Physical Activity Readiness Research Articles

Measurement of Immunological Parameters to Assess Human Body Readiness for Physical Load.

We measured the level of natural antibodies (nAb) to glutamate and GABA reflecting the balance of excitation and inhibition systems and involved in the adaptation processes in athletes receiving normalized physical activity in the dynamics of training (figure skaters, football players, and people actively involved in sports). It was found that each subject has an individual immunological profile and its parameters change in accordance with the training load. The measured levels of nAbs to GABA and glutamate correlate the physical activity of a person. The surveyed football players were divided into 3 groups according to the results of the analysis. Subjects of the first group had reliably high immunological indices in comparison with the control and were at the peak of physical form; in the third group, low immunological indices relative to the control indicated exhaustion and fatigue. The indicators of the second group corresponded to normal and demonstrated the resource of adaptation to load. The developed method can be used for assessing person's readiness for physical activity.

Study on the health status of students in higher medical education

Abstract Introduction The health benefits of regular physical activity are clear. More students should engage in physical activity every day of the week. Participating in physical activity from the sport lessons is very safe for most students. Aim In this study we want to ascertain the health status of the students at the beginning of the academic year, in order to have a more efficient didactic design and to identify the possible medical conditions that can generate health risks during physical exercises. Methods The study was performed using the PARQ+ questionnaire (The Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire) and body mass index. These were applied to a number of 235 subjects, students in higher medical education. Results The results showed that 71.07% of the students have no health problems and are fit for physical effort, and 28.93% of them were identified with various activity-limiting medical conditions. The results obtained by calculating the BMI show us that 69.79% of the subjects are in the normal weight category. Conclusion In conclusion, for most students, physical activity does not involve any risk. Taking into account the high percentage of those with different conditions, knowing the health status of students should represent an important milestone in the activity of teachers, and help them eliminate the risk factors. Thus, almost 3 out of 10 students should check with a doctor about the risks associated with exercising before they begin to become more physically active.

The Association between Physical Activity, Motor Skills and School Readiness in 4-5-Year-Old Children in the Northeast of England.

The benefits of being physically active, possessing good motor skills and being school-ready are well documented in early years. Nevertheless, the association between physical activity and motor skills with school readiness remains unknown. Therefore, the aim of this cross-sectional study was to explore the relationship between these variables. We collected data on 326 four to five-year-old children from the northeast of England. Children’s PA (ActiGraph GT1M accelerometers), motor skills (MABC-2 and the locomotor section of the TGMD-2) and school readiness (EYFSP) were measured, and associations between these variables were examined. This study found that, on average, children engaged in more MVPA (99.6 min/day) and less sedentary behaviour (261 min/day) than documented in previous research. Motor-skill scores were consistent with existing literature in early years. A higher percentage of children in the sample (79.6%) achieved school readiness than the average for England. Regression analyses found that motor-skill variables and sedentary behaviour were significantly predictive of school readiness, whereas physical activity was not. Motor skills and sedentary behaviour significantly predict school readiness. Therefore, promoting motor skills and developmentally appropriate sedentary behaviour activities may increase the number of children achieving school readiness.

Association of body mass index, cardiorespiratory fitness, and their correlates among female physical therapy students in Multan.

To explore the correlates directly associated with body mass index and cardiorespiratory fitness among undergraduate female physiotherapists. The cross-sectional study was conducted from October to December 2020 at Ali-Ul-Murtaza Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Muhammad Institute of Medical and Allied Sciences, Multan, Pakistan, and comprised undergraduate female physiotherapists aged17-25 years. The subjects were assessed on the basis of Physical Activity Readiness Questioner, body mass index and standard criteria of cardiorespiratory fitness. Data was analysed using SPSS 20. Of the 334 subjects with a mean age of 20.89±1.66 years, 200(59.88) were overweight and 34(10.17) were underweight. Overall 83(24.9) reported good quality of life, 194(58.1) were satisfied with their general health, and 228(68.3) presented with a history of cardiometabolic disorder. There was a highly significant positive correlation in overweight and negative correlation in underweight subjects (p≤0.05). The frequency of overweight female physical therapy students was high.

The Relationship between Physical Activity, Self-Regulation and Cognitive School Readiness in Preschool Children.

(1) Background: Limited research exists on the pathways through which physical activity influences cognitive development in the early years. This study examined the direct and indirect relationships between physical activity, self-regulation, and cognitive school readiness in preschool children. (2) Method: Participants (n = 56) aged 3–5 years were recruited from the PLAYCE study, Perth, Western Australia. Physical activity was measured using 7-day accelerometry. Self-regulation was measured using the Head Toes Knees and Shoulders task and cognitive school readiness was assessed using the Bracken School Readiness Assessment. Baron and Kenny’s method was used for mediation analysis. (3) Results: After adjustment for socio-demographic factors, total physical activity was positively and significantly associated with cognitive school readiness (B = 0.16, SE = 0.07, p ≤ 0.05). Moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was positively and significantly associated with self-regulation (B = 0.3, SE = 0.13, p ≤ 0.05) and cognitive school readiness score (B = 0.20, SE = 0.09, p ≤ 0.05). Self-regulation was found to be a partial mediator of the relationship between MVPA and cognitive school readiness. (4) Conclusion: These findings highlight the direct and indirect association between preschool children’s physical activity, self-regulation, and cognitive school readiness. Further research is needed to determine the causal relationships between young children’s physical activity and cognitive development, over time.

Health Screening and Updated Blood Pressure Guidelines and Their Application for the Certified Personal Trainer

ABSTRACT Certified National Strength and Conditioning Association personal trainers are “health/fitness professionals who, using an individualized approach, assess, motivate, educate, and train clients regarding their health and fitness needs. They design safe and effective exercise programs, provide the guidance to help clients achieve their personal health/fitness goals, and respond appropriately in emergency situations. Recognizing their area of expertise, personal trainers refer clients to other health care professionals when appropriate.” The design of safe and effective exercise programs includes the need to stay current with published research and changes to relevant exercise guidelines. The purpose of this article is to provide a brief overview of recent changes to the exercise preparticipation health screen, application of the physical activity readiness questionnaire for everyone (PAR-Q+), updated blood pressure guidelines, and recommendations for program design given these changes.

Evaluation of the physical activity level of the soldiers of the Kinshasa Garrison: Cross-sectional and observational study

A high level of physical activity helps soldiers to fight against many chronic non-communicable pathologies. The aim of the study was to measure the level of physical activity (PA) of soldiers of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo in Kinshasa, aged 19 to 69. This is a cross-sectional and observational study with a questionnaire survey. It was conducted in the Garrison of Kinshasa where cardiovascular exploration center of the bodies in military health served us as the pilot point, which constituted a convenience sample of 899 soldiers who took part in our survey. The data collection was carried out by a self-questionnaire integrating the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) score of a short version, which informed the practice of physical activity and assessed the usual daily activities, the time spent sitting at work, the use of usual health routes. The study was conducted in the garrison of Kinshasa between October 2020 and February 2021 where all categories of army rank: corporals and soldiers, non-commissioned officers, junior officers, senior officers, aged 19 to 69 years, took part in this study. A total of 899 soldiers responded to the questionnaire, consisting of 797 men and 102 women, 88.7% vs 11.3%. The mean age was 45.4±11.9 years and the mean physical activity scores were significantly different according to age and rank (p=0.007) of soldiers aged 19 to 69 years. It is shown that most of the military were inactive (54.2%) versus 45.8% were active. Of the active members, 34.3% were slightly active, 8.5% moderately active and 3.1% very active. The age of the physical inactivity level increased significantly with the chronological age of the soldier (p=0.045). This physical inactivity was significantly higher among privates & corporals and NCOs (p=0.003). Military personnel with a morbid history had a significantly higher frequency of physical inactivity (p=0.046). This study reveals that the majority of Kinshasa soldiers have a low level of physical activity. This low level of PA exposes them to develop chronic non-communicable pathology. It is suggested that a military PA program be proposed to them so that they improve their PA level.

Depression mediates physical activity readiness and physical activity in patients with heart failure.

AimsAlthough physical activity (PA) and exercise are essential for patients with heart failure (HF), adherence to the recommended guidelines is low. Not much is known about the mediating effect of HF patients' mental state with their readiness for PA and reported activity levels. The purpose of this study is to investigate the mediatory effect of depression on PA readiness (physical limitation and psychological readiness) and self‐reported PA in patients with HF.Methods and resultsIn this cross‐sectional study, 163 New York Heart Association Class I and II HF patients, during their clinic visit, reported on their physical limitation (PAR‐Q) and psychological readiness [self‐efficacy (ESES) and motivation (RM 4‐FM)] for PA, depression (HADS‐D), and PA (s‐IPAQ). Mediation analysis was performed to test the mediating effect of depression on PA readiness (physical limitation and psychological readiness) and self‐reported PA following the steps described by Baron and Kenny (1986). Hierarchical regression models were tested for their effects. The Self‐Efficacy Theory and Self‐Determination theory provided the theoretical platform for the study. Depression completely mediated the effect of physical limitation ( and partially mediated the effect of self‐efficacy on PA (. Both intrinsic (P < .0001) and extrinsic motivation (P < .0001) for PA had an independent and significant effect on PA, not mediated by depression.ConclusionsPatients with HF should be screened for depression throughout the trajectory of the disease as it can impact their physical and psychological readiness to perform PA.

Endurance and high-intensity interval training improve the levels of anxiety and quality of life in overweight men

Body mass index (BMI) values of 25 kg/m2 or more have been associated with poor cognitive outcomes, reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and mental health disorders. Participating in regular exercise may improve these negative outcomes. However, the optimal exercise prescription remains to be clarified. The purpose of the present study is to compare the effects of moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on HRQoL, depression, and anxiety levels in middle-aged overweight men.Twenty-five sedentary, overweight men participated in the 8-week training intervention. Subjects were randomized into MICT or HIIT and performed exercise sessions three times per week for 8 weeks. Participants answered the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire, the Short Form-36 survey, the Beck Depression Inventory-II, and the Beck Anxiety Inventory. Statistical analysis was carried out using the GraphPad Prism 7.0, and the level of significance was set at 5% to quantitative variables.HRQoL scores were enhanced to all domains of both the groups. MICT and HIIT did not significantly change the depression levels in middle-aged overweight men (p>0.05). Nevertheless, MICT was capable to reduce the anxiety levels in middle-aged overweight men (p<0.05). However, there was not a significant change in the anxiety levels at the HIIT group.HIIT may be a useful treatment to improve the HRQoL, but MICT alone can positively impact the anxiety levels in middle-aged overweight men.

Translation, Cultural Adaptation, and Reproducibility of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (PAR-Q+): The Brazilian Portuguese Version.

Background: The Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (PAR-Q+) is the international standard for pre-participation risk stratification and screening. In order to provide a practical and valid screening tool to facilitate safe engagement in physical activity and fitness assessments for the Brazilian population, this study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and verify the reproducibility of the evidence-based PAR-Q+ to the Brazilian Portuguese language.Method: Initially, the document was translated by two independent translators, before Brazilian experts in health and physical activity evaluated the translations and produced a common initial version. Next, two English native speakers, fluent in Brazilian Portuguese and accustomed to the local culture, back-translated the questionnaire. These back translations were assessed by the organization in charge of the PAR-Q+, then a final Brazilian version was approved. A total of 493 Brazilians between 5 and 93 yr (39.9 ± 25.4 yr), 59% female, with varying levels of health and physical activity, completed the questionnaire twice, in person or online, 1–2 weeks apart. Cronbach's alpha was used to calculate the internal consistency of all items of the questionnaire, and the Kappa statistic was used to assess the individual reproducibility of each item of the document. Additionally, the intraclass correlation coefficient and its 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to verify the general reproducibility (reliability) of the translated version.Results: The Brazilian version had an excellent internal consistency (0.993), with an almost perfect agreement in 93.8% of the questions, and a substantial agreement in the other 6.2%. The translated version also had a good to excellent total reproducibility (0.901, 95% CI: 0.887–0.914).Conclusion: The results show this translation is a valid and reliable screening tool, which may facilitate a larger number of Brazilians to start or increase physical activity participation in a safe manner.

Examining the Role Ones’ Stage of Change Plays in Understanding the Relationship Between Motivation and Physical Activity

Considerable research guided by the Self Determination Theory has demonstrated that people who are motivated by more self-determined reasons (e.g., enjoyment, core beliefs, or personally meaningful benefits) are more likely to be physical activity. However, far less is known about the role ones’ stage of change (readiness for physical activity) plays in this relationship. The purpose of the present study was to (a) determine if the six forms of motivation and indices of physical activity varied across the stages of change, and (b) investigate if composite scores of self-determined and non-self-determined motivation were differentially related to physical activity indices depending on the stage of change of the individual. In total, 700 adults aged 18–65 (<em>M</em>_age = 32.59; <em>SD</em> = 12.82) completed an online survey consisting of demographics, and assessments of stages of change, motivation, and physical activity. Results demonstrated that participants at more advanced stages of change reported significantly higher self-determined motives, moderate activity, vigorous activity, and frequency of physical activity, and lower amotivation, with introjected regulation peaking at the implementation phase. Moderation analyses indicated that stages of change moderated the relationship between self-determined motives and moderate to vigorous physical activity, as well as physical activity frequency, but did not moderate the relationship between non-self-determined motives and indices of physical activity. Findings suggested that participants’ self-determined motives play a critical role in physical activity and becomes more important at more advanced stages of change, which is important to consider for program and intervention development.

Ameliorating Prediabetes With Healthy Lifestyles: A Stage-Tailored Motivational Interviewing Pilot

This study assessed the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a nurse-led, 3-session, stage-tailored motivational interviewing (MI) program in modifying the lifestyles of 23 primarily African American (52%) females who were overweight/obese and had prediabetes. All participants attended all 3 MI sessions. More than 90% were satisfied with the program. The participants (baseline mean age = 45, BMI = 39.2, and A1C = 5.98) demonstrated significant decreases in waist circumferences and systolic/diastolic blood pressures, and improvements in exercise self-efficacy, readiness for behavioral changes, eating patterns, and moderate-intensity physical activity (PA). This pilot was well-accepted and efficacious in promoting healthy lifestyle among overweight/obese female adults with prediabetes.

"Moving for My Baby!" Motivators and Perceived Barriers to Facilitate Readiness for Physical Activity during Pregnancy among Obese and Overweight Women of Urban Areas in Northern Taiwan.

Low levels of physical activity (PA) are of a health concern among high body mass index (BMI) women living a sedentary lifestyle and being overweight or obese during pregnancy is associated with increased risks of maternal and fetal health complications. Obstetricians often provide advice regarding recommended PA levels, yet this has not been easily achieved in this group to prevent adverse birth-related outcomes. The purpose of this study is to explore motivators/enablers and perceived barriers through in-depth qualitative inquiry, guided by a behavioral change model, for understanding of pregnant women’s decisions to engage, or refrain from PA practice. Thirteen overweight and obese pregnant women aged 28 to 45 years with an inactive, sedentary lifestyle in urban areas of northern Taiwan were recruited to participate in six focus group sessions for their intent and readiness for PA engagement in pregnancy. A thematic content analysis was performed with a constant comparison method to categorize interview data and generate themes. The findings illustrate the extent to which obese and overweight pregnant women’s readiness for PA is affected by multiple factors, including personal beliefs, perceived societal norms, peer support, and the competing priorities in the environment. PA interventions are to be effective by focusing on overcoming barriers, increasing motivations, and enhancing self-management. Strategies shared by participants shed lights for program developers to design preferable behavioral interventions for this group of women who are low self-esteem with low self-efficacy to increase PA and meet recommended levels. There is considerable potential for health care providers to provide accessible information, facilitate PA, and promote an active lifestyle during and after pregnancy.

The 2021 Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (PAR-Q+) and electronic Physical Activity Readiness Medical Examination (ePARmed-X+): 2021 PAR-Q+

This article contains the current 2021 CONSENSUS PANEL APPROVED AND OFFICIAL version of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (PAR-Q+). The new PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+ were introduced officially at the 3rd International Congress on Physical Activity and Public Health in Toronto, Ontario, Canada (May 5-8, 2010) by Drs. Darren Warburton, Norman Gledhill, Veronica Jamnik, and Shannon Bredin. The first peer reviewed article containing the PAR-Q+ was published in the Health & Fitness Journal of Canada and subsequent updates have been made through this journal. Owing to the evidence-based nature of the PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+ both forms require routine update as the evidence expands. These ongoing revisions are made by the PAR-Q+ Collaboration and evaluated by an international consensus committee. This article contains the 2021 PAR-Q+ that includes significant changes from our original version. This version replaces all previous versions. This is the current evidence-based and consensus panel approved version of the PAR-Q+. We are indebted to the support provided by international partners in the ongoing evaluation of the 2021 PAR-Q+.

NOCICEPTIVE THRESHOLD IN HEALTHY WOMEN AT REST AND WHEN READY FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Aim. The paper aims to evaluate pressure-pain-threshold (PPT) in the paravertebral areas of the back (lumbar, thoracic, cervical levels) in relatively healthy individuals in various functional states. Materials and methods. The study involved volunteer female students (n = 150). Heart rate measurement and tonometry were performed using the B.WELL PRO-33 automatic tonometer. The level of functional readiness for physical exercises was assessed by the method of Kolmogorov et al. (2007). In group I (n = 45), PPT measurements were carried out at rest in the laboratory room. In group II (n = 105), PPT data were obtained before physical activity. Women of both groups were divided into subgroups by the absence (1) or presence (2) of complaints of back pain. PPT measurements were carried out using the Wagner FPX pressure algometer (USA). Standard statistical methods were used for data analysis. Results. A significant effect of the functional state on PPT values was found. In group II, against the background of readiness for physical activity, the mean values of PPT in the paravertebral areas were 20–40 % higher than in group I. The PPT values were the highest in the area of the lumbar spine. Conclusion. Changes in the dynamic stereotype (from a state of rest to readiness for physical activity) lead to an increase in the absolute values of PPT up to 40 %. This phenomenon indicates that the emotional component of physical exercises has an analgesic effect.

Effectiveness of the Multistage Jumping Rope Program in Enhancing the Physical Fitness Levels among University Students

Several studies have shown that there has been a sudden decrease in physical activity levels among University students. This is alarming as physical inactivity is a known risk factor for many chronic diseases. Hence, Universities are in the best position to examine the personal and professional lifestyles among their students. The study was conducted in order to determine the effectiveness of the eight week multistage jumping rope training program in enhancing the physical fitness levels of Filipino university students. The study utilized a quasi-experimental research design and employed a purposive sample of 70 participants， who were screened using Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire+ and were required to undergo a progressive eight-week jumping rope test. Cardiovascular endurance was assessed through volume of oxygen uptake or VO2 max before and after the multistage jumping rope training program. Data was analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation and paired t-test. The results revealed a significant difference in the VO2 max of males and females after the multistage jumping rope training program. The study affirms the effectiveness of the multistage jumping rope test in increasing the VO2 max of the participants. Hence, integrating the said program in the school curriculum can significantly enhance their cardiovascular fitness.

The Stair Climb Power Test

The Stair Climb Power Test

Benign And Pathological Electrocardiographic Changes In Basketball Athletes Of BrasíLia - Brazil

PURPOSE: Basketball has evolved a lot and the level of competition has increased considerably. Athlete's Heart Syndrome comprises a set of clinical, electrocardiographic (ECG) and echocardiographic (ECHO) changes, such as sinus bradycardia, myocardial hypertrophy or enlargement of the cardiac cavities. Thus, it is important to distinguish potentially fatal pathological changes from normal physiological adaptations. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical, ECG and ECHO characteristics of Brazilian basketball players and evaluate the presence of benign and pathological changes. METHODS: Fifteen male basketball athletes (23 ± 3.74 years) competing in the National Brazilian Basketball Gold League were evaluated during the last week of preparatory training for the competition. The athletes performed clinical evaluation (cardiovascular risk factors, medication use, sleep quality, and application of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire - PAR-Q), anthropometric (body mass index - BMI, kg.m-2 muscle mass - MM, Kg; fat percentage - FP,%), resting ECG, and transthoracic doppler ECHO (left ventricular ejection fraction - LVEF,%; left ventricular diastolic diameter - LVDD, cm; left ventricular mass index - LVMI, g.m-2). ECG changes were classified as benign or malignant according to the Seattle Criteria. RESULTS: The athletes did not report cardiovascular risk factors, medication use and presented negative PAR-Q. Most athletes (90%) complained of poor sleep quality. The anthropometric variables were BMI 24.13 ± 2.05 Kg.m-2, MM 47.6 ± 5.01 Kg; FP 8.89 ± 4.79%. All individuals presented sinus rhythm (100%). The main benign ECG alteration was early repolarization alteration (10 - 66.7%). The malignant ECG change was LV hypertrophy with negative T-wave (3 - 100%). On ECHO we found LVEF 65.76 ± 2.35%, LVDD 53.15 ± 3.57 cm and LVMI 81.46 ± 11.72 g.m-2, within the normal range for age and body surface. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of ECG criteria for LV overload was not associated with the presence of hypertrophy or ventricular remodeling on echocardiography. Evidence supports the use of ECG in screening, coupled with a cost-effective interpretation algorithm to assist abnormal or borderline changes to identify possible cardiovascular causes and prevent sudden death in athletes.

The effect on the psychological perception of exercise in female inmates

The aim of this study is to identify the psychological perception levels of the female inmates in Antalya Type-L Closed Penitentiary Institution and then to determine the effect of exercise on such perceptions. This is an experimental study with weak experimental design. Study sample consists of a total of 121 female prisoners; 32 in the experimental group, 43 in control group 1 and 46 in the control group 2. The data collection tools used in this study are Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for determining the physical activity levels of the individuals, Psychological Well-Being Scale, Beck Depression Inventory and State-Trait (STAI) Anxiety Inventory for identifying their psychological perceptions. T-Test, One-Way Analysis of Variance and LSD analysis -a Post-Hoc test- were used for data analysis. Consequently, the psychological perception levels of the female inmates before and after exercise were examined as per the groups they participated and the results revealed that there was no statistically significant difference among the depression, anxiety and psychological well-being levels of those inmates, who participated in the exercises. However, there was a significant increase on the depression levels in the control groups 1 and 2. In conclusion, it can be said that exercise plays an important role in protecting the psychological perceptions of the incarcerated individuals.

The Study of Health-Related Fitness Normative Scores for Nepalese Older Adults.

Physical fitness tests are important to maintain and promote the health status of people. The purpose of this study was to develop health-related fitness evaluation norms according to the age and gender of Nepalese older adults. One thousand nine subjects (449 males, 560 females) above 60 years, residing in 19 wards (rural and urban) of Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolitan City participated in this study. The test included the PAR-Q (Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire), social aspects questionnaire, blood pressure test, height, weight, BMI (body mass index), percent body fat, and four physical fitness components (grip strength, 1-minute sit-to-stand, sit and reach, and 2-minute step tests). Mean, SD, and fitness evaluation norms for each component were obtained after the main test and statistical analyses. This study showed higher BMI and percent body fat in female age groups than in male age groups. Grip strength, relative grip strength, sit-to-stand, and 2-minute steps scores were better in male age groups than in female age groups, but in contrast, flexibility was better in female age groups. This study may help the related sectors to assess physical fitness, identify fitness levels, and develop appropriate physical activities or exercise programs for older adults based on age.