Improve Endurance Performance Research Articles

Montmorency cherry supplementation enhances 15km cycling time trial performance: Optimal timing 90-min pre-exercise.

Montmorency cherry (MC) can improve endurance performance, but optimal pre-exercise timing of supplementation and influence of training status on efficacy are unknown. We investigated the effect of MC concentrate ingestion between 30- and 150-min pre-exercise in trained and recreational cyclists on 15-km time trial (TT) performance and exercise economy. Twenty participants (10 recreationally active, RA; 10 trained, T) completed 10min of steady-state exercise (SSE) at 40%Δ (SSE) and a TT on four separate occasions following an unsupplemented (US), 30-, 90- or 150-min pre-exercise Montmorency cherry concentrate (MCC) supplementation conditions (MCC30/90/150min). Venous and capillary blood samples were taken at regular intervals pre- and post-SSE and TT. MCC significantly improved TT performance, but not exercise economy. The greatest improvement in performance occurred following MCC90min compared to US (US 1603.1±248s vs. MCC90min 1554.8±226.7s, 2.83% performance improvement). Performance was significantly enhanced for trained (US 1496.6±173.1s vs. MCC90min 1466.8±157.6s) but not recreationally active participants. Capillary [lactate] and heart rate were significantly greater during the TT for the 90-min dose timing (p<0.05). In the MCC30min and MCC90min conditions, plasma ferulic (US 8.71±3.22nmol. L-1 vs. MCC30min 15.80±8.69nmol. L-1, MCC90min 12.65±4.84nmol. L-1) and vanillic acid (US 25.14±10.91nmol.L-1 vs. MCC30min 153.07±85.91nmol. L-1, MCC90min 164.58±59.06nmol. L-1) were significantly higher pre-exercise than in US and MCC150min conditions (p<0.05). There was no significant change in muscle oxygenation status or plasma nitrite/nitrate concentration. MCC supplementation enhanced endurance exercise performance optimally when consumed ∼90min pre-exercise producing maximal plasma phenolic metabolites during exercise. The ergogenic effect was greater for trained participants.

Comparative Study of Different Respiratory Muscle Training Methods: Effects on Cardiopulmonary Indices and Athletic Performance in Elite Short-Track Speedskaters.

Respiratory muscle training (RMT) improves endurance performance, balance, and ability to repeat high-intensity exercise bouts, providing a rationale to be applied in short-track speedskating. To establish a preferable RMT method for short-track speedskating, the influence of inspiratory pressure threshold loading (IPTL) and voluntary isocapnic hyperpnoea (VIH) on cardiopulmonary indices and athletic performance was investigated. Sixteen elite short-track speedskaters completed 6 weeks of RMT based on IPTL or VIH. Wingate Anaerobic Tests (WAnTs), cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPETs), spirometry assessments, and on-ice time trials were performed before and after RMT intervention. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to assess the differences between each method's influence. No statistically significant (p > 0.05) differences between RMT methods were found in performance during the WAnT, CPET, or specific on-ice time trials. Spirometry measures were similar between both methods. Significant effects were found for the interaction between maximum breathing frequency during CPET (BFmax) and method (p = 0.009), as well as for the interaction between BFMax, method, and sex (p = 0.040). BFmax decreased for IPTL and increased for VIH. The interaction between method and sex revealed that BFmax increased only in males performing VIH. Our findings suggest that IPTL and VIH lead to analogous effects in the study participants, highlighting a negligible practical disparity in the impact of different RMT methods in elite short-track speedskaters.

Improving Endurance Exercise Performance at High Altitude: Traditional and Non-traditional Approaches.

Acute exposure to terrestrial altitude (hypobaric hypoxia) causes decrements in endurance performance relative to sea level. Altitude acclimatization consistently results in partial attenuation of these decrements, but due to logistical challenges is not readily implemented. We discuss mechanisms and impact (or lack thereof) of other non-acclimatization interventions to improve endurance performance and provide suggestions future research directions.

The impact of asics runkeeper on improving endurance performance in students

The article investigates the impact of the asics runkeeper mobile application on the development of endurance in students. The purpose of the study is to investigate the impact of the asics runkeeper mobile application on endurance performance in students. To achieve this goal, the following research methods were used: analysis and synthesis of literary sources; resting heart rate, VO2 Max, 5 km and 10 km running; methods of mathematical statistics. A formative pedagogical experiment was conducted for three months, in which 30 students of the Hryhorii Skovoroda University in Pereiaslav took part. An experimental group (EG) and a control group (CG) were formed. The EG (n=15) trained using the asics runkeeper mobile application and the CG (n=15) trained without using such applications. It was found that the main methodological approaches to the development of endurance include: gradual increase in the duration of physical effort, interval training, pyramidal training, long, continuous training, functional training, tempo running, cross-country and cross-country training, exercises for general physical fitness. At the end of the experiment, we note a positive dynamics of the studied indicators in both groups. However, they are slightly higher in EG. In addition, students of EG showed more interest during the experiment, attracted friends, which is also an important factor.

The Effects of Normobaric Hypoxia on the Acute Physiological Responses to Resistance Training: A Narrative Review.

Allsopp, GL, Britto, FA, Wright, CR, and Deldicque, L. The effects of normobaric hypoxia on the acute physiological responses to resistance training: a narrative review. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2024-Athletes have used altitude training for many years as a strategy to improve endurance performance. The use of resistance training in simulated altitude (normobaric hypoxia) is a growing strategy that aims to improve the hypertrophy and strength adaptations to training. An increasing breadth of research has characterized the acute physiological responses to resistance training in hypoxia, often with the goal to elucidate the mechanisms by which hypoxia may improve the training adaptations. There is currently no consensus on the overall effectiveness of hypoxic resistance training for strength and hypertrophy adaptations, nor the underlying biochemical pathways involved. There are, however, numerous interesting physiological responses that are amplified by performing resistance training in hypoxia. These include potential changes to the energy system contribution to exercise and alterations to the level of metabolic stress, hormone and cytokine production, autonomic regulation, and other hypoxia-induced cellular pathways. This review describes the foundational exercise physiology underpinning the acute responses to resistance training in normobaric hypoxia, potential applications to clinical populations, including training considerations for athletic populations. The review also presents a summary of the ideal training parameters to promote metabolic stress and associated training adaptations. There are currently many gaps in our understanding of the physiological responses to hypoxic resistance training, partly caused by the infancy of the research field and diversity of hypoxic and training parameters.

Caveolin-3 regulates slow oxidative myofiber formation in female mice

Abstract Objectives Caveolin-3 (Cav-3) plays a pivotal role in maintaining skeletal muscle mass and function. Mutations or deletions of Cav-3 can result in the development of various forms of myopathy, which affect the integrity and repair capacity of muscle fiber membranes. However, the potential effect of Cav-3 on myofiber type composition remains unclear. Methods To investigate the effect of Cav-3 on muscle strength and running capacity, we examined the grip force test and the low/high-speed running test. Oxidative and glycolytic myofiber-related genes, proteins, and skeletal muscle fiber composition were measured to determine the role of the Cav-3 in oxidative myofiber formation. Results We report the impact of Cav-3 on enhancing muscle endurance performance in female mice, and the discovery of a new physiological function to increase the proportion of slow-twitch oxidative muscle fiber by analyzing the gastrocnemius and soleus. Skeletal muscle-specific ablation of Cav-3 in female mice increased oxidative myofiber-related gene expression and type I oxidative myofiber composition, with resultant improvements in endurance performance. In male mice, the absence of Cav-3 in skeletal muscle reduced in the expression of glycolytic fiber-related genes and proteins. Conclusions This study identified Cav-3 as a regulator of slow-twitch oxidative muscle fiber formation acting on female mice, which may provide a potential target for improving muscle oxidative function.

Tangeretin Enhances Muscle Endurance and Aerobic Metabolism in Mice via Targeting AdipoR1 to Increase Oxidative Myofibers.

Slow oxidative myofibers play an important role in improving muscle endurance performance and maintaining body energy homeostasis. However, the targets and means to regulate slow oxidative myofibers proportion remain unknown. Here, we show that tangeretin (TG), a natural polymethoxylated flavone, significantly activates slow oxidative myofibers-related gene expression and increases type I myofibers proportion, resulting in improved endurance performance and aerobic metabolism in mice. Proteomics, molecular dynamics, cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) and drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) investigations revealed that TG can directly bind to adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1). Using AdipoR1-knockdown C2C12 cells and muscle-specific AdipoR1-knockout mice, we found that the positive effect of TG on regulating slow oxidative myofiber related markers expression is mediated by AdipoR1 and its downstream AMPK/PGC-1α pathway. Together, our data uncover TG as a natural compound that regulates the identity of slow oxidative myofibers via targeting the AdipoR1 signaling pathway. These findings further unveil the new function of TG in increasing the proportion of slow oxidative myofibers and enhancing skeletal muscle performance.

Polarized running training adapted to versus contrary to the menstrual cycle phases has similar effects on endurance performance and cardiovascular parameters

PurposeThis study compared the effects of polarized running training adapted to the menstrual cycle (MC) phases versus polarized training adapted contrary to the MC on endurance performance and cardiovascular parameters.MethodsThirty-three naturally menstruating, moderately trained females (age: 26 ± 4 years; BMI: 22.3 ± 3.2 kg/m2; V˙\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\dot{V}$$\\end{document}O2max/rel: 40.35 ± 4.61 ml/min/kg) were randomly assigned to a control (CON) and intervention (INT) group. Both groups participated in a load-matched eight-week running training intervention. In the INT, high-intensity sessions were aligned with the mid and late follicular phase, low-intensity sessions with the early and mid-luteal phase, and recovery with the late luteal and early follicular phase. In the CON, high-intensity sessions were matched to the late luteal and early follicular phase, and recovery to the mid and late follicular phase. Endurance performance and cardiovascular parameters were assessed at baseline and after the intervention.ResultsTwenty-six females completed the intervention. A repeated measures ANOVA determined no time × group interaction effect for any parameter. A significant time effect was found for maximal oxygen uptake (F(1,12) = 18.753, p = 0.005, ηp2 = 0.630), the velocity at the ventilatory threshold one (F(1,12) = 10.704, p = 0.007, ηp2 = 0.493) and two (F(1,12) = 7.746, p = .018, ηp2 = .413).ConclusionThe training intervention improved endurance performance in both groups, with no further benefit observed from the MC-adapted polarized training in a group-based analysis. Replications with an extended intervention period, a larger sample size, and a more reliable MC determination are warranted.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) - A Beneficial Effect on Health and Physical Activity

Introduction: Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a member of the Zingiberaceae plant family and is indigenous to Southeast Asia. It has been widely utilized as an herbal remedy in numerous nations and is known for its beneficial properties, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic effects. Ginger is commonly consumed for its various health benefits, including alleviating coughs, reducing pain, addressing nausea, aiding digestion, and exhibiting analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Recently, research has begun to uncover the potential benefits of ginger on physical activity and athletic performance. Materials and methods: A comprehensive examination of scientific and medical literature was performed using the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The search terms employed were: "ginger," "ginger anticancer," "ginger anti-inflammatory," and "ginger antiemetic." Conclusion: Ginger, scientifically known as Zingiber officinale, is a widely utilized herb with various biological effects including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and antibacterial properties primarily attributed to four phenolic compounds: gingerols, shogaols, paradols, and zingerone. Notably, 6-shogaol, an active ingredient in ginger, shows promise as a natural anticancer product with potential therapeutic benefits. Also, several scientific studies have indicated that ginger supplementation may lead to reduced muscle soreness, improved endurance performance, and decreased inflammation in response to intense physical activity.

Post-exercise ketone supplementation improves endurance performance, but not cardiac function during an 8-week training intervention

Post-exercise ketone supplementation improves endurance performance, but not cardiac function during an 8-week training intervention

Acute dose-response effect of photobiomodulation therapy on 5-km running performance in trained runners: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study.

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) has been advocated as a potential intervention to improve muscle performance and recovery in the health and sports context. However, the short- and long-term effects of PBMT on endurance running performance remain under-researched and controversial. The purpose of this study was to investigate the acute dose-response effect of PBMT with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) on endurance performance and rating of perceived exertion (RPE; 6-20 Borg) during a 5-km running trial in recreational runners. In a crossover design, eighteen young adult runners (28.7 ± 7.8 years) were randomized to receive 1 of 4 PBMT conditions (placebo, 300, 900, and 1260 Joules [J]) 60min before the 5-km running trial on four occasions, separated by a 2-wk washout period. The treatments were applied to the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gastrocnemius muscles of both legs using a device containing 200 LEDs (100 red and 100 infrared). The following variables were assessed: endurance performance (i.e. total time, mean velocity, and velocity in the split distances at the initial 200m and every 400m lap) and RPE in the split distances at the initial 200m and every 400m lap. Data normality and homogeneity were tested using Shapiro-Wilk's and Levene's tests, respectively. Differences between treatment conditions were assessed using the analysis of variance tests (one- or two-way ANOVA, depending on the comparisons), complemented by the Bonferroni post hoc test. There were significant time effects for the running velocity and RPE in the split distances (p < 0.0001), with no significant treatment-by-time interaction (running velocity, p = 0.59; RPE, p = 0.95). The mean velocity (p = 0.997), total time (p = 0.998), and total mean of the RPE (p = 0.91) were similar between treatment conditions. In conclusion, acute PBMT with LEDs at doses of 300, 900, and 1260J is not recommended for improving endurance performance and RPE in the 5-km running trial in recreational runners.

Effect of Heat Acclimatization, Heat Acclimation, and Intermittent Heat Training on Maximal Oxygen Uptake.

Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) is an important determinant of endurance performance. Heat acclimation/acclimatization (HA/HAz) elicits improvements in endurance performance. Upon heat exposure reduction, intermittent heat training (IHT) may alleviate HA/HAz adaptation decay; however, corresponding VO2max responses are unknown. VO2max is maintained after HAz/HA; IHT mitigates decrements in aerobic power after HAz/HA. Interventional study. Level 3. A total of 27 male endurance runners (mean ± SD; age, 36 ± 12 years; body mass, 73.03 ± 8.97 kg; height, 178.81 ± 6.39 cm) completed VO2max testing at 5 timepoints; baseline, post-HAz, post-HA, and weeks 4 and 8 of IHT (IHT4, IHT8). After baseline testing, participants completed HAz, preceded by 5 days of HA involving exercise to induce hyperthermia for 60 minutes in the heat (ambient temperature, 39.13 ± 1.37°C; relative humidity, 51.08 ± 8.42%). Participants were assigned randomly to 1 of 3 IHT groups: once-weekly, twice-weekly, or no IHT. Differences in VO2max, velocity at VO2max (vVO2), and maximal heart rate (HRmax) at all 5 timepoints were analyzed using repeated-measure analyses of variance with Bonferroni corrections post hoc. No significant VO2max or vVO2 differences were observed between baseline, post-HAz, or post-HA (P = 0.36 and P = 0.09, respectively). No significant group or time effects were identified for VO2max or vVO2 at post-HA, IHT4, and IHT8 (P = 0.67 and P = 0.21, respectively). Significant HRmax differences were observed between baseline and post-HA tests (P < 0.01). No significant group or time HRmax differences shown for post-HA, IHT4, and IHT8 (P = 0.59). VO2max was not reduced among endurance runners after HA/HAz and IHT potentially due to participants' similar aerobic training status and high aerobic fitness levels. HAz/HA and IHT maintain aerobic power in endurance runners, with HAz/HA procuring reductions in HRmax.

Effects of Limosilactobacillus reuteri ID-D01 Probiotic Supplementation on Exercise Performance and Gut Microbiota in Sprague-Dawley Rats.

The gut microbiota composition in animals and humans has recently been found to be influenced by exercise. Although Limosilactobacillus reuteri strains have notable probiotic properties that promote human health, understanding of its effects in combination with exercise and physical activity is limited. Therefore, this study examined the effects of L. reuteri ID-D01, a human-derived probiotic, on exercise performance and fatigue in Sprague-Dawley rats. Organ weight, maximal running distance, serum biochemistry, muscle performance, microbial community composition, and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels were assessed. Results indicated that ID-D01 supplementation significantly improved endurance performance. Rats in the probiotic group demonstrated a significant increase in maximal running distance compared with that in the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, levels of fatigue markers, such as lactate and creatine phosphokinase, were significantly reduced in the ID-D01-administered groups, suggesting its potential to alleviate exercise-induced fatigue. Microbiome analysis revealed a distinct shift in gut microbiota composition in response to ID-D01 administration. The group that received ID-D01 probiotics exhibited a significant increase in the abundance of SCFA-producing bacteria, particularly Akkermansia spp., compared with that in the control groups. Furthermore, they showed elevated production of SCFAs, such as acetate and butyrate. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that ID-D01 can enhance exercise performance and reduce fatigue. Herein, we highlighted that human-derived probiotics could improve physical performance, as observed by changes in gut microbiota composition and SCFA production.

Practical Application of Respiratory Muscle Training in Endurance Sports

ABSTRACT Since traditional sport-specific training or exercise programs do not create enough stimulus to improve the function of the respiratory muscles, the rationale to introduce respiratory muscle training (RMT) emerged. RMT is associated with improved endurance performance and pulmonary function, and it reduced respiratory fatigue, perceived exertion, or breathlessness. The purpose of this article is to provide coaches with tools to select the appropriate form of RMT in the context of the athletes' needs, using appropriate methods, techniques, devices, and testing protocols. The video abstract is presented in Supplemental Digital Content as SDC 1.

The effect of aerobic running on children's thinking and endurance

The aim is to assess the impact of prolonged running on the endurance and thinking indicators of children aged 9-10 years in physical education classes at school. Methods – the pedagogical experiment was conducted for 4 months on the basis of the secondary general educational school 60 (Kirov, Russia), 120 schoolchildren from the third grades took part in it. 34 physical education lessons were held in each class. Schoolchildren from the control group were engaged in a standard physical education program for younger schoolchildren. The children from the experimental group also worked within the framework of the usual program, but during each lesson they performed a long run of 6 minutes. Overall endurance was assessed using the K Cooper (6 minutes) test, the students' thinking was evaluated by the "Simple Analogies" test. Both tests were performed before and after the pedagogical experiment. Results – before the start of the study, there were no significant differences between classes in both tests (p&gt;0.05). After the end of the study, the performance of children in the control group improved in the endurance test by 6.8% and 7.2% (p&gt;0.05), and in the experimental group improved by 24.9% and 18.9% (p&lt;0.05). In the thinking test, the indicators of the control group increased by 7.3% and 8.4% (p&gt;0.05), and in the experimental group by 24.8% and 23.5% (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion – long running can be introduced into the physical education program at school to improve endurance performance and thinking of schoolchildren 9-10 years old. Keywords: Health, Physical culture, Aerobic abilities, Physical qualities, Psychodiagnostics, School curriculum.

The Prolyl Hydroxylase Domain 2 (PHD2) Deficiency Enhances Maximal Exercise Capacity

PURPOSE: Hypoxic training is beneficial for improving endurance performance. Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is a key transcription factor that regulates the hypoxic-responsive pathway. Stabilization of HIF by inactivating prolyl hydroxylase domain protein 2 (PHD2) under low oxygen tension, triggers angiogenesis, erythropoiesis, and glycolysis. Glycolytic capacity is essential to perform anaerobic exercise. This study aims to verify whether the upregulation of glycolytic metabolism under the hypoxic-responsive pathway enhances exercise capacity.METHODS: We employed tamoxifen-inducible conditional PHD2 knock-out (KO) mice that exhibited stabilized HIF-alpha. To evaluate anaerobic exercise capacity, a rodent treadmill exercise test was performed. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis was conducted using C2C12 myoblasts after PHD2 siRNA transfection.RESULTS: PHD2KO mice exhibited increased red blood cell counts, hemoglobin, and hematocrit values, along with enhanced maximal exercise performance compared to littermate wild-type (WT) mice. PHD2 deficiency promoted maximal exercise capacity and resulted in lower blood lactate levels. RNAseq analysis revealed that PHD2-deficient myoblasts increased the expression of genes related to glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, and muscle contraction.CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that PHD2 deficiency-induced activation of the hypoxic-responsive pathway enhances maximal exercise capacity.

High-intensity interval training programs and their impact on endurance performance in handball players: A systematic review

Abstract Study aim: This systematic review aimed to identify and analyze the available evidence about the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) interventions on endurance performance in handball players. Material and methods: The search for relevant literature was conducted across prominent databases, including PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science Core Collection. The eligibility criteria focused on healthy handball players, without restrictions on age, sex, or competitive level, who were exposed to HIIT interventions, either alone or in combination with other training methods. The methodological assessment employed the RoB2 and ROBINS scales. A screening process was executed, evaluating 434 titles, leading to the inclusion of 17 eligible studies in this systematic review, comprising a total of 369 participants. Results: Most studies on HIIT in handball involved tier-two athletes (trained/developmental) and mostly men. The training frequency typically implemented was twice per week, with a duration between 4 and 12 weeks, with different types of HIIT. There was considerable variation in outcomes across the included studies, with most of them demonstrating a significant positive impact of HIIT on improving endurance performance when compared to controls. Conclusion: In conclusion, the predominant focus of the overall analyzed studies was on the effects of different HIIT interventions in obtaining positive performance adaptations assessed by field-based tests in handball players.

Investigating Effects of Rice Bran on Obesity, Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Physical Performance: A Narrative Mini-review

Context: Regular physical activity reduces oxidative stress by increasing the capacity of antioxidant defense, reducing pro-inflammatory mediators, and increasing anti-inflammatory mediators in healthy and obese conditions with chronic diseases. The role of physical activities in oxidative stress, and inflammation is dual and depends on the mood, intensity, and duration of the activity. Evidence acquisition: One session of long-term and intense exercises can produce free radicals more than the capacity of antioxidant defense and cause oxidative stress. Medicinal plants also have anti-obesity, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties due to their phytochemical compounds. Results: Rice bran contains nutrients and bioactive compounds, such as phytosterols, phenolic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, proanthocyanins, tocopherols, tocotrienols, phytic acid, gamma-aminobutyric acid, and gamma oryzanol. These compounds have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and anti-diabetic effects. The examination of studies with human and animal subjects show that rice bran, gamma oryzanol, and anthocyanins improve endurance and resistance performance. Evidence shows that rice bran improves endurance performance by reducing lactate accumulation, and increasing muscle glycogen content, increasing free fatty acids turnover, and increasing muscle oxidative capacity and antioxidant enzymes. Conclusion: Anthocyanins improve physical performance by affecting blood flow, metabolic pathways, and muscle fatigue. Accordingly, rice bran can improve physical performance as an ergogenic factor and promote health development by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. However, there is a need for more studies regarding the effect of rice bran on physical performance and health.

Young Females’ Longitudinal Relationship of Endurance Performance - A Partial Regression Analysis

Coaches and practitioners strive to use methods based on outcome measurements that are evidence-based to maximize female athlete performance, but due to a lack female representation in exercise science research, this is often problematic. The primary goal was to investigate the correlation between maximal oxygen uptake, blood lactate, and running economy in young females. Secondarily, the objective was to observe the longitudinal association between alterations in maximal oxygen uptake, blood lactate, and running economy responses to six weeks of endurance training. Young female athletes (n = 18) were randomized into a weighted vest (n = 10) or non-weighted vest (n = 8) group. Two separate graded treadmill tests for maximal oxygen uptake, blood lactate, and running economy were performed at baseline and post-six weeks of endurance training, which occurred at a frequency of three times per week for six weeks. A slight positive relationship between baseline- maximal oxygen uptake and running economy, r = 0.33, and a moderate positive relationship between baseline- blood lactate and running economy, r = 0.46, were observed. After controlling body composition, a strong positive relationship between post- maximal oxygen uptake and running economy, r = 0.59, and a strong positive relationship between post- blood lactate and running economy, r = 0.85, were observed. This study shows baseline assessments of previously mentioned performance traits may not be related. A weighted vest is considered a safe and alternative ergogenic aid that can be incorporated into an endurance training program. A six-week endurance training program is sufficient time to induce cardiovascular adaptations and improve endurance performance.

Effects of HMB on Endurance Performance in a Healthy Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Fernández-Landa, J, Todorovic, N, Santibañez-Gutierrez, A, Ostojic, SM, Calleja-González, J, Sekulic, D, and Mielgo-Ayuso, J. Effects of HMB on endurance performance in a healthy population: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Strength Cond Res 38(4): e202-e210, 2024-β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB) has been used extensively as a dietary supplement for athletes and physically active people. However, the ergogenic effect of HMB supplementation on endurance performance is still unclear. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis (SRMA) aimed to assess HMB supplementation on endurance performance and V̇O 2 max . This SRMA followed PRISMA guidelines. Three electronic databases were searched (PubMed/Medline, Web of Science [WOS], and Scopus) from inception until April 3, 2023. In this SRMA, human experimental trials, controlled with a placebo group, assessing the effect of HMB supplementation on endurance performance in a healthy population were included. The quality of the studies was assessed by the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. The study protocol was registered in the Prospective Register of Systematic Review (PROSPERO): CRD42022341790. Eleven studies involving 279 participants met the inclusion criteria. The results displayed a significant improvement on endurance performance (pooled standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.58 [0.28-0.87]) and V̇O 2 max (pooled SMD = 0.58 [0.21-0.95]) after HMB ingestion. Moreover, after the exclusion of the studies not evenly distributed around the base of the funnel plot, the results continued to be significantly positive in endurance performance (pooled SMD = 0.38 [0.22-0.53]) and V̇O 2 max (pooled SMD = 0.25 [0.09-0.42]). In conclusion, HMB (3 g·d -1 ) ingestion during 2-12 weeks significantly improves endurance performance and V̇O 2 max .