Improvement In VO2max Research Articles

Aerobic training as an approach to increasing VO2max in amateur football athletes

Background Problems: Lack of variety in aerobic exercise can cause boredom and reduce motivation to increase VO2max. Research Objectives: This study aims to assess how much influence aerobic exercise has on increasing VO2max in amateur football athletes. This involves regularly monitoring and measuring changes in VO2max levels over time. Methods: This research used a pre-experimental method; the design used was a one-group pretest and posttest design. The study used total sampling to select a population and sample of 30 amateur athletes. The instrument used was the 15-minute balke test to determine the athlete's VO2max capacity. The method used aerobic training with a 400-metre run. The data analysis technique used descriptive statistical tests, and prerequisite tests were normality, homogeneity, and hypothesis testing using the t-test with the SPSS version 26 program. Findings and Results: The analysis of the data reveals a notable improvement in VO2max following aerobic exercise. The average VO2max value increased from 55.38 during the pretest to 70.70 in the posttest phase. This increase was substantiated by the t-test results, where the calculated t-value was 10.36. Consequently, this indicates a significant enhancement in VO2max post-exercise. Conclusion: Aerobic exercise has a crucial role in increasing VO2max in amateur football athletes. Good cardiorespiratory conditioning can help improve their endurance, performance, and recovery during training and competition.

CHRONIC ADAPTATIONS TO BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION AEROBIC OR BODYWEIGHT RESISTANCE TRAINING: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

INTRODUCTION Blood flow restriction (BFR) training has garnered considerable attention in recent years as an innovative method for enhancing aerobic fitness, muscle strength, and muscular hypertrophy. However, the variation of intervention protocols has impeded consensus in the scientific literature. As a result, the primary objective of this study is to systematically investigate and review the available evidence concerning BFR in conjunction with aerobic and bodyweight resistance training. METHODS A thorough search of electronic databases, including PubMed (MEDLINE), Cinahl, SPORTDiscus® (via EBSCOhost), Embase, and Cochrane (Central), was conducted to identify relevant published studies. The inclusion criteria encompassed a healthy sample population aged 18 and above, original studies, chronic exercise sessions (minimum duration of 2 weeks of training) involving BFR in the context of aerobic or bodyweight resistance training, and comparisons with conventional non-BFR training. RESULTS The review identified 24 eligible studies that met the inclusion criteria. The findings demonstrated that chronic adaptations to BFR aerobic training were characterized by substantial improvements in VO2max (4-9%) and muscle strength (6-31%) compared to conventional aerobic training. Furthermore, BFR bodyweight resistance training yielded muscle hypertrophy (3-5%) and strength (4-11%) gains on par with those achieved through conventional resistance training. CONCLUSION This systematic review underscores the potential benefits of chronic adaptations stemming from blood flow restriction training in both aerobic and bodyweight resistance training. BFR aerobic training presents itself as a promising avenue for enhancing cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and hypertrophy. Meanwhile, BFR bodyweight resistance training shows promise in promoting muscle hypertrophy and strength gains, although it is worth noting that the available evidence is limited. Further research and a broader base of studies are required to validate and expand upon these findings.

Impact of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on Cardiovascular Health in Middle-Aged Chinese Populations

This paper examines the impact of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on cardiovascular health among the middle-aged Chinese population, amidst the country’s growing burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Given the escalating prevalence of CVDs influenced by lifestyle changes, aging, and dietary shifts, there’s a pressing need for efficient and accessible interventions. HIIT, with its brief, intense exercise bursts followed by rest periods, emerges as a potent modality to enhance cardiovascular fitness, manage weight, improve metabolic health, and address psychological stress factors, thereby reducing CVD risk factors. This analysis is grounded in research findings, health statistics, and pilot program outcomes, underscoring HIIT’s viability as a public health strategy. The paper delves into the physiological benefits of HIIT, including improvements in VO2 max, blood pressure regulation, lipid profile enhancement, and insulin sensitivity. It also considers the implementation challenges and strategies for HIIT in China, highlighting the role of technology, healthcare provider collaboration, and tailored community initiatives in promoting widespread HIIT adoption. The conclusions drawn emphasize HIIT’s significant potential in mitigating cardiovascular risk among middle-aged Chinese, advocating for its integration into national health promotion efforts.

Effect of exercise on functional capacity and body weight for people with hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or cardiovascular disease: a systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

BackgroundHypertension, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease affect the activities of daily living at varying degree. While the effects of aerobic exercise on functional capacity are well-documented, the extent of change for different types of exercise in these chronic conditions remains unexplored. Additionally, there is conflicting evidence regarding the role of exercise in reducing body weight.MethodsWe conducted systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis and searched various databases from inception to July 2020. We included randomised clinical trials adding any form of trialist defined exercise to usual care versus usual care in people with either hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and/or cardiovascular disease irrespective of setting, publication status, year, and language. The outcomes assessed were i) functional capacity assessed through different scales separately i.e., Maximal Oxygen Uptake (VO2max), 6-min walk test (6MWT), 10-m walk test (10MWT), and ii) body weight.ResultsWe included 950 studies out of which 444 trials randomising 20,098 participants reported on various functional outcomes (355 trials) and body weight (169 trials). The median follow-up was 3 months (Interquartile ranges (IQR): 2.25 to 6). Exercise added to the usual care, improved VO2max (Mean Difference (MD):2.72 ml/kg/min; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 2.38 to 3.06; p < 0.01; I2 = 96%), 6MWT (MD: 42.5 m; 95%CI 34.95 to 50.06; p < 0.01; I2 = 96%), and 10MWT (MD: 0.06 m/s; 95%CI 0.03 to 0.10; p < 0.01; I2 = 93%). Dynamic aerobic and resistance exercise showed a consistent improvement across various functional outcomes, whereas body-mind therapies (MD: 3.23 ml/kg/min; 95%CI 1.97 to 4.49, p < 0.01) seemed especially beneficial for VO2max and inspiratory muscle training (MD: 59.32 m; 95%CI 33.84 to 84.80; p < 0.01) for 6MWT. Exercise yielded significant reduction in body weight for people with hypertension (MD: -1.45 kg; 95%CI -2.47 to -0.43; p < 0.01), and type 2 diabetes (MD: -1.53 kg; 95%CI -2.19 to -0.87; p < 0.01) but not for cardiovascular disease with most pronounced for combined exercise (MD: -1.73 kg; 95%CI -3.08 to -0.39; p < 0.05). The very low certainty of evidence warrants cautious interpretations of the results.ConclusionExercise seemed to improve functional capacity for people with hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and/or cardiovascular disease but the effectiveness seems to vary with different forms of exercise. The potentially superior improvement in VO2max and 6MWT by body-mind therapies and inspiratory muscle training calls for further exploration. Additionally, prescribing exercise for the sole purpose of losing weight may be a potential strategy for people with hypertension and type 2 diabetes. The extent of improvement in functional capacity and body weight reduction differed with different exercise regimens hence personalised exercise prescriptions tailored to individual needs may be of importance. PROSPERO registration PROSPERO registration number: CRD42019142313.

Effect of Pre-Participation Aquatic Training Program on Running Performance in Marathon Runners

Objective: The most important objective was to determine the effect of an aquatic pre-participation training program for improving the running performance of middle-aged marathon runners. Method: The study was conducted among 100 recreational male and female runners (aged 25 to 35 years) fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The subjects were randomly divided into two equal groups, the control group (n=50) and the experimental group (n=50) by using SPSS software. 6 weeks of aquatic training was conducted for the experimental group for 5 days per week while the control group underwent swimming. The scores were statistically examined by paired ‘t-test. Results: Results showed that there was a significant reduction in pain in both groups with a p-value &amp;lt;0.0001. Both groups showed significant improvement in cardiac endurance VO2 max. The mean post-VO2 max of the experimental group and control group showed significant improvement in VO2 max with p-value &amp;lt;0.0001. Experimental group showed more improvement in 1RM leg press test as compared to the control group. Mean pre and post-1RM leg press test was (pre:66.10±14.0) (post:73.40±15.20) with p value &amp;lt;0.0001. While of the control group was (pre:68.02±15.09) (post:69.40±13.94) with p value 0.0275. There was significant improvement in 50m sprint run test in the experimental group with pre mean 6.23±0.44 and post mean 6.00±0.46 with (p value &amp;lt;0.0001). Much improvement was not seen in 50m SRT of the control group, the pre mean was 6.11±0.44 and post mean was 6.06±0.48 with ( p value 0.0832). Conclusion: It concluded that the pre-participation aquatic training program had shown a significant positive response in improving speed strength and reducing pain.

A Randomized Control Trial to Assess the Efficacy and Safety of Manna Go Grains to Promote Growth, Immunity, and Well-Being in Children

Objective: Nutrition in school-going children is crucial for their lifetime. India witnesses macro and micronutrient deficiencies in school-going children. The present study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Manna go grains in promoting and improving growth, immunity, and well-being in children.&#x0D; Method: This was a 90-day randomized, controlled, parallel-arm clinical trial. 6-12 years old apparently healthy sixty-two children were randomized either into a test (Manna go grains plus milk) or a control group (milk) in a 1:1 ratio. We assessed changes in growth, immunity, appetite, and overall well-being before and after treatment.&#x0D; Result: The test group showed a significant increase in height, weight, height to age, and weight to age Z score and percentile, which was greater than the control group. There was significantly more improvement in VO2 max and appetite of children in the test group was observed as compared to the control group. A significant reduction in recurrent URTI episodes, sick days, recovery days, and missed school days was observed in the test group compared to the control. Memory questionnaire scores also increased significantly by 75% and 27.61% in the test and control groups. Test group parents reported significantly better growth, stamina, and immunity than the control group. There was clinically and statistically insignificant change in CBC, serum iron, serum calcium, and immunity markers like CD3, CD4, CD8, and IgG in both groups.&#x0D; Conclusion: Thus, Manna Go grains are thought to be a good candidate as a supplement for potentially stimulating growth and development in children and promoting their well-being.

Three-week sprint interval training (SIT) reduces cell-free DNA and low-frequency fatigue but does not induce VO2max improvement in older men.

This study aimed to investigate the impact of sprint interval training (SIT) on both the acute and 3-week modulations of cell-free DNA (cfDNA), as well as its association with neuromuscular fatigue and physical performance in healthy young and old men. Ten young (20-25year old) and nine elderly (63-72year old) healthy men performed nine SIT sessions consisting of 4-to-6-all-out cycling repetitions of 30s interspaced with 4-min rest intervals. We compared the maximal voluntary contractions torque, central activation ratio, low-frequency fatigue (LFF), and cfDNA concentrations between the groups before, immediately after, 1h after, and 24h after the first and ninth SIT sessions. The plasma cfDNA levels were increased post-exercise (from 1.4 ± 0.258 to 1.91 ± 0.278ng/ml (P < 0.01) on a log10 scale), without significant differences between the groups. However, older individuals showed a slight decrease in the baseline cfDNA values, from 1.39 ± 0.176 to 1.29 ± 0.085ng/ml on a log10 scale, after 3weeks (P = 0.043). Importantly, the elevation of the post-exercise cfDNA values was correlated with an increase in LFF in both groups. Three weeks of SIT induced an improvement in the recovery of LFF (main session effect, P = 0.0029); however, only the young group showed an increase in aerobic capacity (VO2max) (from 40.8 ± 6.74 to 43.0 ± 5.80ml/kg/min, P = 0.0039). Three weeks of SIT diminished the baseline cfDNA values in the old group, together with an improvement in the recovery of LFF. However, VO2max was increased only in the young group.

Effects of Olympic Combat Sports on Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Non-Athlete Population: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

This systematic review aimed to assess the available body of published peer-reviewed articles related to the effects of Olympic combat sports (OCS) on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in the non-athlete population. The methodological quality and certainty of evidence were evaluated using PRISMA, TESTEX, RoB, and GRADE scales. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (code: CRD42023391433). From 4133 records, six randomized controlled trials were included, involving 855 non-athletes (mean age = 27.2 years old). The TESTEX scale reported all studies with a ≥ 60% (moderate-high quality) score. The GRADE scale indicated moderate to low certainty of evidence. It was only possible to perform a meta-analysis on direct methods to maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max). The main results indicated significant differences in favor of OCS compared to active/passive controls in VO2max (SMD = 4.61; 95%CI = 1.46 to 7.76; I2 = 99%; p = 0.004), while the individual results of the studies reported significant improvements in favor of the OCS on the indirect methods of the CRF. OCS improved CRF in a healthy non-athlete population of different ages, specifically showing a significant improvement in VO2max with direct tests, such as cardiopulmonary tests. However, moderate to low certainty of evidence is reported, so no definitive recommendations can be established.

Regular soccer training improves pulmonary diffusion capacity in 6 to 10 year old boys

BackgroundSoccer is one of the most attractive sports around the globe for children and adolescents, and the benefits of soccer training are often shown. Due to the intermittent character of soccer with random changes between high-intensity activity and low-intensity play, athletes’ aerobic (respiratory) capacity is specifically stimulated. However, little is known about the effects of regular soccer practice on pulmonary diffusion capacity (TL) in young players, even though it is the most popular sport in the world.ObjectivesTo analyze the effects of 28 weeks of regular soccer training versus a non-activity control period on the TL, the alveolar-capillary membrane diffusion capacity (DM) as well as the capillary blood volume (Vc) in healthy prepubertal boys aged 6 to 10 years.MethodsFor this purpose, boys were randomly assigned to a soccer training group (SG, n = 40) or a control group (CG, n = 40). Pre and post-intervention, all participants performed an all-out graded bicycle ergometer test to measure maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and maximal aerobic power (MAP). A respiratory maneuver was performed at rest and just at the end of the test to measure the TL for carbon monoxide (TLCO) and nitric oxide (TLNO), DM, as well as Vc.ResultsThere were no significant baseline between-group differences for any of the assessed parameters (p > 0.05). Significant group-by-time interactions were found for most pulmonary parameters measured at rest (p < 0.05), with effect size (ES) values ranging from small-to-large (0.2 < ES < 4.0), except for VA (p = 0.3, ES = 0.006). Post-hoc tests indicated significant DM (p < 0.05; 0.2 < ES < 4.0), TLNO (p < 0.01; 0.22 < ES < 4.0), TLCO (p < 0,01; 0.24 < ES < 4.0) and Vc (p = 0.01; 0.404 < ES < 0.6) improvements for SG but not CG. Significant group-by-time effects were identified for HRmax and VO2max (p < 0.001; ES = 0.5 and p = 0.005; ES = 0.23 respectively). The post-hoc analyses indicated a significant decrease in HRmax and a significant increase in VO2max in the SG (p < 0.001; ES = 0.5 and p = 0.005, ES = 0.23, respectively) but not in CG. Values for TLCO increased by almost 20%; Vc of 14% DM of 8% and VA of 10% at the end of maximal exercise in SG. Furthermore, the percentage improvement was less notable in the control group (7.5% for TLCO; 2% for Vc; 5% for DM and 4% for VA).ConclusionRegular soccer training significantly improves pulmonary vascular function and increases DM and Vc after exercise in prepubertal boys. The observed adaptations are most likely due to better recruitment of additional pulmonary capillary function. However, the stepwise linear regression analyses indicated that increases in pulmonary vascular function were not related to improvements in VO2max and MAP.

StartXFit—Nine Months of CrossFit® Intervention Enhance Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Well-Being in CrossFit Beginners

Insufficient physical activity (PA) is associated with low cardiorespiratory fitness, which favors cardiovascular and other noncommunicable diseases. Additionally, it evidentially affects mental health. Considering the WHO PA guidelines, CrossFit® represents a versatile exercise program that combines aerobic and resistance training with mobility and could help reduce disease incidences among sedentary people. Yet, long-term CrossFit research is sparse. We conducted a nine-month intervention (≥2 CrossFit workouts/week) in 16 beginners (14 males, 35 ± 6.8 years, 180 ± 8.6 cm, 85. 5 ± 19.1 kg). As a primary endpoint, VO2max was assessed at baseline, four, and nine months. A repeated-measures ANOVA and Pearson correlation were conducted. Well-being was investigated by the WHO-5 Index pre- and post-intervention. For exploratory purposes, body composition and heart rate recovery (HRR) were tracked. In a second step, all males were categorized into two groups based on body fat percentage and analyzed by repeated measures ANOVA again. The main outcome was an 11.5% VO2max improvement with a large effect (p &lt; 0.01, ηp2 = 0.27). Strong negative correlations between baseline VO2max and its progression after nine months (p = 0.006, r = −0.654) were found. Well-being increased by 8.7% (p = 0.024, d = 0.51). HRR improved both at 1 min (p &lt; 0.05, ηp2 = 0.34) and at 5 min (p &lt; 0.05, ηp2 = 0.27) post-exercise. Resting metabolic rate increased by 2.2% (p = 0.042). Analysis by group revealed improved HRR at 1 min (p &lt; 0.05, ηp2 = 0.62) only for the “high body fat” group. This study reveals the potential of CrossFit to enhance physiological and psychological health in beginners. For more robust results, larger sample sizes with a higher proportion of women are needed.

Effect of respiratory muscle strengthening with breathing exercises on ventilatory functions, aerobic fitness and their association with performance in elite rowers

This study aimed to investigate the effect of RMT on ventilatory parameters, aerobic fitness and rowing ergometer performance among professional rowers in Sri Lanka. Twenty national male rowers, aged 20-35 years were grouped randomly into an experimental (n=11) and a control (n=9) group. Prior to the study, baseline measurements of ventilatory functions, aerobic fitness (VO2max) and rowing performance were assessed by a portable spirometer, 2000m and 5000m rowing ergometer and Monark cycle ergometer respectively. Subsequently, rowers in the experimental group were prescribed a RMT program comprising of breathing exercises while control group was prescribed a general exercise program for a 12 weeks after which all the above parameters were assessed again. The association of rowing ergometer performance with the ventilatory functions and aerobic fitness was assessed by pearson correlation. There were significant improvements in PIF, FVC, and VO2max in the experimental group after 12-weeks (p&lt;0.05) while only VO2 max improved non-significantly in the control group (p&gt;0.05). Compared to the control, PIF improved significantly in the experimental group (p&lt;0.05). The rowers in the experimental group with higher PIF and VO2max performed better at 2000m and 5000m ergometer whereas in the control group, only VO2max was associated with better performance in 5000m ergometer. This suggests that the RMT program had a significant effect in improving some ventilatory parameters and VO2max of the rowers resulting in better performance.

Increased maximal oxygen uptake after sprint-interval training is mediated by central haemodynamic factors as determined by right heart catheterization.

There is a lack of knowledge regarding the contribution of central and peripheral factors to the increases in VO2max following sprint-interval training (SIT). This study investigated the importance of maximal cardiac output (Qmax ) in relation to VO2max improvements following SIT and the relative importance of the hypervolemic response on Qmax and VO2max . We also investigated whether systemic O2 extraction increased with SIT as has been previously suggested. Healthy men and women (n=9) performed 6weeks of SIT. State-of-the-art measurements: right heart catheterization, carbon monoxide rebreathing and respiratory gas exchange analysis were used to assess Qmax , arterial O2 content (ca O2 ), mixed venous O2 content (cv O2 ), blood volume (BV) and VO2max before and after the intervention. In order to assess the relative contribution of the hypervolemic response to the increases in VO2max , BV was re-established to pre-training levels by phlebotomy. Following the intervention, VO2max , BV and Qmax increased by 11% (P < 0.001), 5.4% (P=0.013) and 8.8% (P=0.004), respectively. cv O2 decreased by 12.4% (P=0.011) and systemic O2 extraction increased by 4.0% (P=0.009) during the same period, both variables were unaffected by phlebotomy (P=0.589 and P=0.548, respectively). After phlebotomy, VO2max and Qmax reverted back to pre-intervention values (P=0.064 and P=0.838, respectively) and were significantly lower compared with post-intervention (P=0.016 and P=0.018, respectively). The decline in VO2max after phlebotomy was linear to the amount of blood removed (P=0.007, R=-0.82). The causal relationship between BV, Qmax and VO2max shows that the hypervolemic response is a key mediator of the increases in VO2max following SIT. KEY POINTS: Sprint-interval training (SIT) is an exercise model involving supramaximal bouts of exercise interspersed with periods of rest known for its efficiency in improving maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max ). In contrast to the commonly accepted view where central haemodynamic adaptations are considered to be the key mediators of increases in VO2max there have been propositions highlighting peripheral adaptations as the main mediators in the context of SIT-induced changes in VO2max . By combining right heart catheterization, carbon monoxide rebreathing and phlebotomy, this study shows that increases in maximal cardiac output due to the expansion of the total blood volume is a major explanatory factor for the improvement in VO2max following SIT, with a smaller contribution from improved systemic oxygen extraction. The present work not only clarifies a controversy in the field by using state-of-the-art methods, but also encourages future research to investigate regulatory mechanisms that could explain how SIT can lead to improvements in VO2max and maximal cardiac output similar to those that have previously been reported for traditional endurance exercise.

Effects of exercise training parameters on cardiorespiratory fitness of individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

To assess the effects of exercise training parameters on cardiorespiratory fitness of individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This systematic review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020210470). Searches were performed on PubMed, PEDro EMBASE, MEDLINE (Ovid), LILACS, PsycINFO, SCIELO, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library. The primary outcome was cardiorespiratory fitness, defined as maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) during a maximal or submaximal exercise test. Two independent reviewers extracted data and assessed the risk of bias. Data were pooled using a random effects model and expressed as mean difference (MD) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI). Heterogeneity (I2) was assessed using Cochran's Q test. The risk of bias and quality of evidence was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and GRADE. Twenty-two studies comparing exercise and control groups were included. The risk of bias indicated some concerns in most studies, and the quality of evidence was rated very low. Interventions with moderate (MD = 1.91, 95%CI = .58 to 3.34) and progressive exercise intensity (MD = 2.70, 95%CI = 2.43 to 2.96) and volume (MD = 1.72, 95%CI = .59 to 2.85) showed greater improvements in VO2max. Protocols that progressively increased exercise training parameters improved the cardiorespiratory fitness response. Progressive exercise might be more suitable for individuals with T2DM. Our conclusion may be limited due to the very low quality of evidence. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-023-01205-5.

Effect of Complex Training on Aerobic and Anaerobic Power of Amateur Athletes

The study purpose was to investigate the effect of complex training on aerobic and anaerobic power of amateur athletes. Materials and methods. The study included 30 amateur athletes in soccer and hockey, which were equally divided into two groups, namely an Experimental group who underwent 6 weeks of complex training along with regular training in their sports and a Control Group who only performed their regular sports training. Anaerobic power was assessed by Running-based Anaerobic Sprint Test (RAST) and aerobic power (VO₂max) was assessed by 12-min Cooper run/walk test. The study used the Pre-test Post-test Randomized Group Design, and Paired t-test was used as the statistical technique for data analysis at a significance level of 0.05. Results. At the end of six weeks, the Experimental group showed significant improvement in anaerobic power and VO₂max, while only VO₂max was improved in the Control group (p&lt;0.05). No significant improvement was observed in anaerobic power for the Control group (p&gt;0.06). Therefore, this shows that complex training has significant effect on anaerobic power, while it does not produce significant improvements in aerobic power. Conclusions. Six weeks of complex training integrated with regular sports training can improve anaerobic power. Coaches and athletes, specifically in soccer and hockey, can implement the complex training program in their regular training.

Utjecaj kružnog treninga cijelog tijela na sastav tijela i kardio-respiratornu kondiciju kod odraslih osoba s prekomjernom tjelesnom težinom i sjedilačkog načina života

Obesity and low cardiorespiratory fitness are major risk factors for numerous non-communicable diseases and mortality, and efficient treatment protocols to counteract these conditions are highly warranted. We evaluated the effect of high-intensity circuit training (CIT) on body composition and cardiorespiratory fitness of sedentary overweight individuals. Cardiorespiratory and body composition were assessed before and after a 8-week circuit training (CIT; four sessions of full-body CIT per week; age, 38 ± 9 years old; height, 174 ± 10 cm; body mass, 93.1 ± 22.2 kg; n = 32), and 8-week inactiv-ity (CON; neither training nor lifestyle changes from week; 0–8 age, 39 ± 7 years old, height, 168 ± 8 cm, body mass, 89.5 ± 17.5 kg; n = 33). The two-way repeated-measures ANOVA revealed moderate to large reductions were observed in body mass, BMI, and fat percentage after CIT (d=0.43–0.81; P&amp;lt;0.05). In contrast, all body composition parameters remained stable after 8-week inactivity (P&amp;lt;0.05). A small to moderate group x moment interaction was found for body mass, BMI and % fat (d=0.10–0.60; P&amp;lt;0.05). Small improvements in VO2max were observed after CIT (d=0.48 [0.11–0.85]; P=0.010), while small to moderate reductions were observed in VO2max and PV were observed after inactivity (d=0.47 [0.11–0.83] and 0.64 [0.26–1.01], respectively; P&amp;lt;0.05). A small moment x group interaction was observed for VO2max (d= 0.19 [0.13–0.26]; P&amp;lt;0.001). Our findings suggest that 8-week of full-body circuit training may improve cardiorespiratory fitness and body composition in sedentary overweight individuals.

Effect of Plyometric Exercise and Leg Muscle Endurance on the Agility and VO₂max of Badminton Athletes

Study purpose. This study aimed to determine: (1) the difference in the effect of plyometric ladder drill and hurdle drill exercises on agility and VO2max, (2) the difference in the effect of badminton athletes’ high and low leg muscle endurance on agility and VO2max, (3) interaction between plyometric ladder drill and hurdle drill exercises with high and low leg muscle endurance on agility and VO2max.&#x0D; Materials and methods. This research was an experimental study with a 2x2 factorial design. The study sample was badminton athletes, totaling 24 people who were randomly selected from a population of 45 people. The instrument to measure agility was the T Drill Test, and that to measure VO2max was the Multistage Fitness Test (MFT). The data analysis technique used was the two-way ANOVA at a significance level of 0.05.&#x0D; Results. The study findings are as follows: (1) there is a significant difference in the effect of ladder drill and hurdle drill exercises on the agility of badminton athletes, whereas ladder drill and hurdle drill exercises have an equally good effect on increasing VO2max; (2) there is a significant difference in effect of badminton athletes’ high and low leg muscle endurance on agility and VO2max; (3) there is a significant interaction between ladder drill and hurdle drill exercises and high and low leg muscle endurance on agility, whereas both exercises are equally well used to provide VO2max improvement.&#x0D; Conclusions. Based on the results of the study and the results of the data analysis that was carried out, it was concluded that there is a significant difference in the effect of plyometric ladder drill and hurdle drill exercises on the agility of badminton athletes.

Training in Hypoxia at Alternating High Altitudes Is a Factor Favoring the Increase in Sports Performance.

Training above 1800 m causes increases in hemoglobin, erythropoietin and VO2max values in the bodies of athletes. The purpose of this study is to prove that living at an altitude of 1850 m and training at 2200 m (LHTH+) is more effective than living and training at 2000 m (LHTH). Ten endurance athletes (age 21.2 ± 1.5 years, body mass 55.8 ± 4.3 kg, height 169 ± 6 cm, performance 3000 m 8:35 ± 0:30 min) performed three training sessions of 30 days, in three different situations: [1] living and training at 2000 m altitude (LHTH), [2] living at 1850 m and training at 2200 m (LHTH+), and [3] living and training at 300 m (LLTL). The differences in erythropoietin (EPO), hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, and VO2max values were compared before and at the end of each training session. Data analysis indicated that LHTH training caused an increase in EPO values (by 1.0 ± 0.8 mU/mL, p = 0.002 &lt; 0.05.); Hb (by 1.1 ± 0.3 g/dL, p &lt; 0.001); VO2max (by 0.9 ± 0.23 mL/kg/min, p &lt; 0.001). LHTH+ training caused an increase in EPO values (by 1.9 ± 0.5 mU/ML, p &lt; 0.001); Hb (by 1.4 ± 0.5 g/dL, p &lt; 0.001); VO2max (by 1.7 ± 0.3 mL/kg/min, p &lt; 0.001). At the LLTL training, EPO values do not have a significant increase (p = 0.678 &gt; 0.050; 1 ± 0.1 mU/mL, 0.1 ± 0.9%.), Hb (0.1 ± 0.0 g/dL, 0.3 ± 0.3%), VO2max (0.1 ± 0.1, 0.2 ± 0.2%, p = 0.013 &lt; 0.05). Living and training at altitudes of 2000 m (LHTH) and living at 1850 m training at 2200 m (LHTH+) resulted in significant improvements in EPO, Hb, and VO2max that exceeded the changes in these parameters, following traditional training at 300 m (LLTL). LHTH+ training has significantly greater changes than LHTH training, favorable to increasing sports performance. The results of this study can serve as guidelines for athletic trainers in their future work, in the complete structure of multi-year planning and programming, and thus improve the process of development and performance training.

Improving Capacity of Older Adults with Locomotive Syndrome Stage 1 Living in Nursing Home: A Pilot Clinical Trial.

Aging causes locomotive syndrome (LS), which is characterized by difficulty in walking. The present study determined the effects of locomotion training and regular aerobic exercise programs on the aerobic capacity of older nursing home residents with LS stage 1. This randomized controlled trial included 24 participants aged 60-80 years with LS stage 1 residing in a single nursing home in Surabaya, Indonesia. The participants were randomly assigned to either the locomotion training group (LTG) or the control group (CG). Both the groups performed 30 minutes of a daily group-based aerobic exercise program for 8 weeks. The LTG performed additional locomotion training three times weekly, with three sets per session, gradually increasing to five sets per session according to the participant's tolerance. Two-minute walking test (2MWT) values before and after the 8-week intervention were determined in both the groups and converted to maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) values. After 8 weeks of intervention, a significant increase in VO2max was observed in both the groups (both p&lt;0.05). The LTG showed a more significant improvement in VO2max (p&lt;0.05) compared to the CG. The study results demonstrated the positive effect of 8 weeks of locomotion training and regular aerobic exercise programs in improving the aerobic capacity of older adult nursing home residents with LS stage 1.

FGF23 and Cardiovascular Structure and Function in Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease.

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is a bone-derived phosphatonin that is elevated in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and has been implicated in the development of cardiovascular disease. It is unknown whether elevated FGF23 in CKD is associated with impaired cardiovascular functional capacity, as assessed by maximum exercise oxygen consumption (VO2Max). We sought to determine whether FGF23 is associated with cardiovascular functional capacity in patients with advanced CKD and after improvement of VO2Max by kidney transplantation. We performed secondary analysis of 235 patients from the Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing in Renal Failure and After Kidney Transplantation (CAPER) cohort, which recruited patients with stage 5 CKD who underwent kidney transplantation or were waitlisted and hypertensive controls. All patients underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) and echocardiography and were followed longitudinally for 1 year after study enrollment. Patients across FGF23 quartiles differed in BMI (P=0.004) and mean arterial pressure (P<0.001) but did not significantly differ in sex (P=0.5) or age (P=0.08) compared with patients with lower levels of FGF23. Patients with higher FGF23 levels had impaired VO2Max (Q1: 24.2±4.8 ml/min per kilogram; Q4: 18.6±5.2 ml/min per kilogram; P<0.001), greater left ventricular mass index (LVMI; P<0.001), reduced HR at peak exercise (P<0.001), and maximal workload (P<0.001). Kidney transplantation conferred a significant decline in FGF23 at 2 months (P<0.001) before improvement in VO2Max at 1 year (P=0.008). Multivariable regression modeling revealed that changes in FGF23 was significantly associated with VO2Max in advanced CKD (P<0.001) and after improvement after kidney transplantation (P=0.006). FGF23 was associated with LVMI before kidney transplantation (P=0.003), however this association was lost after adjustment for dialysis status (P=0.4). FGF23 was not associated with LVMI after kidney transplantation in all models. FGF23 levels are associated with alterations in cardiovascular functional capacity in advanced CKD and after kidney transplantation. FGF23 is only associated with structural cardiac adaptations in advanced CKD but this was modified by dialysis status, and was not associated after kidney transplantation.

Twelve Weeks of Aerobic Training to Increase VO₂max in Sedentary Young Males

Study purpose. The aim of this study was to verify the effect of three sessions of aerobic training, for a period of 12 weeks, on VO2max and on the distance covered during the test.&#x0D; Materials and Methods. Fifteen sedentary males were recruited in this study. VO2max was investigated using Cooper test. Aerobic intervention lasted for 12 weeks. The exercise the subjects were performing for the first 6 weeks was supervised aerobic training, 3 times per week at 60–75% of heart rate max (HRmax) (The first two weeks at 60–65 % HRmax, third and fourth week at 65–70% HRmax, fifth and sixth week at 70–75% HRmax). Afterwards, the subjects continued supervised aerobic training for 6 weeks until the twelfth week at 70–75% HRmax.&#x0D; Results. After 8 weeks of aerobic training, a significant increase in distance covered during the Cooper test (p&lt;0.001) and a significant increase in VO2max (p &lt; 0.001) were observed.&#x0D; Conclusions. In this study, it was found that 12 weeks of aerobic training have a positive impact on VO2max improvement and, therefore, completing 3 sessions of this type of training per week has a positive impact on aerobic parameters.