Exercise Group Research Articles

Profile of Female Individuals with Chronic Low Back Pain

Background: When low back pain (LBP) persists for at least 12 weeks, it becomes chronic. In 90% of cases, LBP is satisfactorily resolved within 6 weeks. LBP becomes chronic in 7% to 10% of cases. Among various populations, females tend to experience a higher prevalence and severity of chronic LBP compared to males, attributed to a combination of anatomical, hormonal, psychosocial and occupational factors.Objective: To see the profile of individuals with chronic low back pain (CLBP) in female patients. Materials and Methods: This observational study was carried out at the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, BSMMU, Dhaka in 2016. 150 female patients of low back pain attending the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation department, BSMMU were enrolled. Purposive sampling was done according to availability of the patients. All the data were compiled and sorted properly and the quantitative data was analyzed statistically by using SPSS. Results: Most of the patients belonged to low educational group (n=60, 40%). Obesity was an important risk factor for developing chronic low back pain. Patients with overweight were found, 43.33% (n=65). The most of the patients were in 5000 to15000 taka income group (n=90, 60%) whereas 41 patients (27.33%) family members were suffering from CLBP, and 76.0% (n=114) were inactive from physical exercise (Grade 1). 121 patients (80.66%) had the experience of grade 3 bad posture. Conclusion: People in the grade 1 level of exercise group had the highest risk of developing CLBP. People in the grade 3 (regular) bad posture group had the highest risk of developing CLBP. KYAMC Journal. 2024; 15(02): 77-82

Examining the effectiveness of PNF technique with Theraband Vs. Closed kinetic chain exercises for alleviating pain and enhancing functional status in individuals with Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy-A Pilot Study

Background: Shoulder dysfunction is a common musculoskeletal condition affecting daily functional activities, causing pain, reduced range of motion (ROM), and diminished strength. Theraband training and closed kinetic chain exercises are widely used rehabilitation strategies, but their comparative effectiveness remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate and compare the impact of these two exercise modalities on pain, ROM, muscle strength, and functional outcomes in individuals with shoulder dysfunction. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 30 participants with shoulder dysfunction, divided equally into two groups: PNF training with Theraband (n=15) and closed kinetic chain (n=15). Baseline and post-intervention assessments were conducted, including pain levels using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), shoulder ROM across flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, internal rotation, and external rotation, muscle strength (measured in kg), and functional status using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). Data were analyzed statistically to compare pre- and post-intervention results. Results: Both exercise groups demonstrated significant improvements in pain, ROM, strength, and functional status post-intervention (p<0.05). However, the Closed kinetic chain group exhibited superior outcomes in ROM and muscle strength compared to the Open kinetic chain group (p<0.001). Pain reduction and functional improvements were comparable between the groups, indicating the effectiveness of both modalities in addressing shoulder dysfunction. Conclusion: While both PNF training with Theraband and Closed kinetic chain exercises are effective in managing shoulder dysfunction, closed kinetic chain exercises demonstrated superior improvements in ROM and muscle strength. These findings suggest that closed kinetic chain exercises should be prioritized in rehabilitation protocols for patients with shoulder dysfunction.

The effects of risperidone and voluntary exercise intervention on synaptic plasticity gene expressions in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of juvenile female rats.

The effects of risperidone and voluntary exercise intervention on synaptic plasticity gene expressions in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of juvenile female rats.

The effect of garlic and stevia extract with aerobic exercise on hypothalamic leptin and ghrelin receptor mRNA expression and insulin resistance in obese rats

BackgroundObesity has recently become the most prevalent diet-related disease worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the effects of aerobic exercise, stevia, and garlic extract on leptin and ghrelin receptor mRNA, as well as the interactions between insulin and glucose in relation to these genes.MethodsA total of 50 male Wistar rats were split into two groups: one group was fed regular rodent food, while the other was fed a high-fat diet for 12 weeks to induce obesity. The obese rats were then divided into six groups of five (N = 5) based on Lee’s index: an obese control group (OC), obese treated with garlic, stevia (OGS), obese aerobic exercise (OE), obese garlic and aerobic exercise (OGE), Obese stevia and aerobic exercise (OSE), and a Normal weight group (NC). The exercise groups participated in a gradually increasing aerobic walking program, whereas the stevia and garlic groups received daily oral doses of their respective extracts. The expression of leptin and ghrelin receptor genes in the hypothalamus was measured using real-time PCR, and insulin resistance was calculated using the HOMA/IR formula. Statistical analysis was conducted using ANOVA, with a significance level set at P < 0.05.ResultsThe obese (O) rats experienced a significant increase in body weight compared with the control (C) rats (p = 0.013), whereas the treated rats showed no significant changes in weight. Leptin receptor mRNA levels were significantly lower in O rats than in C rats (p = 0.00), but increased significantly in the OS (p = 0.000) and OSE (p = 0.034) groups compared with obese rats. Ghrelin receptor mRNA levels were significantly higher in the O group than in the C group (p = 0.035), but decreased in all treatment groups, with the OE (p = 0.001), OGE (p = 0.001), and OSE (p = 0.004) groups showing the greatest reductions. Insulin resistance increased slightly in the O group compared with the C group (p = 0.112), but was lowest in the OS group among all groups (p = 0.018).ConclusionsStevia significantly improved leptin and ghrelin receptor mRNA expression, glucose levels, and insulin resistance in obese rats, showing its potential as an effective dietary intervention for managing obesity.

Strategies for person-centredness at meeting places arranging group exercises for community-dwelling older persons– A focus group study from a stakeholder perspective

BackgroundHealth-promotive interventions targeting older persons are important for active and healthy ageing. Hence, physical group exercises for community-dwelling older persons are arranged by various stakeholders via meeting places within the municipalities. Increased knowledge of how group exercises via meeting places can be arranged to promote health for the older population is needed. Therefore, the aim was to explore involved stakeholders’ experiences of group exercises for older persons arranged via meeting places in municipalities in relation to health promotion.MethodsSix focus group interviews were conducted online with 25 stakeholders from seven municipalities in Sweden. The stakeholders were managers of prevention units, municipal coordinators for physical activity, group exercise leaders, stakeholders from study associations, sports associations and private stakeholders, and non-profit stakeholders who arranged group exercises via the meeting places. The data was analysed using focus group methodology, where the focus of the analysis was to obtain the stakeholders’ collective understanding of the topic.FindingsThe analysis resulted in two main themes and seven categories. In the main theme Strategies to strengthen empowerment and exercise habits among older persons, the stakeholders highlighted strategies on an individual level. Strategies of importance to attract new participants and supporting them in maintaining their exercise habits, empowering them through social belonging, adapting to older persons through responsiveness and evaluation, facilitating participation in decision-making, and enabling older persons to lead group exercises. The other main theme, Strategies to strengthen the arrangement of group exercises over time, highlighted strategies on an organisational level concerning financial resources, supportive environments, the importance of human resources, competence development as well as collaboration.ConclusionsPerson-centredness emerges in health-promoting strategies both at the individual and organisational level. The study contributes to an understanding of how person-centredness is significant when working with health-promotive interventions for healthy ageing. Thus, a potential implication is to use a person-centred approach in the encounter with older persons and in the organisation when arranging group exercises for community-dwelling older persons.

High-fat Diet Coupled with Aerobic Exercise Has a Sexually Dimorphic Effect on the Biochemical Profile and Anxiety-like Behaviour of Adolescent Wistar Rats.

Childhood exposure to a high-fat diet (HFD) has long-term implications on metabolism and behaviour. Exercise and switching to a normal low-fat diet during adulthood can sometimes reverse a few biochemical consequences of HFD exposure during childhood. This study proposes to address the effect of aerobic exercise on HFD-induced metabolic and behavioural changes by observing the biometric, biochemical and anxiety-like behaviour assessed by elevated plus maze in adolescent male and female Wistar rats. Fourteen female and 18 male wistar rat pups aged 35 days were divided into 3 groups [control, HFD+exercise and HFD]. The HFD and HFD+exercise alone received HFD for 10 weeks. In addition HFD +exercise were subjected to forced swimming for 30 minutes 5 days a week for 4 last weeks. At the end of 10th week, elevated plus maze recording was done to assess anxiety. We observed that both male and female Wistar rats' body weight increased within 2 weeks of HFD exposure and continued to increase till 5th week. In male rats, after 4 weeks of exercise, the weight was comparable to that of the control group, while weight decreased in female rats. In both males and females, plasma glucose and lipid profiles were increased after HFD. However, exercise seems to lower these in the HFD + exercise group. Female HFD + exercise group rats showed a significantly higher number of exits from closed arm to open arm and climbing than their sex-matched control on Day 3. This shows that the exercise ameliorated the anxiogenic behaviour in HFD-fed adolescent female rats but not in male rats to the same extent. When combined, these findings highlight that HFD and exercise throughout adolescence have sex-specific differential effects on biometric, biochemical, and anxiety-like behaviour.

Effects of Tai Chi Versus General Aerobic Exercise on Depressive Symptoms and Serum Lipid Levels Among Older Persons With Depressive Symptoms: A Randomized Controlled Study.

Tai Chi, a mindfulness-based aerobic exercise, may alleviate depressive symptoms and improve physiological markers in older adults. However, its distinct effects compared with general aerobic exercise remain unclear. To compare the effects of Tai Chi and general aerobic exercise on depressive symptoms and serum lipid levels in community-dwelling older adults with mild to moderate depression, a randomized controlled trial was conducted. Participants were randomly assigned to Tai Chi (n = 120) or general aerobic exercise (n = 120) for 3 months. Depressive symptoms and serum lipid levels were measured at baseline and postintervention. A generalized estimating equation was used to assess group differences over time. The Tai Chi group exhibited significantly greater reductions in depressive symptoms and improvements in serum lipid profiles compared with the general aerobic exercise group. Tai Chi's mind-body synergy may enhance its antidepressant effects, offering a promising approach to mental health and healthy aging.

Precision Exercise Effect on Fatigue and Function in Lung Cancer Surgery: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Exercise intervention studies have shown benefits for patients with lung cancer undergoing surgery, yet most interventions to date have been resource intensive and have followed a one-size-fits-all approach. To determine whether a personalized, clinic-aligned perioperative exercise program with remote monitoring and instructions can improve physical function and fatigue among patients undergoing surgery for lung cancer. The Precision-Exercise-Prescription (PEP) randomized clinical trial is a single-center phase 3 trial. Adult patients with primary lung cancer (stages I-IIIa) or oligometastatic disease to the lung (where all disease could be removed) were assessed for eligibility and randomized to either an exercise intervention or standard care. Patients were enrolled between November 2017 and 2021, and the trial continued during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were analyzed from November 2022 to December 2023. The structured exercise program, personalized based on mobility scores, was a home-based exercise intervention prescribed and monitored remotely by a licensed physical therapist. The program started approximately 2 weeks before surgery and continued after surgery. Standard care included use of incentive spirometer and encouragement to exercise without a formal program. Physical function (6-minute walk test [6MWT]), the Short Physical Performance Battery, and cancer-related fatigue (Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue) were assessed at baseline and 2 months after surgery. A total of 182 patients (92 receiving exercise intervention, 90 receiving standard care) were assessed in the intention-to-treat population. Patients had a mean (SD) age of 62.7 (13.8) years, 108 (59%) were female, and 89 (49%) had low mobility scores (Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care scores, 1-3). Physical function in the exercise group increased at 2 months after surgery (mean [SE] 6MWT at baseline, 467.9 [13.0] m; at 2 months, 482.2 [14.1] m), compared with a decrease in the standard-care group (mean [SE] 6MWT at baseline, 481.4 [11.1] m; at 2 months, 471.5 [14.0] m). Mean (SE) between-group changes in 6MWT distance for intent to treat from baseline to 2 months were 22.7 (12.7) m (P = .08), with greater effect sizes among women (mean [SE], 37.8 [17.3] m; P = .03). Similarly, women showed greater improvements in the Short Physical Performance Battery (mean [SE], 0.9 [0.4]; P = .04). Patients in the exercise group maintained stable fatigue scores at 2 months, whereas participants in the standard-care group deteriorated (mean [SD], 3.7 [1.4]; P = .009), with greater effect sizes among individuals who were younger, from rural areas, had overweight or obesity, and had primary lung cancer. The PEP intervention, a personalized, clinic-aligned, and remotely monitored perioperative exercise program for patients with lung cancer undergoing surgery demonstrated improvements in physical function for women and significant improvements in fatigue scores across all groups. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03306992.

Effects of Extended Reality-based Fall Prevention Training on Reflexes, Judgment, and Balance Control in Adults

Background/Objectives: This study aims to investigate the impact of extended reality (XR) technology on adults’ reflexes, judgment, and balance control, with the goal of proposing effective fall prevention methods. Methods/Statistical analysis: This study was conducted on 42 male and female college students aged 20~25 years old who are enrolled in S University, A City, Korea, and were randomly distributed into XR-wearing exercise group (XRG) and verbal instruction exercise group (VIG) for 4 weeks after evaluating their health status and ability through preliminary interviews. The study evaluated the effects of each group through tests for judgment (K-MOKA), reflexes (TMT), and balance control (TUG, STS). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 22.0 to analyse differences between groups. Findings: This study demonstrated that XR-based fall prevention training significantly improved adults' reflexes, judgment, and balance control abilities. This suggests that XR training is more effective than traditional methods and raises the possibility of establishing it as a new approach to fall prevention. Improvements/Applications: Training programs utilizing XR technology can contribute to fall prevention in the elderly and vulnerable populations. Future research should explore the diverse applications of XR and seek directions for developing it into a more comprehensive treatment approach.

Retrospective Analysis of Balance Parameters in Pregnant Women: A Sub-Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial

Objectives: Altered body biomechanics during pregnancy can lead to balance impairments and an increased risk of falls. Clinical exercise interventions can help regulate these biomechanical changes. Methods: A total of 101 pregnant participants (exercise group: n = 50; control group: n = 51) were retrospectively analyzed over an 8-week follow-up period. Single-leg balance parameters, including AP sway, ML sway, total body sway, OSD, and center of pressure velocity and acceleration, were assessed considering limb dominance. Measurements were taken at baseline and week 8. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used to analyze time–group interactions, with significance set at p &lt; 0.001. The biomechanical impacts of participant height and body mass on center of pressure dynamics were also considered. Results: The exercise group (EG) demonstrated significant improvements in all balance parameters compared to the control group (CG) (p &lt; 0.001), except for non-dominant anterior-posterior (AP) sway (p = 0.512). In the EG, medio-lateral (ML) and AP sway of the non-dominant limb were minimized, whereas these parameters were significantly increased in the CG. Although both groups exhibited an increased one-leg stance duration (OSD), the improvement was more pronounced in the EG. The controlled improvements observed in the EG suggest a protective effect of exercise on balance, particularly in the dominant limb. Conclusions: Clinical exercise interventions during pregnancy enhance balance parameters, reduce fall risk, and improve functional mobility. These findings suggest that structured exercise programs not only support maternal well-being but also improve reactive balance control. Given the biomechanical changes throughout pregnancy, future studies should examine the center of pressure velocity, acceleration, and the influence of maternal anthropometrics on postural stability to refine exercise recommendations.

Impact of combined high-intensity bodyweight interval training and breathing exercise on cardiometabolic health in normal-weight middle-aged adults with hypertension

BackgroundHigh-intensity interval training and breathing exercises alone have well-documented health benefits in people with hypertension. This study aimed to investigated the effects of combining the two methods on physical health among adults with hypertension.MethodsNinety-six adults (59.4 ± 9.1 years; 84% female; BMI 22.7 ± 1.6 kg/m2) with hypertension were randomized into one of four groups: Breathing Exercise (BE), High-Intensity Bodyweight Interval Training (HIBIT), Combined Exercise (CE), or a Non-Exercise Control (CON) group. The intervention lasted 10 weeks, with all exercise groups having the same total training time of 3 days per week (BE: 30 min/day; HIBIT: 60 min/day; CE: BE 30 min/day plus HIBIT 60 min/day). Resting heart rate, resting blood pressure, hand grip strength, cardiorespiratory fitness assessed using 6-Minute Walking Test (6MWT) and blood lipids were measured pre- and post-intervention.ResultsThe BE group showed the greatest reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP) compared to CON, although differences among the exercise groups were not statistically significant. The increase in 6MWT values in the combined exercise group differed significantly compared to the other three groups (p = 0.000 and effect size = 0.296). The combined exercise group showed significant reductions in total cholesterol, LDL and triglyceride levels compared to the control group. The average reduction in total cholesterol levels was 20.8 mg/dL (95% C: -41.9 – 0.4) with an effect size of 0.103. Meanwhile, the decrease in LDL and triglyceride levels was 20.1 mg/dL (95% CI: -37.6—-2.5; p = 0.014) and -40.4 mg/dL (95% CI: -82.1—1.3; p = 0.04) with effect sizes of 0.118 and 0.101.ConclusionsIn conclusion combined exercise for 10 weeks could lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure, increase CRF, and improved lipid profile. As a clinical implication, the results of this study can be an alternative or complementary approach to treatment for hypertension, potentially reducing the need for medications and their associated side effects.Trial registrationTCTR20230707003 (http://www.clinicaltrials.in.th/) registered on 28 January 2023.

Non-Pharmacological Interventions for Managing the Symptoms of Depression in Women with Breast Cancer: A Literature Review of Clinical Trials

Symptoms of depression represent a significant burden to patients with breast cancer, not only because of the psychological stress associated with their diagnosis, but also because of the adverse effects of its treatment. We reviewed the clinical trials examining the management of the symptoms of depression in breast cancer patients through different non-pharmacological interventions in different databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the American Psychological Association). Cognitive behavioural therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy or psychodynamic psychotherapy, as well as acceptance and commitment therapy have been effective in improving symptoms of depression in cancer patients with moderate to severe symptoms. Physical exercise, yoga, mindfulness, and support groups have been shown to benefit patients with mild depressive symptoms. These interventions not only showed positive results in interventions in women with breast cancer in terms of the symptoms of depression, but also highlighted their benefits for comorbid anxiety, stress, and poor sleep quality; moreover, it is suggested that these interventions should be leveraged to manage mental health issues in breast cancer patients. The molecular effects of these interventions, such as the reduction in inflammatory cytokines and cortisol levels, have seldom been reported and need further studies.

Effects of Unstable Exercise Using the Inertial Load of Water on Lower Extremity Kinematics and Center of Pressure During Stair Ambulation in Middle-Aged Women with Degenerative Knee Arthritis

Stair ambulation requires precise lower extremity control and postural stability. Middle-aged women with degenerative knee arthritis (DKA) are at an increased risk of falls, yet the effects of unstable load training on their postural stability remain underexplored. This study investigated the effects of a 10-week Aqua Vest-based unstable load training program on postural stability and pain during stair ambulation in middle-aged women with DKA. Thirty participants were randomly assigned to an exercise group (EG) or a control group (CG), with 15 participants in each group. The EG completed a 10-week Aqua Vest training program, while the CG received no intervention. Pre- and post-assessments included spatiotemporal parameters, lower extremity kinematics, and center of pressure (CoP) trajectories during stair descent, as well as knee pain evaluated by a visual analog scale (VAS). After training, the EG demonstrated significant improvements in spatiotemporal and kinematic parameters, reduced ML displacement, lower VAS scores, as well as significant changes in AP CoP parameters. These findings suggest that Aqua Vest-based unstable load training may enhance ML postural stability and alleviate pain in DKA patients, potentially contributing to enhanced balance function and improved stair ambulation safety.

Effects of Exercise Program on Mental, Pulmonary, and Cardiovascular Health of Elderly Men with Acquired Severe Physical Disabilities: A Retrospective Study

Background/Objectives: Physical activity is recommended for people with physical disabilities and is beneficial not only for physical health but also for mental health. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of life (QoL), pulmonary health, and cardiovascular health among a group of older men with physical disabilities who participated in an exercise program. Methods: This study included 23 participants in the exercise group (EG) as an experimental group and 23 in the culture group (CG) as a control group. All participants were ≥65 years, with one or more physical disabilities, and used wheelchairs or crutches for mobility. The participants were each provided with the exercise program for 8 weeks. Assessments included a QoL, pulmonary function test, brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), and factors of metabolic syndrome. The exercise program consisted of aerobics, strength training using dumbbells and tubes, and mat exercises for three days a week for 8 weeks. The culture program included singing, drawing, and writing. Results: The interaction effects by time and group showed that EG had a superior change compared to CG in QoL (physical function, pain, fatigue, social), forced vital capacity, baPWV, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: Participation in the exercise program positively influenced mental, pulmonary, and cardiovascular health in older men with physical disabilities. Our research results will provide useful information for rehabilitation and social security research to improve the health of elderly people with physical disabilities.

Assessment of the efficacy of early versus delayed mobility exercise after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

Rotator cuff tears were a prevalent cause of shoulder pain and impairment, often necessitating arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. The optimal timing of postoperative mobilization initiation remains a subject of debate implicating patient outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of early and delayed mobilization after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. A total of 84 patients who underwent unilateral arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were included in the study and divided into early and delayed mobility exercise groups. Outcome measures included range of motion, shoulder strength, pain assessment, re-tear rates, return to work and pre-injury activity, as well as patient-reported outcomes at various postoperative time points. Early mobility exercise after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair led to a significantly greater recovery of range of motion at six weeks postoperatively (P < 0.05) and shoulder strength at 12 weeks postoperatively (P < 0.05), as compared to the delayed mobility exercise group. However, the early mobility exercise resulted in non-significant excess in the pain assessment at the six-month postoperative mark (P > 0.05). Additionally, there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in several outcome measures, including re-tear rates, return to work and pre-injury activity, and long-term patient-reported outcomes at one year post-operatively (P > 0.05). Both early and delayed mobilization exercises safely improve range of motion, shoulder strength, and pain relief after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Early mobilization within six to 12 weeks post-surgery enhances range of motion and strength without increasing re-tear rates. Not applicable.

Effects of Sports Massage and Joint Mobilization Exercises on Balance Ability and Lower Limb Muscle Function in Older Women

Purpose This study aims to investigate the effects of sports massage therapy and joint mobilization exercises on balance ability and lower limb muscle function in elderly women. Methods A total of 23 elderly women participated in the study, divided into three groups: the sports massage group (8 participants), the joint mobilization exercise group (7 participants), and the control group (8 participants). Both interventions were conducted three times a week for six weeks, with each session lasting 30 minutes. Balance ability and physical function were assessed before and after the intervention. Results In static balance, post test scores were significantly different: 75.00 ± 11.15 for the sports massage group, 79.57 ± 11.72 for the joint mobilization group, and 64.00 ± 5.42 for the control group. For dynamic balance, pretest scores showed differences: 36.88 ± 8.71 for the sports massage group and 42.14 ± 4.74 for the joint mobilization group. Regarding walking speed, the sports massage group scored 10.87 ± 3.89 and the joint mobilization group scored 11.10 ± 3.76, both slower than the control group (6.77 ± 1.11) (p &lt; .05). Conclusion The findings suggest that sports massage and joint mobilization exercises enhance lower limb muscle strength and improve balance in elderly women, contributing to fall prevention and improved mobility.

Therapeutic Effects of Slow Deep Breathing on Cardiopulmonary Function, Physical Performance, Biochemical Parameters, and Stress in Older Adult Patients with Long COVID in Phayao, Thailand.

Long COVID poses significant challenges for older adult patients, affecting their cardiopulmonary function and overall well-being. This study aimed to investigate the effects of slow deep breathing exercises on cardiopulmonary function, physical performance, biochemical markers, oxidative stress, and stress levels in older adult patients with long COVID. Sixty older adult patients with long COVID were randomly assigned to an exercise group of 30 patients and a control group of 30 patients. The exercise group engaged in slow deep breathing exercises for 30 minutes, five times a week over a period of 8 weeks, while the control group maintained their usual activities. Cardiovascular parameters, heart rate variability (HRV), respiratory muscle strength (RMS), pulmonary function tests (PFT), physical performance, biochemical and oxidative stress markers, and stress levels were assessed at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. Data were analyzed using one-way repeated measures ANOVA. The exercise group showed significant reductions in cardiovascular parameters (systolic and diastolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, mean arterial pressure, and heart rate). Additionally, RMS, PFT, and physical performance showed significant increases. Improvements were also observed in HRV, biochemical markers (fasting blood sugar and lipid profile), oxidative stress markers (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde), and stress levels. In contrast, no significant changes were found in the control group. Slow deep breathing exercises, as a non-pharmacological intervention, significantly improve cardiopulmonary function, physical performance, and various health markers in older adult patients with long COVID. This approach provides a valuable and accessible therapeutic option for this population.

Effects of Walking and Barre Exercise on CES-D, Stress Hormones, hs-CRP, and Immunoglobulins in Elderly Women.

Objectives: This study explored the impact of a 12-week walking and barre exercise program on depression levels (CES-D), stress hormones (dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine, cortisol, serotonin), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM) in women aged 65 and above. Methods: Twenty-seven participants were divided into a walking exercise group (WG), barre exercise group (BG) and control group (CG), each comprising nine individuals. Sessions lasted 50 min, thrice weekly, with intensity progressing every 4 weeks. Two-way repeated measures of ANOVA assessed time-group interactions and main effects, and paired t-tests and one-way ANOVA were used post hoc with significance set at 0.05. Results: The CES-D scores demonstrated significant interaction (p < 0.001), decreasing significantly in the BG and WG (p < 0.01) while rising in the CG (p < 0.05). Post hoc analysis revealed significantly lower depression levels in the BG compared to the CG (p < 0.01). Stress hormones epinephrine and cortisol showed a main effect of time (p < 0.05), with epinephrine increasing significantly in the BG (p < 0.05) and cortisol decreasing in the BG and WG (p < 0.05). An interaction effect emerged in hs-CRP levels (p < 0.05), while IgA and IgM displayed interaction effects (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively), both significantly increasing in the BG (p < 0.05). Conclusions: In summary, regular exercise positively impacted depression, stress hormones, and immune functions in older women.

The effect of sport-based group work on the social emotional learning skills and self-respect of visually disabled adolescents

ABSTRACT Introduction Sport has many advantages such as anger control, focus, and staying away from harmful habits. Dance is one of the most enjoyable sports activities, it has positive physiological and psychological effects, reduces depressive symptoms, increases self-esteem, self-confidence, and quality of life. Zumba, which includes both dance and sports, is defined as the “practice of feeling happy.” Zumba has positive effects on psychosocial well-being. A visually impaired adolescent with high self-esteem and social-emotional learning skills accepts themselves, realizes his abilities, feels strong and takes an active role in society. This study was conducted to determine the effect of sports-based group work on the social-emotional learning skills and self-esteem of visually impaired adolescents. Method Experimental and control groups consisting of 10 visually impaired adolescents were determined in the study, in which the full experimental design was used. Zumba Fitness Exercise Program and group work were applied simultaneously to the experimental group. No application was made to the control group. Results As a result of the study, it was determined that the Zumba Fitness Program and group work increased the social emotional learning skills and self-esteem of visually impaired adolescents. Discussion When the literature is examined, it is seen that there are similar studies with the results of this study. Implications for practitioners It is an important fact that these programs for visually impaired adolescents contribute to their self-esteem and social emotional skills. Therefore, the number of such studies should be increased.

Effect of aerobic exercise combined with dietary intervention on fat loss effect and the regulatory mechanism of serum irisin in adolescent obese rats based on aerobic exercise combined with dietary intervention

Introduction: Obesity not only affects the physical health of adolescents, but may also lead to psychological and social problems. Treatment strategies for adolescent obesity have become particularly important. Increasing evidence suggests that exercise training, especially aerobic exercise, can not only improve obesity, but may also affect obesity and metabolic diseases by regulating hormone levels in the blood. Objectives: The relationship between aerobic exercise combined with dietary intervention and irisin was analyzed by observing the effects of aerobic exercise combined with dietary intervention on body weight, body fat, skeletal muscle, and adipose tissue protein expression in obese rats. Methods: Eighty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into high-fat diet quiet, low-fat diet quiet control, low-fat diet aerobic exercise, high-fat diet aerobic exercise. During the intervention period, the high-fat group continued to be fed high-fat diet and the low-fat group was fed low-fat diet. Aerobic exercise was performed in the exercise group, and the relevant indexes were tested at the end of the intervention. Results: Rats in the aerobic exercise and low-fat eating intervention group had considerably lower body weights and body fat percentages than rats in the low-fat feeding calm group (P &lt; 0.01). Serum irisin levels were higher in the aerobic exercise intervention group than in the quiet group (P &lt; 0.05). Compared to the quiet group, the aerobic exercise intervention group’s soleus muscle showed a significantly greater expression level of associated proteins (P &lt; 0.05). Moreover, rats in the aerobic exercise group had significantly higher levels of associated protein expression in their white fat at the perirenal area than rats in the quiet group (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: Lower dietary fat content significantly reduced body weight and body fat percentage in rats, and the fat loss effect was more obvious when combined with aerobic exercise. Therefore, the combination of aerobic exercise and dietary intervention can be used as an effective fat loss modality for adolescent obese adolescents.