Muscle Groups Research Articles

Superset Versus Traditional Resistance Training Prescriptions: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Exploring Acute and Chronic Effects on Mechanical, Metabolic, and Perceptual Variables.

Supersets are a time-efficient resistance training (RT) method that involve the sequencing of two exercises with little or no rest between them. However, despite their common implementation during RT, a comprehensive and quantitative review is still lacking. The primary aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the acute and chronic effects of superset and traditional set prescriptions on mechanical, metabolic, and perceptual variables. We also aimed to conduct subgroup analyses to determine the effect of different types of supersets (agonist-antagonist, similar biomechanical, and alternate peripheral supersets). A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and EBSCO databases from inception to 10 February 2024. Studies written in English and meeting our inclusion criteria were included. Pooled meta-analysis and subgroup meta-analysis were performed using a random-effects model. Nineteen studies involving 313 participants were included. Although there was considerable variance in certain outcomes, our estimated effects suggested that, compared with traditional set prescription, supersets allow for (1) a similar total number of repetitions [standardized mean differences (SMD) = - 0.03; p = 0.92] and volume load (SMD = 0.05; p = 0.86) with a shorter session duration and increased training efficiency (SMD = 1.74; p = 0.01); (2) higher blood lactate concentration during (SMD = 0.94; p = 0.03) and after (SMD = 1.13; p < 0.01) RT; (3) higher energy cost during RT (SMD = 1.93; p = 0.04); (4) similar creatine kinase concentration after RT (SMD = 0.22; p = 0.36), surface electromyography (SMD = 0.01; p = 0.98), acute muscle swelling (SMD = - 0.28; p = 0.36) and blood pressure (systolic blood pressure [SMD = 0.08; p = 0.71], diastolic blood pressure [SMD = - 0.05; p = 0.85], and mean arterial pressure [SMD = - 0.03; p = 0.88]); (5) higher rating of perceived exertion (SMD = 0.77; p = 0.02) and similar perceived recovery (SMD = 0.32; p = 0.33); and (6) similar chronic adaptations in maximal strength (SMD = 0.10; p = 0.36), strength endurance (SMD = 0.07; p = 0.81), and muscle hypertrophy (SMD = - 0.05; p = 0.87). The subgroup analysis revealed that utilizing agonist-antagonist supersets leads to a significant increase in the number of repetitions that are able to be completed compared with traditional sets (SMD = 0.68; p = 0.01). Similar biomechanical supersets led to less volume load (SMD = - 1.08; p < 0.01) compared with traditional sets. Supersets provide a time-efficient alternative to traditional RT, reducing session duration without compromising training volume, muscle activation, perceived recovery, or chronic adaptations in maximal strength, strength endurance, and muscle hypertrophy. Thus, supersets can be effectively implemented by athletes with busy schedules and RT enthusiasts whose main barrier to exercise is time. However, it should be noted that supersets generally induce higher internal loads, more severe muscle damage, and increased perceived exertion, potentially necessitating extended recovery times between sessions. Additionally, superset RT may have a similar potential to traditional RT in eliciting post-exercise hypotension. Regarding different types of supersets, agonist-antagonist supersets are more suitable for maintaining training volume, while similar biomechanical supersets concentrate stimulation on the same muscle group, compromising volume load. The original protocol for this review was prospectively registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) in December 2023 (CRD42023491533).

Prehabilitation during neoadjuvant therapy in patients with cancer of the upper gastrointestinal tract and rectum—the study protocol

AimsThe concept of prehabilitation, defined as interventions aimed at enhancing a patient's functional capacity prior to an impending physiological stressor, may contribute to reduced postoperative morbidity and mortality. The study's goal is to verify or refute the feasibility of a prehabilitation programme for two diagnostic patient groups during neoadjuvant chemo(radio)therapy, which is prescribed before the scheduled surgical procedure. This is a single group study design, with all patients enrolled receiving the intervention.MethodsThis is an interventional feasibility study of a prehabilitation programme in the form of physical training conducted at home. The training consists of progressively dosed walking and strength exercises for selected muscle groups. Data will be monitored telemetrically and also through telephone contact with participants. Primary outcomes include: the percentage of patients interested in participating in the study out of all patients indicated for neoadjuvant therapy at University Hospital Ostrava during the observed period, the percentage of patients who complete the prehabilitation programme until the date of surgery and individual patient compliance. Secondary outcomes include physical fitness parameters obtained from cardiopulmonary exercise testing, grip strength measured by a dynamometer, changes in body composition, EORTC QLQ-C30 quality of life questionnaire, and a questionnaire on the subjective perception of the exercise programme. Both primary and secondary outcomes will be compared between study arms (two diagnostic groups). The study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT05646043.ConclusionThe results of this study can serve as a foundation for larger, multicentre, controlled studies in the future.

Effectiveness of Calf Muscle Stretching Exercise on leg Cramps among Antenatal Mothers Attending a Tertiary Care Centre Thiruvananthapuram

Background: Leg cramps during pregnancy is a common discomfort characterized by involuntary,painful contraction of muscle groups that usually occur in the calf or small muscles of the foot but canaffect different part of the leg. The severity of the leg cramp pain is variable and each attack may takefew minutes. 1 The prevalence of leg cramps occurred among 30% to 50% of pregnant women. Legcramping means painful spasm especially in the lower extremities occurs during pregnancy andmainly occurred in the second half of pregnancy typically occurs at night and usually lasts for a fewseconds or 2 minutes. 2Materials and Methods:The objective of the present study was to assess the effectiveness of calfmuscle stretching exercise on leg cramps among antenatal mothers. The research approach adopted for the study was quantitative approach and the research design was quasi experimental pre-test post-test control group design. Sample size was 80 and the samples who satisfied the inclusion andexclusion criteria were selected consecutively. Informed consent was obtained from those participantswho were willing to participate in the study. The investigator collected socio demographic data,clinical data and history of leg cramps by a self- prepared semi structured questionnaire and intensityof leg cramps was assessed using numeric pain rating scale. The investigator demonstrated thestretching exercise and provided with a diary to note down the intensity, duration and frequency of legcramps and the post-test was conducted after two weeks.Results: The collected data was analyzed using SPSS version 22 and description of participants basedon socio demographic data, clinical data and history of leg cramps were analyzed using percentageand frequencies and the effectiveness of calf muscle stretching exercise on frequency and duration ofleg cramps among experimental and control group was analyzed using chi-square test and thecalculated p value was &amp;lt;0.05, it was concluded that calf muscle stretching exercise was effective inreducing frequency and duration of leg cramps among experimental group also the effectiveness ofcalf muscle stretching exercise on intensity of leg cramps was analyzed by independent t-test. It wasfound that the mean difference in NPRS score in the experimental was 2.03±0.66 and in the controlgroup was 0.35±1.14 and the calculated p value was &amp;lt;0.05.Conclusion: calf muscle stretching exercise is effective in reducing intensity of leg cramps amongantenatal mothers.

Effects of Wound Localisation on Balance, Performance, Muscle Strength, and Gait Speed in Individuals with Diabetic Foot Ulcer: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Muscle strength, balance, performance, and gait speed of individuals diagnosed with diabetic foot wound are negatively affected. This study aimed to investigate the effects of wound localisation on balance, performance, muscle strength, and gait speed in individuals with diabetic foot wounds. Individuals (n = 48) with a mean age of 59.35 ± 11.28 years and were divided into two groups according to wound localisation as group 1 (n = 24) with forefoot wounds and group 2 (n = 24) with hindfoot wounds. Four Step Square Test was used for dynamic balance assessment, Timed Up and Go Test for performance, Manual Muscle Tests for muscle strength, and 10 Meter Walk Test for gait speed assessment. When compared in terms of muscle strength, there was a difference only between the injured side Gluteus Medius (p = 0.02), Gastrosoleus (p = 0.00), and Tibialis Anterior (p = 0.03) muscles. Other muscle groups strength, balance, performance, and gait speed were similar (p > 0.05). Loss of muscle strength can lead to serious negative consequences such as deformity and new wound formation if not intervened in time. The effects on balance and performance are similar in different wound localizations.

Abstract TMP52: Corticospinal Tractography and Motor Function in Patients Undergoing Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation

Introduction: A recent randomized-controlled trial confirmed the value of minimally-invasive intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) evacuation to improve outcomes in properly-selected patients. Yet, there remains a need to optimize patient selection and prognosis following ICH evacuation. Magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) allows visualization and quantification of critical white matter tracts. Corticospinal tract DTI (CST-DTI) in particular can be associated with motor function, which may improve prognosis and patient selection for ICH evacuation. Methods: Patients who underwent minimally-invasive ICH evacuation and had perioperative DTI performed were retrospectively reviewed. CST metrics including fractional anisotropy, radial diffusivity, axial diffusivity, geodesic anisotropy, fiber count, and tract volume were associated with motor function pre- and postoperatively. Motor function was scored on each hemibody via the weakest muscle group in each extremity according to the Medical Research Council grading scale (maximum score of 10 on each hemibody). Results: Eighteen patients with available peri-operative DTI data were included, 12 each with preoperative and postoperative DTI, seven with matched pre- and postoperative DTI. Preoperative geodesic anisotropy was significantly associated with both preoperative motor function on the contralateral hemibody (R=0.616, p=0.032, Pearson correlation) and at postoperative day one (R=0.606, p=0.038). Restoration of a deformed CST could be seen in several patients from preoperative to the immediate postoperative period ( Figure 1) . However, no preoperative or postoperative CST-DTI metrics were associated with motor scores at a median follow-up of 6.3 months post-ICH (p&gt;0.05 for all comparisons). There was a significant increase in motor scores on the affected hemibody from postoperative day one to last follow-up (3.8±3.5 vs 6.3±6.8; p = 0.038, Wilcox signed-rank test). Conclusions: Preoperative CST-DTI metrics are associated with both preoperative and immediate postoperative motor function after minimally invasive ICH evacuation. A restored CST after ICH evacuation could be seen in a subset of patients. However, neither preoperative nor immediate postoperative CST-DTI metrics were associated with longer-term motor function. Tractography from the perioperative period should be used with caution in providing motor prognosis.

Characteristics of Mechanical Outputs During Rowing Motion: Comparison Between Fixed and Slide Rowing Ergometers

OBJECTIVES This study compared the mechanical outputs and lower joint kinematics during rowing motion using fixed and slide-type rowing ergometers to clarify the slide type's characteristics.METHODS Junior rowers performed a simulated 2000m race pace under two ergometer conditions. Rowing motion was filmed by a high-speed video camera (200 fps) from right angles beside the subject and changes in Hip and knee joint angles were measured. Spatiotemporal parameters as well as force output from the handle and stretcher and joint angle kinematics at 500m spot calculated.RESULTS In the 2000m time trial, the two conditions showed no significant difference. However, significant differences were observed in the maximum stretcher force, with the slide-type rowing ergometer showing higher values than the fixed-type rowing ergometer. On the other hand, greater values in handle force were found for the fixed-type rowing ergometer than slide-type rowing ergometer greater. Greater rate of force development for the handle and stretcher were observed in the slide-type rowing ergometer condition. No significant differences were observed in angular changes between the two conditions, but knee and hip maximum angular accelerations were significantly higher in the slide-type rowing ergometer condition. Higher stretcher force in slide-type rowing ergometer at the beginning of the stroke is characterized as the influence of maximal angular acceleration in both knee and hip joint extensions, causing high rate of force development of handle and stretcher forces in the initial phase of the drive. As a result, the muscle groups including the biarticular muscles around hip and knee joints may work in coordination to exert significant force, a defining characteristic of the slide-type rowing ergometer.CONCLUSIONS The fix-type rowing can be used effectively to strengthen the maximum handle pull strength, mainly upper extremity. On the other hand, slide-type rowing can be used effectively to strengthen the maximum stretcher force as well as it’s rate of force development, which might be similar force output of lower extremity as performed during on-water rowing.

Influence of hip and lumbar extensor strength on lumbar moments during a squat lift: An evaluation of persons with and without low back pain.

Individuals with low back pain have been reported to exhibit weakness of the hip and lumbar extensor muscle groups. It is possible that persons with low back pain may perform a squat lift in a manner to accommodate diminished muscular capacity. The objective of the study was to evaluate the influence of hip and lumbar extensor strength on lumbar moments in persons with and without low back pain. Fifty individuals (25 with low back pain and 25 without low back pain) between the ages of 18-50years participated. Strength of the lumbar and hip extensors was measured using a motor-driven dynamometer. Lumbar and hip extensor moments were quantified during the performance of a squat lift. On average lumbar extensor and hip extensor moments during the squat lift were significantly lower in those with low back pain. In addition, lumbar extensor and hip extensor strength were significantly lower in those with low back pain compared to healthy individuals. In persons with low back pain, significant positive associations were found between lumbar extensor strength and lumbar extensor moments (r=0.40, p=0.05) and hip extensor strength and lumbar extensor moments (r=0.48, p=0.02). Similar relationships were found in the healthy group. Individuals with low back pain performed the squat lift task in a manner that resulted in reduced lumbar moments. Lower lumbar extensor moments were associated with lower hip and lumbar strength, suggesting that muscular capacity may influence an individual's lifting strategy.

Quantifying Muscle Volume Deficits Among 38 Lower Extremity Muscles in Collegiate Football Athletes After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Quadriceps dysfunction is ubiquitous after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR). Addressing quadriceps dysfunction is crucial to improve function, reduce the reinjury risk, and maintain long-term knee health. While deficits specific to the quadriceps are well documented, less is known about the effect of an ACL injury on other lower extremity muscle groups. The purpose of this exploratory analysis was to quantify and rank lower extremity muscle volume deficits using magnetic resonance imaging in collegiate football athletes after ACLR. It was hypothesized that the quadriceps muscles would present with the greatest deficits and that compensatory hypertrophy of muscles at adjacent joints such as the hip and ankle would be observed. Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. This study is a secondary analysis from an ongoing multicenter prospective cohort study involving Division I collegiate football athletes. Athletes who underwent primary unilateral ACLR (1 [3%] allograft, 2 [7%] quadriceps tendon autograft, 22 [73%] bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft, 5 [17%] hamstring tendon autograft) and magnetic resonance imaging were included. Muscle volumes (mL·kg-1·m-1) were quantified bilaterally from 38 lower extremity muscles using machine learning technology. Paired-samples t tests were performed between limbs for each muscle, which were then ranked and visualized in a forest plot based on standardized mean differences (surgical - nonsurgical limb). A total of 30 athletes (mean time from surgery, 27.9 ± 19.0 months) were included. The largest muscle volume deficits in the surgical limb were seen in the 3 uniarticular quadriceps muscles, followed by the biarticular triceps surae muscles. The rectus femoris and soleus did not show significant differences between limbs. Conversely, the fibularis muscle group had a greater muscle volume in the surgical limb compared with the nonsurgical limb. Most other muscle groups did not present significant differences between limbs. Persistent quadriceps atrophy in a cohort of high-level athletes over 2 years after ACLR was highlighted in this study. Deficits in the gastrocnemius muscles, but not in the soleus, were also identified. This comprehensive approach examining various lower extremity muscles revealed latent muscle volume deficits present after ACLR.

Can 12-Week Resistance Training Improve Muscle Strength, Dynamic Balance and the Metabolic Profile in Older Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus?

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of 12-week resistance training (RT) on muscle strength, dynamic balance, glycemic control and the lipid profile. Methods: The Laboratory of Movement Studies in the University of São Paulo, Brazil, developed this longitudinal study between 2021 and 2023. It assessed 62 males with type 2 diabetes mellitus pre and post an RT protocol. The participants, who were 69.8 (±3.9) years old, took part in a 12-week twice-weekly RT program. Three sets of eight to twelve repetitions each were executed for eight exercises targeting the large muscle groups. The intensity was set between 7 and 8 out of 10 for perceived effort, according to the Omni Resistance Exercise Scale. All participants were evaluated pre and post in knee extensor and flexor strength by isokinetic dynamometry, handgrip strength by manual dynamometry and dynamic postural balance by a force platform, as well as blood tests to determine the lipid and glycemic profiles. For comparison, paired t or Wilcoxon tests were used at an alpha of 5%. Results: There was an improvement in muscular strength by handgrip restricted to the non-dominant side (p = 0.033) and for the bilateral knee flexors (p &lt; 0.001) and extensors (p &lt; 0.001), as determined by isokinetic dynamometry. There was no improvement in dynamic postural balance, glycemic control or lipid control. Conclusions: The 12-week RT promoted improved muscle strength in knee extension and flexion and non-dominant grip pressure but did not affect dynamic balance, glycemic control or the lipid profile.

Transcriptome analysis of muscle atrophy in Leizhou black goats: identification of key genes and insights into limb-girdle muscular dystrophy

BackgroundThe Leizhou Black Goat (LZBG), a prominent breed in tropical China’s meat goat industry, frequently exhibits inherent muscle atrophy and malnutrition-related traits. Particularly, muscles critical for support, such as the legs, often display severe symptoms. This study aimed to investigate the differential genes and signaling pathways influencing muscle development and atrophy across various muscle locations in LZBG from a muscular atrophy-affected family.ResultsDifferential expression analysis revealed 536 mRNAs with significant differences across three muscle groups. Marked variations in mRNA expression patterns were observed between leg and back muscles versus abdominal muscles, reflecting characteristics similar to those found in limb-girdle muscular dystrophy. The analysis identified several key differentially expressed genes implicated in muscle development and atrophy, including PITX1, COLQ, ZIC1, SBK2, and TBX1, showed Significant difference expression levels and expression patterns with normal individuals. Functional annotation and protein interaction network analysis indicated enrichment of these genes in muscle-related pathways. Protein interaction network analysis identified five key clusters related to muscle function and development.ConclusionThe mRNA expression patterns of the leg and back muscles in LZBG from a muscular atrophy-affected family differed significantly from those of the abdominal muscle, displaying typical characteristics of limb-girdle muscular dystrophy. Genes such as PITX1, TBX1, SBK2, TCAP, and COLQ were identified as key regulators of muscle development and contributors to muscle atrophy. These findings enhance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying muscular atrophy in LZBGs. The identification of key genes and pathways provides valuable insights for developing future breeding strategies aimed at improving meat production efficiency.

Stretching, Isometrics, and Aerobic Exercise for Decreasing Blood Pressure Post-Exercise: A Randomized Cross-Over Study.

We compared stretching, isometrics, and aerobic exercise for effectiveness in decreasing blood pressure post-exercise. Using a randomized crossover design, 5 males and 4 females (21.3y; normotensive) participated in four 30-minute sessions on separate days: static stretching (30s stretches, major muscle groups), isometric exercise, aerobic cycling (75% VO2peak), and control (rest), with blood pressure and heart rate measured before exercise (or rest) and for 60 minutes post-exercise (or rest). Aerobic exercise and stretching decreased post-exercise systolic blood pressure (~10 mmHg each) (p<0.05) whereas isometric exercise and the control condition did not significantly decrease post-exercise blood pressure. Stretching is similar to aerobic exercise for reducing blood pressure post-exercise. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06628635.

Effect of individual spinal muscle activities on upright posture using a human body finite element model

The occurrence of diseases characterized by irregular spinal alignment, such as kyphosis, lordosis, scoliosis, and dropped head syndrome (DHS) is increasing, particularly among older adults. DHS is characterized by an excessive forward tilt of the head and neck, causing the head to droop. Although it is believed that muscle activity plays a role in both the onset and treatment of DHS, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. To elucidate the mechanism, we used a human body finite element model, which included the erector spinae muscle group, and a muscle controller with fixed legs for spinal posture stabilization. The model replicated muscle activation levels during the maintenance of an upright posture under gravity, similar to those obtained from experimental data. Parametric simulations to investigate the effect of each spinal muscle impairment on upright posture with and without compensatory activities of the other muscles suggest that trunk extensors; the multifidus L1-S and longissimus thoracis muscles, and hip flexors; psoas major and iliacus muscles play an integral role in maintaining an upright posture. These findings support the results of a rehabilitation study that reported that exercises targeting the trunk, psoas muscles, and cervical extensors could improve global spinal alignment and clinical outcomes in DHS.

A Study on the Effects of Gluteal Muscle Activation on the Electromyography of Lower Limb Muscles in Young Male Patients With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome.

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common knee issue, and hip joint function significantly affects knee health. Gluteus activation exercises are a promising treatment for PFPS. This study aims to investigate the impact of gluteal muscle activation exercises on the muscle involvement and movement patterns of young male patients with PFPS. Our study was a randomized controlled clinical trial study from June 2020 to December 2021, included 18 young male patients with PFPS, randomly divided into two groups: the gluteus activation group (GAG) and control group (CON), with nine cases in each group. The GAG underwent gluteal muscle activation exercises for 40 min per session, three times per week, for 6 weeks; the CON received no intervention. At baseline and after 6 weeks, the integrated electromyography (IEMG), contribution rates (CRs), and activation times (ATs) of the gluteus maximus (GM), vastus medialis (VM), rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL), biceps femoris (BF), and semitendinosus (ST) muscles of the affected lower limb during stair-climbing exercise were assessed. Additionally, the explosive power (EP) of the lower limbs and the visual analog scale (VAS) pain value of the knee joint were evaluated. Paired sample t-tests and independent sample t-tests were used to compare the differences within and between groups. After 6 weeks, the GAG showed a significant increase in the IEMG of GM by 118 ± 67.09 μVs compared to CON (p < 0.05), and an increase in the CR of the GM by 6.75% (p < 0.05). Additionally, the AT of the GM and BF was significantly reduced (p < 0.05), and the lower limb EP increased by 14.66% compared to the CON (p < 0.05). Concurrently, there was a very significant reduction in the knee VAS pain score (p < 0.01). The CON exhibited no significant changes in the EMG indices of the lower limbs, EP, and VAS before and after the 6 weeks (p > 0.05). A 6-week gluteal muscle activation training program for patients with PFPS can adjust and optimize the IEMG, CR, and firing order of the lower limb muscle groups, enhance EP, and alleviate pain.

Shear wave elastography reveals passive and active mechanics of triceps surae muscles in vivo: From shear modulus-ankle angle to stress-strain characteristics.

Characterizing individual muscle behavior is crucial for understanding joint function and adaptations to exercise, diseases, or aging. Shear wave elastography (SWE) is a promising tool for measuring the intrinsic material properties of muscle. This study assessed the passive and active shear modulus of the triceps surae muscle group in 14 volunteers (7 females, 25.9±2.5 years) using SWE. Ankle moment, surface electromyography, and SWE of the gastrocnemius medialis (GM), gastrocnemius lateralis (GL), and soleus (SOL) muscles were measured from 30° plantar flexion (PF) to 15° dorsiflexion (DF) ankle angles during passive and isometric contractions at 25%, 50%, and 75% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). Muscle length, passive and active ankle moment, and passive shear modulus increased from PF to DF (p<0.001 for all). At 15° DF, the passive shear modulus of the SOL was 76% lower than that of the GM (p<0.001), suggesting that the SOL operates within a lower strain range. The active shear modulus decreased from PF to DF (e.g., by 36.8% at 75% MVC, p=0.009) and was lowest in SOL. The decreasing active shear modulus suggests the muscles operate at shorter-than-optimal to optimal lengths. Contraction intensity also affected the shear modulus (p<0.001), indicating distinct force-sharing strategies, with GL possibly playing a crucial role at higher-intensity contractions and longer lengths. This study demonstrated SWE's potential to characterize muscle mechanics in vivo. If validated, predictions from SWE could facilitate studying muscle behavior and force-sharing strategies, serving as a diagnostic or monitoring tool for muscle function and performance.

Effects of Recreational Football on Bone Mineral Density and Isokinetic Muscle Strength in Elderly Men: A Study of Turkish Older Men

Background and Objectives: Recreational football (RF) as a community activity can provide a positive transformative effect on the musculoskeletal systems necessary for the self-care and independent life demands of older adults when designed with a geriatric approach, in addition to its psycho-social benefits. However, studies investigating the potential value of these practices in older adults living in different ecosystems are needed. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of RF on bone mineral density (BMD) and knee isokinetic muscle strength (KIMS) at angular velocities of 60°/s−1 and 120°/s−1 in older adult men. Material and Methods: A total of 57 elderly men (65.5 ± 2.7 years) were randomly divided into a football group (FG; n = 28) and a control group (CG; n = 29). The FG participated in 28 sessions of training, twice a week. Participants were evaluated using the DEXA and IsoMed 2000. The groups, their pre-test–post-test time differences, and group*time interactions were analyzed by mixed design ANOVA. Results: The results were analyzed considering a p &lt; 0.05 significance level. There was no observed statistically significant difference between the groups for bone mineral density values (p &gt; 0.078), but there was an observed statistically significant difference in the FG group*time interaction (F = 7.009, p &lt; 0.009, η2p = 0.060). There was a statistically significant difference between the groups in the peak torque flexion and peak torque extension values at 60°/s−1 angular velocity, respectively (p &lt; 0.002, p &lt; 0.011). At 120°/s−1 angular velocity, peak torque flexion and extension, total work flexion and extension, and peak power flexion and extension showed statistically significant differences between the groups, respectively (p &lt; 0.001, p &lt; 0.0027; p &lt; 0.003, p &lt; 0.025; p &lt; 0.001, p &lt; 0.009). Conclusions: These results suggest that RF interventions provide positive biochemical and morphological adaptations in bone mineral density and lower extremity muscle groups, making older adults both more resistant to potential risks and encouraging exercise as a way of life with its autotelic flow structure.

Comparative study on psychological characteristics and biomechanical indicators of rock climbers at different levels: An analysis based on self-efficacy, sport motivation, and muscle function performance

Background: Rock climbing is a comprehensive sport that integrates physical strength, coordination, and psychological resilience. Significant differences may exist in the psychological states and biomechanical performance of athletes at different levels. However, systematic studies on the psychological characteristics and biomechanical indicators of rock climbers at different levels remain limited. Objective: This study aimed to compare the psychological indicators (e.g., self-efficacy and sport motivation) and biomechanical characteristics (e.g., muscle activation levels, relative peak torque, and flexor-extensor peak torque ratios) of rock climbers to explore the differences and intrinsic relationships between athletes of different skill levels. The findings aimed to provide a theoretical basis for optimizing performance and designing training strategies. Methods: Twenty-two rock climbers participated in the study, including 11 elite athletes and 11 novice athletes. Psychological indicators were assessed using standardized questionnaires, including self-efficacy and five dimensions of sport motivation: Fun motivation, ability motivation, appearance motivation, health motivation, and social motivation. Biomechanical data were collected using the Noraxon DTS surface electromyography (sEMG) system and the Biodex System 4 isokinetic dynamometer, which measured muscle activation levels and the relative peak torque and flexor-extensor peak torque ratios of the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and ankle joints at speeds of 60°/s, 120°/s, and 180°/s. Muscle activation signals were normalized as %MVC, and peak torque values were extracted for analysis. The data were grouped by athlete level, and independent sample t-tests were conducted to compare group differences, with significance set at p &lt; 0.05. Results: Elite athletes demonstrated significantly higher psychological indicators than novice athletes, particularly in self-efficacy (3.19 ± 0.671 vs. 2.77 ± 0.341) and fun motivation (3.28 ± 1.049 vs. 2.78 ± 0.47). Additionally, elite athletes exhibited higher muscle activation levels and relative peak torque in upper limb and core muscle groups compared to novice athletes (p &lt; 0.05), indicating superior strength control and coordination. Conversely, novice athletes had relatively higher peak torque in lower limb muscle groups but showed deficiencies in strength balance and coordination. Conclusion: Significant differences were found in the psychological states and biomechanical characteristics of rock climbers at different levels. These differences likely contribute to variations in athletic performance. Elite athletes displayed stronger psychological advantages and superior strength in upper limb and core muscle groups. In contrast, novice athletes needed to enhance sport motivation and improve upper limb and core strength to develop comprehensive athletic abilities. This study provides a scientific basis for optimizing training strategies for rock climbers at different levels and lays a foundation for future research on the mechanisms underlying climbing performance.

Physical Activity, Steps, and Cardiovascular Disease: A Literature Review

Abstract Despite decades of literature on the benefits of physical activity (PA) on cardiovascular disease (CVD) and other health outcomes, rates of physical inactivity and sedentary time remain alarmingly high and are likely contributing to the global increase in CVD. Roughly one-third of the world’s population does not meet the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline recommended levels of aerobic PA, defined as ≥ 150 min of moderate-intensity PA or ≥75 min of vigorous-intensity PA, or an equivalent combination of both. This is in addition to recommending individuals perform at least 2 days of muscle-strengthening activities per week involving all major muscle groups, which provide additional CVD benefits beyond aerobic PA. Disparities by sex and between high- and low-income countries persist, with modeling studies suggesting a direct global economic cost of $5 billion dollars. To combat the global health crisis of physical inactivity, the WHO implemented a global action plan on PA in 2013, which set a target of a 15% relative reduction in physical inactivity by 2030. Barriers to attaining adequate PA levels are abundant, however, step counting represents a relatively novel metric of PA with a growing body of literature supporting their utility given mounting evidence of CVD benefits, with trends that mirror intensity-centric metrics of PA that are used in WHO guidelines. This manuscript provides an up-to-date review of the evidence on the benefits of PA, steps, and cardiovascular outcomes.

Volume and quality of the gluteal muscles are associated with early physical function after total hip arthroplasty.

Identifying muscles linked to postoperative physical function can guide protocols to enhance early recovery following total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study aimed to evaluate the association of preoperative pelvic and thigh muscle volume and quality with early physical function after THA in patients with unilateral hip osteoarthritis (HOA). Preoperative Computed tomography (CT) images of 61 patients (eight males and 53 females) with HOA were analyzed. Six muscle groups were segmented from CT images, and muscle volume and quality were calculated on the healthy and affected sides. Muscle quality was quantified using the mean CT values (Hounsfield units [HU]). Early postoperative physical function was evaluated using the Timed Up & Go test (TUG) at three weeks after THA. The effect of preoperative muscle volume and quality of both sides on early postoperative physical function was assessed. On the healthy and affected sides, mean muscle mass was 9.7cm3/kg and 8.1cm3/kg, and mean muscle HU values were 46.0 HU and 39.1 HU, respectively. Significant differences in muscle volume and quality were observed between the affected and healthy sides. On analyzing the function of various muscle groups, the TUG score showed a significant association with the gluteus maximum volume and the gluteus medius/minimus quality on the affected side. Patients with HOA showed significant muscle atrophy and fatty degeneration in the affected pelvic and thigh regions. The gluteus maximum volume and gluteus medius/minimus quality were associated with early postoperative physical function. Preoperative rehabilitation targeting the gluteal muscles on the affected side could potentially enhance recovery of physical function in the early postoperative period.

Differences in Contractile Characteristics Among Various Muscle Groups in Youth Elite Female Team Handball Players Compared to a Control Group

Differences in Contractile Characteristics Among Various Muscle Groups in Youth Elite Female Team Handball Players Compared to a Control Group

Integrating deliberate shaking into daily living: a paradoxical exercise for Parkinsonian tremor

Purpose Medication often falls short in controlling tremors in Parkinson’s disease. While physical activities suggest potential benefits, current exercise regimes have limitations. This paper explores the concept of deliberate shaking as an intervention to aid exercise uptake and potentially leverage synergies between medication and physical activity. It examines the rationale for and mechanisms of deliberate shaking before exploring its further examination and implementation for tremor rehabilitation. Method This conceptual article draws on relevant literature using the SANRA guide to explore the potential of deliberate shaking to relieve tremors in Parkinson’s disease. Results Deliberate shaking is a controlled exercise where an individual consciously initiates and partially surrenders to rhythmic movements while maintaining the ability to stop at will. Integrated into daily activities, this practice may target and stimulate specific muscle groups. It may alleviate tremor through various mechanisms: neurobiological, physiological, and cognitive and psychological. Before implementation, empirical research is needed to assess its feasibility, safety, and effectiveness. Implementation requires assessing eligibility for a shaking prescription, setting personalized goals, providing guidance as needed, and ensuring appropriate safety measures are in place. Conclusions Deliberate shaking is a potential adjunct treatment for Parkinsonian tremor. However, it requires further testing.