Intensity Aerobic Exercise Research Articles

Evaluating the effectiveness of quantitative pupillometry in assessing dynamic aerobic training intensity

Sports injuries often arise from improper scheduling of exercise loads, and timely assessment of these loads is essential for minimizing injury risk. This article investigates the validity of using changes in pupillary light reflex (PLR) during dynamic aerobic training as a novel approach to evaluating exercise load. Dynamic aerobic training was conducted on a power bicycle for 15 min. With a 3-minute interval as the demarcation line, PLR measurement was performed before training and heart rate was recorded throughout the process. The Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale invented by Borg was used for scoring before training and after training. The normal distribution of data was confirmed through the Shapiro-Wilk test. Pearson correlation analysis was used to quantify the correlation between variables. The Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve and the area under the curve (AUC) analysis were used to determine the indicators of exercise load. The optimal threshold of the indicators was calculated through the Youden index to evaluate sensitivity and specificity. Thirty male second-tier athletes with a mean age of 23.66 ± 2.21 years, a mean height of 175.3 ± 6.5 cm, and a mean weight of 68.99 ± 10.35 kg participated in this study. Based on the RPE scale results, it was confirmed that the 15-minute dynamic aerobic exercise successfully elicited varying levels of perceived exertion among the athletes. The findings of this study indicate significant changes in PLR and heart rate (HR) with increasing exercise duration and external load. There were strong correlations between RPE and maximum constriction velocity (MCV) (|r| = 0.8309, p < 0.001, negative correlation), maximum diameter (INIT) (r = 0.7641, p < 0.001, positive correlation), time to reach 75% recovery (T75) (|r| = 0.7289, p < 0.001, negative correlation), and HR (r = 0.8170, p < 0.001, positive correlation). Additionally, the results suggest that MCV is the most significant potential indicator for detecting internal load, exhibiting high specificity and sensitivity (AUC = 0.8509, p < 0.001). Further analysis using the Youden index identified 5.07 mm/s as the optimal cutoff value for MCV, indicating that when MCV ≤ 5.07 mm/s, the athletes’ internal load has reached an “Intense” state. PLR may be a potential indicator for assessing internal load Further investigation could involve developing a non-invasive exercise load detection system based on pupillary variable indicators, providing a valuable new approach for accurately measuring exercise load.

Acute Effects of Overload Running on Physiological and Biomechanical Variables in Trained Trail Runners

Background: The biomechanical and physiological adaptations to resisted running have been well documented in sprinting; however, their impact at submaximal speeds, such as those typical of long-distance running, remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of running with a weighted vest, loaded with 5% and 10% of body mass, on the physiological and mechanical variables of trained trail runners. Methods: Fifteen male trail runners completed an incremental protocol to exhaustion on a treadmill with 0%, 5%, and 10% of their body mass (BM), in random order, with one week of separation between the tests. The maximality of the test was confirmed by measuring lactate concentrations at the end of the test. Oxygen consumption (V˙O2) and respiratory exchange ratio (RER) were recorded using a portable gas analyzer (Cosmed K5), and ventilatory thresholds 1 and 2 (VT1, VT2) were calculated individually. Running power was averaged for each speed stage using the Stryd device. Finally, the peak values and those associated with VT1 and VT2 for speed, power (absolute and normalized by body mass), V˙O2, RER, and the cost of transport (CoT) were included in the analysis. Results: One-way repeated-measures ANOVA revealed a detrimental effect of the extra load on maximum speed and speed at ventilatory thresholds (p ≤ 0.003), with large effect sizes (0.34–0.62) and a nonlinear trend detected in post hoc analysis. Conclusions: Using running power to control the intensity of effort while carrying extra weight provides a more stable metric than speed, particularly at aerobic intensities. Future research in trail running should investigate the effects of weighted vests across various terrains and slopes.

Physiological characteristics of blood pressure responses after combined exercise in elderly hypertensive patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

ObjectiveThe aim of this investigation is to explore the efficacy of combined exercise in elderly patients with hypertension. Moreover, we aim to delve into the underlying mechanisms governing blood pressure regulation, with the objective of promoting the adoption of this exercise regimen among elderly hypertensive individuals.MethodsIn our study, we conducted a thorough search across multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Scopus. This extensive search resulted in the preliminary screening of 2,347 articles. Among these, 9 studies were carefully selected for an in-depth analysis. For our meta-analysis, we employed Review Manager 5.3 and Stata 15.0, enabling us to perform detailed subgroup analyses and assess the possibility of publication bias.ResultsIn comparison to the control group (n = 194), individuals enrolled in the combined exercise group (n = 200) exhibited a notable decrease in both resting systolic blood pressure (SBP) [weighted mean difference (WMD) = −11.17 mm Hg, 95% confidence interval (CI) (−17.13, −5.22), Z = 3.68, P &amp;lt; 0.05] and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) [WMD = −5.93 mm Hg, 95% CI (−9.24, −2.61), Z = 3.51, P &amp;lt; 0.05]. Nonetheless, no statistically significant alteration was observed in pulse pressure (PP) [WMD = −9.05 mm Hg, 95% CI (−22.65, 4.55), Z = 1.3, P = 0.192]. Further subgroup analyses elucidated that combined exercise regimens, characterized by aerobic training intensities below 85% of HRmax, durations of up to 12 weeks, weekly frequencies of either ≥3 or &amp;lt;3 sessions, total session times under 60 min, and a sequence of aerobic exercise followed by resistance training (AE-RT), were particularly effective in enhancing SBP and DBP among elderly patients with hypertension. Additionally, regular engagement in combined exercise led to significant improvements in SBP and DBP across individuals aged 60–70, those older than 70 years, and regardless of whether participants were using antihypertensive medications or not.ConclusionCombined exercise serves as an efficacious adjunctive therapy for reducing blood pressure among elderly individuals with hypertension, exerting beneficial influences on multiple physiological mechanisms pertinent to blood pressure regulation. Moreover, the integration of aerobic exercise with resistance training presents a more varied training program, thereby eliciting wider-ranging positive effects on both the physical and mental well-being of elderly patients afflicted with hypertension.

Effects of multicomponent exercise intervention on cardiometabolic risk factors in children and young adults with cerebral palsy: a multiple-baseline trial.

Adults with cerebral palsy (CP) have a high risk of cardiometabolic diseases. It is unknown whether this risk is elevated in young people with CP and whether exercise can reduce this risk. Therefore, we investigated the effects of the EXErcise for Cerebral Palsy (EXECP) intervention on cardiometabolic risk in children and young adults with CP and compared this risk to typically developing children and young adults (TDs). Ambulatory male and female participants with spastic CP, aged 9-24 years, and age- and sex-matched TDs without musculoskeletal disorders were recruited. Participants with CP were measured at baseline, after a three-month control period manifesting normal development, and after the three-month strength, gait, and flexibility training intervention. TDs were measured at baseline and after the control period. They did not attend the intervention. Cardiometabolic risk factors included body weight, body fat percentage, and skeletal muscle mass index assessed with bioimpedance; resting systolic and diastolic blood pressure and aortic pulse wave velocity assessed with a non-invasive oscillometric device; fasting plasma high-density and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride, and glucose levels. Data were analyzed with independent samples t-tests and linear mixed-effects models adjusted for sex and age. The study involved 18 participants with CP (13 males, 9-22year, mean 14.2 ± 4.4) and 17 TDs (12 males, 9-22year, mean 14.6 ± 4.3). At baseline, participants with CP had a 1.0 (95% confidence interval (CI) [-2.0, -0.0]) kg/m2 lower skeletal muscle mass index than TDs. During the control period, no statistically significant between-group differences were observed in the change of any outcome. In the CP group, body weight (β = 1.87, 95% CI [1.04, 2.70]), fat percentage (β = 1.22 [0.07, 2.37], and blood glucose (β = 0.19, 95% CI [0.01, 0.37]) increased, while diastolic blood pressure (β=-2.31, 95% CI [-4.55, -0.06]) and pulse wave velocity (β=-0.44, 95% CI [-0.73, -0.16]) decreased. In the TD group, only body weight increased (β = 0.85, 95% CI [0.01, 1.68]) statistically significantly. In the CP group, no changes were observed during the intervention. Young people with and without CP do not exhibit significant differences in most cardiometabolic risk factors. EXECP intervention may attenuate some adverse development trajectories occurring without the intervention but greater volume and intensity of aerobic exercise may be needed to reduce cardiometabolic risk. ISRCTN69044459; Registration date 21/04/2017.

Texas Dance for Health: Mixed Methods Pilot Study Promoting Physical Activity Among Older Adults

ABSTRACT Purpose Regular physical activity is essential for healthy aging. Less than 25% of older U.S. adults meet physical activity recommendations. The primary aim of Texas Dance for Health (D4H) was to determine whether older adults could achieve recommended aerobic physical activity intensity by dancing. Secondary aims were (1) determining participants’ attendance and enjoyment and (2) building a community-academic partnership. Design RE-AIM was the design framework for this mixed methods, nurse-facilitated, 8-week pilot study in the Spring of 2023. Weekly sessions comprised check-in, mini-lessons, dancing, and data collection. Participants danced sitting, standing, or both. Methods We divided each participant's pulse rate by maximum aerobic capacity to determine weekly activity intensity. Participants completed Physical Activity Enjoyment and Rating of Perceived Exertion scales after each session. Nurses collected attendance data and facilitated Table Talks (Weeks 4 and 8) to explore participants’ enjoyment and solicit feedback for improving and sustaining Dance for Health (D4H). Observations and field notes provided data regarding time, cost, logistics, and overall feasibility. Findings Across eight weeks, 68 to 84% of participants reached target heart rates. Nearly one-quarter of participants attended all sessions, with 65.7% attending > 5 sessions. At Week 8, the mean enjoyment score was 6.7 of 7. No adverse consequences occurred. Partners and participants identified strategies for sustainability. Conclusions D4H was an enjoyable way for older adults to reach recommended aerobic physical activity intensity. Feasible in costs and logistics, D4H design addressed key barriers to older adult physical activity. Clinical Evidence Dancing is an effective multicomponent fitness intervention for community dwelling older adults.

Acute Effect of Three Aerobic Exercise Intensities on Glomerular Filtration Rate in Healthy Older Adults.

To assess the immediate effects of three aerobic exercise intensities on the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in healthy, sedentary older adults. Eighteen healthy, sedentary older adults (ten men and eight women) voluntarily participated in this study. The participants underwent three standardized aerobic exercise tests (100%, 80%, and 60% of the maximal heart rate) on a bicycle ergometer. Blood samples were collected to determine cholesterol, triacylglycerols, glucose, serum creatinine (Cr), Cystatin C (CysC) concentrations, and eGFR. eGFR and serum concentrations of Cr and CysC were not modified at any exercise intensity. There was a negative correlation between blood total cholesterol vs. eGFR (R = -0.512, R = -0.582, R = -0.531; p < 0.05) at rest, 60%, and 100% of the maximal heart rate, respectively. In addition, a negative correlation existed for age vs. eGFR at 60% of the maximal heart rate (R = -0.516; p < 0.05). Short-duration aerobic exercise of low, moderate, and vigorous intensity did not significantly affect eGFR and is considered safe for kidney function in healthy, sedentary older adults. However, regular monitoring of kidney function in older people engaged in moderate- and high-intensity exercise is advised.

EFFECT OF VIGOROUS INTENSITY AEROBIC EXERCISE REGIMEN ON PLASMA CHOLESTEROLS OF ADULTS IN BENUE STATE UNIVERSITY, MAKURDI-NIGERIA

Background: Abnormal plasma cholesterols are major risk factors for stroke, coronary heart disease and peripheral vascular diseases globally. Efforts are currently ongoing to come up with the best approach for health promotion and disease prevention, as well as clinical management of abnormal plasma cholesterol. Vigorous intensity aerobic exercise regimen is presently being investigated in this direction.. Methodology: This study investigated the effect of vigorous intensity aerobic exercise regimen on plasma total cholesterol and high density lipoprotein-cholesterol of adults in Benue State University, Makurdi. The design of the study was guided by two research questions. Two hypotheses were formulated and tested at 0.05 level of significance. The study adopted two group pretest posttest quasi experimental design. The study population comprises twenty-one (21) Benue State University staff in the experimental group, and another twenty-one (21) for the control group. The proforma used for the data collection was validated by three experts, one from Measurement and Evaluation, one from the Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education and one from College of Health Sciences all in Benue State University, Makurdi. Data generated were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 25). A descriptive statistics, mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions, and an inferential statistics, Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) and Paired Samples Test were used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. Results: The findings revealed that out of the 21 participants in the two groups, 12(57.14%) were males, while 9(42.86%) were females. The age range in the control group was between 28 to 65years, while that of the experimental group was between 36-68years. Vigorous intensity aerobic exercise regimen was found to have statistically significant effect on plasma total cholesterol (P = 0.000&lt;0.05). Even though high density lipoprotein-cholesterol was found to be elevated by vigorous intensity aerobic exercise regimen, the level of the elevation was discovered not to be statistically significant (P = 0.110 &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: The study concluded that public health education experts as well as other healthcare workers should henceforth incorporate vigorous intensity aerobic exercise regimen prescription in public health awareness on health promotion and disease prevention, as well as clinical management of patients with abnormal plasma total cholesterol.

Effect of low-intensity aerobic cycling ergometer on ability to perform activity of daily living of patients with myasthenia gravis in RSUD Dr. Soetomo Surabaya

Background and objectives. Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease of the neuromuscular junction causing fluctuating skeletal muscle weakness and fatigue that result in increased restrictions on physical activity, affecting the patient's ability to perform daily activities in the family, social, and work environment. The MG-ADL scale is an assessment of the ability of the daily activities of MG patients that does not require equipment or special skills for the examiner and can be done in a short time. This study analyzes the effect of low intensity aerobic exercise cycle ergometer on the ability to perform daily activities of MG patients. Materials and methods. Twenty-two MG patients, MGFA class IIa and IIb, aged 18–59, participated in this study. The subjects were randomly divided into a treatment group and a control group. The treatment group received aerobic cycle ergometer exercise for 30 minutes, three times per week, for eight weeks. Both groups were educated to continue medication from neurology, perform physical activity as usual, and breathing exercises. Assessment of MG-ADL performed before and after intervention. Results. There was an improvement in scores on breathing and lower limb function in the treatment group. There was significant decrease in MG-ADL scores at the intervention group (p = 0.000) with large effect size (1.09). The comparison of MG-ADL scores between groups showed a significant value (p = 0.009) with a large effect size (1.24). Conclusion. Low intensity aerobic exercise cycle ergometer for 8 weeks improves the ability to perform ADL in MG patient.

Graded Intensity Aerobic Exercise to Improve Cerebrovascular Function and Performance in Older Veterans: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Growing health care challenges resulting from a rapidly expanding aging population necessitate examining effective rehabilitation techniques that mitigate age-related comorbidity and improve quality of life. To date, exercise is one of a few proven interventions known to attenuate age-related declines in cognitive and sensorimotor functions critical to sustained independence. This work aims to implement a multimodal imaging approach to better understand the mechanistic underpinnings of the beneficial exercise-induced adaptations to sedentary older adults' brains and behaviors. Due to the complex cerebral and vascular dynamics that encompass neuroplastic change with aging and exercise, we propose an imaging protocol that will model exercise-induced changes to cerebral perfusion, cerebral vascular reactivity (CVR), and cognitive and sensorimotor task-dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) after prescribed exercise. Sedentary older adults (aged 65-80 years) were randomly assigned to either a 12-week aerobic-based interval-based cycling intervention or a 12-week balance and stretching intervention. Assessments of cardiovascular fitness used the YMCA submaximal VO2 test, basal cerebral perfusion using arterial spin labeling (ASL), CVR using hypercapnic fMRI, and cortical activation using fMRI during verbal fluency and motor tapping tasks. A battery of cognitive-executive and motor function tasks outside the scanning environment will be performed before and after the interventions. Our studies and others show that improved cardiovascular fitness in older adults results in improved outcomes related to physical and cognitive health as well as quality of life. A consistent but unexplained finding in many of these studies is a change in cortical activation patterns during task-based fMRI, which corresponds with improved task performance (cognitive-executive and motor). We hypothesize that the 12-week aerobic exercise intervention will increase basal perfusion and improve CVR through a greater magnitude of reactivity in brain areas susceptible to neural and vascular decline (inferior frontal and motor cortices) in previously sedentary older adults. To differentiate between neural and vascular adaptations in these regions, we will map changes in basal perfusion and CVR over the inferior frontal and the motor cortices-regions we have previously shown to be beneficially altered during fMRI BOLD (blood oxygen level dependent), such as verbal fluency and motor tapping, through improved cardiovascular fitness. Exercise is one of the most impactful interventions for improving physical and cognitive health in aging. This study aims to better understand the mechanistic underpinnings of improved health and function of the cerebrovascular system. If our hypothesis of improved perfusion and cerebrovascular reactivity following a 12-week aerobic exercise intervention is supported, it would add critically important insights into the potential of exercise to improve brain health in aging and could inform exercise prescription for older adults at risk for neurodegenerative disease brought on by cerebrovascular dysfunction. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05932069; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05932069. DERR1-10.2196/58316.

Implications of a twelve-week aerobic exercise on functional work capacity in HIV positive clients on antiretroviral therapy

The implications of aerobic exercise on functional work capacity of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) positive clients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Uganda have been established. ART and the efforts to scale it up have significantly improved the value of life and life’s hope of among PLHIV. Despite the presence of ART HIV disease is still seen in wards and a significant loss of life due to AIDS. This study provides useful information to the Ministry of Health of Uganda on the implications of aerobic exercises on functional work capacity as a clinical outcome to HIV positive clients in Uganda. This helps in refining the existing information on aerobic exercises and their relevancy in management of HIV positive clients. An experimental study was conducted among HIV positive clients who had been on treatment for at least 12 months prior to the study. Volunteers were randomly assigned to a control group (Group 1), where no treatment was administered, and an experimental group (Group 2), where a twelve-week moderate intensity aerobic exercise was administered. Assessment of functional work capacity was done as a pre-test and post-test for both groups. The results showed that aerobic exercises significantly improved both heart rate and VO2max with p-values of

Effects of aerobic exercise at different intensities on articular cartilage in mice.

Maintaining intrinsic articular cartilage homeostasis is essential for the health of cartilage. However, the impact of aerobic exercise of varying intensities on the articular cartilage homeostasis has never been studied. This study aims to elucidate the influence of different aerobic exercise intensities on the anabolic and catabolic processes within articular cartilage. Forty-eight male C57BL/6J mice, aged 7 weeks, were divided into 4 aerobic exercise groups and 1 control group. The aerobic exercise groups were subjected to both acute and chronic exercise protocols with varying intensities of 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 mmin-1. Total RNA from the knee joint cartilage was extracted in both phases to quantify mRNA of anabolic (Sox9, Col2a1, and Acan) and catabolic (MMP-13 and ADAMTS5) markers. In the chronic exercise, articular cartilage thickness and chondrocyte density were histologically assessed. Additionally, immunohistochemical staining quantified relevant molecules involved in cartilage metabolism. Inthe acute exercise, the 8 m min-1 group exhibited reduced ADAMTS5 expression compared to the control, 16 m min-1, and 24 m min-1 groups. Chronic exercise showed enhanced articular cartilage thickness in both the 8 and 12 m min-1 groups relative to the control group. Moreover, the 8 m min-1 group demonstrated elevated aggrecan levels in comparison to both the control and 24 m min-1 groups. Additionally, the 24 m min-1 group exhibited significantly higher ADAMTS5 levels than the control group. Our findings suggest that consistent low-intensity aerobic exercise suppresses catabolic molecule expression in articular cartilage, thereby fostering anabolic activity. Conversely, continuous high-intensity aerobic exercise can potentially disrupt cartilage homeostasis by enhancing catabolic processes. This dichotomy underscores the need for balanced exercise regimens to maintain cartilage health.

Circulating CD31+ Angiogenic T cells are reduced in prediabetes and increase with exercise training

AimsTo investigate circulating angiogenic cells in adults with prediabetes and the effect of a structured exercise program. MethodsA cohort of adults with overweight/obesity and either normal glucose (NG) or prediabetes were randomised to receive exercise (Exercise) (as twice weekly supervised combined high intensity aerobic exercise and progressive resistance training, and once weekly home-based aerobic exercise) or an unsupervised stretching intervention (Control) for 12 weeks. Circulating angiogenic T cells, muscle strength, and cardiovascular disease risk factors, including blood lipids, arterial stiffness, central haemodynamic responses, and cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2peak) in those with prediabetes (n = 35, 16 Control, 19 Exercise) and NG (n = 37, 17 Control, 20 Exercise) were analysed at baseline and after the 12-week intervention. ResultsAt baseline, compared with NG those with prediabetes demonstrated reduced VO2peak, angiogenic CD31+CD8+ T cells and VEGFR2+CD4+ T cells, and increased systolic blood pressure. CD31+ T cells were negatively correlated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Compared with Control, exercise training increased muscle strength, VO2peak, and CD31+CD4+ and CD31+CD8+ T cells in NG and prediabetes. ConclusionsCirculating angiogenic CD31+ T cells are decreased in people with prediabetes and are enhanced with exercise training. Exercise increases CD31+ T cells, and through this mechanism it is proposed that it may reduce CVD risk. Trial registrationAustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry number: ACTRN12617000552381.

Acute and prolonged effects of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens GF424-derived SOD on antioxidant defense in healthy individuals challenged with intense aerobic exercise

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a vital role in cellular functions but can lead to oxidative stress and contribute to degenerative diseases when produced in excess. Maintaining redox balance is essential and can be achieved through innate defense mechanisms or external antioxidants. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is a key enzyme that mitigates intracellular oxidative stress by converting harmful free radicals into hydrogen peroxide, which is subsequently neutralized by catalase and glutathione peroxidase. Previous studies have demonstrated the antioxidant capabilities of SOD derived from Bacillus amyloquefaciens GF424 (BA-SOD) in murine models exposed to either irradiation or SOD1 gene deletion. In this study, a randomized clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the antioxidative benefits of BA-SOD in healthy individuals undergoing acute aerobic exercise (AAE). Eighty participants were randomly assigned to receive either BA-SOD or a placebo for 8 weeks. Antioxidant enzyme activities and glutathione levels were measured before, immediately after, and 30 min post-exercise. A single dose of BA-SOD significantly reduced ROS levels induced by AAE, primarily by enhancing SOD activity in erythrocytes and activating glutathione peroxidase. Continuous BA-SOD administration was associated with a sustained increase in catalase activity and elevated levels of reduced glutathione (GSH). Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses revealed that a single BA-SOD dose facilitated GSH oxidation, as evidenced by decreased levels of serine, glutamine, and glycine, and increased pyroglutamate levels. Additionally, repeated dosing led to increased expression of genes encoding isocitrate dehydrogenase and malic enzyme, which are involved in NADPH synthesis, as well as nicotinamide phosphoribosyl transferase and NAD kinase, which are essential for NADP availability–critical for converting oxidized glutathione (GSSG) back to GSH. These molecular insights align with clinical observations, suggesting that both acute and long-term BA-SOD supplementation may effectively enhance antioxidant defenses and maintain redox balance under oxidative stress conditions.

Different intensities of aerobic training for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial.

The purpose of this study was to compare different intensities of aerobic exercise for patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in terms of glycemic control, pain relief, and functional outcomes. A prospective randomized open-label parallel multicenter clinical trial conducted at two hospitals in Shanghai and Sichuan that included 228 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Enrollment occurred between January 2021 and February 2023, and follow-up was completed in September 2023. Participants were randomized to threshold training/high-intensive stationary cycling training (n=76), intensive endurance/moderate-intensive stationary cycling training (n=77), and regular rehabilitation programs (n=75). The primary outcome at the 6-month follow-up was the HbA1c level. Key secondary outcomes included the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) subscale of pain and quality of life. Of 228 patients, 212 (93%) completed the trial. The mean adjusted (sex, baseline BMI, and baseline outcome measures) HbA1c level at the 6-month follow-up decreased significantly in the high-intensive training group compared with other groups (high-intensity group vs. control group; difference, 0.51%, 95% confidence interval, 0.05% to 1.15%). Mean KOOS subscales of pain and quality of life were statistically significantly different between the control group and moderate-intensity or high-intensity groups, but no statistical differences were noted between the different intensities of aerobic exercise. Patients in all groups achieved a greater reduction in BMI but no significant differences were observed between groups. In KOA and T2DM patients, high-intensity stationary cycling can significantly improve glycemic control compared with moderate-intensity and regular rehabilitation programs. However, high-intensity stationary cycling does not exert a superior effect on pain relief and functional improvement for KOA compared with moderate-intensity and regular rehabilitation programs.

Acute Aerobic Exercise Intensity on Working Memory and Vigilance After Nap Deprivation: Effects of Low-Intensity Deserve Attention.

Napping deprivation in habitual nappers leads to cognitive impairment. The ameliorative effect of acute aerobic exercise has been demonstrated for this post-cognitive impairment. However, it is still unclear which intensity of aerobic exercise is the most effective and how long this improvement can be sustained. Fifty-eight healthy adults with a chronic napping habit were randomly assigned to four intervention groups after undergoing nap deprivation: a sedentary control group, a low-intensity exercise group (50-59% maximum heart rate, HRmax), a moderate-intensity exercise group (60-69% HRmax), and a high-intensity exercise group (70-79% HRmax). Working memory (N-back task), vigilance (Psychomotor Vigilance Task, PVT), and response inhibitory capacity (Go/NoGo task) were measured. Regression analyses showed a quadratic trend between exercise intensity and working memory reaction time and accuracy (F =3.297-5.769, p < 0.05, R2 =10.7-18.9%). The effects of exercise were optimal at low-intensity. There was a significant quadratic trend between exercise intensity and PVT lapse (F =4.314, p =0.042, R² =7.2%). The effect of exercise increased with higher intensity. Prolonged observation found that the effect of low-intensity exercise on working memory was maintained for 2 hours. The effect of low-intensity exercise might be underestimated. Low-intensity exercise significantly improved working memory performance, and the effects could be maintained throughout the afternoon. In contrast, the effects of high-intensity exercise were unlikely to be maintained and might even have negative effects. Future researchers can broaden the categories of participants to enhance the external validity and collect diverse physiological indicators to explore related physiological mechanisms.

Acute effects of exercise on gaze fixation and affective response inhibition in children with autism spectrum disorder: A randomized cross-over study.

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) show impairments in response inhibition, especially in socio-emotional contexts. A single aerobic exercise session has the potential to temporarily reduce such impairments as findings from neurotypical children support acute benefits of this exercise type for inhibitory control and emotion recognition. In children with ASD, we therefore aimed to investigate the effects of an aerobic exercise bout on response inhibition in an emotional Go/NoGo task and gaze fixation as possible mechanism underlying changes in performance. Using a cross-over design, 29 patients completed a 20-min aerobic exercise bout at moderate intensity on a cycling ergometer and a control condition in a randomized order. An emotional Go/NoGo task was administered before and after both experimental conditions. Eye-tracking was performed during the cognitive task to assess the duration of gaze fixation of eyes and mouth parts of faces expressing happy or sad emotions. The results support no beneficial effect of exercise on performance on the emotional Go/NoGo task. Instead, patients showed a greater decrease in accuracy on Go trials displaying happy faces in the exercise compared to the control condition. This change was associated with a more pronounced decrease in the fixation duration of the eyes for faces expressing either happy or sad emotions. In conclusion, while a single session of moderately intense aerobic exercise does not affect response inhibition, it temporarily aggravates ASD-specific deficits in the processing of and response to facial emotions.

Baduanjin exercise for negative emotion of patients undergoing chemotherapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Baduanjin was also called Eight Brocades (EB), a branch of Qigong exercise, is classified as a mild-to-moderate intensity aerobic exercise. It has been theorized that regular practice of EB can alleviate anxiety and depression in patients undergoing chemotherapy; however, there are currently no comprehensive quantitative reviews on the efficacy of EB for this population. Therefore, this meta-analysis aims to investigate the effects of EB on chemotherapy-treated patients. Eight electronic databases were searched from their inception until February 15, 2024, to identify relevant studies. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to filter the retrieved studies. Outcomes were various quantitative assessments. This systematic review was registered in the PROSPERO Registry (registration number CRD42023466630). Nine randomized controlled trials (RCTs) met eligibility criteria (n = 704). The meta-analysis results demonstrated that EB significantly reduced levels of anxiety and depression. Subgroup analysis revealed that the intervention frequency of 1 time/day had a greater effect on the improvement of negative emotions, compared with 2 times/day and 5 times/week. The intervention duration of 4weeks showed more efficacy in reducing depression scores than 12weeks or 16weeks; however, no statistical difference was observed for anxiety scores. EB exercise can reduce depression and anxiety symptoms in chemotherapy-treated patients. However, the results should be interpreted with caution as existing methodological limitations. The findings provided insights into the development of public health initiatives to improve the negative emotion among chemotherapy-treated patients by EB exercise.

The independent and combined effects of aerobic exercise intensity and dose differentially increase post-exercise cerebral shear stress and blood flow.

This research examined the impact of aerobic exercise intensity and dose on acute post-exercise cerebral shear stress and blood flow. Fourteen young adults (27±5years of age, eight females) completed a maximal oxygen uptake ( ) treadmill test followed by three randomized study visits: treadmill exercise at 30% of for 30min, 70% of for 30min and 70% of for a duration that resulted in caloric expenditure equal to that in the 30% visit (EqEE). A venous blood draw and internal carotid artery (ICA) ultrasound were collected before and immediately following exercise. ICA diameter and blood velocity were determined using automated edge detection software, and blood flow was calculated. Using measures of blood viscosity, shear stress was calculated. Aerobic exercise increased ICA shear stress (time: P=0.005, condition: P=0.012) and the increase was greater following exercise at 70% (∆4.1±3.5dyn/cm2) compared with 30% (∆1.1±1.9dyn/cm2; P=0.041). ICA blood flow remained elevated following exercise (time: P=0.002, condition: P=0.010) with greater increases after 70% (Δ268±150mL/min) compared with 30% (∆125±149mL/min; P=0.041) or 70% EqEE (∆127±177mL/min; P=0.004). Therefore, aerobic exercise resulted in both intensity- and dose-dependent effects on acute post-exercise ICA blood flow whereby vigorous intensity exercise provoked a larger increase in ICA blood flow compared to light intensity exercise when performed at a higher dose.

Investigating the acute effect of low and moderate intensity aerobic exercise on whole-body task learning and cognition in young adults.

Recent studies have shown that a single bout of exercise has acute improvements on various forms of memory, including procedural motor learning, through mechanisms such as the plasticity-promoting effect. This study aimed to examine (1) the acute effects of timing and intensity of aerobic exercise on the acquisition and retention of motor learning in healthy adults, (2) the effect of sleep quality of the night before and after acquisition on motor learning, and (3) the acute effects of low and moderate-intensity aerobic exercise on cognitive functions. Seventy-five healthy adults were divided into five groups: Two groups performed low or moderate intensity aerobic exercise before motor practice; two groups performed low or moderate intensity aerobic exercise after motor practice; the control group only did motor practice. Low- and moderate-intensity exercises consisted of 30 min of running at 57%-63% and 64%-76% of the maximum heart rate, respectively. Motor learning was assessed using a golf putting task. The sleep quality of the night before and after the acquisition was evaluated using the Richard Campbell Sleep Questionnaire. Cognitive function was assessed before and after aerobic exercise using the Paced Auditory Serial Acquisition Task test. Results indicated that all groups demonstrated acquisition, 1-day and 7-day retention at a similar level (p > 0.05). Regression analysis revealed no significant relationship between sleep quality on the night before the experimental day and total acquisition (p > 0.05). However, a positive correlation was found between the sleep quality on the night of the experimental day and both 1-day and 7-day retention (p < 0.05). A single bout of low or moderate acute exercise did not modify motor skill acquisition and retention. Other results showed the importance of night sleep quality on the retention and proved that a single bout of moderate intensity exercise was associated with improved cognitive function.

‘Just because I have prostate cancer doesn’t mean that I can’t do things’ – men’s experiences of the acceptability of an exercise intervention for prostate cancer during treatment

BackgroundStructured exercise has an important role in mitigating the extensive side effects caused by ongoing prostate cancer treatments, specifically androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and radiation therapy (RT). Little is known about men’s experiences of, and preferences for, structured exercise programmes during active cancer treatment. This study aimed to inform the acceptability of a 6-month supervised intervention that emphasised increasing and varied intensities of aerobic and resistance exercise, by exploring the experiences of men who participated.MethodsIndividual semi-structured interviews were conducted with an interviewer independent of the exercise study and data was analysed using a descriptive qualitative design.ResultsTwelve prostate cancer patients were interviewed including participants who completed (n = 9) and withdrew from (n = 3) the intervention. Four main themes captured how men experienced the intervention: (1) Navigating the Unknown: Building confidence amidst vulnerability (subtheme- pushing the limits), (2) Building Trust: The credibility and approach of the exercise instructor (subtheme- appropriateness of supervised vs. independent exercise), (3) Flexibility in Delivery, (4) Finding Purpose: Exercise as a means of escapism and regaining control during treatment.ConclusionWhile an initial lack of self-confidence can be a barrier to exercise participation, exercise programmes have the potential to provide psychosocial benefits, rebuild confidence and empower men throughout their cancer treatment and into recovery. Structured exercise is acceptable during treatment including RT and can offer a form of escapism and sense of control for men navigating their cancer journey. Trust building, flexible delivery and credibility alongside a challenging exercise prescription are important facilitators of acceptability for men. Strategies to embed exercise from the point of diagnosis through ADT and RT should reflect men’s experiences of exercise during treatment.Trial registrationThe trial has been registered on ClinicalTrials.gov as of the 14th of December 2021 (NCT05156424).