Improvements In Physical Fitness Research Articles

Peculiarities of the use of "outdoor activity" with persons of the second mature age in health fitness

The article examines the peculiarities of the use of "outdoor activity" means with persons of the second mature age in improving fitness. Materials and methods: The research was conducted on the basis of the "Freestyle" fitness club in Kyiv. A total of 45 people of different sexes (41 men, 4 women), aged from 36 to 60 years (second mature age) took part in the research (survey). Results: We analyzed video recordings of "outdoor activity" training sessions on the Internet and evaluated their effectiveness for people of the second mature age according to the following criteria: physical component of programs, social component of programs, natural conditions for classes, variability of programs, effectiveness of programs, safety of programs, availability of programs, psychological advantages of programs, financial aspect of programs. The most effective measures and fitness programs with "outdoor activity" that can be considered the most useful for those who engage in independent or group training sessions in the health direction in the second mature age among women and men and the prevalence of using "outdoor activity" programs were also determined in order of decreasing significance. Conclusions: based on the results of a comparative analysis of various "outdoor activity" programs, it was established that outdoor fitness classes improve mood, reduce stress levels and increase emotional well-being. In today's wellness fitness outdoor activity programs for adults can have varying popularity based on various factors, such as accessibility, effectiveness, advertising, social support, physical limitations of participants, and others. With the help of a questionnaire, it was determined what was the main motivation for the respondents (n = 45) to use "outdoor activity" (improvement of physical fitness and endurance - 53.3%, weight loss - 24.5%, relaxation and stress reduction - 17.7%, feeling of nature and fresh air - 2.5%), which are the most relevant obstacles and problems when using "outdoor activity" (no obstacles - 20%, weather conditions - 37.7%, lack of time - 42.3%, lack of motivation - 2, 2%).

Effect of a Long-Term Online Home-Based Supervised Exercise Program on Physical Fitness and Adherence in Breast Cancer Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial

The purpose of the present study was to analyze the effect of a synchronous-supervised online home-based exercise program (HBG) during 24 weeks on body composition, physical fitness and adherence compared to an exercise recommendation group (ERG) without supervision with patients undergoing breast cancer treatment. Fifty-nine female breast cancer patients (31 in HBG and 28 in the ERG) undergoing cancer treatments participated in the present randomized clinical trial. The exercise program consisted of a 60 min combined resistance and aerobic supervised exercise session (6–8 points on Borg Scale CR-10, moderate intensity), twice a week during 24 weeks. The exercise recommendation group only received general recommendations to comply with the current ACSM guidelines. Body composition and physical fitness were assessed at baseline, 12 weeks and 24 weeks of the program. Adherence to the intervention was measured according to the minutes of exercise completed per session during each week. A general linear model of two-way repeated measures showed significant improvements (p < 0.05) in physical fitness that were observed in the home-based exercise group at the baseline, 12-week and 24-week assessments compared to the exercise recommendation group. Adherence was also higher in the home-based exercise group. However, no changes (p > 0.05) in body composition between groups and moments were observed. In this sense, supervised home-based exercise interventions can be an interesting strategy to improve physical fitness and adherence rates in breast cancer patients undergoing treatment.

Self-initiated lifestyle changes during a fasting-mimicking diet programme in patients with type 2 diabetes: a mixed-methods study

BackgroundLifestyle changes, especially regarding diet quality and physical activity, are important in the management of type 2 diabetes (T2D). This mixed-methods study explores self-initiated lifestyle changes in patients with T2D who followed a periodic fasting-mimicking diet (FMD).MethodsQuantitative data were obtained from the Fasting In diabetes Treatment trial (November 2018 to August 2021) in which 100 participants with T2D, using metformin only or no medication, were randomised to receive a monthly 5-day FMD for twelve months next to usual care, or usual care only. Diet quality and physical activity questionnaires were completed at baseline, six and twelve months. Changes over time were analysed using linear mixed models. Focus groups were organized with FMD participants to explore experiences regarding self-initiated lifestyle changes. The qualitative data was analysed using the Theoretical Domains Framework.ResultsQuestionnaires were available from 49 FMD participants and 43 controls. No differences in diet quality were found. Total physical activity in the FMD participants changed from 34.6 to 38.5 h per week (h/wk) from baseline to twelve months, while in controls it changed from 34.9 to 29.0 h/wk (between group difference, p = 0.03). In six focus groups with FMD participants (n = 20), individual participants perceived the FMD as an encouragement for (minor) lifestyle changes. There were no barriers to behaviour change related to the FMD. Important facilitators of healthy behaviour were an increase in awareness of the impact of lifestyle on health (knowledge), better physical fitness (physical) and health improvement (reinforcement). Facilitators unrelated to the FMD included family support (social influences) and opportunities in the neighbourhood (environmental context and resources), while barriers unrelated to the FMD were experiencing health problems (physical) and social events (social influences).ConclusionsUsing an FMD for five consecutive days per month did not affect diet quality in between FMD periods in quantitative analysis, but increased the number of hours per week spent on physical activity. Qualitative analysis revealed self-initiated improvements in both diet quality and physical activity in individual participants using an FMD. Healthcare professionals could use an FMD programme as a ‘teachable moment’ to stimulate additional lifestyle changes.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov; NCT03811587. Registered 22 January 2019.

Effectiveness of Resistance Band Use in Conjunction With Tai Chi Among Older Adults With Prefrailty to Improve Functional Fitness, Quality of Life, and Heart Rate Variability.

The current randomized controlled trial aimed to bolster the physical fitness of prefrail older adults, potentially delaying their need for admission to care facilities and enhancing their overall well-being. The experimental group received a physical fitness intervention comprising resistance band use and tai chi three times per week for 12 weeks, whereas the control group received frailty-related health education. Thirty-four male participants completed the study. A total of seven items had statistically significant differences at 12- and 16-week posttest, respectively: frailty index (p = 0.03; p = 0.03); Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale (p < 0.001; p < 0.001); and physical fitness, back (p < 0.001; p < 0.001); physical fitness, arm curl (p = 0.02; p < 0.001); physical activity (p < 0.001; p = 0.009); quality of life, physiological (p = 0.04; p < 0.001); and heart rate variability (p < 0.001; p < 0.001). Results revealed substantial improvements in physical fitness, frailty conditions, self-care abilities, and quality of life, but not balance or lower limb flexibility, for the experimental group. Therefore, exercise interventions may effectively improve prefrail older adults' quality of life. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 50(5), 19-26.].

WALKING WITH BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION: A NOVEL METHOD TO IMPROVE PHYSICAL FITNESS IN OLDER ADULTS?

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS Alternative physical activity modalities and methods are needed to combat low adherence among older populations. Therefore, we are investigating whether blood flow restricted (BFR) walking improves measures of lower limb strength, and functional performance, compared to traditional walking in older adults. METHODS Healthy adults ≥60 years were randomised into BFR (n=5) or non-BFR (n=4) walking groups. Both groups walked outdoors, 3 days/week for 12 weeks starting at 4km/h and increasing walking speed by 0.5km/h every 4 weeks. The BFR group walked for 25min with BFR applied (60% arterial occlusion pressure) to the lower limbs in 2x 10mins bouts (separated by 5mins walking without occlusion). The non-BFR group walked for 50mins without occlusion, matching current best practice for low-moderate intensity physical activity. Participants were assessed at baseline and post-intervention (12 weeks) for knee extension maximal voluntary torque (MVTpeak) and functional capacity (four square step test [4SST], 5x sit-to-stand [STS], timed up and go [TUG], gait speed, and 6-minute walk test [6mWT]). RESULTS There were no differences at baseline between groups (p&amp;gt;0.05). Both groups improved across all measures from baseline to post-intervention, with significant effects for time observed for: 4SST (7.92±1.2s – 6.83±1.39s; p=0.035), TUG (6.16±0.81s – 5.58±0.9s; p=0.04), STS (11.30±1.70s – 10.14±1.7s; p=0.032), but not for gait speed (3.98±0.69s – 3.71±0.69s; p=0.456), 6mWT (564.72±72.13m – 601.27±64.2m; p=0.129) and MVTpeak (112.33±25.8Nm – 120.55±23.5Nm; p=0.995). No group x time effect was observed from baseline to 12 weeks (p&amp;gt;0.05). SUMMARY The current results demonstrate significant improvements in functional measures (4SST, TUG, STS) from baseline to post-intervention, with no differences observed between groups. This indicates that low-intensity BFR walking may provide comparable physical fitness improvements to non-BFR walking while completing only 50% of the volume.

1930년대 말 국민체력저하 문제의 대두와 사회적 대응

In 1936, General Teraiichi Derauchi raised concerns about the declining national physical fitness during a regular assembly. This statement paved the way for the establishment of the Welfare Department in 1938. The recognition of the national physical fitness decline as an urgent issue by the army emerged around the mid-1930s. The army had been continuously analyzing the results of conscription examinations. Experiences utilizing the results of conscription examinations in the “Excellent Excellent young man Village Award(優良壯丁市町村表彰)” project conducted by the Asahi Shimbun in 1934, along with the appointment of Chikahiko Koizumi(小泉親彦) as the Director of the Medical Officer, prompted a re-evaluation of the physical fitness issue among servicemen. Subsequently, Koizumi's analysis of the national physical fitness issue led to General Koizumi's remarks. Subsequently, through academic research and mass media, the issue spread socially. Initially, the “Japan Society for the Promotion of Science(日本學術振興會)” established a related committee to initiate scientific examination. The research findings highlighted the necessity for accurate data to assess the nation's physical fitness. These academic research results provided a policy definition for 'physical fitness' and laid the groundwork for the National Physical Fitness Law(國民體力法) enacted in 1940. Asahi Newspaper(朝日新聞社), a prominent mass media outlet, provided a platform for the formation of societal consensus on the issue of national physical fitness. Particularly noteworthy is the 'National Physical Fitness Improvement Symposium(國民體力向上座談會)' held in June 1937. Government officials, along with experts from various fields including academia, labor, and sports, attended this symposium to discuss the causes of the decline in national physical fitness and potential improvement measures. Not only were policy perspectives discussed, but also vividly conveyed were the issues faced in practical settings. As a result of these processes, societal awareness of the issue of national physical fitness spread, and there was a growing chorus calling for alternative solutions to address it. The discussions and awareness spread at the societal level would go on to have a significant impact on the subsequent policy-making process. In other words, the national importance of the issue of national physical fitness, symbolized by the establishment of the Welfare Department during the wartime period, was shaped not only by political responses but also by the convergence of societal interest and awareness.

Health-based physical education in an elementary school: effects on physical self-concept, motivation, fitness and physical activity

ABSTRACT Background Promoting and developing health in Physical Education should not be limited to seeking to meet recommendations for physical activity and to increase motor competence or physical fitness, but should provide students with the motivation, confidence and knowledge required for them to be active for life. The Health-based Physical Education model (HbPE) is one of the most interesting models for health development. It takes a holistic perspective of health that is compatible with the salutogenic approach, where promoting and appreciating an active life is a core element (Haerens et al. 2011). Purpose The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a Health-based Physical Education programme on health-related factors (physical fitness and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity), emotional well-being (self-esteem and physical self-concept), and motivational factors (intention to be physically active and the degree of self-determination during practice). Methods A quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-test measures was applied to a sample composed of 131 schoolchildren aged 10 to 12 years (M = 10.87 ± 0.69) belonging to six randomly assigned class groups: three to the experimental group (n = 67) and three to the control group (n = 64). The experimental group participated in an intervention programme based on the HbPE model linked to a set of strategies to promote commitment, motivation and participation, while the control group completed a traditional programme for physical fitness improvement. As measures, we used Polar® HR monitors, the ALPHA-Fitness battery, the Motivation in Physical Education Questionnaire in Primary Education, the Intention to Be Physically Active Scale and the Pictorial Scale of Physical Self-Concept for Younger Children. Findings The experimental group showed higher levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and a significant increase in physical fitness, including a reduction in BMI. Moreover, this group presented improvements in socio-emotional self-esteem, intrinsic motivation and the intention to be physically active. Nevertheless, against our hypothesis, quantitative analyses indicated no differences in physical self-concept. Conclusion These results support the use of HbPE as a model for designing and implementing health-promoting programmes that are compatible with a salutogenic approach. Apart from increasing physical activity and improving physical fitness, such programmes would provide knowledge and attitudes to foster practice beyond school.

Activating cancer communities through an exercise strategy for survivors: an effectiveness-implementation trial

IntroductionStrong evidence supports the recommendation that individuals living with or beyond cancer (LWBC) should be physically active and engage in physical exercise to enhance health and improve cancer-related outcomes. Many individuals LWBC are not achieving these benefits, partly due to a lack of resources. To address this, Activating Cancer Communities through an Exercise Strategy for Survivors (ACCESS) was developed to provide exercise programming and investigate exercise strategies and barriers for those LWBC.MethodsUsing an effectiveness-implementation design, adults LWBC joined ACCESS by healthcare provider or self-referral. A clinical exercise physiologist triaged participants to either a hospital-based site or one of two community-based sites to complete a 12-week, 24-session multimodal individualized exercise program. Physical fitness and multiple patient-reported outcomes were measured pre- and post-intervention.ResultsBetween January 2018 and March 2020, there were 332 referrals. Of these, 122 participants consented and completed the study. Completing ACCESS was associated with improvements in physical fitness and participant-reported outcomes, including general wellbeing, fatigue, negative emotional states, sleep quality, and exercise self-efficacy. The program was well-received by participants and was deemed feasible and acceptable from an implementation perspective.DiscussionThe ACCESS program demonstrably improved several health outcomes for individuals LWBC. Implementation outcomes have and continue to guide ongoing efforts to improve accessibility to ACCESS and work with the regional health authority and cancer care program to support the adoption of exercise into standard oncology care.Clinical trial registrationclinicaltrials.gov, identifier [NCT03599843].

Neuroelectric indices of pre-motor planning and adiposity are selectively related to balance in children

BackgroundMotor function and weight status are components of physical fitness that have been implicated in childhood motor and cognitive development. The lateralized readiness potential (LRP), an index of motor planning and action, can provide context surrounding relationships between fitness and brain activity underlying cognitive and motor functions. This study evaluated the relationship between the LRP and motor skills, as well as associations between weight status and neural and behavioral motor functions. MethodsChildren aged 7–13 (n = 35) participated in a cross-sectional study, using the Movement Assessment Battery for Children 2nd edition (MABC-2) to assess balance, manual dexterity, and aiming/catching. The stimulus- (LRP-S) and response-locked (LRP-R) LRPs were elicited from a modified flanker task. Stepwise regressions tested the association between LRPs and MABC-2 components. Linear regressions were conducted to examine BMI and %Fat in relation to LRPs and MABC-2 components. ResultsAnalyses revealed that LRP-S mean amplitude difference (β = 0.401, P = 0.042) and reaction time interference scores (β = 0.545, P = 0.004) were positively associated with balance, after adjusting for covariates. The LRP-S and interference scores did not predict other MABC-2 outcomes and LRP-R did not predict any MABC-2 components. Further, %Fat (β = −0.439, P = 0.044), not BMI (β = −0.364, P = 0.082), only predicted balance. ConclusionWe found that changes in the LRP-S amplitude were positively associated with balance, and %Fat was negatively related to balance. This evidence is that fitness components such as weight status and coordination are related to neural markers of motor function which may be useful in intervention designs aimed to improve brain function via improvements in physical fitness and health behaviors.

Safety and efficacy evaluation of personalized exercise prescription during chemotherapy for lung cancer patients.

To explore the safety and effectiveness of personalized exercise intervention during chemotherapy for lung cancer patients who were relatively weak and with compromised cardiopulmonary function. Thirty-eight lung cancer patients treated with chemotherapy at Peking University Third Hospital were enrolled in this prospective study. The exercise group (N = 21) received individualized exercise guidance based on personal test results and exercised regularly, while the control group (N = 17) only received exercise education and planed exercise methods according to their own preferences. Both groups underwent three fitness tests and clinical indicator assessments at 0, 6, and 12 weeks after starting the exercise, and the differences in trends of various indicators between the two groups were compared. No exercise-related adverse events occurred during the 12-week exercise period. After 12 weeks of exercise training, in terms of fitness, the exercise group showed significant improvements in 6-min walk test (6MWT) (p < 0.001), peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) (p = 0.005), muscle content (p < 0.001), muscle percentage (p < 0.001), and grip strength (p = 0.008) compared to the control group. In terms of clinical indicators, the exercise group showed significant improvements in vital capacity (p = 0.018), D-dimer (p = 0.031), and C-reactive protein (CRP) (p = 0.01), uric acid (p = 0.003), triglycerides (p < 0.001), functional average score (p < 0.001), and main symptom average score (p = 0.004) compared to the control group in trends over time. Rehabilitation exercises using individualized exercise prescriptions tailored by exercise prescription specialists during chemotherapy are safe for lung cancer patients. Adhering to exercise can achieve comprehensive improvements in physical fitness and quality of life at 12 weeks.

Physical exercise: a polypill against chronic kidney disease.

We are currently facing a pandemic of physical inactivity that might contribute to the growing prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Here, we summarize currently available evidence on the association between physical activity and CKD, and also review the effects of exercise intervention in affected patients. Physical activity/exercise might act as a polypill against CKD, preventing its development or even exerting beneficial effects once it is established (i.e. improvements in patients' physical fitness and cardiovascular risk, as well as in kidney function). Exercise benefits are also found at advanced CKD stages or in patients under hemodialysis. The biological mechanisms behind the clinical evidence are also discussed. An active lifestyle appears as a cornerstone in CKD prevention and management.

Weight loss and lifestyle intervention for cardiorespiratory fitness in obstructive sleep apnea: The INTERAPNEA trial

IntroductionAlthough recent trials have shown benefits of weight loss and lifestyle interventions on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) severity and comorbidities, the effect of these interventions on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effects of an interdisciplinary weight loss and lifestyle intervention on CRF and self-reported physical fitness in adults with OSA. MethodsEighty-nine men aged 18–65 years with moderate-to-severe OSA and a body mass index ≥25 kg/m2 were randomly assigned to a usual-care group or an 8-week interdisciplinary weight loss and lifestyle intervention. CRF was assessed through the 2-km walking test, and the International Fitness Scale (IFIS) was used to assess self-reported physical fitness. ResultsAs compared with usual-care, the intervention group had greater improvements at intervention endpoint in objective CRF (6% reduction in 2-km walking test total time, mean between-group difference, −1.7 min; 95% confidence interval, −2.3 to −1.1), and self-reported overall physical fitness (18% increase in IFIS total score, mean between-group difference, 2.3; 95% CI 1.2 to 3.3). At 6 months after intervention, the intervention group also had greater improvements in both 2-km walking test total time (10% reduction) and IFIS total score (22% increase), with mean between-group differences of −2.5 (CI 95%, −3.1 to −1.8) and 3.0 (CI 95%, 1.8 to 4.1), respectively. ConclusionsAn 8-week interdisciplinary weight loss and lifestyle intervention resulted in significant and sustainable improvements in CRF and self-reported physical fitness in men with overweight/obesity and moderate-to-severe OSA. Study registrationClinicalTrials.gov registration (NCT03851653)

P744 Evaluation of a lifestyle program based on physical activity on quality of life and fatigue in patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: a pilot study

Abstract Background Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) tend to be less physical active, whilst maintaining an active lifestyle has been associated with enhanced disease control, diminished fatigue and improved quality of life. The primary objective was to evaluate the potential impact on physical fitness, fatigue, quality of life and disease control of a specially designed exercise program for IBD patients. Methods Patients with IBD, treated at two teaching hospitals in the southwest of the Netherlands, participated in a 16-week exercise program (IBD-Fit) between March until June 2023. The program was designed especially for patients with IBD to sport with peers and was adjusted to a patient's fitness level. Improvement of physical fitness (measured with body composition, grip strength, sit-and-reach test, Y-balance test and 6-minute walk test) was analysed. In addition, patients were asked to fill in validated questionnaires at baseline and at the end of the program (IBD-Quality of life, IBD-Fatigue and IBD-control), to assess the effect of the exercise program on quality of life, fatigue and disease control. For statistical analyses, a paired t-test or Wilcoxon matched paired rank test was used. Results A total of 27/32 patients completed the entire exercise program, with a mean age of 50.4 years (SD 12.5), 40.7% were male, 48.1% had Crohn’s disease and 51.9% had ulcerative colitis (table 1). After 16 weeks, body composition, such as BMI and muscle mass improved compared to baseline; fat percentage significantly decreased (32.3 to 29.7%; Z=-2.983; P=0.003). Physical fitness improved significantly, based on the sit-and-reach test (23 to 29 cm; Z=-3.03; P=0.002), the absolute reach distance of the Y-balance test (73.7 to 79 cm; Z=-2.77; P=0.006), and the mean distance during a 6-minute walk test (505.2 to 557.5 m; 95%CI 32.6 – 72.2; P&amp;lt;0.001). Grip strength showed no significant improvement. Quality of life improved on average with 8.0 points on the IBDQ. The Systemic Symptoms domain improved significantly (mean difference 2.7; 95%CI 0.1–5.4, P=0.043). The program significantly improved fatigue scores (Z = -2.296, P=0.022). Disease control showed no significant improvement after the program. Overall, patients were very satisfied with the exercise program. Average rating was 8.6 out of 10. Conclusion This pilot study in a small number of patients shows that a specially designed exercise program has a positive effect on IBD patients. These results underline the importance to broaden our standard of care and can be used as a steppingstone to implement the program on a larger scale and ultimately become part of the standard of care for patients with IBD.

An analysis of the influence of physical activity break on primary school student fitness

To avoid issues with primary school pupils' sedentary lifestyle and fitness, it is important to evaluate how long they sit while studying in class. This study aims to ascertain 1) the impact of physical activity breaks on elementary school students' physical fitness, and 2) the variation in the improvement in physical fitness of elementary school students between the group with physical activity break intervention and the group without intervention. This is a quasi-experimental study with a Pretest-Posttest Control Group Design. The study's subjects were Yogyakarta Syuhada Mosque School elementary school children aged 7 to 9. The cluster random sampling method was employed to choose the research sample, with 40 students serving as the experimental group and 40 serving as the control group. A physical fitness test was used to collect data for this research. The paired T test was employed in the first analysis to examine the effect of physical activity break treatments on students' fitness. The Mann-Whitney Test was employed in the following data analysis to determine the difference in the outcomes of the rise between the experimental group and the control group. The results of the paired T test concluded that physical activity breaks had an influence on the dimensions of physical fitness which included the dimensions of speed with a value of sig 0.0, Agility sig 0.001, Arm Power sig 0.0, Leg Power sig 0.0, and flexibility sig 0.003. Based on the improvement results of each group, there were differences between the experimental group and the control group based on the Mann-Whitney Test sig value. Increase in speed sig 0.0, agility sig 0.032, arm power sig 0.0, and leg power sig 0.02. There is no difference in the flexibility dimension between the experimental group and the control group with a sig value of 0.908. Effect size with Cohen's formulation and criteria for the experimental group in the dimensions of speed 1.16 (high), agility 0.59 (moderate), flexibility -0.51 (very low), arm power 1.55 (high), leg power 0.87 (moderate). Because of the good impact on the dimensions of physical fitness, physical activity breaks can be incorporated in primary schools. In this day and age, physical activity breaks could be a solution to students' low fitness and sedentary lifestyle issues. Key words: physical activity break, primary school, student fitness

Unraveling the "golden ratio": a pilot study investigating acute-to-chronic workload ratio in breast cancer patients undergoing active treatment.

Training load monitoring is a common practice in sports medicine for supporting athletes' health and performance. Despite progress in exercise oncology research for breast cancer patients, training load monitoring is underutilized. This study retrospectively investigated the relationship between maintained training load within a defined range and physical and health outcomes of ten breast cancer patients during active anticancer treatment who underwent a 12-week exercise program. Intervention consisted of endurance and resistance training, three times a week, with each session lasting 30-45min. Assessments were conducted at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks after enrollment, evaluating physical function (6-min walk test-6MWT, and sit-to-stand), muscle strength, body composition, sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index-Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), quality of life (EORTC-QLQ-C30), heart rate variability and physical activity levels (International Physical Activity Questionnaire-International Physical Activity Questionnaire). The Physiological Cost Index/Energy Expenditure Index (PCI/EEI) was estimated using the 6MWT and Heart rate. Training load monitoring was performed by session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE, relative intensity multiplying with session duration). Acute-to-Chronic Workload Ratio (ACWR) (7:28, rolling average) was calculated accordingly. Analyses were performed within-subjects across time points and between-subjects, comparing those who maintained from weeks 6-12 an ACWR of 0.8-1.3 with those who did not. Adherence rates were similar between groups. Physical function improved in the total sample with large effect sizes (Δ6MWT = 56.5m [95%CI: 6-100m], effect size [w] = 0.52, p = 0.006; ΔSit-to-Stand = 1.5 [95%CI: 1-5], effect size [w] = 0.681, p < 0.001), demonstrating greater changes in patients with higher ACWR. Sleep quality improvements were higher in the appropriate ACWR group (p = 0.016). A positive correlation was demonstrated between global health status and 6MWT change from baseline to 12 weeks (ρ = 0.689, p = 0.04). Despite a small sample size, patients maintaining sufficient relative training load presented greater physical fitness and sleep quality improvements. Thus, training load monitoring may enhance exercise program benefits in breast cancer patients under active treatment.

PHYSICAL FITNESS OF WOMEN UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF TAE BO EXERCISE

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

Examining the Effects of Reproductive and Productive Teaching Styles Interventions on Primary Schoolchildren. What Implications for Physical Education Teachers?

Background. In recent years, the study of the teacher-student relationship in the teaching-learning processes in physical education has had great emphasis. Previous studies have shown that the use of the Spectrum of Teaching Styles can enhance intrinsic motivation, enjoyment, adherence to physical activity and physical activity levels in children and adolescents. Study purpose. The present study aims to assess if a physical education (PE) intervention based on the variations in teaching styles, with reference to productive ones, can also have positive effects on physical fitness. Materials and methods. The sample involved 4 primary school classes (n = 124 children, mean age = 8–10 years) recruited from the SBAM (Health, Wellness, Food Education and Movement at School) Project in Apulia, Southern Italy. The classes were randomly assigned to the Experimental Group (EG) and the Control Group (CG). The EG followed a 5-month experimental intervention based on the variation of teaching styles, while the CG performed regular PE lessons. Physical fitness was assessed with Standing Long Jump (SLJ), 1kg Medicine Ball Throw (MBT), and 20 m sprint (20 m)tests, while two validated questionnaires were used to evaluate physical self-perception (PSP) and enjoyment. A 2x2 (intervention group x time) ANOVA was carried out to assess significant difference and interaction effect pre (t0) and post (t1) intervention protocol. Results. Data analysis showed a significant improvement of physical fitness in both EG and CG, while PSP and enjoyment increased only in EG. Moreover, significant (p &lt; .05) interaction effects were found for 20m sprint, PSP and Enjoyment with low effect size (η2 ~ .20). Conclusions. The results of the present study highlight the effectiveness of a PE intervention based on the variation of teaching styles in improving physical fitness, self-perception, and enjoyment. Moreover, the use of productive teaching styles significantly impacts self-perception and enjoyment that are important mediating factors for guaranteeing better adherence to physical activity.

Cardiorespiratory and Neuromuscular Improvements Plateau after 2 wk of Sprint Interval Training in Sedentary Individuals.

Previous studies ranging from 2 to 12 wk of sprint interval training (SIT) have reported improvements in maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O 2max ) and neuromuscular function in sedentary populations. However, whether the time course of the changes in these variables correlates with greater training volumes is unclear. Thirteen sedentary participants performed three all-out training weekly sessions involving 15-s sprints interspersed with 2 min of recovery on a cycle ergometer. The 6-wk training program was composed of three identical blocks of 2 wk in which training volume was increased from 10 to 14 repetitions over the first four sessions and reduced to 8 in the last session. The power output and the heart rate (HR) were monitored during the sessions. The V̇O 2max , the power-force-velocity profile, and the isometric force were assessed every 2 wk from baseline. A significant increase in V̇O 2max was observed from the second week plateauing thereafter despite four additional weeks of training. The dynamic force production increased from the second week, and the speed production decreased by the end of the protocol. The isometric force and the maximal power output from the power-force-velocity profile did not change. Importantly, the time spent at high percentages of the maximal HR during the training sessions was lower in the second and third training block compared with the first. SIT resulted in an effective approach for rapidly increasing V̇O 2max , and no change in the isometric force was found; cycling-specific neuromuscular adaptations were observed from the second week of training. SIT may be useful in the short term, but further improvement of overall physical fitness might need other training modalities like endurance and/or resistance training.

A cohort study of factors influencing the physical fitness of preschool children: a decision tree analysis.

Based on the decision tree model, to explore the key influencing factors of children's physical fitness, rank the key influencing factors, and explain the complex interaction between the influencing factors. A cohort study design was adopted. 1,276 children (ages 3-6) from 23 kindergartens in Nanchang, China, were chosen for the study to measure the children's physical fitness at baseline and a year later and to compare the physical fitness scores at the two stages. The study was conducted following the Chinese National Physical Fitness Testing Standard (Children Part); To identify the primary influencing factors of changes in physical fitness, a decision tree model was developed, and a questionnaire survey on birth information, feeding patterns, SB, PA, dietary nutrition, sleep, parental factors, and other relevant information was conducted. The levels of physical fitness indicators among preschool children showed a significant increase after 1 year. The accuracy of the CHAID model is 84.17%. It showed that 7 variables were strongly correlated with the physical changes of children's fitness, the order of importance of each variable was weekend PA, weekend MVPA, mother's BMI, mother's sports frequency, father's education, mother's education, and school day PA. Three factors are related to PA. Four factors are related to parental circumstances. In addition to the seven important variables mentioned, variables such as breakfast frequency on school day, puffed food, frequency of outing, school day MVPA, parental feeling of sports, father's occupation, and weekend breakfast frequency are all statistically significant leaf node variables. PA, especially weekend PA, is the most critical factor in children's physical fitness improvement and the weekend MVPA should be increased to more than 30 min/d based on the improvement of weekend PA. In addition, parental factors and school day PA are also important in making decisions about changes in fitness for children. The mother's efforts to maintain a healthy BMI and engage in regular physical activity are crucial for enhancing the physical fitness of children. Additionally, other parental factors, such as the parents' educational levels and the father's occupation, can indirectly impact the level of physical fitness in children.

School-based high-intensity interval exercise program in children with overweight induce a greater improvements in body composition and physical fitness than moderate-intensity continuous exercise

BackgroundHigh-intensity interval running exercise (HIIE) is emerging as a time-efficient exercise modality for improving body composition and fitness in comparison with moderate-intensity continuous aerobic exercise (MICE); however, existing evidence is still unclear in children with overweight and thus we compared the effects of HIIE and MICE on body composition, muscular, and cardiorespiratory fitness in children with overweight.MethodsIn this randomized study, 40 male children with overweight aged 7–10 years were divided into an 8-week exercise regime: (1) HIIE group [n = 20; 2 sets of 15 × 20s at 85–95% maximal aerobic speed (MAS) separated by 15 × 20s recovery at 50% MAS, 3 days per week] and (2) MICE group [n = 20; 30 min at 60–70% MAS, 3 days per week]. Body composition, muscular and cardiorespiratory fitness were assessed before and after the 8-week intervention at similar times and conditions of the day.ResultsFollowing the 8-week HIIE protocol, weight, BMI, and fat mass decreased significantly (weight: − 1.4% vs. 0.2%, p < 0.05; BMI: − 3.1% vs. − 0.7%, p < 0.05; fat mass: − 7.7% vs. − 1.6%, p < 0.01) as compared with MICE; while the VO2peak and MAS increased significantly in both groups, the increase in HIIE group was significantly greater than that of MICE group (VO2peak: 10.3% vs. 3.5%, p < 0.01; MAS:7.7% vs. 4.5%, p < 0.05). Although significant improvements in muscular fitness were observed in HIIE and MICE groups [counter movement jump (CMJ): 7.8% vs. 5.4%; sprinting ability: − 3.7% vs. − 1.7%], no significant differences were seen between them (p > 0.05).ConclusionOur findings suggested that school-based HIIE intervention was highly in improving body composition and cardiorespiratory fitness of children with overweight than the MICE regime; however, MICE still provided improvements over time that were just not to the same magnitude of HIIE.