Reduction In Training Volume Research Articles

The effects of tapering on power-force-velocity profiling and jump performance in professional rugby league players.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a preseason taper on individual power-force-velocity profiles and jump performance in professional National Rugby League players. Seven professional rugby league players performed concentric squat jumps using ascending loads of 25, 50, 75, 100% body mass before and after a 21-day step taper leading into the in-season. Linear force-velocity relationships were derived, and the following variables were obtained: maximum theoretical velocity (V0), maximum theoretical force (F0), and maximum power (Pmax). The players showed likely-to-very likely increases in F0 (effect size [ES] = 0.45) and Pmax (ES = 0.85) from pre to posttaper. Loaded squat jump height also showed likely-to-most likely increases at each load (ES = 0.83-1.04). The 21-day taper was effective at enhancing maximal power output and jump height performance in professional rugby players, possibly as a result of a recovery from fatigue and thus increased strength capability after a prolonged preseason training period. Rugby league strength and conditioning coaches should consider reducing training volume while maintaining intensity and aerobic conditioning (e.g., step taper) leading into the in-season.

Effects of 12 Weeks High-Intensity & Reduced-Volume Training in Elite Athletes

It was investigated if high-intensity interval training (HIT) at the expense of total training volume improves performance, maximal oxygen uptake and swimming economy. 41 elite swimmers were randomly allocated to a control (CON) or HIT group. For 12 weeks both groups trained ∼12 h per week. HIT comprised ∼5 h vs. 1 h and total distance was ∼17 km vs. 35 km per week for HIT and CON, respectively. HIT was performed as 6-10×10-30 s maximal effort interspersed by 2–4 minutes of rest. Performance of 100 m all-out freestyle and 200 m freestyle was similar before and after the intervention in both HIT (60.4±4.0 vs. 60.3±4.0 s; n = 13 and 133.2±6.4 vs. 132.6±7.7 s; n = 14) and CON (60.2±3.7 vs. 60.6±3.8 s; n = 15 and 133.5±7.0 vs. 133.3±7.6 s; n = 15). Maximal oxygen uptake during swimming was similar before and after the intervention in both the HIT (4.0±0.9 vs. 3.8±1.0 l O2×min−1; n = 14) and CON (3.8±0.7 vs. 3.8±0.7 l O2×min−1; n = 11) group. Oxygen uptake determined at fixed submaximal speed was not significantly affected in either group by the intervention. Body fat % tended to increase (P = 0.09) in the HIT group (15.4±1.6% vs. 16.3±1.6%; P = 0.09; n = 16) and increased (P<0.05) in the CON group (13.9±1.5% vs. 14.9±1.5%; n = 17). A distance reduction of 50% and a more than doubled HIT amount for 12 weeks did neither improve nor compromise performance or physiological capacity in elite swimmers.

Reducing Resistance Training Volume during Ramadan Improves Muscle Strength and Power in Football Players

We aimed to examine the effect of maintaining or reducing resistance training volume during Ramadan-intermittent-fasting (RIF) on short-term maximal performances. 20 footballers (age: 18.4 ± 0.8 years; body-mass: 72.4 ± 4.1 kg; height: 183.4 ± 4.6 cm) were matched and randomly assigned to a normal-training-group (G1) or a tapering-group (G2). They were tested for muscular strength (maximal-voluntary-contraction) and power (squat-jump and counter-movement-jump) 1 month before RIF (T0), 1 week before RIF (T1), after 2 weeks of fasting (T2) and at the end of RIF (T3). From T1 to T2, subjects performed a whole-body resistance training program (8-repetitions × 4-sets with 4-min recovery in-between). During RIF, G1 maintained the same training program, while G2 performed a period of reduced training volume (3 sets/exercise; - 22%). Muscle strength and power increased significantly from T0 to T1, from T0 to T2 and from T0 to T3 in G1 and G2 and from T1 to T2 and from T1 to T3 only in G2 (p<0.05). Performance was higher in G2 than G1 during T2 (p<0.01). Moreover, the ∆-change of performance between T0 and T2 and T3 was significantly higher in G2 than G1 (p<0.05). For young soccer players, a tapering period characterized by a reduced training volume during RIF may lead to significant improvement in muscle strength and power.

Effect of intensified training on muscle ion kinetics, fatigue development, and repeated short-term performance in endurance-trained cyclists

The effects of intensified training in combination with a reduced training volume on muscle ion kinetics, transporters, and work capacity were examined. Eight well-trained cyclists replaced their regular training with speed-endurance training (12 × 30 s sprints) 2-3 times per week and aerobic high-intensity training (4-5 × 3-4 min at 90-100% of maximal heart rate) 1-2 times per week for 7 wk and reduced training volume by 70% (intervention period; IP). The duration of an intense exhaustive cycling bout (EX2; 368 ± 6 W), performed 2.5 min after a 2-min intense cycle bout (EX1), was longer (P < 0.05) after than before IP (4:16 ± 0:34 vs. 3:37 ± 0:28 min:s), and mean and peak power during a repeated sprint test improved (P < 0.05) by 4% and 3%, respectively. Femoral venous K(+) concentration in recovery from EX1 and EX2 was lowered (P < 0.05) after compared with before IP, whereas muscle interstitial K(+) concentration and net muscle K(+) release during exercise was unaltered. No changes in muscle lactate and H(+) release during and after EX1 and EX2 were observed, but the in vivo buffer capacity was higher (P < 0.05) after IP. Expression of the ATP-sensitive K(+) (KATP) channel (Kir6.2) decreased by IP, with no change in the strong inward rectifying K(+) channel (Kir2.1), muscle Na(+)-K(+) pump subunits, monocarboxylate transporters 1 and 4 (MCT1 and MCT4), and Na(+)/H(+) exchanger 1 (NHE1). In conclusion, 7 wk of intensified training with a reduced training volume improved performance during repeated intense exercise, which was associated with a greater muscle reuptake of K(+) and muscle buffer capacity but not with the amount of muscle ion transporters.

Mood Changes During A Period of Incremental Training and Following Tapering Strategies in Elite Male Wrestlers

The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of two tapering strategies on mood state and performance of elite wrestlers after a period of incremental training. Thirty elite wrestlers (age: 21.8 ± 1.3 years, height: 172.6 ± 4.9 cm, weight: 71.4 ± 7.6 kg) were selected randomly and were randomly assigned to three equal groups; tapering 1 (50% reduction in training volume), tapering 2 (75% reduction in training volume) or control (regular training). Following four weeks of incremental training, one week of tapering was performed. The profile of mood state was evaluated with a Brunel questionnaire (BRUMS) and a battery of physical tests including cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance, speed, agility, flexibility and body composition, were performed at the beginning of the 1st week, and at the end of the 4th and 5th weeks. Statistical comparisons were made using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Scheffe's post-hoc comparison. The level of significance was set at P<0.05. The results showed that after one week of tapering, mood disturbance scores and performance improved in tapering groups (p<0.05). Scheffe's Post-hoc indicated that observed differences are between control and tapering 2 groups. With continuation of regular training in control group, mood disturbance scores increase and performance decreases. In conclusion it seems that using a tapering strategy at the end of heavy training and before main competition might improve mood state and physical performance in elite wrestlers, and the 75% reduction in training volume, while the intensity is kept high, is most effective for mood state and performance improvements in wrestling.

Improved V[Combining Dot Above]O2max and Time Trial Performance With More High Aerobic Intensity Interval Training and Reduced Training Volume

The present study investigated to what extent more high aerobic intensity interval training (HAIT) and reduced training volume would influence maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and time trial (TT) performance in an elite national cyclist in the preseason period. The cyclist was tested for VO2max, cycling economy (C(c)), and TT performance on an ergometer cycle during 1 year. Training was continuously logged using heart rate monitor during the entire period. Total monthly training volume was reduced in the 2011 preseason compared with the 2010 preseason, and 2 HAIT blocks (14 sessions in 9 days and 15 sessions in 10 days) were performed as running. Between the HAIT blocks, 3 HAIT sessions per week were performed as cycling. From November 2010 to February 2011, the cyclist reduced total average monthly training volume by 18% and cycling training volume by 60%. The amount of training at 90-95% HRpeak increased by 41%. VO2max increased by 10.3% on ergometer cycle. TT performance improved by 14.9%. C(c) did not change. In conclusion, preseason reduced total training volume but increased amount of HAIT improved VO2max and TT performance without any changes in C(c). These improvements on cycling appeared despite that the HAIT blocks were performed as running. Reduced training time, and training transfer from running into improved cycling form, may be beneficial for cyclists living in cold climate areas.

The 10-20-30 training concept improves performance and health profile in moderately trained runners

The effect of an alteration from regular endurance to interval (10-20-30) training on the health profile, muscular adaptations, maximum oxygen uptake (Vo(2max)), and performance of runners was examined. Eighteen moderately trained individuals (6 females and 12 males; Vo(2max): 52.2 ± 1.5 ml·kg(-1)·min(-1)) (means ± SE) were divided into a high-intensity training (10-20-30; 3 women and 7 men) and a control (CON; 3 women and 5 men) group. For a 7-wk intervention period the 10-20-30 replaced all training sessions with 10-20-30 training consisting of low-, moderate-, and high-speed running (<30%, <60%, and >90% of maximal intensity) for 30, 20, and 10 s, respectively, in three or four 5-min intervals interspersed by 2 min of recovery, reducing training volume by 54% (14.0 ± 0.9 vs. 30.4 ± 2.3 km/wk) while CON continued the normal training. After the intervention period Vo(2max) in 10-20-30 was 4% higher, and performance in a 1,500-m and a 5-km run improved (P < 0.05) by 21 and 48 s, respectively. In 10-20-30, systolic blood pressure was reduced (P < 0.05) by 5 ± 2 mmHg, and total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol was lowered (P < 0.05) by 0.5 ± 0.2 and 0.4 ± 0.1 mmol/l, respectively. No alterations were observed in CON. Muscle membrane proteins and enzyme activity did not change in either of the groups. The present study shows that interval training with short 10-s near-maximal bouts can improve performance and Vo(2max) despite a ∼50% reduction in training volume. In addition, the 10-20-30 training regime lowers resting systolic blood pressure and blood cholesterol, suggesting a beneficial effect on the health profile of already trained individuals.

Effect of tapering period on plasma hormone concentrations, mood state, and performance of elite male cyclists

In this study, we investigated the effect of 1- and 3-week tapering periods on concentrations of plasma testosterone (T), cortisol (C), T/C ratio, mood state, and performance in elite male cyclists. After 8 weeks of progressive training, cyclists were randomly assigned to a control group (n=12) who continued performing intense training for a further 3 weeks, or a taper group (n=12) who continued with a 50% reduction in training volume. Blood testosterone and cortisol concentrations were assayed and the T/C ratio calculated from analysis obtained via standard ELISA. Mood state was determined using the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire. All data were collected immediately after a 40-km time-trial performed before, during, and after the 8-week training protocol and after the 1- and 3-week tapering/training periods. In the taper group, 40-km time-trial time decreased significantly (P<0.01) and equally for both the 1- and 3-week taper periods relative to the control group. There were significant elevations in T/C ratio (P<0.001) and reductions in cortisol concentrations and POMS scores in the taper group relative to the control groups at the end of both the 1- and 3-week tapering periods. Hence, taper periods are effective in improving performance and mood state and elevating the blood T/C ratio.

The Effect of Two Types of Tapering on Plasma Anabolic and Catabolic Steroid Hormones Following Incremental Training in Elite Male Wrestlers

The purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of two types of tapering on the concentration of plasma testosterone (T), cortisol (C) and testosterone to cortisol (T:C) ratio in elite male wrestlers after a period of incremental training. Thirty elite male wrestlers were selected randomly and divided into three equal groups: tapering 1 (50% reduction in training volume), tapering 2 (75% reduction in training volume) and control (regular training). Following four weeks of incremental training, one week of tapering was performed. Blood samples were collected from all participants at the beginning of the 1st week and at the end of the 4th and 5th weeks. Plasma levels of C and T were assayed using standard commercial ELISA kits (Quantikine; R & D Systems, Minneapolis, MN). Data were analyzed by using one-way ANOVA. The results showed that after one week of tapering, the plasma levels of C significantly decreased (P<0.05). Despite increases in plasma levels of T, it was not statistically significant. However the T:C ratio increased (P< 0.05). The results indicate that both types of tapering might improve physical performance and alter anabolic and catabolic steroid hormones in elite male wrestlers, but the 75% reduction in training volume, while the intensity is kept high, has the most beneficial effect on anabolic and catabolic steroid hormones in wrestlers.

Run Sprint Interval Training Improves Aerobic Performance but Not Maximal Cardiac Output

Repeated maximal-intensity short-duration exercise (sprint interval training, SIT) can produce muscle adaptations similar to endurance training (ET) despite a much reduced training volume. However, most SIT data use cycling, and little is known about its effects on body composition or maximal cardiac output (Qmax). The purpose of this study was to assess body composition, 2000-m run time trial, VO(2max), and Q(max) effects of run SIT versus ET. Men and women (n = 10 per group; mean ± SD: age = 24 ± 3 yr) trained three times per week for 6 wk with SIT, 30-s all-out run sprints (manually driven treadmill), four to six bouts per session, 4-min recovery per bout, versus ET, 65% VO(2max) for 30 to 60 min·d(-1). Training improved (P < 0.05) body composition, 2000-m run time trial performance, and VO(2max) in both groups. Fat mass decreased 12.4% with SIT (mean ± SEM; 13.7 ± 1.6 to 12.0 ± 1.6 kg) and 5.8% with ET (13.9 ± 1.7 to 13.1 ± 1.6 kg). Lean mass increased 1% in both groups. Time trial performance improved 4.6% with SIT (-25.6 ± 8.1 s) and 5.9% with ET (-31.9 ± 6.3 s). VO(2max) increased 11.5% with SIT (46.8 ± 1.6 to 52.2 ± 2.0 mL·kg·(-1)·min(-1)) and 12.5% with ET (44.0 ± 2.0 to 49.5 ± 2.6 mL·kg·(-1)·min(-1)). None of these improvements differed between groups. In contrast, Q(max) increased by 9.5% with ET only (22.2 ± 2.0 to 24.3 ± 1.6 L·min(-1)). Despite a fraction of the time commitment, run SIT induces similar body composition, VO(2max), and performance adaptations as ET, but with no effect on Q(max). These data suggest that adaptations with ET are of central origin primarily, whereas those with SIT are more peripheral

Speed endurance training is a powerful stimulus for physiological adaptations and performance improvements of athletes

The present article reviews the physiological and performance effects of speed endurance training consisting of exercise bouts at near maximal intensities in already trained subjects. Despite a reduction in training volume, speed endurance training of endurance-trained athletes can maintain the oxidative capacity and improve intense short-duration/repeated high-intensity exercise performance lasting 30 s to 4 min, as it occurs in a number of sports. When combined with a basic volume of training including some aerobic high-intensity sessions, speed endurance training is also useful in enhancing performance during longer events, e.g. 40 K cycling and 10 K running. Athletes in team sports involving intense exercise actions and endurance aspects can also benefit from performing speed endurance training. These improvements don't appear to depend on changes in maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max), muscle substrate levels, glycolytic and oxidative enzymes activity, and membrane transport proteins involved in pH regulation. Instead they appear to be related to a reduced energy expenditure during submaximal exercise and a higher expression of muscle Na(+) ,K(+) pump α-subunits, which via a higher Na(+) ,K(+) pump activity during exercise may delay fatigue development during intense exercise. In conclusion, athletes from disciplines involving periods of intense exercise can benefit from the inclusion of speed endurance sessions in their training programs.

Physiological Adaptations to Taper in Competitive Distance Runners

Little is known about the physiological response to taper in distance runners. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a 3-wk taper (progressive reduction in training volume with no change in intensity) on performance and physiology of competitive distance runners. We implemented a 'whole body to gene' approach to study seven collegiate distance runners (20 ± 1 yr, 66 ± 1 kg) before and after taper. The primary measures included 8-km cross country race performance, gastrocnemius single muscle fiber size and function (peak force, shortening velocity, and power), resting and run-induced gene expression 4 hrs after a standardized 8-km indoor track run [pre-30:18 (min:sec), post-30:20], citrate synthase activity, and maximal and submaximal cardiovascular physiology (Vo2, VE, HR, and RER) before and after taper. The taper was successful at enhancing cross country race performance (-3%, P<0.05). MHC IIa fiber diameter (+7%, P<0.05), force (+11%, P=0.06), and absolute power (+9%, P<0.05) were elevated following taper. In addition to the MHC IIa fiber adaptations, taper elicited a distinct post-run gene response. Specifically, the induction of MuRF-1 was attenuated following taper, whereas MRF-4, HSP 72, and MT-2A displayed an exaggerated response to the standardized run (P<0.05). No changes were observed in MHC I size/function, resting gene expression, citrate synthase activity, or cardiovascular function. Our findings show that tapered training in competitive runners promoted MHC IIa fiber remodeling and a differential transcriptional response following the same exercise perturbation, while having no adverse effects on aerobic physiology. These data suggest that myocellular remodeling is a key ingredient for taper induced gains in running performance.

Training volume and injury incidence in a professional rugby union team

Objective. To describe the incidence of injuries in a professional rugby team, and to identify any associations between injury rates and training volume.Methods. This retrospective, descriptive study included all injuries diagnosed as grade 1 and above in a South African Super 12 rugby team. Injury incidence and injury rates were calculated and compared with training volume and hours of match play.Results. Thirty-eight male rugby players were injured during the study period. The total number of annual injuries decreased from 50 (2002) to 38 (2004) (χ2=0.84, p=0.36). The number of new injuries showed a similar trend (χ2=2.81, p=0.09), while the number of recurring injuries increased over the 3-year period. There was a tendency for total in-season injury rates to decrease over the 3 years (χ2=2.89, p=0.09). The pre-season injury rate increased significantly over the 3 years (χ2=12.7, pConclusions. One has to be cognisant of the balance between performance improvement and injury risk when designing training programmes for elite rugby players. Although the reduction in training volume was associated with a slight reduction in the number of acute injuries and in-season injury rates over the three seasons, the performance of the team changed from 3rd to 7th (2002 and 2004, respectively). Further studies are required to determine the optimal training necessary to improve rugby performancewhile reducing injury rates.

Reduced volume and increased training intensity elevate muscle Na+-K+pump α2-subunit expression as well as short- and long-term work capacity in humans

The present study examined muscle adaptations and alterations in work capacity in endurance-trained runners as a result of a reduced amount of training combined with speed endurance training. For a 6- to 9-wk period, 17 runners were assigned to either a speed endurance group with a 25% reduction in the amount of training but including speed endurance training consisting of six to twelve 30-s sprint runs 3-4 times/wk (SET group n = 12) or a control group (n = 5), which continued the endurance training ( approximately 55 km/wk). For the SET group, the expression of the muscle Na(+)-K(+) pump alpha(2)-subunit was 68% higher (P < 0.05) and the plasma K(+) level was reduced (P < 0.05) during repeated intense running after 9 wk. Performance in a 30-s sprint test and the first of the supramaximal exhaustive runs was improved (P < 0.05) by 7% and 36%, respectively, after the speed endurance training period. In the SET group, maximal O(2) uptake was unaltered, but the 3-km (3,000-m) time was reduced (P < 0.05) from 10.4 +/- 0.1 to 10.1 +/- 0.1 min and the 10-km (10,000-m) time was improved from 37.3 +/- 0.4 to 36.3 +/- 0.4 min (means +/- SE). Muscle protein expression and performance remained unaltered in the control group. The present data suggest that both short- and long-term exercise performances can be improved with a reduction in training volume if speed endurance training is performed and that the Na(+)-K(+) pump plays a role in the control of K(+) homeostasis and in the development of fatigue during repeated high-intensity exercise.

Four weeks of speed endurance training reduces energy expenditure during exercise and maintains muscle oxidative capacity despite a reduction in training volume

We studied the effect of an alteration from regular endurance to speed endurance training on muscle oxidative capacity, capillarization, as well as energy expenditure during submaximal exercise and its relationship to mitochondrial uncoupling protein 3 (UCP3) in humans. Seventeen endurance-trained runners were assigned to either a speed endurance training (SET; n = 9) or a control (Con; n = 8) group. For a 4-wk intervention (IT) period, SET replaced the ordinary training ( approximately 45 km/wk) with frequent high-intensity sessions each consisting of 8-12 30-s sprint runs separated by 3 min of rest (5.7 +/- 0.1 km/wk) with additional 9.9 +/- 0.3 km/wk at low running speed, whereas Con continued the endurance training. After the IT period, oxygen uptake was 6.6, 7.6, 5.7, and 6.4% lower (P < 0.05) at running speeds of 11, 13, 14.5, and 16 km/h, respectively, in SET, whereas remained the same in Con. No changes in blood lactate during submaximal running were observed. After the IT period, the protein expression of skeletal muscle UCP3 tended to be higher in SET (34 +/- 6 vs. 47 +/- 7 arbitrary units; P = 0.06). Activity of muscle citrate synthase and 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase, as well as maximal oxygen uptake and 10-km performance time, remained unaltered in both groups. In SET, the capillary-to-fiber ratio was the same before and after the IT period. The present study showed that speed endurance training reduces energy expenditure during submaximal exercise, which is not mediated by lowered mitochondrial UCP3 expression. Furthermore, speed endurance training can maintain muscle oxidative capacity, capillarization, and endurance performance in already trained individuals despite significant reduction in the amount of training.

Influence of Reduced-Volume Training Bout on Markers of Recovery During Intensive Training in Professional Cyclists

Influence of Reduced-Volume Training Bout on Markers of Recovery During Intensive Training in Professional Cyclists

Reduced volume but increased training intensity elevates muscle Na+-K+ pump α1-subunit and NHE1 expression as well as short-term work capacity in humans

The present study examined muscle adaptations and alterations in work capacity in endurance-trained runners after a change from endurance to sprint training. Fifteen runners were assigned to either a sprint training (ST, n = 8) or a control (CON, n = 7) group. ST replaced their normal training by 30-s sprint runs three to four times a week, whereas CON continued the endurance training (approximately 45 km/wk). After the 4-wk sprint period, the expression of the muscle Na+-K+ pump alpha1-subunit and Na+/H+-exchanger isoform 1 was 29 and 30% higher (P < 0.05), respectively. Furthermore, plasma K+ concentration was reduced (P < 0.05) during repeated intense running. In ST, performance in a 30-s sprint test, Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test, and two supramaximal exhaustive runs was improved (P < 0.05) by 7, 19, 27, and 19%, respectively, after the sprint training period, whereas pulmonary maximum oxygen uptake and 10-k time were unchanged. No changes in CON were observed. The present data suggest a role of the Na+-K+ pump in the control of K+ homeostasis and in the development of fatigue during repeated high-intensity exercise. Furthermore, performance during intense exercise can be improved and endurance performance maintained even with a reduction in training volume if the intensity of training is very high.

경기직전 트레이닝 양의 감소가 경영선수들의 경기력과 호르몬 농도에 미치는 영향

경기직전 트레이닝 양의 감소가 경영선수들의 경기력과 호르몬 농도에 미치는 영향

Muscle oxygenation trends after tapering in trained cyclists

BackgroundThis study examined muscle deoxygenation trends before and after a 7-day taper using non-invasive near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS).MethodsEleven cyclists performed an incremental cycle ergometer test to determine maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max = 4.68 ± 0.57 L·min-1) prior to the study, and then completed two or three high intensity (85–90% VO2max) taper protocols after being randomly assigned to a taper group: T30 (n = 5), T50 (n = 5), or T80 (n = 5) [30%, 50%, 80% reduction in training volume, respectively]. Physiological measurements were recorded during a simulated 20 km time trials (20TT) performed on a set of wind-loaded rollers.Results and DiscussionThe results showed that the physiological variables of oxygen consumption (VO2), carbon dioxide (VCO2) and heart rate (HR) were not significantly different after tapering, except for a decreased ventilatory equivalent for oxygen (VE/VO2) in T50 (p ≤ 0.05). However, during the 20TT muscle deoxygenation measured continuously in the vastus medialis was significantly lower (-749 ± 324 vs. -1140 ± 465 mV) in T50 after tapering, which was concomitant with a 4.53% improvement (p = 0.057) in 20TT performance time, and a 0.18 L·min-1 (4.5%) increase in VO2. Furthermore, when changes in performance time and tissue deoxygenation (post- minus pre-taper) were plotted (n = 11), a moderately high correlation was found (r = 0.82).ConclusionIt was concluded that changes in simulated 20TT performance appeared to be related, in part, to changes in muscle deoxygenation following tapering, and that NIRS can be used effectively to monitor muscle deoxygenation during a taper period.

Running the Numbers

### Background Oral health can affect performance, including athletes who always need to be in their best conditions during training and competitions. However, oral health awareness has never been a priority among Malaysian athletes. ### Objective This study primarily aimed to assess the association between oral health status and self-reported impact on athletes' sports performance, using the Oral Health Screening Toolkit for Athletes developed by University College London, UK. ### Design/Setting/Participants This is a cross-sectional study using convenience sampling. Data were collected among elite athletes registered under the National Sport Council (NSC), Malaysia. ### Interventions/Outcome measures Demographic data, self-reported questionnaire and clinical oral examination were recorded and collected. ### Result We recruited 249 athletes with the median age of 20 (range 13--43). Active caries (ICDAS code ≥3) was found in 66.8% athletes with periodontal diseases (BPE code ≥1) in 84.9%. A quarter of those with both diseases were youth athletes. Pericoronitis was also found in 4.7% athletes while 9% have pulpitis, abscess or ulcer (PUFA). Approximately 23.2% of athletes felt their oral health was not good during data collection with 32.5% reported moderate-to-severe impact of oral-related problems on their sports performance over the past 12 months: oral pain (10.5%), difficulty participating in training and competition (11.4%), performance affected (6.4%) and reduction in training volume (6.3%). Chi-square test of independence showed that there is a relationship between both diseases with ethnicity and sports type (individual-team or endurance-strength-mixed). Periodontal diseases were also seen related to age and education level. Approximately 5.5% of the athletes reported never seeing a dentist before. ### Conclusion High levels of oral diseases were found in Malaysian elite athletes with common self-reported impacts on performance. This study hopes to create oral health awareness among Malaysian athletes and authorities so that it will be proportionately integrated into athlete health programmes in the future.