Progressive Resistance Training Program Research Articles

Effect of 4 Weeks of Progressive Resistance Training on Plasma Levels of Omentin-1 and Metabolic Factors in Diabetic Male Rats

Background and Objectives Omentin-1 is a new adipokine with a potential to increase insulin sensitivity, and is associated with lipid profile. There are limited studies on the effect of exercise on the serum level of Omentin-1. The present study aims to investigate the effect of progressive resistance training (PRT) on plasma level of omentin-1 and glycemic control in diabetic male rats. Subjects and Methods In this study, 24 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups: Control, diabetic, and diabetic+PRT. The training group performed a PRT program using a ladder (three days a week, for 4 weeks). Body weight, glucose level, amentin-1 level, insulin level, and lipid profile were measured. Results The PRT significantly increased plasma levels of omentin-1 and triglycerides in the diabetic + PRT group compared to the diabetic group (P=0.017). There was no significant difference in high-density lipoprotein (F=0.318, P>0.05), low-density lipoprotein (F=0.612, P>0.05) and cholesterol (F=0.049, P>0.05) levels between the study groups. Conclusion The PRT improves omentin-1 and insulin resistance in diabetic rats.

Progressive Resistance Training Program Characteristics in Rehabilitation Programs Following Hip Fracture: A Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression.

Introduction: Older adults often experience incomplete recovery after a hip fracture. Rehabilitation programs with progressive resistance training are associated with improved functional recovery. This systematic review and meta-analysis with meta-regression a) evaluated resistance training characteristics reported in hip fracture rehabilitation programs, b) performed meta-analysis of resistance training impact on strength (primary outcome), gait and physical activity (secondary outcomes), and c) explored resistance training program characteristics associated with improved outcomes using meta-regression. Materials and Methods: Medline, EMBASE, CINAHLPLUS, and Web of Science Core Collection databases were searched (January2000–February2021). Randomized controlled trials including progressive resistance training rehabilitation programs after hip fracture surgery in adults ≥50 years old were included. Meta-analyses and exploratory meta-regression were performed. Results: Meta-analysis showed significant increases in strength (10 trials-728 participants; Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) [95%CI]; .40 [.02, .78]) immediately following program completion in intervention relative to control participants. Meta-analysis on 5 trials (n = 384) with extended follow up found no significant group differences (SMD = .47 [-.28, 1.23]) in strength. Center-based relative to home-based programs were associated with significantly greater improvements in strength (P < .05) as were programs where resistance training intensity was prescribed using one-repetition maximum relative to other exercise prescription methods (P < .05). In gait meta-analysis (n = 10 trials-704 participants), gait speed in intervention participants immediately after the program was significantly higher than control (SMD = .42 [.08, .76]) but this finding was not maintained in extended follow-up (n = 5 trials-240 participants; SMD = .6 [-.26, .38]). Higher resistance training intensity was associated with significant improvements in gait speed (P < .05). No meta-analysis was performed for the 3 heterogeneous studies reporting physical activity. Discussion: Progressive resistance training improved muscle strength and gait speed after hip fracture surgery in adults ≥50years old immediately after the program ended, but the longer-term impact may be more limited. Conclusions: Higher resistance training intensity and center-based programs may be associated with more improvement, but require further research.

Changes Resulting From Resistance Training in the Ratio of Interferon-gamma to Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 and Lipid Profile in Diabetic Rats

Background and Objectives Diabetes is associated with an increase in inflammatory markers and development of atrophy and cardiovascular diseases. Studies have shown that resistance training at appropriate intensity can reduce inflammation generally. This study aims to investigate the effect of a progressive resistance training (PRT) program on serum concentrations of interferon gamma (IFN-γ), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and lipid profile in rats with type 1 diabetes. Subjects and Methods In this experimental study, 32 male Wistar rats aged 40 days and weighing 250±30 g were divided into four groups of healthy control, healthy trained, diabetic control, diabetic trained. Streptozotocin (55 μg/kg per body weight) was injected intraperitoneally to induce diabetes. A 6-week PRT protocol was performed, including climbing a ladder with weights at three sessions per week (one hour per day), where the load increased by 5% increase each week. Data were analyzed by ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post hoc test. The significance level was set at 0.05. Results There was no significant difference in IFN-γ level between the diabetic trained group and other groups (P&gt;0.05). The IGF-1 level in diabetic trained group was significantly lower than in the healthy control and trained control groups (P=0.002). The ratio of IGF-1/IFN-γ in diabetic trained group was significantly lower than in the trained control (P=0.003) and healthy control (P=0.008) groups. In assessing the lipid profile, the cholesterol level was higher in the diabetic trained group compared to the healthy control group (P=0.028). Moreover, triglyceride level was significantly higher in the diabetic trained group compared to the diabetic control (P=0.033), trained control (P=0.003) and healthy control (P=0.002) groups. Conclusion Six weeks of PRT cannot lead to desired efficacy in diabetic rats compared to non-trained diabetic rats. However, the small changes such as increased IGF-1 and HDL levels and decreased serum glucose level, can help with the clinical improvement of patients with type 1 diabetes.

Evaluation of a 10-week progressive resistance training programme for people with inflammatory arthritis

Purpose: Inflammatory Arthritis [IA] has adverse effects on strength, function, fatigue and well-being. Guidelines recommend people with IA should exercise to improve strength and cardiovascular fitness. In 2015, our Rheumatology Physiotherapy Team introduced an evidence-based Progressive Resistance Training Programme [PRTP] for people with IA. This research aimed to evaluate its effectiveness within a National Health Service [NHS] setting.

Enhancement of Serum Myonectin Levels by Progressive Resistance Training in Rats Fed with High-Fat Diet and Sucrose Solution

Background: Myonectin (CTRP15) is a newly discovered myokine with important metabolic functions. It was shown that circulating myonectin levels decreased in obesity. Objectives: The present study investigated the effect of 8 weeks of progressive resistance training (PRT) on serum myonectin levels in rats following a high-fat diet plus sucrose solution. Methods: A total of 32 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into high-fat diet plus sucrose (HFDS) and standard diet (SD) groups. After 12 weeks, each group was divided into sedentary and training groups. The animals in training groups were subjected to a PRT program (3 days/week, for 8 weeks). Flexor hallucis longus (FHL) and gastrocnemius muscle weights, epididymal and retroperitoneal fat weights, serum glucose, insulin, myonectin, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were measured in this study. Results: The results of the study revealed that HFDS increased weight gain, fat weight, serum glucose, and HOMA-IR levels and decreased muscle weights and serum myonectin levels. Eight weeks of PRT increased serum myonectin levels and FHL and gastrocnemius muscle weights and decreased retroperitoneal fat weight. Conclusions: The results suggest that PRT may be an efficient intervention to enhance serum myonectin levels, which is associated with the improvement of body composition.

Predictors of Treatment Response to Progressive Resistance Training for Adolescents With Cerebral Palsy.

The aim of the study was to examine the variability in plantar-flexor muscle strength changes after progressive resistance training for adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) and to identify baseline variables associated with change in muscle strength. Thirty-three adolescents with CP were randomized to a 10-week progressive resistance training program as part of a randomized controlled trial (STAR trial). The associations between muscle strength at 10weeks (n = 30 adolescents) and 22weeks (n = 28 adolescents) and biomechanical and neuromuscular baseline characteristics, motor function, and fidelity to the program were examined with multivariable linear regression. Changes in plantar-flexor muscle strength from baseline ranged from -47.7% to 192.3% at 10weeks and -54.3% to 198.4% at 22weeks. Muscle activation was the only variable associated with change in strength at 10weeks and 22weeks. A model containing peak muscle activity and baseline muscle strength explained 49.1% of the variation in change in muscle strength (R2 = 0.491) at 10weeks and 49.2% of the variation in change muscle strength at 22weeks (R2 = 0.492). Assessing levels of muscle activation may be able to identify responders to a progressive resistance training program for adolescents with CP. These findings are a first step toward developing tools that can inform decision making in the clinical setting. Due to the heterogenous nature of CP, it is challenging to assess the efficacy of strength training programs in individuals with CP and to understand the variability in outcomes among participants. This study provides a better understanding of the factors that predict response to an exercise program so that resistance training can be directed to those who will potentially benefit from it. There is wide variability in how well young people with CP respond to resistance training. If you are a young person with CP, your physical therapist can measure the amount of gastrocnemius muscle activity you have, so as to get an indication of how well you will respond.

Resistance training reduces depressive and anxiety symptoms in older women: a pilot study

Objectives The purposes of this study were to analyze the effect of resistance training (RT) on depressive and anxiety symptomsand examine the possible consequences of age, cognitive alterations, and muscular strength on such symptoms.Method: Forty-one older women (68 ± 8 years) composed a training group (TG) or a control group (CG). The TG was submitted to a supervised, progressive RT program over 12 weeks, involving eight whole-body exercises performed with three sets of 8-12 repetitions, three days per week, whereas CG remains with no intervention for the same period. Muscular strength (one-repetition maximum tests), cognitive function (Montreal Cognitive Assessment - MoCA; Verbal Fluency Tests), depression (15-item eriatric Depression Scale - GDS-15), and anxiety (Beck Anxiety Inventory - BAI) were assessed before and after the intervention period. Results There were observed significant (P < 0.001) RT-induced improvements on total muscular strength (TG: pre = 122.4 ± 24.1/post = 134.3 ± 36.7; CG: pre = 105.4 ± 15.4/post = 99.2 ± 17.1) and MoCA (TG: pre =21.7 ± 4.5/post = 22.5 ± 4.7; CG: pre = 20.3 ± 3.7/post = 19.3 ± 4.1). Depressive and anxiety symptoms (even when adjusted by chronological age and changes in muscular strength or cognitive function) were reduced with RT according to GDS-15 (TG: pre = 2.26 ± 1.53/post = 1.92 ± 1.68; CG: pre =2.68 ± 1.13/post = 2.25 ± 1.18) and BAI (TG: pre = 4.07 ± 5.68/post = 2.33 ± 3.71; CG: pre = 5.18 ± 7.70/post = 9.81 ± 7.10). The time x group interactions were significant for depressive and anxiety symptoms. Conclusions Our results suggest that a 12-week RT program reduces depressive and anxiety symptoms, regardless of age, muscular strength, and cognition function in older women.

Reshaping the path of vascular cognitive impairment with resistance training: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundSubcortical ischemic vascular cognitive impairment (SIVCI) is the most common form of vascular cognitive impairment. Importantly, SIVCI is considered the most treatable form of cognitive impairment in older adults, due to its modifiable risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hypercholesterolemia. Exercise training is a promising intervention to delay the progression of SIVCI, as it actively targets these cardiometabolic risk factors. Despite the demonstrated benefits of resistance training on cognitive function and emerging evidence suggesting resistance training may reduce the progression of white matter hyperintensities (WMHs), research on SIVCI has predominantly focused on the use of aerobic exercise. Thus, the primary aim of this proof-of-concept randomized controlled trial is to investigate the efficacy of a 12-month, twice-weekly progressive resistance training program on cognitive function and WMH progression in adults with SIVCI. We will also assess the efficiency of the intervention.MethodsEighty-eight community-dwelling adults, aged > 55 years, with SIVCI from metropolitan Vancouver will be recruited to participate in this study. SIVCI will be determined by the presence of cognitive impairment (Montreal Cognitive Assessment < 26) and cerebral small vessel disease using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Participants will be randomly allocated to a twice-weekly exercise program of (1) progressive resistance training or (2) balance and tone training (i.e., active control). The primary outcomes are cognitive function measured by the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive-Plus (ADAS-Cog-13 with additional cognitive tests) and WMH progression.DiscussionThe burden of SIVCI is immense, and to our knowledge, this will be the first study to quantify the effect of progressive resistance training on cognitive function and WMH progression among adults with SIVCI. Slowing the rate of cognitive decline and WMH progression could preserve functional independence and quality of life. This could lead to reduced health care costs and avoidance of early institutional care.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT02669394. Registered on February 1, 2016

The Effects of a High-Protein Dairy Milk Beverage With or Without Progressive Resistance Training on Fat-Free Mass, Skeletal Muscle Strength and Power, and Functional Performance in Healthy Active Older Adults: A 12-Week Randomized Controlled Trial.

The study aimed to investigate the independent and combined effects of consuming a high-protein dairy milk beverage, twice daily, with or without a progressive resistance training (PRT) program on outcomes of age-related sarcopenia, in healthy active older (≥50 years) adults. In this 12-week, 2 × 2 factorial study, participants were randomly allocated into one of four groups: dairy milk beverage (DM), exercise and dairy milk beverage (EX+DM), exercise alone (EX), and control (CON). The EX group underwent a 12-week whole-body PRT schedule (three sessions/week) and a high-protein dairy milk beverage (DM) was consumed twice daily (30 g protein/day). At weeks 0, 6, and 12, body composition (iDXA), strength [one-repetition maximum (1RM): leg press, chest press, lateral (lat) pull-down, and handgrip], power (countermovement jump), cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2), and physical performance (gait speed) were measured. Before measurements, blood samples were collected to determine the immune (i.e., leukocyte trafficking and inflammatory cytokines) and hormonal (i.e., insulin, cortisol, IGF-1, testosterone, and estradiol) profiles. Participants (n = 37) completed the study within the controlled experimental conditions. Protein intake increased in the EX+DM [mean ± SD, 1.2 ± 0.2 to 1.8 ± 0.4 g/kg body mass (BM) per day−1] and DM (1.3 ± 0.5 to 1.8 ± 0.6 g kg−1 BM day−1) groups during the intervention. Absolute fat-free mass increased in the EX+DM [mean (95% confidence interval) = 0.65 (0.25–1.0) kg] and EX [0.49 (−0.44 to 1.40) kg] groups (P < 0.001) compared to DM [−0.54 (−1.6 to 0.05) kg]. Relative fat mass decreased (group*time, P = 0.018) in DM [−1.8% (−3.3 to −0.35%)] and EX+DM [−1.3% (−2.3 to −0.31%)], which was a greater reduction than that in the CON [0.10% (−0.80 to 1.0%)] group (P < 0.01). Relative maximal strength increased in both the EX and EX+DM (≥35%, P < 0.05) groups, but not in the DM and CON groups. The change in 1RM strength outcomes was higher in EX+DM compared to all other groups (53–78%, P < 0.01). There was an increase in resting plasma IL-10 concentration in EX+DM (88%), compared to all the other groups (P = 0.016). No other differences in systemic inflammatory cytokines were observed. There were no significant changes in all hormone concentrations measured among all groups. In conclusion, a high-protein dairy milk beverage providing additional protein did not further enhance the effects of PRT on outcomes of fat-free mass, power, or physical performance. However, there was a significant augmentative effect for high-protein dairy milk consumption on changes to maximal strength outcomes during PRT in healthy active older adults.

Effects of progressive elastic band resistance exercise for aged osteosarcopenic adiposity women.

Osteosarcopenic adiposity (OSA), which is described as the concurrent occurrence of osteopenia, sarcopenia, and adiposity, can lead to frailty and increase the risk of physical disability in elderly women. Progressive elastic band resistance exercise training (peRET) is considered a safe and feasible exercise intervention for elderly women with sarcopenic obesity. This study investigated the effects of elastic band resistance exercise on the physical capacity and body composition of elderly women with osteosarcopenic adiposity. A total of 15 and 12 women were randomly assigned to the experimental (12weeks of resistance exercise) and control groups (no exercise intervention), respectively. Lean mass (measured using a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometer) and physical capacity assessments (such as timed up and go test and single leg stance tests) were conducted at baseline, 12weeks (end of intervention), and 6months after the intervention. Outcome differences within the study and control groups were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance with a post-hoc test. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to examine differences between groups at different time points. After the intervention, no body composition changes in muscle mass and fat were observed between the study and control groups. Moreover, muscle mass and fat body composition did not significantly differ at different time points. The bone density was higher in the study group, with a higher T-score than their baseline values, but did not significantly differ compared with the control group. The study group exhibited more improved physical function than the control group, but the effect did not last after 6months of follow-up. A 12-week progressive elastic band resistance training program effectively increased the physical capacity and improved the bone density; however, without persistent training, the positive effect diminished at 6-month follow-up.

Recruitment strategies and design considerations in a trial of resistance training to prevent dose-limiting toxicities in colon cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy

Low muscle is associated with an increased risk of chemotherapy-related dose limiting toxicities (DLT) in cancer patients. Resistance training (RT) improves muscle mass; however, the effects of RT on preventing DLTs and dose reductions in colon cancer patients has not been investigated.FOcus on Reducing dose-limiting toxicities in Colon cancer with resistance Exercise (FORCE) is a multicenter, randomized clinical trial examining the effects of RT on relative dose intensity (RDI; primary outcome) and moderate and severe chemotoxicities (primary outcome) in non-metastatic colon cancer patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy. Patients (N = 180) will be recruited from Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Penn State Cancer Institute. This paper describes recruitment strategies and design considerations.Patients will be randomized in equal numbers to RT intervention or control. Patients have baseline and post completion of chemotherapy visits where information on anthropometry, physical function, body composition, quality of life, physical activity and dietary behaviors, and inflammatory blood markers will be collected. Patient-reported outcomes of chemotherapy side effects will be collected around the time of chemotherapy throughout the duration of the trial. Intervention participants will be prescribed a progressive RT program consisting of 4–6 visits with a certified exercise trainer, delivered either in-person or remotely by video conference, and will be asked to engage twice weekly in-home training sessions. Control patients at the end of the study receive a consult with a FORCE exercise trainer, an online exercise RT training program and a set of resistance bands.Results of this trial will provide information on the benefit of resistance exercise as a treatment to increase RDI.

Androgen deprivation in prostate cancer: benefits of home-based resistance training

IntroductionAndrogen deprivation therapy (ADT) has detrimental effects on body composition, metabolic health, physical functioning, bone mineral density (BMD) and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in men with prostate cancer. We investigated whether a 12-month home-based progressive resistance training (PRT) programme, instituted at the start of ADT, could prevent these adverse effects.MethodsTwenty-five patients scheduled to receive at least 12 months of ADT were randomly assigned to either usual care (UC) (n = 12) or PRT (n = 13) starting immediately after their first ADT injection. Body composition, body cell mass (BCM; a functional component of lean body mass), BMD, physical function, insulin sensitivity and HRQOL were measured at 6 weeks and 6 and 12 months. Data were analysed by a linear mixed model.ResultsADT had a negative impact on body composition, BMD, physical function, glucose metabolism and HRQOL. At 12 months, the PRT group had greater reductions in BCM by − 1.9 ± 0.8 % (p = 0.02) and higher gains in fat mass by 3.1 ± 1.0 % (p = 0.002), compared to the UC group. HRQOL domains were maintained or improved in the PRT versus UC group at 6 weeks (general health, p = 0.04), 6 months (vitality, p = 0.02; social functioning, p = 0.03) and 12 months (mental health, p = 0.01; vitality, p = 0.02). A significant increase in the Matsuda Index in the PRT versus UC group was noted at 6 weeks (p = 0.009) but this difference was not maintained at subsequent timepoints. Between-group differences favouring the PRT group were also noted for physical activity levels (step count) (p = 0.02). No differences in measures of BMD or physical function were detected at any time point.ConclusionA home-based PRT programme instituted at the start of ADT may counteract detrimental changes in body composition, improve physical activity and mental health over 12 months.Trial registrationAustralian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12616001311448

Effects of a Six-Week Progressive Resistance Training Program on Functional Fitness among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Research has indicated that older adult participation in resistance training provides foundational strength for performance of activities of daily living. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a six-week progressive resistance training intervention on functional fitness among community-dwelling older adults. From 2010–2015, twelve sessions of a six-week resistance training intervention included 95 community-dwelling older adult participants (37 male, 58 female; Mage=73.5+7.2). Resistance training interventions included bi-weekly, 1-hour sessions targeting all muscle groups. Assessments included arm curl, chair stand, back scratch, chair sit-n-reach, 2-minute step test, and 8 foot-up-and-go. The Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test was performed to evaluate group differences between baseline and post-intervention. Significant differences between pre- and post-assessments were found for upper- and lower-body strength (z=6.81, p&lt; .001; z=6.46, p&lt; .001, respectively); upper- and lower-body flexibility (z=3.81, p&lt; .001; z=4.85, p&lt; .001, respectively), aerobic endurance (z=6.04, p&lt; .001), and dynamic balance and agility (z=5.52, p&lt; .001). The resistance training intervention resulted in significant improvements in functional fitness among community-dwelling older adult participants. Abbreviations: 1-RM, 1 Repetition Maximum

Exploring thoracic kyphosis and incident fracture from vertebral morphology with high-intensity exercise in middle-aged and older men with osteopenia and osteoporosis: a secondary analysis of the LIFTMOR-M trial

The Lifting Intervention For Training Muscle and Osteoporosis Rehabilitation for Men (LIFTMOR-M) trial examined efficacy and safety of an eight-month, supervised, high-intensity progressive resistance and impact training (HiRIT) program compared with machine-based isometric axial compression (IAC) training in middle-aged and older men with low areal bone mineral density (aBMD). The primary purpose of the current work was to explore change in thoracic kyphosis and incident fracture from vertebral morphology following eight-months of HiRIT or IAC training. The secondary purpose was to explore change in clinical kyphosis measures for HiRIT, IAC and a non-randomized, matched control group. Men (≥ 45yrs), with low aBMD, were recruited and randomized to HiRIT or IAC, or designated control. Clinical measures of thoracic kyphosis with inclinometry were determined. Cobb angle of kyphosis and vertebral fracture assessment using the Genant semi-quantitative method were determined from lateral thoracolumbar DXA (Medix DR, Medilink, France). Per-protocol (n = 40) and intention-to-treat (n = 93) analyses were conducted. Forty participants (HiRIT n = 20, IAC n = 20; 66.1 ± 7.8yrs.; lumbar spine T-score - 0.1 ± 0.8; femoral neck T-score - 1.5 ± 0.5) underwent clinical kyphosis measures and thoracolumbar DXA at baseline and follow-up. No between-group differences were detected in kyphosis change, however, within-group improvements in neutral (HiRIT - 2.3 ± 0.8°; IAC - 2.5 ± 0.8°) and 'standing tall' (HiRIT - 2.4 ± 0.8°; IAC - 2.0 ± 0.8°) postures were observed (p < 0.05). HiRIT improved Cobb angle (- 3.5 ± 1.5°, p = 0.027) from baseline. Over the 8months, no incident vertebral fractures nor progression of prevalent vertebral fractures occurred for HiRIT participants. Five incident fractures of thoracic vertebrae occurred for IAC and one wedge fracture progressed. Ninety-three participants underwent clinical kyphosis measures at both time-points (HiRIT n = 34, IAC n = 33, control n = 26). HiRIT exhibited a reduction in 'standing tall' kyphosis compared to control (- 2.3 ± 0.6° versus 1.4 ± 0.7°, p < 0.05), but no other between-group differences were detected. Although there was no difference in change between intervention groups, thoracic kyphosis appeared to improve in both HiRIT and IAC with exercise exposure. HiRIT improved 'standing tall' posture in comparison to usual activities. HiRIT was not associated with vertebral fracture progression or incident vertebral fracture, but for some IAC participants there was evidence of progression of vertebral fracture severity and incident vertebral fractures, in our small sample. Larger trials are required to confirm the observations of the current work, which was exploratory in nature.

Effects of Progressive Resistance Training on Cognition and IGF-1 Levels in Elder Women Who Live in Areas with High Air Pollution.

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a muscular strength programme on the levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and cognitive status in elder women with mild cognitive impairment who lived in areas of high air pollution. A total of 157 women participated in the study, distributed in four groups: Active/Clean (AC n = 38) and Active/Pollution (AP n = 37), who carried out a progressive resistance training programme for 24 months, and Sedentary/Clean (SC n = 40) and Sedentary/Pollution (SP n = 42). Maximum strength in the upper and lower limbs (1RM), cognition (Mini-Mental Scale Examination (MMSE)) and blood IGF-1 were evaluated. At the beginning of the intervention, there were no differences between the groups in the assessed variables. The active groups which carried out the resistance training programme (AC and AP), registered better results in IGF-1 than the sedentary groups. These differences were statistically significant in AC vs. SC (p < 0.01) and AP vs. SC (p < 0.05). Regarding MMSE, group AC registered the highest score increases (+8.2%) (significantly better than the other groups), while group SP worsened (−7%) significantly compared to the other three groups. In conclusion, resistance training had a positive effect on IGF-1, while sedentary behaviour and air pollution had a negative effect on cognitive status.

Influence of Second Generation Oral Contraceptive Use on Adaptations to Resistance Training in Young Untrained Women.

Dalgaard, LB, Jørgensen, EB, Oxfeldt, M, Dalgaard, EB, Johansen, FT, Karlsson, M, Ringgaard, S, and Hansen, M. Influence of second generation oral contraceptive use on adaptations to resistance training in young untrained women. J Strength Cond Res 36(7): 1801-1809, 2022-The study purpose was to determine effects of using second generation oral contraceptives (OC) on muscle adaptations to resistance training in young untrained women. Twenty users and 18 nonusers of OC completed a 10-week supervised progressive resistance training program. Before and after the intervention, muscle cross-sectional area (mCSA) of the quadriceps was measured using magnetic resonance imaging and muscle fiber CSA (fCSA) was determined by immunohistochemistry. In addition, body composition (DXA, fat mass/fat-free mass), maximal isometric muscle strength (dynamometry), 5 repetition maximum (5RM) leg press strength, counter movement jump (CMJ) height, and average power using a modified Wingate test were determined. Serum hormone analysis ensured OC compliance and 4-day food records documented dietary intake. After the training period, quadriceps mCSA (OC: 11.0 ± 6.0% vs. non-OC: 9.2 ± 5.0%, p = 0.001), type II fCSA (OC: 19.9 ± 7.9% vs. non-OC: 16.6 ± 7.2%, p = 0.05), muscle strength (knee extension, knee flexion and 5RM, p < 0.001), and functional power (CMJ, AP, p < 0.001) were significantly increased with no significant difference between the groups. However, a tendency toward a greater increase in fat-free mass (FFM) in the OC group was observed (OC: 3.7 ± 3.8% vs. non-OC: 2.7 ± 3.5%, p = 0.08). Collectively, use of second generation OCs in young untrained women did not significantly improve adaptations to 10 weeks of resistance training compared with nonusers. The trend toward greater gains in FFM in the OC group warrant future studies.

Using Causal Agency Theory To Promote Functional And Independent Performance In Adults With Intellectual Disabilities

Research suggests adults with intellectual disabilities (ID) have significantly lower levels of physical activity (PA) and fitness compared to the general population. This can affect their physical functioning and increase risk for obesity. Carefully structured exercise has improved functional performance in adults with ID. Limited exercise interventions for adults with ID emphasize self-determined behaviors, which can facilitate PA and ultimately quality of life among adults with ID. Causal Agency Theory (CAT) explains how people become self-determined; that is how they develop the actions and beliefs necessary to engage in self-caused, autonomous action in response to basic psychological needs and autonomous motivation as well as contextual and environmental challenges. PURPOSE: To examine the effects of a 10-week guided progressive resistance training (PRT) program on functional and independent performance in adults with ID. METHODS: Using a block randomization, 11 participants (25±6yrs) were allocated to a guided group (GG) and 11 (23±8yrs) to a non-guided group (NGG). GG received a PRT intervention in a community-based fitness center that included 3-week familiarization to promote correct and independent performance of exercises and technology-enhanced strategies to promote CAT skills (e.g., goal setting, choice-making). NGG only received the PRT intervention with instruction typically provided by a certified personal trainer. RESULTS: Paired t tests showed that after the 10-week PRT program, only the GG significantly improved (p < .05) correct and independent performance of 4 PRT exercises and scores on Six-Minute Walk Test (SMWT) and Plank Test compared to the NGG. Both groups significantly improved (p < .05) Chest Press 1RM and Leg Press 1RM. After controlling for preintervention differences, ANCOVA found practically and/or statistically significant differences between GG and NGG for postintervention Chest Press 1RM, F(1, 20) = 3.00, p = .100, ηp2 = .14; Leg Press 1RM, F(1, 20) = 7.25, p = .015, ηp2 = .29; SMWT, F(1, 20) = 10.85, p = .000, ηp2 = .38; and Plank Test, F(1, 20) = 3.49 p = .078, ηp2 = .16. CONCLUSION: The guided PRT intervention with its familiarization training and technology-enhanced CAT strategies has the potential to promote functional and independent performance in adults with ID.

Associations Of Skeletal Muscle Lipid Infiltration With Hypertrophy And Physical Performance Outcomes In Older Adults

Preserving muscle mass and quality is critical for long term health and longevity. Unfortunately, the hypertrophic potential of aged individuals is diminished, with some experiencing less than favorable outcomes from supervised resistance training programs. This has led investigators to explore the “poor” responder muscle phenotype. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine whether muscle lipid infiltration plays a role in anabolic adaptation responses, such as muscle growth and physical performance. METHODS: The effects of a 14-week progressive resistance training (PRT) program on muscle size and quality, strength, and physical function in 48 individuals aged 65 and older (mean age ± SD, 70.8 ± 4.5 yrs) was determined. Computed tomography (CT) imaging of cross-sectional mid-thigh regions was used to measure intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) and thigh muscle density (TMD) as measures of thigh muscle lipid content. Associations between these lipid depots and baseline function, as well as muscle adaptations to PRT, were made for muscle size (DXA muscle mass and CT muscle area) and physical function and performance (strength, power, SF-36, PROMIS) using multiple linear regression models adjusted for potential confounders such as sex, BMI, CT muscle area, and baseline muscle strength. The association of muscle lipid and physical activity were conducted as a secondary analysis. RESULTS: At baseline, TMD (mean Hounsfield unit ± SD, 42.1 ± 4.0 HU), but not IMAT (mean area ± SD, 12.5 ± 4.3 cm2), was significantly associated with all physical function and performance variables (R2 range 0.45-0.75, p < 0.05) except leg extension strength and power. Neither IMAT nor TMD was related to physical activity. Following PRT, IMAT was not associated with any exercise adaptation, whereas TMD was negatively associated with percent change in isometric strength (R2 0.17) and muscle power (R2 0.28, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Muscle fatty infiltration can impact strength and power gains following PRT in older persons. More work is needed to understand the dynamics of ectopic muscle fat accumulation and its influence on physical function and muscle metabolism/anabolism.

Progressive resistance training for adolescents with cerebral palsy: the STAR randomized controlled trial.

To evaluate the effect of progressive resistance training of the ankle plantarflexors on gait efficiency, activity, and participation in adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP). Sixty-four adolescents (10-19y; 27 females, 37 males; Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] levels I-III) were randomized to 30 sessions of resistance training (10 supervised and 20 unsupervised home sessions) over 10 weeks or usual care. The primary outcome was gait efficiency indicated by net nondimensional oxygen cost (NNcost). Secondary outcomes included physical activity, gross motor function, participation, muscle strength, muscle and tendon size, and muscle and tendon stiffness. Analysis was intention-to-treat. Median attendance at the 10 supervised sessions was 80% (range 40-100%). There was no between-group difference in NNcost at 10 (mean difference: 0.02, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.07 to 0.11, p=0.696) or 22 weeks (mean difference: -0.08, 95% CI -0.18 to 0.03, p=0.158). There was also no evidence of between-group differences in secondary outcomes at 10 or 22 weeks. There were 123 adverse events reported by 27 participants in the resistance training group. We found that 10 supervised sessions and 20 home sessions of progressive resistance training of the ankle plantarflexors did not improve gait efficiency, muscle strength, activity, participation, or any biomechanical outcome among adolescents with CP. Thirty sessions of progressive resistance training of the ankle plantarflexors over 10 weeks did not improve gait efficiency among ambulatory adolescents with cerebral palsy. Resistance training did not improve muscle strength, activity, or participation. Ninety percent of participants experienced an adverse event. Most adverse events were expected and no serious adverse events were reported.

Evidence of Rehabilitative Impact of Progressive Resistance Training (PRT) Programs in Parkinson Disease: An Umbrella Review.

Parkinson disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative condition that leads to progressive disability. PD-related reductions in muscle strength have been reported to be associated with lower functional performance and balance confidence with an increased risk of falls. Progressive resistance training (PRT) improves strength, balance, and functional abilities. This umbrella review examines the efficacy of PRT regarding muscular strength in PD patients. The PubMed, PEDro, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from January 2009 to August 2019 for systematic reviews and meta-analyses conducted in English. The populations included had diagnoses of PD and consisted of males and females aged >18 years old. Outcomes measured were muscle strength and enhanced physical function. Eight papers (six systematic reviews and meta-analyses and two systematic reviews) were considered relevant for qualitative analysis. In six of the eight studies, the reported severity of PD was mild to moderate. Each study analyzed how PRT elicited positive effects on muscle strength in PD patients, suggesting 10 weeks on average of progressive resistance exercises for the upper and lower limbs two to three times per week. However, none of the studies considered the postworkout follow-up, and there was no detailed evidence about the value of PRT in preventing falls. The possibility of PRT exercises being effective for increasing muscle strength in patients with PD, but without comorbidities or severe disability, is discussed. Overall, this review suggests that PRT should be included in rehabilitation programs for PD patients, in combination with balance training for postural control and other types of exercise, in order to preserve cardiorespiratory fitness and improve endurance in daily life activities.