Follow-up of maximum oxygen consumption was 38.2 ± 9 ml/kg/min versus 38.6 ± 9.2 ml/kg/min (p = NS) and follow-up of %oxygen consumption was 88 ± 20 versus 87 ± 15 (p = NS). Ventilatory equivalent of CO2 significantly improved in the last test as compared with the baseline: 30 ± 4 versus 33 ± 5 (p = 0.002). As compared with the control group, trained patients displayed a significantly higher maximum workload and oxygen consumption, while ventilatory equivalent of CO2 was not significantly different. In our cohort, patients following a regular training programme displayed a significantly higher functional capacity as compared with not trained control group, irrespective of NYHA class. Objective functional capacity was stable over a median follow-up of 3 years.