Minutes Of Rest Research Articles

The Effect of HIIT on Increasing VO2 Max in White Water Rafting Athletes

This research was carried out to find out the effect of training using the High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) model on increasing VO2 Max in white water rafting athletes. This research design is an experimental pre-post design. This research used 28 white water rafting athletes, consisting of 16 male athletes and 12 female athletes. The athlete's age range is 16-22 years. All research subjects were in healthy condition. All subjects were given the same treatment, namely training using the HIIT model. Intervention with HIIT cardio training. The HIIT training model uses an intensity of 90-100% of Maximal Heart Rate (MHR). HIIT is done with a ratio of 30 seconds of exercise then 3 minutes of rest. Exercise uses an intensity of 90% MHR in the first week and will be increased every week until it reaches 100% MHR. Exercises were carried out for 6 weeks with a frequency of 4x per week. VO2 Max measurements are carried out using a multistage test instrument. In this research, it can be seen that HIIT exercise carried out for 6 weeks with a frequency of 4 times per week can increase athletes' VO2 Max. There is a significant difference in VO2 Max between male and female athletes with a difference test result of P < 0.05. Exercise using the HIIT model which is carried out for 6 weeks with a frequency of 4x a week can increase the VO2 Max of white water rafting athletes. HIIT training can be used as a recommendation to increase VO2 Max for white water rafting athletes.

Acute Effect of Velocity-Based Resistance Training on Subsequent Endurance Running Performance: Volume and Intensity Relevance

This study aimed to compare the acute effect of four back squat velocity-based training (VBT) protocols in terms of intensity (60% vs. 80% of the one repetition maximum [1RM]) and volume (10% vs. 30% threshold for velocity loss in the set) on the maximal aerobic speed (MAS) estimated from a running track test (RTT) in recreationally trained young adult men and women. Twenty participants (eleven men and nine women) undertook five randomized protocols in separate occasions: (i) RTT alone (control condition); (ii) VBT with 60% 1RM and a 10% velocity loss followed by RTT (VBT60–10 + RTT); (iii) VBT with 60% 1RM and a 30% velocity loss followed by RTT (VBT60–30 + RTT); (iv) VBT with 80% 1RM and 10% velocity loss followed by RTT (VBT80–10 + RTT); (v) VBT with 80% 1RM and 30% velocity loss followed by RTT (VBT80–30 + RTT). All VBT protocols involved three sets with three minutes of rest. The MAS was higher for RTT (control) than VBT60–30 + RTT (p < 0.001; Δ = 3.8%), VBT60–10 + RTT (p = 0.006; Δ = 2.8%), VBT80–10 + RTT (p = 0.008; Δ = 2.7%), and VBT80–30 + RTT (p = 0.019; Δ = 1.9%). No protocol × sex interaction was noted (p = 0.422). Therefore, regardless of sex, MAS is acutely impaired after VBT, especially if the training sets are performed with a low relative load and a high velocity loss threshold.

Abstract P299: Alteration of Cardiac Autonomic Function Through Inhalation of Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds

Background: There is an inverse relationship between exposure to greenspaces and prevalence of cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular disease risk factors. More specifically, green exposure is associated with electrocardiogram (ECG) changes, suggesting a potential alteration of cardiac autonomic balance. One proposed mechanism by which cardiac autonomic balance may be altered is a direct physiologic effect of inhalable plant derived compounds, or biogenic volatile organic compounds (bVOCs), including limonene, α- and β-pinene which are commonly released from vegetation. Therefore, we examined the relationship between acute exposure of isolated bVOCs and cardiac autonomic tone. Hypothesis: We hypothesize that controlled exposure to isolated individual bVOCs will decrease cardiac sympathetic tone. Methods: Under controlled conditions after a bVOC washout period, healthy adults ages 18-70 were exposed to limonene (n=32), α-pinene (n=24), β-pinene (n=17), and a control (room air, n=9). Exposure consisted of one inhalation every 30 seconds for a total of 5 minutes (10 inhalations total). Pre- and post-exposure measurements of supine heart rate variability (HRV) were conducted following a 10-minute rest period. HRV was analyzed using a clean, 5-minute epoch with >95% effective data length. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests to determine changes in HR and HRV. Significance level was set at p<0.05, a priori . Results: Our population was primarily female (56%, 18 of 32), white (53%, 17 of 32), high income (47%, 15 of 32), and had an education higher than a 4-year degree (62.5%, 20 of 32). There were significant decreases in HR when exposed to limonene (pre: 64.87±9.86bpm vs. post: 63.26±9.10bpm, p<.001) and α-pinene (pre: 63.98±9.32bpm vs. post: 61.64±9.72bpm, p=.008), along with trends seen in β-pinene (pre: 65.78±10.60bpm vs. post: 63.74±9.65bpm, p=.066). Control exposure showed no difference (pre: 65.40±8.38bpm vs. post: 64.14±9.35bpm, p=.301). Normalized low- (LF) and high-frequency (HF) HRV parameters showed no change across isolated bVOCs, however the LF/HF ratio scores decreased significantly following β-pinene exposure (pre: 1.62±1.69 vs. post: 0.96±0.96, p=.039). HRV time-domain parameters RMSSD and SDNN did not change following isolate exposure. Conclusions: Post-exposure decreases in HR and LFHF ratios indicate the potential for cardiovascular disease risk reduction from bVOC exposure leading to decreased sympathetic tone. Additional work is required to determine the mechanism of exposure-related changes.

Unattended automatic blood pressure measurements vs conventional office readings in predicting hypertension-mediated organ damage.

Hypertension is a leading cardiovascular risk factor. Accurate blood pressure (BP) measurement is pivotal in hypertension diagnosis and management. Conventional office blood pressure measurements (OBPMs) are error‑prone, exacerbated by the white‑coat effect. Unattended automated office blood pressure measurement (UAOBPM) is emerging as an alternative, mitigating the white‑coat effect. However, its ability to predict hypertension‑mediated organ damage (HMOD) remains disputable. This study compares UAOBPM with OBPM in terms of their association with various types of HMOD, including left ventricular hypertrophy, left atrial enlargement, left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction, intima‑media complex thickening, microalbuminuria, and abnormal pulse wave velocity. A total of 219 hypertensive patients were recruited, interviewed, and examined. Subsequently, BP measurements were conducted in a randomized manner: 1) UAOBPM, after 5 minutes of solitary rest in an examination room, BP was automatically measured 3 times at 1‑minute intervals; 2) OBPM, after 5 minutes of rest, a physician performed 3 consecutive BP measurements at 1‑minute intervals. Subsequent evaluations aimed to detect HMOD and included echocardiography, carotid artery ultrasound, pulse wave velocity assessment, and laboratory tests. UAOBP values were lower than the OBP ones (mean [SD], 124.7 [14.4] vs 128.2 [14.2] mm Hg; P <0.001 for systolic BP, and 73.3 [10.2] vs 75.2 [10.6] mm Hg; P <0.001 for diastolic BP). Correlation and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses revealed no superiority of either method in predicting HMOD. The UAOBPM did not prove superior to OBPM in predicting HMOD. Further research is warranted to determine the role of UAOBPM in clinical practice.

Effect of Cardiorespiratory Fitness Level on Physiological Responses and Task Performance During a High-Rise Firefighting Task.

To determine the impact of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) on physiological and performance outcomes during a 120-m vertical high-rise ascent in firefighters with CRF levels at or above (higher-fit) and below (lower-fit [LF]) the national recommended minimum physical employment standard (V˙O 2 max 42.3 mL·kg -1 ·min -1 ). Twenty-eight firefighters completed two high-rise firefighting trials (continuous and discontinuous ascent with predetermined 1-minute rest breaks). Task time, heart rate, ratings of perceived exertion, core body temperature, and thermal comfort were recorded at predetermined elevations. Task time was significantly longer in both trials for the LF group. Ratings of perceived exertion and thermal comfort were also significantly higher in the LF group, with three times more LF firefighters being unable to complete the ascent without sounding their low-air alarm. Higher CRF improves performance and efficiency during stair-climbing in simulated high-rise firefighting tasks.

Evaluation of the Kinesio Taping and Real-Time External Feedback Effects on Lower Extremity Function During Single-Leg Squat in Individuals With Tibiofemoral Varus Alignment

Background and Aims People with postural malalignment such as tibiofemoral varus (TFRV) may experience movement patterns dysfunction during functional activities that are related to non-contact lower extremity injuries. Training protocols should be designed for these people to control and improve their functional dysfunctions. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of posterior X-taping (PXT) and real-time external feedback (RTF) on kinematic and electromyographic indices of the lower extremities during the single-leg squat task in individuals with TFRV. Methods Electromyographic and kinematic information of the lower extremities of 24 recreational athletes with TFRV (PXT=12, RTF=12) were recorded while participants in both groups performed single-leg squat 5 times consecutively and took a 2-minute rest between two different conditions (before and after the intervention). To analyze the data, 2-way analysis of variance and Bonferroni post hoc test were used at the significant level of P≤0.05. Results The present study results indicated an increase in gluteus medius muscle activity (P=0.013) in the eccentric phase and a decrease in hip adduction (P=0.001) in maximal knee flexion (P=0.034) after the intervention compared to before the intervention in the RTF group. Also, there was a reduction in external tibiofemoral rotation of the knee after the intervention compared to before intervention in maximal knee flexion (P=0.034), eccentric phase (P=0.001), and concentric phase (P=0.001) in the PXT group. In addition, there was a decreased ankle pronation after the intervention compared to before the intervention in the eccentric phase (P=0.001) and concentric (P=0.001) in the PXT group and in the eccentric phase (P=0.004) in the RTF group. Besides, there was an increased ankle abduction after the intervention compared to before the intervention in the concentric phase (P=0.001), eccentric phase (P=0.001), and maximum knee flexion (P=0.004) in the PXT group, and in the eccentric phase in the RTF group (P=0.006). Finally, there was a decrease in ankle flexion dorsiflexion at maximum knee flexion after the intervention compared to before the intervention (P=0.017) in the RTF group. Conclusion The results of the present study showed that PXT and RTF interventions can affect the kinematic parameters of individuals with TFRV malalignment in different ways and can be used to correct immediately postural defects during the single-leg squat task.

Examining the Effects of Strength Training with Load Progression on Sleep Parameters and Mental Health in College Students

Abstract Objective To compare the effects of strength training with load progression after 4 weeks on sleep parameters and mental health in college students. Methods A total of 17 university students (11 women, 6 men), ranging from 18 to 21 years old, were randomized into a strength training group (STG) and a control group (CG). The Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), insomnia severity questionnaire, hospital anxiety and depression (HAD) scale, profile of mood states (POMS), and chronotype were used to evaluate the main outcomes. Training consisted of 60 minute·d−1 (2 times/week, for 4-weeks), with 3 sets of 10 to 12 repetitions, and a 1-minute rest interval between sets and exercises. Baseline and postintervention differences were analyzed using generalized estimating equations (GEE). Results After 4 weeks of ST, a significant time effect on the chronotype (β: 1.33; p &lt; 0.05) was observed in the STG. Additionally, there was a significant time and group effect in the reduction of tension (β: 5.00; p &lt; 0.05), depression (β: 15.41; p &lt; 0.05), anger (β: 8.00; p &lt; 0.05), and confusion (β: 6.50; p &lt; 0.05). For fatigue (β: 2.66; p &lt; 0.05), there was a significant time effect difference in its reduction. Vigor was meaningfully increased in the STG group (β: −1.75; p &lt; 0.05). Furthermore, a significant positive relationship was observed between sleep quality and anxiety (r = 0.54; p = 0.03). Finally, insomnia was positively related with an increase in confusion (r = 0.70; p = 0.04) and anxiety (r = 0.52; p = 0.04), as well as with a decrease in vigor (r = −0.71; p = 0.03). Discussion Short-term strength training for 4 weeks was effective for improving mental health, helping achieve characteristics of a positive mood profile, that is, low values for negative factors and a high value for the positive factor.

Підвищення ефективності перед-змагальної підготовки кваліфікованих спортсменів у тхеквондо WTF за рахунок застосування засобів високо-інтенсивного фітнес-тренінгу

Purpose: to theoretically substantiate and experimentally identify the most effective means of modern high-intensity interval fitness training of pre-competitive training of qualified athletes in WTF taekwondo. Material and methods. The following methods were used in the research: the analysis of the special scientific and methodical literature; pedagogical observations; pedagogical experiment; pedagogical testing; physiological testing; the method of expert estimations; methods of mathematical statistics. Results: the explosive growth of lactate concentration from 1,16±0,5 mM/l to 15,5±2,1 mM/l causes the next repetition of this exercise after 5 minutes of rest. The obtained data of HR (HR, bpm +26,2 %), VE, l/min (+128,6 %), VCO2, l/min (+135,5 %), VO2, l/min (+56,1 %), KIO2 (-27,5 %) indicate that at insufficient recovery between approaches at performance of rather short interval segments of submaximal power (high-intensity work up to 1 min) leads to the significant decrease of special working capacity of sportsmen. Taking into account the specifics of the sport, for the improvement of this parameter of preparedness it is considered expedient to perform 3-5 times specially developed blocks of exercises of high intensity, borrowed (mainly) from modern methods of health-improving fitness training. The results of the competitive activity of qualified taekwondo athletes confirmed the effectiveness of the use of high-intensity fitness training HIIT to improve their pre-competitive fitness. Conclusions. When planning the direct pre-competitive training of qualified taekwondo sportsmen in the annual cycle of preparation it is necessary to be guided by the information received as a result of the conducted researches and to approach in a regulated way to the definition and combination of intensity and duration of the performed exercises of a specific orientation which, in turn, model the process of competition. It is proved that to improve aerobic endurance of athletes it is necessary to plan 2-3 times in a weekly microcycle different interval training exercises performed without significant fatigue and decreased performance. For improvement of high-speed and power capabilities of sportsmen it is necessary to perform 1-2 times during a microcycle different interval training exercises with shortened segments of work of maximum intensity lasting up to 30 s. Keywords: fitness training, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), taekwondo, WTF, physical fitness, control, speed and strength capabilities, aerobic capabilities.

A Pilot Study in Sensor Instrumented Training (SIT) - Ground Contact Time for Monitoring Fatigue and Curve Running Technique

Abstract This study examines the possibilities of sensor-instrumented training (SIT) in mid-distance running training sessions. Within this framework, variations of ground contact time (GCT) between straight and curved running, as well as GCT as a fatigue indicator, are explored. Seven experienced runners, with two elite female athletes, participated in two training protocols: 15 sets of 400 m with 1-minute rest and five sets of 300 m with 3-minute rest. GCT was calculated using two inertial measurement units (IMU) attached to the athletes’ feet. The running speed of all athletes was measured with wearable GPS devices. GCT showed variations between inner and outer feet, notably during curve running (300m: 2.56%; 400m: 2.35%). However, for the 300m runs, statistically insignificant GCT differences were more pronounced in straight runs (3.54%) than in curve runs (2.56%), contrasting with the typical assumption of higher differences in curve running. A fatigue-indicating pattern is visible in GCT, as well as speed curves. Other data of this study are consistent with prior research that has observed differences between the inner and outer foot during curve running, while our understanding of the development throughout the training session is enhanced. Using SIT can be a valuable tool for refining curve running technique. By incorporating novel sensing technology, the possibilities enhance our understanding of running kinematics and offer an excellent application of SIT in sports.

Effect of Combining Isometric Handgrip Exercise with Sundanese Degung Instrumental Music on Blood Pressure Changes in Elderly People with Hypertension

Hypertension is defined as a condition that blood pressure is more than 140/90 mmHg. Because the aging process causes blood vessels to stiffen and the elasticity of the ventricular walls to decrease, the elderly are categorized as a health susceptible category. This disorder can lead to hypertension, which can have catastrophic effects such as stroke and even death. The purpose of this study was to determine isometric handgrip exercise (IHE) therapy accompanied by degung instrumental music affects blood pressure changes in elderly people with hypertension. A quantitative design with a quasi-experimental approach, pretest and post-test methodologies, and a control group was used for the study. The sample strategy employed in this study will be non-probability sampling (purposive sampling). 59 samples were collected and divided into intervention and control groups. This study lasted 2 × 2 minutes, was interrupted by 3 minutes of rest, and was conducted on three consecutive days. The result of study showhed that the Sig (2-tailed) value was 0.00, indicating that there is an influence between the Isometric Handgrip Exercise intervention accompanied by Sundanese degung instrumental music on blood pressure changes in elderly people with hypertension. The IHE intervention accompanied by Sundanese degung instrumental music is recommended as IHE in decreasing blood pressure in hypertension patients

Blood Pressure Measurements Obtained by Community-Dwelling Adults Are Similar to Nurse-Obtained Measurements: The SMART-BP Validate Study.

Self-measured blood pressure (SMBP) is an effective strategy for managing and controlling hypertension. However, uncertainty regarding patients' ability to accurately measure their blood pressure (BP) contributes to treatment inertia. Therefore, we compared BP measurements with the Omron HEM-9210T device obtained by nurses and community-dwelling adults after training. This cross-sectional study was conducted in a simulated home environment at an academic institution. After a 5-min rest, a trained nurse measured a participant's BP twice at a 1-min interval. The participants then ambulated at their usual pace for 2 min. Next, they were asked to rest for 5 min, during which each individual watched a 3-min video on SMBP. Following the rest, the participants obtained two readings at a 1-min interval. We recruited 102 community-dwelling adults with a mean age of 54 (±14) years; 59% female, 88% Black race, and 63% with a hypertension diagnosis. Half (n = 51) had a home BP monitor. Overall, there were no significant differences between nurse- and participant-obtained systolic BP (mean difference [MD]: -1.1; standard deviation [SD]: 8.0; P = 0.178) or diastolic BP (MD: -0.9; SD: 5.5; P = 0.111). Participants who used an extra-large cuff had higher self-measured diastolic BP (MD: -2.9; SD: 4.5; P = 0.010). All participants demonstrated satisfactory SMBP skills after the training. Community-dwelling adults can accurately measure BP after a 3-min video training. Integrating SMBP training into patient encounters may result in reliable home BP measurements, improving hypertension management and clinical decision making.

A controlled clinical trial investigating the effects of stretching and compression exercises on electromyography of calf muscles in chronic LBP patients with a deep gluteal syndrome

BackgroundIn deep gluteal syndrome (DGS), the piriformis muscle could impinge the sciatic nerve. The FAIR (flexion adduction internal rotation) test is a provocation test used to identify sciatic nerve irritation caused by this muscle. Compression and stretching exercises are usually prescribed to treat this syndrome. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of these two treatments on surface electromyography (sEMG) of the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior in patients with low back pain (LBP) and DGS.Materials and methodsForty-five participants were allocated to three groups of stretching exercise, compression or control. In addition to 15 min of heat and 15 min of electrical nerve stimulation for pain relief, participants in the compression exercise (CE) group received self-compression exercise, those in the stretching exercise (SE) group received self-stretching exercise and those in the control group received no extra interventions. For the two intervention groups, three sets of two minutes of exercise with two minutes of rest in between were applied. The sEMG amplitude values of the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior muscles of the affected buttock side of any one group while performing the FAIR test were compared to the others. Pain and disability were assessed and the changes were compared between the two groups.ResultsAfter the intervention period, no group demonstrated a change in the sEMG of the gastrocnemius or tibialis anterior muscles (p > 0.05). There was no difference in the change in this variable between groups (Mean difference (95% CI) of gastrocnemius was ranged over= -4.04 to 7.72 (-19.44 to 23.14); p = 0.603); (Mean difference (95% CI) of tibialis anterior muscles was ranged from − 2.44 to -6.43 (-18.28 to 9.31); p = 0.550).; Pain and disability also decreased significantly in all three study groups (p < 0.05). However, only the disability of patients who performed stretching exercises improved compared to the compression exercise group (Mean difference (95% CI) = -12.62 (-20.41 to -4.38); p = 0.009).ConclusionNeither stretching nor compression exercises altered the sEMG of the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior muscles in patients with DGS. Furthermore, performing stretching exercises improved disability compared to the other interventions.Trial registrationThe trial was retrospectively registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (www.irct.ir) on 10/01/2017 as IRCT201604178035N4. URL of the record: https://en.irct.ir/trial/8473.

Effects of a Total Motion Release (TMR®) Protocol for the Single Leg Squat on Asymmetrical Movement Patterns.

Improving single leg squat (SLS) movement symmetry may benefit rehabilitation protocols. The Total Motion Release® (TMR®) protocol has been theorized to evaluate and improve patient-perceived movement asymmetries. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether perceived asymmetries identified by a TMR® scoring protocol were related to biomechanical asymmetries and whether improving perceived asymmetries influenced movement mechanics. It was hypothesized that participants with perceived asymmetries would also present with biomechanical asymmetries. A secondary hypothesis was that participants would reduce their perceived asymmetries after performing the TMR® protocol and subsequently have greater biomechanical symmetry. Descriptive Cohort (Laboratory Study). Twenty participants (10 female, 10 male) with self-identified bilateral differences of 10 points or greater on the TMR® scoring scale were recruited for the study. The non-preferred side was defined as the side that scored higher. 3Dimensional motion capture was used to bilaterally assess baseline SLS depth as well as hip, knee, and ankle kinematics and kinetics. For the TMR® protocol, sets of 10 SLSs were performed on the preferred leg until their perceived asymmetries were resolved (i.e., both sides scored equally), or four sets had been completed. Kinematics and kinetics were collected immediately after the intervention and after a 10-minute rest period. Participants had biomechanical asymmetries at baseline for knee flexion, ankle flexion, and knee moments. Following the intervention, participants had reduced TMR® scores on the non-preferred leg, and this coincided with increased knee joint moments on that side. Although perceived asymmetries were resolved after the intervention, kinematic and kinetic asymmetries at the knee and ankle were still present. A TMR® intervention could benefit rehabilitation protocols by reducing factors of dysfunction and increasing the ability of patients to load the non-preferred knee. Further investigations are necessary to elucidate the importance of asymmetrical movement patterns. 3b.

A comparison of morning priming exercise using traditional-set and cluster-set configurations on afternoon explosive performance.

The impact of two priming exercise protocols using traditional (TS) or cluster-set (CS) arrangements on explosive performance 6 hours later were examined. Sixteen male collegiate athletes performed three testing sessions (one baseline without any prior exercise in the morning and two experimental sessions) separated by 72 hours. Participants completed two morning (9-11 am) priming protocols in a randomized order, either using a TS (no rest between repetitions) or CS (30 seconds of rest between repetitions) configuration. The protocols consisted of 3 sets × 3 repetitions of barbell back squat at 85% of 1 repetition maximum, with 4 minutes of rest between sets. In the afternoon (3-5 pm) of each trial, after a 6-hour rest period, a physical test battery was conducted that replicated baseline testing, including countermovement jump, 20-meter straight-line sprint, and T-test abilities. Across both conditions, participants exhibited increased countermovement jump height, 20-meter sprint time and T-test time compared to baseline (P < 0.05). Improvements in countermovement jump height (+4.4 ± 5.4%; P = 0.008) and 20-meter sprint time (+1.3 ± 1.7%; P = 0.022), but not T-test time (+1.1 ± 3.3%; P = 0.585), were significantly greater for CS than TS. In conclusion, compared to a traditional set arrangement, a morning-based priming protocol using a cluster-set configuration led to superior explosive performance benefits in the afternoon.

Validity and reliability of velocity and power measures provided by the Vitruve linear position transducer.

This study aimed to determine the validity and between-day reliability of the mean velocity (MV), peak velocity (PV), mean power (MP), and peak power (PP) provided by the Vitruve linear position transducer at different submaximal loads in the free-weight and Smith machine back squat using GymAware as a reference point. Fourteen male sports science students (free-weight back squat one-repetition maximum [1RM]: 132.5 ± 28.5 kg, Smith machine back squat 1RM: 163.9 ± 30.4 kg) performed six experimental sessions, twice per week with 72 hours of rest. The first two included the assessment of the 1RM of both exercises. In the four remaining, both linear position transducers were simultaneously used to record MV, PV, MP, PP of each repetition during an incremental load test (i.e., 20, 40, 60, 80, 90% 1RM) with three minutes of rest between sets. Vitruve displayed both fixed and proportional bias for certain relative loads across all variables. Vitruve did not meet the validity criteria for all (MV, PP) or at least two (MP, PV) relative loads (Coefficient of variation [CV] > 10%; Pearson correlation < 0.70; Effect size > 0.60). MV, PV, MP, and PP recorded by Vitruve displayed acceptable reliability (CV < 10%) with superior reliability observed during a Smith Machine compared to free-weight back squat, and for velocity compared to power variables. Considering GymAware as a reference point, Vitruve was not valid for measuring velocity and power outcomes. Acceptable validity was observed only for PV in the Smith machine back squat, while the other variables-regardless of relative loads and exercise modes-were mostly inaccurate. All variables demonstrated acceptable reliability, with greater reliability noted in the Smith machine compared to the free-weight back squat exercise mode.

Novel wireless laser doppler flowmeter-based investigation of earlobe vascular dynamics in cardiopulmonary exercise testing.

[Purpose] A new wireless laser Doppler blood flowmeter has facilitated easier, more stable measurement of skin perfusion during exercise. However, earlobe blood flow during the cardiopulmonary exercise test remains unascertained. This study aimed to clarify the characteristics of earlobe blood flow during incremental exercise load in healthy individuals. [Participants and Methods] Among 25 healthy males (age 23.6 ± 2.5 years), cycle ergometer-based symptom-limited cardiopulmonary exercise test, after 4 minutes of rest, was conducted with a 4-minute 20W warm-up and a continuous 2W-increase in the work rate every 6 seconds; earlobe blood flow was measured using a wireless laser Doppler blood flowmeter. [Results] Compared with that at rest, earlobe blood flow increased significantly from 50% of exercise peak intensity to a maximum of 1.7 times, but decreased immediately after exercise. The earlobe blood flow %change did not significantly correlate with hemodynamic parameters and its inflection point 36.4% Loadpeak was significantly lower than the anaerobic metabolic threshold 58.1% Loadpeak. [Conclusion] In healthy participants, earlobe blood flow during cardiopulmonary exercise test increased gradually with low-intensity exercise from approximately 1.5 times the resting rate and approached the anaerobic metabolic threshold with a maximum of 1.7 times the resting earlobe blood flow, but decreased quickly after exercise.

Effects of short and long inter-set rest on maximal isokinetic strength at slow and fast angular velocities in trained young males after eight weeks of resistance training

Resistance training is a widely used method to enhance muscle strength, with acute program variables influencing muscle adaptations. This study focused on the often-neglected variable of inter-set rest interval duration and its impact on muscle strength gains. Existing literature presents conflicting findings, with some studies advocating for longer rest intervals, while the others show comparable strength increases with shorter rests. Methodological differences in prescription and sample groups contributed to these inconsistencies. This study investigated the effect of short and long inter-set rests on maximal isokinetic strength gains of the upper and lower extremities during slow and fast angular velocities after eight weeks of resistance training. The research involved 26 healthy strength-trained males (age=20±1 year, body mass=81.5±8.8 kg, body height=184.4±6.1 cm) randomly assigned to G1m (1-minute rest) or G3m (3-minute rest). The resistance training programs were matched for all acute program variables, emphasizing the rest interval as the primary difference. Isokinetic dynamometry pre- and post-training assessed knee and elbow extensor and flexor maximal strength at 60º/s and 120º/s. The training program consisted of seven exercises performed at 70% 1RM until muscle failure three times per week over eight weeks. The most important result was that G3m, in contrast to G1m, led to a higher increase in peak torque of the knee (p=.037) and elbow extensors (p=.007) as well as the elbow flexors (p=.045) at 60º/s. Furthermore, G3m and G1m similarly increased the peak torque of the knee and elbow extensors and flexors at 120º/s and of the knee flexors at 60º/s (p&amp;gt;.138). In conclusion, the study suggests that strength training with longer inter-set rest intervals may lead to similar strength gains as strength training with shorter inter-set rest intervals. Nonetheless, individuals who prioritize maximizing their strength gains are advised to utilize longer rest intervals. However, shorter rest intervals may still yield significant strength enhancements, particularly for those who are limited by time.

Single Session Intermittent Heat Exposure With More Frequent and Shorter Cooling Breaks Facilitates Greater Training Intensity and Elicits Physiological Responses Comparable to Continuous Heat Exposure.

To investigate the influence of shorter, more frequent rest breaks with per-cooling as an alternative heat-acclimation session on physiological, perceptual, and self-paced maximal cycling performance, compared with continuous heat exposure. Thirteen participants completed 1 continuous and 3 intermittent-heat-exposure (IHE) maximal self-paced cycling protocols in a random order in heat (36 °C, 80% relative humidity): 1 × 60-minute exercise (CON), 3 × 20-minute exercise with 7.5-minute rest between sets (IHE-20), 4 × 15-minute exercise with 5-minute rest between sets (IHE-15), and 6 × 10-minute exercise with 3-minute rest between sets (IHE-10). Mixed-method per-cooling (crushed-ice ingestion and cooling vest) was applied during rest periods of all IHE protocols. Total distance completed was greater in IHE-10, IHE-15, and IHE-20 than in CON (+11%, +9%, and +8%, respectively), with no difference observed between IHE protocols. Total time spent above 38.5 °C core temperature was longer in CON compared with IHE-15 and IHE-20 (+62% and +78%, respectively) but similar to IHE-10 (+5%). Furthermore, a longer time above 38.5 °C core temperature occurred in IHE-10 versus IHE-15 and IHE-20 (+54% and +69%, respectively). Sweat loss did not differ between conditions. IHE with per-cooling may be a viable alternative heat-acclimation protocol in situations where training quality takes precedence over thermal stimulus or when both factors hold equal priority.

Effectiveness of a smartphone-based virtual reality intervention on balance and functional mobility in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A pre-post experimental study

Abstract Background: The odds of survival of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has increased markedly owing to a better understanding of pathogenesis, adoption of risk stratification therapy, and availability of newer therapeutic agents. These drugs, however, may affect balance and functional mobility, leading to activity restrictions. Virtual reality (VR) is a promising rehabilitation program for motor difficulties. The study, therefore, aimed to determine the effect of a smartphone-based VR intervention on balance and functional mobility in children with ALL. Methods: The pre-post experimental study included 32 children with ALL between 4 and 18 years of age. They received smartphone-based VR intervention every day for a period of 2 weeks, with each session lasting for 30 minutes. Each session included five VR games that were played by the child for 5 minutes each, with 1 minute rest between the games. Pre- and post-intervention, balance and functional mobility were evaluated using the balance subset of Bruininks Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, second edition (BOT-2) and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, respectively. Results: Children with ALL demonstrated a significant improvement in balance post-intervention, with a mean difference of 2.22 ± 1.75 (P &lt; 0.0001). Functional mobility improved with a mean difference of 1.12 ± 1.09 (P &lt; 0.0001). There was an improvement of 8.04% and 11.04% in balance and functional mobility, respectively. Conclusion: The study concluded that a 2-week smartphone-based VR intervention is effective in improving balance and functional mobility in children with ALL.

Is It Time to Step outside the Laboratory? The Feasibility of Field-Based Examination of Exercise-Induced Hypoalgesia in Elite Badminton Athletes with and without Knee Pain.

To investigate the feasibility of testing exercise-induced hypoalgesia (EIH) in a field setting. The effect of knee pain on EIH was also explored. Within-group pre-post design. Fourteen athletes (8 male, 6 female) competing at an international level in badminton were tested on the sideline during an in-season training session. Participants completed questionnaires and a single leg decline squat to evaluate the presence of knee pain. A blinded examiner measured PPT over the quadriceps muscle before and after two conditions (3-minute quiet rest and 3-minute isometric wall squat). The exercise protocol was completed by 13 (93%) participants. Mean (SD) exertion was 8.4 (1.7), and mean thigh pain was 7.9 (2.0) at 3 minutes. Very high reliability was observed for PPT collected before and after rest (ICC 0.94, 95% CI 0.85, 0.98). PPT significantly increased by 22.4% (95% CI 15.1, 29.7) after wall squat but not after rest. Relative increases in PPT were similar in participants with and without knee pain on single leg decline squat (22.2% versus 22.6%, 7 participants each). Simple, field-based tests of endogenous analgesia are feasible and could provide new opportunities to evaluate an athlete's risk of persistent pain.