Arm Curl Research Articles

Prospective Single-Arm Feasibility of Supervised Virtual Exercise in Women Living with Ovarian Cancer: The BE-BALANCED Study

Background: Access to exercise programming that addresses the unique needs of women living with and beyond ovarian cancer is limited. Feasible and accessible supportive care programs to enhance physical function and quality of life are needed. We aimed to assess the feasibility of a 12-week virtually delivered exercise program for women living with and beyond ovarian cancer. Methods: BE-BALANCED was a prospective single-arm feasibility pilot study. Women who had completed primary chemotherapy treatment of ovarian cancer within the past year were recruited through oncologist referrals or self-referral. The 12-week group exercise program targeting aerobic capacity, functional strength, balance, and range of motion was conducted virtually twice weekly using Zoom. Feasibility measures were accrual, attendance, adherence, and attrition. Physical function was evaluated using the Short Physical Performance Battery and selected components of the Senior Fitness Test. Results: Fourteen participants enrolled in the study (47% of the accrual target). Feasibility goals for the exercise sessions were met for attendance (84% ± 19%), adherence to virtual sessions (78% ± 19%), and fidelity of group belonging (18% ± 4%), and met for overall attrition (21%). Improvements were observed in gait speed, 30-second bicep curls, 6-minute walk, chair stand, and emotional well-being (P < .05). Participant satisfaction with the program was high (4.4/5). Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated the feasibility of a virtually delivered exercise program for women living with and beyond ovarian cancer, with favorable attendance, adherence, and safety data. The program showed potential in improving physical outcomes and quality of life for participants. However, recruitment was a challenge. Future interventions could consider different approaches to increase recruitment.

Comparing the acute responses between a manual and automated blood flow restriction system.

A total of 33 individuals completed this study. On visit 1, arterial occlusion pressure (AOP, mm Hg), cardiovascular responses, and discomfort (RPE-D) were measured with each BFR system at rest. On visit 2, unilateral bicep curls were completed [30% one-repetition maximum; 50% AOP] with one system per arm. Muscle thickness (MT, cm) and maximal force (N) were assessed before (pre), immediately (post-0), 5min (post-5), and 10min (post-10) post-exercise. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE-E) and ratings of perceived discomfort (RPE-D) were assessed throughout the exercise. AOP and repetitions were compared with Bayesian paired t-tests. Other outcomes were compared with Bayesian RMANOVAs. BF10 represents the likelihood of the best model vs. the null. The results are presented as mean ± SD. Supine cardiovascular responses and RPE-D were similar for manual and automated (all BF10 ≤ 0.2). Supine AOP for manual (157 ± 20) was higher than that of automated (142 ± 17; BF10 = 44496.0), but similar while standing (manual: 141 ± 17; automated: 141 ± 22; BF10 = 0.2). MT (time, BF10 = 6.047e + 40) increased from Pre (3.9 ± 0.7) to Post-0 (4.4 ± 0.8; BF10 = 2.969e + 28), with Post-0 higher than Post-5 (4.3 ± 0.8) and Post-10 (4.3 ± 0.8; both BF10 ≥ 275.2). Force (time, BF10 = 1.246e + 29) decreased from Pre (234.5 ± 79.2) to Post-0 (149.8 ± 52.3; BF10 = 2.720e + 22) and increased from Post-0 to Post-5 (193.3 ± 72.7; BF10 = 1.744e + 13), with Post-5 to Post-10 (194.0 ± 70.6; BF10 = 0.2) being similar. RPE-E increased over sets. RPE-D was lower for manual than automated. Repetitions per set were higher for manual (Set 1: 37 ± 18; Set 4: 9 ± 5) than automated (Set 1: 30 ± 7; Set 4: 7 ± 3; all BF10 ≥ 9.7). Under the same relative pressure, responses are mostly similar between BFR systems, although a manual system led to lower exercise discomfort and more repetitions.

BiCurNet: Premovement EEG-Based Neural Decoder for Biceps Curl Trajectory Estimation

BiCurNet: Premovement EEG-Based Neural Decoder for Biceps Curl Trajectory Estimation

Detecting method of optimal exercise posture using autoencoder: Utilizing surface electromyography and textile stretch sensor

This study aims to validate the optimal posture for the Dumbbell Biceps Curl (DBC) exercise using Textile stretch sensors and Surface Electromyography (sEMG), and then detect inaccurate posture using a Sparse Autoencoder. To validate the optimal DBC exercise posture, we measured the effects of wrist supination and the angle of the upper body and elbow on the biceps and forearm muscles. A wrist sleeve-shaped Textile stretch sensor detects wrist supination, and sEMG measures biceps and forearm muscle activation. The experiment results confirmed that an angle between the upper body and the elbow within 90°, coupled with wrist supination, constitutes the most efficient posture, maximizing the activation of the biceps while minimizing the synergistic effects of the forearm muscles. Subsequently, this posture was learned through a Sparse Autoencoder, and the Root Mean Square Error values of the trained model were lowest in the optimal posture (Biceps: 0.090, Forearm: 0.076). This suggests that Sparse Autoencoder could be useful in identifying inaccurate exercise postures. In summary, this study aims to develop an exercise posture feedback system through the integration of modern exercise physiology and technology, particularly the fusion of AI and sensor technology. The goal is to propose the potential to detect and correct inaccurate or unsafe exercise postures.

Accelerometer-Measured Volumes of Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity and Functional Fitness in Older Adults

The objective of this study is to investigate the association between different volumes of accelerometer-measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and functional fitness in older adults in a cross-sectional study (n = 242; 66 ± 5 years; 80% women). MVPA was assessed by accelerometer for 1 week. Based on the MVPA recommendations, the participants were classified as: (a) inactive (<50 min/week), (b) somewhat active (50–99 min/week), (c) moderately active (100–149 min/week), and (d) active (≥150 min/week). These groups reflect <33%, 33%–66%, 67%–99%, and ≥100% of the MVPA recommendations, respectively. Functional fitness was assessed by the Senior Fitness Test battery: 6-min walk test (6MWT), timed up and go (TUG), 30-s chair stand test, 30-s arm curl test, chair sit-and-reach test, and back scratch test. In addition to the analysis for each functional fitness test, a total functional fitness score was calculated by the sum of the z scores of all tests. Generalized linear models were used for data analyses (reference: inactive). Compared with the inactive group (n = 59), the somewhat active group (n = 47) had better performance on the 6MWT and TUG (p < .05). The moderately active group (n = 47) had better performance on the 6MWT, TUG, 30-s chair stand test, and the total functional fitness score (p < .05). The active group (n = 89) had better performance on the 6MWT, TUG, 30-s chair stand test, chair sit-and-reach test, and the total functional fitness score (p < .05). Older adults who engaged in higher volumes of MVPA had better performance in more functional fitness components. However, lower than recommended volumes of MVPA (meeting ≥50 min/week) were also associated with greater lower limb functional fitness performance.

Level of body mass index, functional fitness, quality of life, and satisfaction with life among women aged 60+ years participating in an organised pro-health training programme.

The aim of the study is to assess changes in body mass index (BMI), functional fitness, satisfaction with and quality of life among women 60+ years after participating in a 9-month organised health training programme. Research on a group of 74 women aged 60-83 years (M = 67.8; SD = 5.1) was conducted twice, at the beginning and after 9 months of the health training programme (90 minutes, twice a week). The following tools were used in the research: SECA model 764 device, Fullerton functional fitness test, the World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire, and the satisfaction with life scale. Calculations were performed using the Statistica 13.1 program, via Pearson's and Spearman's correlation coefficients as well as Student's t-test for dependent measurements and the Wilcoxon paired test. Interactive repeated measures analysis of variance was also used. The assumed level of significance was α = 0.05. Comparing the results before and after implementing the health training programme, it was found that the average BMI value decreased (p < 0.001), while the functional fitness indicators, including the tests: 30-second chair stand (p < 0.001), 30-second arm curl (p < 0.001), back scratch (p = 0.001) and two-minute step-in-place (p = 0.002), increased. Between the first and second measurement, differences in quality of life profiles were also demonstrated, with 3 aspects of quality of life intensifying (somatic, psychological, and environmental), the psychological aspect increasing the most. The obtained results confirmed the positive impact of the 9-month health training programme on the BMI, functional fitness, and quality of life of women above the age of 60 years.

PHYSICAL FITNESS OF WOMEN UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF TAE BO EXERCISE

The aim of this research was to determine the changes in the physical fitness of women who recreationally practice tae bo. 15 female exercisers between 25 and 40 years old, who have been practicing this recreational exercise for at least a year, participated in the research which lasted for four months. For assessing physical fitness V test, Back Scratch Test (right and left), 2 minute Step in Place Test, Trunk Flexor and Extensor, Squat Test, Arm Curl Test, Hexagon Agility Test and Modified Agility „T“ Test were used. To determine changes, analysis of variance for dependent samples and post hoc analysis were used. After the tae bo program, which lasted for four months, it was determined that most of the tests showed statistically significant changes of different levels of significance. It is concluded that the tae bo program effectively influenced the improvement of women's physical fitness after four months of performance.

Investigating the biomechanics of the biceps brachii muscle during dumbbell curl exercise: A comprehensive approach

Investigation of the mechanical behavior of the biceps brachii (BB) muscle at different dynamic forces is essential to improve training techniques, prevent sports injuries and optimize rehabilitation results. In previous studies, researchers studied mechanical changes during muscle contraction using various mathematical methods and simulation models. The models adopted by the majority of these studies assumed a constant value for muscle force. However, variable muscle force has different effects on muscle mechanics. In this study, an inverse dynamic simulation model was initially utilized to determine the dynamic muscle forces generated in the BB while performing the dumbbell curl exercise with 5 kg and 10 kg weights. Subsequently, the finite element method (FEM) was used to calculate the stress and strain changes experienced by BB as a consequence of the applied forces. Moreover, simultaneous analysis through electromyography (EMG) was carried out to investigate muscle contraction during the dumbbell curl exercise. Consequently, it was concluded that the average BB force during the dumbbell curl exercise with 5 kg and 10 kg weights was 433.9 N and 695.0 N, respectively. The maximum stresses in the BB during exercise were calculated to be 960.5 Pa and 1484.9 Pa, respectively. Additionally, the maximum displacements were determined to be 102.30 μm and 158.28 μm, respectively. According to the findings of muscle force 100% increase in dumbbell weight increases the maximum muscle force by 83.13% and the average muscle force by 60.17%. Therefore, it is understood that there was no linear correlation between weight gain and muscle force.

Comparing the Effects of Multicomponent and Concurrent Exercise Protocols on Muscle Strength in Older Adults.

This study aimed to compare the effects of a multicomponent exercise program and a concurrent exercise program on muscle strength in community-dwelling elderly subjects. Participants (n = 35; male = 17; female = 18; Mage = 69.17, SD = 5.01 years) were screened and included in the study. Among them, 19 individuals were assigned to the multicomponent group, while 16 were assigned to the concurrent group. The results of the repeated-measures ANOVA revealed significant main effects for the group factor (F(1,15) = 66.59, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.81) and the group*time factor (F(1,15) = 16.95, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.53) for the 30-second chair test. Furthermore, significant main effects were observed only for the group factor (F(1,15) = 19.28, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.56) for the 30-second arm curl. Regarding the Timed Up and Go test, significant main effects were found for the group factor (F(1,15) = 35.56, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.70) and the group*time factor (F(1,15) = 11.68, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.43). Lastly, significant main effects were observed for the group*time factor (F(1,15) = 5.19, p = 0.038, η2 = 0.25) for handgrip strength. The multicomponent exercise group displayed a greater mean increase compared to the concurrent exercise group. While both the multicomponent and the concurrent exercise programs were effective in improving muscle strength in community-dwelling older adults, the multicomponent exercise group exhibited superior outcomes compared to the concurrent exercise group across the physical fitness measures. These findings suggest that a multicomponent exercise program may be more beneficial for enhancing muscle strength in this population.

A Virtual Versus In-Person Comparison of the Senior Fitness Test: A Randomized Crossover Trial

The Senior Fitness Test (SFT) is a validated tool for examining older adults’ mobility, strength, and flexibility. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when in-person training facilities were closed, there was a need for effective virtual options for assessments, including the SFT. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the validated SFT conducted in person versus an online virtual setting. Methods: A virtual modified version of the SFT was compared to the modified in-person validated SFT. Community-dwelling older adults were randomized, using a random number generator, to start in either the in-person or virtual modified SFT mode of delivery. After completion of the first mode of delivery (i.e., either in-person or virtual), participants completed the second mode of delivery. Results: Forty participants (50% women; 72 ± 4 years) showed no differences between the in-person and virtual delivery measurements in the 2-minute step (mean [ M] ± standard deviation in person = 87.9 ± 18.5; M virtual = 87.2 ± 20.7; p = 0.65), 30-second arm curl ( M in person = 16.9 ± 4; M virtual = 16.5±4; p = 0.43), 30-second chair stand ( M in person = 15.6 ± 5; M virtual = 15.2 ± 4; p = 0.36), and chair sit and reach ( M in person = 1.2 ± 15; M virtual = 4.2 ± 11; p = 0.06). Conclusions: Performing the modified SFT in a virtual setting may be a useful delivery mode for seniors and healthcare professionals if in-person testing is not viable.

Development and Validation of an Artificial Intelligence-Based Motion Analysis System for Upper Extremity Rehabilitation Exercises in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

In this study, we developed an AI-based real-time motion feedback system for patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) during rehabilitation, aiming to enhance their interest and motivation. The effectiveness of the system in improving upper-limb muscle strength during the Thera band exercises was evaluated. The motion analysis program, including exercise repetition counts and calorie consumption, was developed using MediaPipe, focusing on three key motions (chest press, shoulder press, and arm curl) for upper extremity exercises. The participants with SCI were randomly assigned to the experimental group (EG = 4) or control group (CG = 5), engaging in 1 h sessions three times a week for 8 weeks. Muscle strength tests (chest press, shoulder press, lat pull-down, and arm curl) were performed before and after exercises. Although both groups did not show significant differences, the EG group exhibited increased strength in all measured variables, whereas the CG group showed constant or reduced results. Consequently, the computer program-based system developed in this study could be effective in muscle strengthening. Furthermore, these findings may serve as a valuable foundation for future AI-driven rehabilitation exercise systems.

Resistance Training Using Flywheel Device Improves the Shot Precision in Senior Elite Tennis Players: A Randomized Controlled Study

The aim of the study was to assess the effects of 8 weeks of resistance training using a flywheel device applied to upper limbs, compared to traditional isotonic training, on strength and shot precision in tennis. Twenty-seven elite senior tennis players (age: 55.78 ± 2.69) were randomly divided into an experimental group (EG) using flywheel devices (n = 13) and a control group (CG) performing isotonic training (n = 14). The EG program included forehand, backhand, and one-handed shoulder press movements, while the CG performed seven resistance exercises on isotonic machines. A similar workout intensity was ensured using the Borg’s CR-10 scale. The assessment included a 30s arm curl test, a medicine ball throw test, and forehand/backhand/overhead shot precision tests. A significant time effect was found in the 30s arm curl test for the EG (F(1,25) = 13.09; p = 0.001), along with a time * group interaction (F(1,25) = 5.21; p = 0.031). A significant group difference was observed in the forehand shot precision test, where the EG achieved better scores than the CG and significant interaction time * group (F(1,25) = 8.35; p = 0.008). In the shot backhand precision test, a significant effect of time (F(1,25) = 5.01; p = 0.034) and significant time * group interaction were found (F(1,25) = 4.50; p = 0.044), but there was no significant difference between groups. Resistance training with flywheel devices has shown potential in improving tennis performance. Applying overload to specific athletic movements during both concentric and eccentric phases in the EG has shown enhanced strength and neuromuscular coordination in relation to shot precision, thereby enabling simultaneous improvements in both conditioning and the technical aspects of fundamental tennis shots.

Outcomes Associated With Translating Evidence-Based Research Into Practice: The Physical Activity for Lifelong Success Program.

Few programs assess for outcomes once translated into practice. The Physical Activity for Lifelong Success program was developed as a center-based public health intervention and shown to improve walking speed and distance among older adults with type 2 diabetes. We adapted the program for community-based delivery by lay leaders to physically inactive older adults. We followed the Replicating Effective Programs framework to identify community stakeholders, adapt, implement, and evaluate fidelity of delivery in community settings, and plan for maintenance and evolution. Sixteen community sites enrolled 184 adults (mean age 73.5y, 85% female, 93% White) in 21 workshops. Baseline and postworkshop measures assessed participants' health-related quality of life, physical function, and physical fitness. Data were analyzed using Fisher exact tests, Student t test, and paired linear regression with fixed effects. Fidelity testing indicated leader training was sufficient to maintain key elements with delivery. Data from 122 participants showed improvements in chair stands (P < .001), arm curls (P < .001), 2-minute step test (P < .001), sit-and-reach (P = .001), 8-foot up-and-go (P < .001), and 10-m walk (P < .001). Adaptation of Physical Activity for Lifelong Success for implementation by community organizations for physically inactive older adults demonstrates that fidelity and effectiveness can be maintained after program translation.

Development of Gesture Detection Application for the Exercise System and Accumulation of Reward Points

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the daily lives of global citizens. Currently, it was reported that COVID-19 would last longer. Therefore, living with the COVID-19 outbreak will be the new normal. The restriction of physical contact leads to less exercise, especially outdoor activity, but more activities online. Although it will reduce the spread of the disease, but it has a negative effect on people's physical and mental health, so our team has come up with an exercise system to collect points and redeem rewards by detecting gestures by using applications to increase the practice of physical activity and enhance the health of personnel in various organizations, even people in residence can have physical activity. There were two types of exercise postures to choose from: squat and bicep curl (arm muscle exercises), which can be divided into two levels: easy and difficult. We concluded that the application could calculate points correctly and was very accurate in counting reps, especially with the bicep curl, but there was still a slight discrepancy in the count of squat reps, which can be further developed to increase accuracy.

Functional fitness and risk factors of older patients with diabetes combined with sarcopenia and/or frailty: A cross-sectional study.

To learn the functional fitness levels in older adults with diabetes combined with sarcopenia and/or frailty. A cross-sectional investigation study. A total of 205 participants with type 2 diabetes were recruited from September 2019 to August 2020. All patients underwent diagnostic screening for sarcopenia and frailty, and were divided into combined group (the patients who had sarcopenia and/or frailty) and non-combined group (the patient who had no sarcopenia and/or frailty). The diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia applied was proposed by the Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia in 2019 and frailty status was assessed using FRAIL Scale. Functional fitness was measured using the Senior Fitness Test and compared between combined and non-combined groups. Biochemical data of blood routine, glycolipid, and hepatorenal function tests were acquired from medical records. Logistic regression analysis was applied to explore the factors associated with the sarcopenia and/or frailty in the older adults with diabetes. Compared with non-combined group, the participants in combined group exhibited shorter 6-min walk distance, fewer repetitions of arm curls and chair stands, smaller back scratch and chair sit-and-reach values, and longer time in the 8-ft up-and-go test. The patients in the combined group had significantly lower level of red blood cell, haemoglobin, haematocrit, and higher level of platelet and blood urea nitrogen. Apart from calf circumference, physical activity, and insulin injection treatment, 6-min walk distance was the factor associated with diabetes combined with sarcopenia and/or frailty.

Evaluating the impact of aerobic and resistance green exercises on the fitness, aerobic and intrinsic capacity of older individuals

ObjectiveOur study determined the impact of 12-week aerobic exercise (AE) and aerobic + resistance exercises (AE + RE) within the green exercise concept, on senior fitness, aerobic capacity, and intrinsic capacity (IC). MethodsThe study was a multicenter, randomized controlled study conducted at two senior living facilities with individuals aged 65 and above whose cardiorespiratory and musculoskeletal conditions are suitable for moderate exercise and who have normal cognition levels. Block randomization was applied to 96 participants in a ratio of 1:1:1 to be assigned to AE, AE + RE, and control (C) groups. Intervention groups received exercise sessions led by physiotherapists within the senior living facilitiy gardens, with a frequency of once a week for 50 min, for 12 weeks. Also, they were prescribed additional exercise sessions on two additional days of the week. At the commencement of the study and 12th week, shuttle walking test, senior fitness test (SFT), intrinsic capacity assessment (with Timed Up and Go test, Mini Mental State Examination, Geriatric Depression Scale-15, Mini Nutritional Assessment, handgrip strength test) was conducted of all participants. The primary outcome was the Z score of IC, secondary outcomes were VO2max and SFT subparameters. The study was registered in the Protocol Registry and Results System (Clinicaltrials.gov PRS) with the registration number NCT05958745. Results90 participants successfully completed the study, with 30 individuals in each of the AE, AE + RE, and C groups. By the end of the 12th week, the arm curl score was significantly higher in the AE + RE compared to the C (mean difference: 3.96, 95 % CI= 2.47 to 5.46, p = 0.01). There were significant differences in chair stand, two-minute step, 8-foot up-and-go, chair sit and reach, and back scratch tests in both AE and AE + RE compared to C. AE and AE + RE exhibited significantly higher shuttle test distances and VO2max values compared to the C (p < 0.0001). AE + RE achieved a significantly higher total IC score than the C (mean difference: 0.59, %95 CI= -0.07 to 1.26, p = 0.025). ConclusionIn this study within the green exercise concept, both AE and AE + RE led to similar improvements in strength, flexibility, mobility, endurance, and aerobic capacity. Notably, AE + RE demonstrated an additional benefit by increasing the total IC, while AE alone did not exhibit the same effect.

No Differences in Exercise Performance, Perceptual Response, or Safety Were Observed Among 3 Blood Flow Restriction Devices

To compare 3 separate blood flow restriction (BFR) systems in their capacity to reduce repetitions to failure, impact perceptual responses, and cause adverse events during a low-load free-flow exercise. The study included healthy subjects aged 18 years or older who presented to an ambulatory-care sports medicine clinic. On day 1, participants' demographic characteristics and anthropomorphic measurements were recorded. Each participant performed dumbbell biceps curl repetitions to failure using 20% of his or her 1-repetition maximum weight with each arm. Participants were exposed to 3 different tourniquet systems for familiarization. On day 2, each participant's arm was randomized to a cuff system, and the participant performed 2 sets of biceps curl repetitions to failure with the cuff inflated. Repetitions to failure, rating of perceived effort (RPE), rating of perceived discomfort, and pulse oxygenation levels were recorded after each set. On day 3, participants completed a survey of their perceived delayed-onset muscle soreness. The final analysis was performed on 42 arms, with 14 limbs per system. The study population had a mean age of 28.7 ± 2.4 years and a mean body mass index of 24.9 ± 4.3. All 3 systems successfully reduced repetitions to failure compared with unrestricted low-load exercise from baseline to BFR set 1 and from baseline to BFR set 2. There were no significant between-group differences among BFR systems regarding the number of repetitions to failure performed at baseline versus BFR set 1 or BFR set 2. The Delfi Personalized Tourniquet System (PTS) cohort had the greatest reductions in repetitions to failure from BFR set 1 to BFR set 2 (P= .002) and reported the highest RPE after set 2 (P= .025). The Delfi PTS, SmartCuffs Pro, and BStrong BFR systems were each safe and were able to significantly reduce repetitions to failure compared with a low-load free-flow condition when used in a BFR exercise protocol. The Delfi PTS system may produce a higher RPE with prolonged use in comparison to the other systems. Level II, prospective cohort study.

Which parameters, related to the female urethra and pelvic floor, determine therapy selection for recurrent female stress urinary incontinence: ICI-RS 2023?

The evidence basis for therapy selection in women who have failed primary stress urinary incontinence (SUI) surgery is limited. The ICI-RS group discussed the available data at its meeting in June 2023, particularly the anatomical characteristics as assessed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound (US) modalities, functional characteristics associated with storage and voiding urodynamic assessment, as well as the patient characteristics that might influence outcomes. This paper summarizes the evidence base that supported these discussions and offers the basis for research proposals for future groups. A literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials was performed, and the data is presented. Research questions are based on the knowledge gaps highlighted. Possible MRI parameters that may influence outcomes were striated urethral sphincter volume, bladder and proximal urethral funneling, pubo-urethral ligament integrity, distance of the bladder neck below the pubococcygeal line, posterior urethra-vesical angle, and bladder neck to levator ani distance. US parameters included sling distance to the urethral lumen and pubis, sling position, bladder neck mobility, and lateral arm asymmetry, twisting, or curling. Urodynamic parameters included detrusor overactivity, Valsalva leak point pressure, maximum urethral closure pressure, and bladder outlet obstruction. Important patient parameters included body mass index, age, and previous interventions. Identifying and quantifying causative factors in patients with recurrent SUI, that allow clinicians to modify subsequent treatment choices and techniques may help reduce treatment failure and complications. Formulating algorithms is the next step in optimizing patient counseling, surgical selection, and healthcare allocation.

Muscle Mass and Muscle Strength Following 6 Weeks of Blood Flow Restriction Combined with Low-Intensity Strength Training in Overweight Adolescents

Background and Study purpose. Blood flow restriction training is a new training technique that involves low-intensity exercise and can generate physiological changes equivalent to high-intensity exercise. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of blood flow restriction in conjunction with low-intensity resistance exercise on muscle mass and muscle strength among overweight adolescents, in comparison to conventional resistance exercise. Materials and methods. The study involved two randomized groups: an experimental group, which performed 40% of one repetition maximum (1RM) resistance exercise combined with 60% of arterial occlusion pressure (AOP), and a traditional resistance exercise group, which performed 70% of 1RM resistance exercise. All participants underwent pre-test and post-test evaluations for body composition, 1RM, and muscle circumference. The training program lasted for six weeks and consisted of upper and lower body training, including exercises such as leg press, leg curl, arm curl, and arm extension. Results. The group that underwent low-load blood flow restriction (LLBFR) training showed a notable increase in muscle mass (p&lt;0.049) as well as arm and leg circumference (p&lt;0.047 and p&lt;0.046, respectively) compared to before the training program, similar to the results of high-intensity resistance exercise. Conclusions. Combining blood flow restriction with low-intensity resistance training is a potentially effective approach to increase muscle size and strength, especially in overweight adolescents. Moreover, this type of training can decrease the amount of exercise load, making it a feasible option for individuals who may not tolerate high loads due to certain medical conditions or other limitations.

12-week concurrent brisk walking and Taijiquan (Tai Chi) improve balance, flexibility, and muscular strength of Chinese older women.

Healthy aging is a global goal to enhance the quality of life for older persons. This study evaluated the benefits of 12-week concurrent brisk walking and Taijiquan. Healthy Chinese women aged 60 years and above were enrolled to the control (n = 26) and intervention (n = 25) groups. Participants in the intervention group engaged in three exercise sessions per week for 12 weeks, whereas control group engaged in free-living activities. Each exercise session consisted of 20-45 minutes of walking and 20-45 minutes of Yang style 24-form Taijiquan. 12-week exercise improved (p < 0.05) the sit and reach test (within-group mean difference: +5.6 cm; Hedges' g = 0.77), handgrip strength (mean difference: +3.1 kg; g = 0.89), arm curl (mean difference: +2.1 repetitions; g = 0.69), chair stand (mean difference: +2.6 repetitions; g = 0.63), and one-legged standing (mean difference: +2.2 seconds; g = 1.07). There was no improvement in the circulatory health, body composition, or life satisfaction. Therefore, this concurrent brisk walking and Taijiquan training, which targets major whole-body muscle groups, could improve aging-critical flexibility, muscular fitness, and balance in older women. The exercise meets the current WHO guideline, is safe to perform, and could be campaigned as a health promotion for older persons.