Resistance Training Group Research Articles

The Effect of a Novel Weight-Supported Kinetic Chain Resistance Training Program on Proximal Core Muscular Endurance, Trunk-to-Arm Muscular Power, and Bat Swing Speed.

Palmer, TG, and McCabe, M. The effect of a novel weight-supported kinetic chain resistance training program on proximal core muscular endurance, trunk-to-arm muscular power, and bat swing speed. J Strength Cond Res 37(11): 2130-2140, 2023-Muscular stability and muscular power at the proximal core segments of the pelvis, spine, and trunk are essential attributes in maximizing bat swing speed in the sport of softball. Weight-supported kinetic chain resistance training (WsKC) is a novel closed kinetic chain technique that provides synergistic multiplanar stressors to the proximal core segments via the lower and upper extremities while limiting joint compression and sheer forces throughout the kinetic chain. The aim of this study was to assess the effect a 7-week preseason WsKC program would have on an isometric muscular endurance plank, trunk-to-arm peak muscular power (TAPP), trunk-to-arm peak velocity (TAPV), and bat swing speed (BSS) compared with a traditional isotonic weight resistance training program. Twenty-seven female high school softball players (age = 16 years, height = 167.6 cm, body mass = 62.86 kg) were assigned in a blocked randomization to one of 2 groups: a standing weight-supported kinetic chain resistance training (WsT) group (n = 13) or a pseudo-control traditional isotonic training (TT) group (n = 14). The WsT group had significant improvements (p < 0.05) for the isometric endurance plank (p = 0.001), TAPP (p = 0.002), TAPV (p = 0.001), and BSS (p = 0.02) compared with the TT group. The training effect size (ES) was large for the WsT group for all variables (ES = 1.0-7.4) and small to moderate for a majority of the TT variables (ES = 0.06-0.47). The simultaneous improvement in the isometric endurance plank, trunk-to-arm rotations, and BSS indicates that the WsKC contributed to subsequent improvements in BSS in high school softball players.

Efficacy of upper limb training on grip strength and muscle activity in individuals with type 2 diabetes: a feasibility study

Abstract The upper limb (UL) is one of the important target for musculoskeletal complications in patients with diabetes. The objective of this trial was to measure the feasibility and clinical effectiveness of upper limb training on grip strength and muscle activity in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A parallel three-arm randomised controlled trial (RCT) was employed. Fifty-seven patients with T2DM aged between 35 to 60 years were recruited based on eligibility criteria and asked to visit the outpatient department (OPD) of physiotherapy. They were randomly allocated into 3 groups; resistance training (RT) group; sensorimotor training (SMT) group; and control group with the help of a computer-generated random number table. Primary outcome measures were recruitment rate, outcome measure, retention rate, adherence, and acceptability of the intervention to assess trial feasibility. The efficacy of training on grip strength and on activation of deltoid, bicep and triceps brachii after 6 weeks was measured using a JAMAR hand dynamometer and S4-channel Neurostim EMG/NCV/EP system, respectively. The feasibility of recruitment rate of participants was 72.15%, outcome measures feasibility was 81%, retention rate of participants was 81% and intervention adherence was 91.34% for RT group &amp; 87.41% for SMT group. Most of the participants were satisfied with the given intervention as the acceptance rate was high. Between and within-group analysis of muscular activity and strength shows a significant difference as the P-value was &lt; 0.05. RT group shows maximum improvement in both outcome measures. This study was feasible and well accepted by participants. Therefore, it is possible to perform a fully powered RCT and to use upper limb training in the future for good clinical management in type 2 diabetic population. This trial was registered under the Clinical Trial Registry of India (CTRI) with registration no. CTRI/2021/06/034188.

Effect of aerobic and resistance training on secreted protein acidic rich in cysteine, decorin, and myonectin muscle genes expression in rats fed with a high-fat diet

Background and aims: Fatty diet can affect the expression of myokines. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of aerobic and resistance training secreted protein acidic rich in cysteine (SPARC), decorin (DCN), and myonectin muscle gene expression in rats fed with a high-fat diet. Methods: In this experimental study, 32 rats were randomly divided into healthy control, obese control, obese+aerobic exercise, and obese+resistance exercise groups. The training program was implemented for 4 weeks at aerobic moderate intensity (50% VO2max in the first week and 65% VO2max in the last week). For resistance training, the animals were also trained to climb the ladder (height 110 cm, slope 80%, and the distance between the bars of the ladder 2 cm), which is based on the determination of one-repetition maximum (1RM). Obese rats received a dose of 0.5 mL/100 g of body weight orally by gavage for 4 weeks and 5 days a week. Results: There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of DCN expressions (P=0.702). However, the expression of SPARC (P=0.039) and myonectin in the obese control group was significantly increased compared to the healthy control (P=0.038). The expression of SPARC and myonectin in the aerobic training group (P=0.038, P=0.042) and the resistance training group (P=0.048, P=0.049) was significantly decreased in comparison to obesity control. Resistance training caused a greater decrease in myonectin compared to aerobic training (P=0.049). Conclusion: The findings revealed that aerobic and resistance exercises are effective in reducing SPARC and myonectin expression in the skeletal muscle of rats fed with a high-fat diet.

The Effect of a Period of Resistance Training on Some Apoptotic Markers in Kidney Tissue of Diabetic Male Rats with Morphine Withdrawal Syndrome

Background and Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of resistance training on some apoptotic markers of kidney tissue with morphine withdrawal syndrome in diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 32 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups of 8, including: diabetes, morphine diabetes, diabetes + resistance training, diabetes morphine + resistance training. After implementing the diabetes induction protocol, the addicted groups received morphine orally for 21 days, and then the training groups participated in the resistance training protocol for 8 weeks. Then all the mice were killed and dissected and their kidney tissue was removed. ELISA kits were used to evaluate apoptotic factors. Results: Cytochrome-C variable results showed a significant decrease in the morphine diabetes (P=0.002) and diabetes + resistance training (P=0.001) and morphine diabetes + resistance training (P=0.001) groups compared to the diabetes group. The results of the caspase-8 variable also showed that the diabetes + resistance training group had a significant decrease compared to the diabetes group (P=0.004) and the morphine diabetes group (P=0.012). Also, the reduction of caspase 3 variable results in the morphine diabetes group (P=0.001), diabetes + resistance training (P=0.001) and morphine diabetes + resistance training (P=0.002) was significant compared to the diabetes group. Conclusion: Resistance training has reduced apoptotic indices in kidney tissue and can be a suitable treatment strategy for diabetes and withdrawal syndrome diabetes.

Effect of resistance training and high-intensity interval training on metabolic parameters and serum level of Sirtuin1 in postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThe present study analyzes the influence of resistance training (RT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on metabolic indices and serum levels of Sirtuin1 (SIRT1) in postmenopausal women who suffer from the metabolic syndrome (MetS).Methods45 postmenopausal women aged 45–65 years with MetS were divided into two intervention groups (RT and HIIT) and one control group, each consisting of 15 people. The RT group performed resistance training for both the upper and lower body, while the HIIT group completed 3 min(min) of high-intensity training at 80–90% of their maximum heart rate (HRmax), followed by moderate walking for 3 min at 55–65% of HRmax. These sessions were conducted for a duration of eight weeks and three times a week, with the samples being collected at the baseline and at the end of the treatment, i.e., week 8.ResultsThe results showed that weight, waist circumference, body mass index, fat mass, low-density lipoprotein, triglyceride, cholesterol, fasting blood sugar (FBS), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1C), systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased, and SIRT1 increased significantly in both training groups. Systolic blood pressure, cholesterol, HbA1C, and FBS decreased more in the HIIT group. Skeletal muscle mass and 1-repetition maximum (1-RM) increased more in the RT group.ConclusionsRT and HIIT serve as one of the most effective strategies for therapeutically treating patients with metabolic syndrome.Trial registrationIRCT, IRCT20221120056548N1. Registered 23 November 2022 - Retrospectively registered.

Impact of cluster set resistance training on strength, functional capacity, metabolic and inflammatory state in older hemodialysis subjects: A randomized controlled clinical trial

Background and aimsHemodialysis-associated neuromuscular dysfunction appears to be counteracted by resistance training (RT) in older patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of cluster-set RT protocol on anthropometric parameters, functional capacities, and biochemical variables in older patients with CKD. Methods and resultsSeventy-eight older patients (age: 57.55 ± 4.06 years) with CKD undergoing maintenance hemodialysis participated, and were randomly divided into control group (CG, N = 26), traditional RT (RT, N = 26) and cluster-set RT (RT-CS, N = 26) groups. Participants completed 24 weeks of RT three times per week, 1 h and 30 min before the hemodialysis session. Patients from the RT-CS group displayed increased adherence as compared to the RT group (66.35 % versus 61.73 %, p < 0.0001). There was an improvement of all anthropometric variables, handgrip strength, timed up and-go (TUG) and six-minute walking test (6MWT) following both training protocols when compared to control group and pre-intervention values. Fasting blood glucose decreased for both RT and RT-CS groups as compared with pre-intervention, without differences between training protocols and CG. Glycated hemoglobin, inflammatory cytokines, and triglycerides decreased in RT and RT-CS groups as compared with pre-intervention and CG, without differences between them. Furthermore, the RT-CS protocol resulted in a greater number of people who were responsive to training when compared to traditional training. ConclusionsRT-CS is a clinically valuable tool to improve anthropometric parameters, handgrip strength, TUG, 6MWT, fasting blood glucose, and cytokines in CKD older patients.

The Effect of 12-Week Traditional Resistance Training Applied to Elite Curling Athletes on Muscular Endurance

The purpose of this study was to compare effects of 12-weeks tradinational resistance training (TRT) on total work (TW), relative peak work (RPW) and peak power (PP) in elite national curlers. Twenty-four participants were included in the study. Subjects were separated into two gorup, resistance training group (RES) and control group (CON). While RES performed 12-week TRT in addiction to curling training, CON just performed curling training. All twenty-four national elite curling athletes performed a body composition test and isokinetic strength test at 240-1/ms angular speed pre and post TRT. TW and PP values were directly obtained from isokinetic dynamometer and RPW was calculated by dividing the peak work values by the body weight of the person. The differences between RES/CON and pre-post in TW, RPW and PP variables were determined using an analysis of variance with Independent T Test. The data obtained from the research were shown as mean and standard deviation. Higher TW, RPW, and PP outputs were generated in the RES in comparison with the CON exercise (p0.05).

Muscular Adaptations to Concurrent Resistance Training and High-Intensity Interval Training in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: A Pilot Study.

This pilot study aimed to compare the effects of eight weeks of concurrent resistance training (RT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) vs. RT alone on muscle performance, mass and quality in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Twelve T2DM adults were randomly allocated to the RT + HIIT (n = 5) or RT (n = 7) group. Before and after training, maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), muscle strength and power were evaluated by calorimetry, dynamometry and one-repetition maximum (1RM) test. Quadriceps muscle volume was determined by MRI, and muscle quality was estimated. After RT, VO2max (+12%), knee muscle power (+20%), quadriceps muscle volume (+5.9%) and quality (leg extension, +65.4%; leg step-up, +223%) and 1RM at leg extension (+66.4%), leg step-up (+267%), lat pulldown (+60.9%) and chest press (+61.2%) significantly increased. The RT + HIIT group improved on VO2max (+27%), muscle volume (+6%), muscle power (+9%) and 1RM at lat pulldown (+47%). No other differences were detected. Among groups, changes in muscle quality at leg step-up and leg extension and VO2max were significantly different. The combination of RT and HIIT effectively improves muscle function and size and increases cardiorespiratory fitness in adults with T2DM. However, HIIT combined with RT may interfere with the development of muscle quality.

The Effect of Two Types of Intense Interval and Resistance Training and Grape Seed Oil on the Expression of Selected Genes Involved in the Oxidation of Free Fatty Acids in the Gastrocnemius and Soleus Muscles of Male Rats

Background: This research aimed to investigate the effect of resistance and high-intense interval training and the consumption of grape seed oil on the expression of HADHA, CPT1, and CD36 genes in male rats' gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. Methods: Thirty male Wistar rats (250 ± 25g) were divided into six groups. The resistance training group performed the training in 3 weekly sessions for 8 weeks, and the interval training group performed high-intensity running on a treadmill for eight weeks, 5 sessions a week. The grape seed oil (3.7g/kg) was administered by gavage. The expression of HADH1, CPT1, and CD36 genes was measured in the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. Results: The results showed that the expression of the CD36 gene increased in the gastrocnemius muscle in the resistance training group (P = 0.043), grape seed oil group (P = 0.042), and grape seed oil plus intense interval training (P = 0.005) group compared to the saline control group. Moreover, the expression of CD36 (P = 0.021) and CPT1 (P = 0.005) genes in the soleus muscle increased in the resistance training plus grape seed oil group compared to the control group. However, the CPT1 expression in the gastrocnemius muscle had no significant difference among all groups. The HADHA expression in the gastrocnemius significantly increased in the resistance training plus grape seed oil group (P = 0.04) compared to the grape seed oil group. However, its expression in the soleus muscle significantly increased in the intense interval training plus grape seed oil group compared to the control group (P = 0.04). Conclusions: It can be concluded that resistance, high-intensity interval training, and the consumption of grape seed oil can be a good combination to provide energy.

Effect of Resistance Training with Blood Flow Restriction on Sitruin-1, Visfatin, and Nitric Oxide Levels in Elite Male Athletes Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Background and Aims Blood flow restriction (BFR) training has been suggested as an effective method to improve muscle hypertrophy and for rehabilitation. The present study aims to investigate the effect of resistance training (RT) with BFR on serum levels of sirtuin-1 (SIRT-1), visfatin, and nitric oxide (NO) in elite male athletes after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Methods Twenty elite male athletes voluntarily participated in the study and were randomly divided into two groups of RT-BFR (n=10) and RT (n=10). Subjects in both groups participated in 12 weeks of RT at an intensity of 30-70% of 10-repetition maximum (2-4 sets). The subjects in the RT-BFR group performed resistance training by placing a blood pressure cuff in the upper thigh with a pressure of 120-180 mm Hg. Blood samples were collected before and 48 hours after the last training session to measure serum levels of blood markers. Data analysis was done by the analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and paired t-test. P&lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Twelve weeks of RT-BFR significantly increased serum levels of SIRT-1 (P&lt;0.001(, visfatin (P=0.02), and NO (P=0.01) in the post-test phase, compared to the pre-test phase. Furthermore, the between-group analysis results showed that RT-BFR significantly increased serum levels of SIRT-1 (P&lt;0.001) and NO (P=0.002) compared to the RT group. Conclusion The RT combined with BFR can increase the serum concentrations of SIRT-1 and NO in elite athletes after ACL reconstruction, compared to the RT alone

The Effects of Combining Aerobic and Heavy Resistance Training on Body Composition, Muscle Hypertrophy, and Exercise Satisfaction in Physically Active Adults.

This study investigated the effects of combined aerobic and heavy resistance training on the variables of body composition, muscle hypertrophy, and exercise satisfaction in physically active adults in comparison with heavy resistance training only (predominantly designed for hypertrophy). Twenty-two healthy male adults between the ages of 18 and 35, who had limited previous experience with muscle resistance training, participated in the intervention program while maintaining their physical activity level. The participants were randomly allocated into two groups: the resistance training group (control group) and the combined training group (experimental group), which involved both resistance training and aerobic training. Aerobic training consisted of 30 min aerobic interval training sessions three times a week with a total of 8 min work bouts in each at 60-70% of heart rate reserve (HRR). The intervention training program lasted for eight weeks. Resistance training consisted of a 3-day muscle group split (2-3 exercises per muscle group, 8 sets per muscle group, 6-12 repetition maximum (RM). Upon completion, body composition, muscle hypertrophy, and exercise satisfaction were analyzed using the mixed-design ANOVA. Variables selected for this study as markers of body composition responded differently to the different interventions and time; however, some trends were not statistically significant. Overall, it is not possible to state unequivocally that one training modality was superior to another in the body composition cluster, for significant improvements were observed within the groups from pre- to post-interventions, but no significant differences were observed between the resistance training and combined training groups, while, both interventions showed improvement with time in some variables of muscle hypertrophy. Compared to baseline, the exercise satisfaction post-intervention improved within the groups. From pre- to post-testing, both resistance and combined training groups improved exercise satisfaction (p < 0.05 in both groups). However, there was no significant difference in exercise satisfaction observed between the resistance training and combined training groups after the training intervention (p > 0.05).

Effects of aerobic, resistance, and combined training on thyroid function and quality of life in hypothyroidism. A randomized controlled trial

PurposeThis study aimed to compare the effects of aerobic, resistance, and combined exercises on thyroid function, lipid profile, exercise capacity, and quality of life (QoL) in hypothyroid women. MethodsSixty women aged 35 to 45 with clinical hypothyroidism were randomized to four equal groups: aerobic training (AT), resistance training (RT), combined AT/RT, and control groups. All exercises were performed at low to moderate intensity, three days per week, and for 12 weeks. Patients in all groups were on levothyroxine therapy. Outcome measures were free thyroxin (T4), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), lipid profile, estimated maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) and QoL assessed by the 12-item Short Form (SF-12) Health Survey. ResultsAll exercise groups showed significant improvements in all outcome measures compared to the baseline and the controls (p < 0.05). The combined AT/RT group showed more significant improvements in TSH and the mental component summary score of the SF-12 compared to the AT and RT groups (p < 0.05). The AT group showed the most significant improvement in estimated VO2 max, followed by the combined AT/RT and then the RT group. Non-significant differences were found between exercise groups in T4, blood lipids, and the physical component summary score of the SF-12 (p > 0.05). ConclusionIn women with hypothyroidism on levothyroxine treatment, all AT, RT, and combined AT/RT could equally improve T4 levels, lipid profile, and physical health-related QoL. However, the combined AT/RT could induce the greatest improvements in TSH and mental health-related QoL, while the AT could have the greatest impact on exercise capacity in these patients. Trial registrationPan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR), retrospective, PACTR202305810673587.

Effect of Exercise Training on Some Anti-Inflammatory Adipokines, High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein, and Clinical Outcomes in Sedentary Adults With Metabolic Syndrome.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of aerobic interval training and resistance training on anti-inflammatory adipokines, high sensitivity C-reactive protein, and clinical outcomes in sedentary men with metabolic syndrome. A total of 33 sedentary men with metabolic syndrome (age: 46.2 ± 4.6years; body mass index: 35.4 ± 1.9kg.m2) were randomly assigned to one of 3 groups: aerobic interval training (n = 12), resistance training (n = 10), or control (n = 11). Participants in the exercise groups completed a 12-week training program, 3 sessions per week, while those in the control group maintained their sedentary lifestyle. The levels of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), omentin-1, adiponectin, lipid profiles, blood pressure, glucose metabolism, body composition, and peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) were measured at baseline and after the intervention. Both aerobic interval training and resistance training significantly improved the levels of omentin-1 and adiponectin, as well as reduced inflammation, as indicated by a decrease in hs-CRP levels. Exercise training also led to significant improvements in lipid profiles, blood pressure, glucose metabolism, and body composition. Specifically, the aerobic interval training group had significantly greater increases in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and VO2peak, as well as greater reductions in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and total cholesterol compared to the resistance training group. Exercise training, particularly aerobic interval training and resistance training, can be an effective non-pharmacological intervention for managing inflammation and improving cardiovascular health in metabolic syndrome patients.

Clinical relevance of resistance training in women with fibromyalgia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

There has been an increase in the number of papers assessing the effects of resistance training (RT) in patients with fibromyalgia. Therefore, the objective of our study was to evaluate the clinical relevance and effectiveness of RT for pain intensity, functionality and severity of the disease specifically in women with fibromyalgia through a systematic review with meta-analysis. Seven databases were searched. Randomized controlled trials conducted in women over 18 years of age with fibromyalgia were included. Fifteen trials were included in the systematic review and 14 of these studies were included in the three meta-analyses performed. Study quality assessment was performed using the PEDro scale. In addition, the GRADE recommendations were used. The global meta-analysis revealed statistically significant differences in the RT group versus the control group on pain intensity (SMD = -0.49; 95% CI [-0.74, -0.24], p = 0.0001), functionality (SMD = -0.23; 95% CI [0.01, 0.45], p = 0.04) and on severity of the disease (SMD = -0.58; 95% CI [-0.90, -0.26], p = 0.0005). Clinically relevant improvements in the overall outcome of the three variables studied in favour of RT were obtained. RT is effective to improve pain intensity, functionality and severity of the disease in women with fibromyalgia. These improvements are clinically relevant. More clinical trials of RT are needed in women with fibromyalgia to support our results due to the low strength of evidence. This systematic review with meta-analysis provides evidence that RT produces clinically relevant improvements in women with fibromyalgia. The absence of immediate benefit is often a major barrier to adherence to treatment. Our findings will help clinicians to empower patients that if they continue treatment, they will achieve improvement in their disease.

Exercise mitigates Dapagliflozin-induced skeletal muscle atrophy in STZ-induced diabetic rats

BackgroundSodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are commonly used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and have been found to worsen the reduction of skeletal muscle mass in individuals with T2DM. This study aims to examine the potential of exercise in mitigating the skeletal muscle atrophy induced by SGLT2i treatment.MethodsA rat model of T2DM (40 male Sprague-Dawley rats; T2DM induced by a combination of high-fat diet and streptozotocin) was used to examine the effects of six-week treatment with Dapagliflozin (DAPA, SGLT2i) in combination with either aerobic exercise (AE) or resistance training (RT) on skeletal muscle. T2DM-eligible rats were randomized into the T2DM control group (CON, n = 6), DAPA treatment group (DAPA, n = 6), DAPA combined with aerobic exercise intervention group (DAPA + AE, n = 6), and DAPA combined with resistance training intervention group (DAPA + RT, n = 6). To assess the morphological changes in skeletal muscle, myosin ATPase and HE staining were performed. mRNA expression levels of Atrogin-1, MuRF1, and Myostatin were determined using quantitative PCR. Furthermore, protein expression levels of AKT, p70S6K, mTOR, FoXO1/3A, NF-κB, and MuRF1 were examined through western blotting.ResultsBoth the administration of DAPA alone and the combined exercise intervention with DAPA resulted in significant reductions in blood glucose levels and body weight in rats. However, DAPA alone administration led to a decrease in skeletal muscle mass, whereas RT significantly increased skeletal muscle mass and muscle fiber cross-sectional area. The DAPA + RT group exhibited notable increases in both total protein levels and phosphorylation levels of AKT and p70S6K in skeletal muscle. Moreover, the DAPA, DAPA + AE, and DAPA + RT groups demonstrated downregulation of protein expression (FoXO1/3A) and mRNA levels (Atrogin-1, MuRF1, and Myostatin) associated with muscle atrophy.ConclusionsOur findings provide support for the notion that dapagliflozin may induce skeletal muscle atrophy through mechanisms unrelated to protein metabolism impairment in skeletal muscle, as it does not hinder protein metabolic pathways while reduces muscle atrophy-related genes. Additionally, our observations reveal that RT proves more effective than AE in enhancing skeletal muscle mass and muscle fiber cross-sectional area in rats with T2DM by stimulating protein anabolism within the skeletal muscle.

Effect of the Aerobic and Resistance Training on Follistatin-Like 1 and Leukemia Inhibitory Factor Muscle Gene Expression in Rats Fed With a High-Fat Diet

Background: Follistatin-like 1 (FSTL-1) and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) are two myokines that are affected by overweight and have inflammatory and damaging effects. Considering that exercise reduces excess weight, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of aerobic and resistance training on FSTL-1 and LIF muscle gene expression in rats fed with a high-fat diet. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 32 rats were randomly divided into healthy control, obese control, obese+aerobic exercise, and obese+resistance exercise groups. The training was performed for 4 weeks at aerobic moderate intensity (50-65% VO2max). For resistance training, rats were also trained to climb the ladder (height 110 cm, slope 80%, and the distance between the bars of the ladder 2 cm), which is based on the determination of one repetition maximum. A high-fat diet was prepared with 40% fat, 13% protein, and 47% carbohydrates and continued until the rats reached the obesity range. The tissue sample was taken from the gluteus muscle. Results: The expression of FSTL-1 and LIF in the obese control group increased significantly compared to the healthy control group (P=0.044 and P=0.039, respectively). The expression of FSTL-1 and LIF in the resistance training group significantly decreased in comparison to the obese control group (P=0.049 and P=0.046, respectively). There was no significant difference between the aerobic exercise group and the obese control group (P=0.053 and P=0.059, respectively). However, a significant difference was observed between aerobic and resistance training groups in terms of FSTL-1 (P=0.042). Conclusion: Resistance exercise seems to have a greater and better effect on FSTL-1 and LIF in the muscles of obese samples compared to aerobic exercise.

Effects of Concurrent Resistance and Aerobic Training on Body Composition, Muscular Strength and Maximum Oxygen Uptake in Men with Excess Weight

The study purpose was to compare the effects of concurrent resistance and aerobic training to resistance and/or aerobic training alone on body composition, muscular strength and maximum oxygen uptake in overweight and obese men. Materials and methods. Twenty-four overweight and obese (BMI = 23.0 – 29.9 kg/m2) volunteers who were male students from Ubon Ratchathani Rajabhat University, aged 19-22 years were assigned into 3 groups: 1) resistance training group (RT), 2) aerobic training group (AT) and 3) concurrent resistance and aerobic training group (RT+AT). The training was 45 minutes per session and 2 days per week. Body composition along with muscular strength (1-RM) and maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) were measured before (2-3 days prior) and after (2-3 days post) a 5-week training period. Results. Waist circumference was significantly decreased in all three groups, but the RT+AT group also found improvement in percentages of fat-free mass (0.49 ± 0.49%, p = 0.021, mean ± SD) and skeletal muscle mass (1.01 ± 0.95%, p = 0.025) when compared to their baseline. Similarly, 1-RM in leg extension was significantly increased in all three groups, while the RT group (47.67 ± 14.85%, p = 0.01) and the RT+AT group (42.08 ± 21.70%, p = 0.039) showed a substantially larger improvement in the 1-RM in leg extension when compared to the AT group (20.37 ± 13.97%). Finally, VO2max was significantly increased in all three groups (baseline to post-intervention), though they were not significantly different between groups. Conclusions. Concurrent resistance and aerobic training can reduce waist circumference and increase fat-free mass, skeletal muscle mass, 1-RM and VO2max. Therefore, this training strategy may serve as a useful alternative way to improve overall physical fitness and health promotion in overweight to obese male population.

The Effect of 12-Week Traditional Resistance Training Applied to Elite Curling Athletes on Muscular Endurance

Background. The purpose of study was to compare effects of 12-weeks tradinational resistance training (TRT) on total work (TW), relative peak work (RPW) and peak power (PP) in elite national curlers. Material and methods. Twenty-four participants were included in the study. Subjects were separated into two gorup, resistance training group (RES) and control group (CON). While RES performed 12-week TRT in addiction to curling training, CON just performed curling training. All twenty-four national elite curling athletes performed a body composition test and isokinetic strength test at 240-1/ms angular speed pre and post TRT. TW and PP values were directly obtained from isokinetic dynamometer and RPW was calculated by dividing the peak work values by the body weight of the person. The differences between RES/CON and pre-post in TW, RPW and PP variables were determined using an analysis of variance with ANOVA. Results. The data obtained from the research were shown as mean and standard deviation. Higher TW, RPW, and PP outputs were generated in the RES in comparison with the CON exercise (p &lt; 0.05); but, flexion phases of TW and PP output were not significantly different in RES and CON groups at pre and post tests (p&gt;0.05). The differences in RPW can be a result of body weight decreased with TRT. Conclusions. This research using TRT on elite curlers population provides ground work for future studies to different resistance training methods. This study is first resistance training study to improve strength on elite curlers. Therefore, future studies in this area may include to different level curlers, resistance training methods, ages.

Resistance Training Maintains White Matter and Physical Function in Older Women with Cerebral Small Vessel Disease: An Exploratory Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

As the aging population grows, there is an increasing need to develop accessible interventions against risk factors for cognitive impairment and dementia, such as cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). The progression of white matter hyperintensities (WMHs), a key hallmark of CSVD, can be slowed by resistance training (RT). We hypothesize RT preserves white matter integrity and that this preservation is associated with improved cognitive and physical function. To determine if RT preserves regional white matter integrity and if any changes are associated with cognitive and physical outcomes. Using magnetic resonance imaging data from a 12-month randomized controlled trial, we compared the effects of a twice-weekly 60-minute RT intervention versus active control on T1-weighted over T2-weighted ratio (T1w/T2w; a non-invasive proxy measure of white matter integrity) in a subset of study participants (N = 21 females, mean age = 69.7 years). We also examined the association between changes in T1w/T2w with two key outcomes of the parent study: (1) selective attention and conflict resolution, and (2) peak muscle power. Compared with an active control group, RT increased T1w/T2w in the external capsule (p = 0.024) and posterior thalamic radiations (p = 0.013) to a greater degree. Increased T1w/T2w in the external capsule was associated with an increase in peak muscle power (p = 0.043) in the RT group. By maintaining white matter integrity, RT may be a promising intervention to counteract the pathological changes that accompany CSVD, while improving functional outcomes such as muscle power.

Telocytes response to cardiac growth induced by resistance exercise training and endurance exercise training in adult male rats

Telocytes are interstitial cells found in different tissues, including cardiac stem cell niches. The purpose of this study was to investigate the response of the telocytes to the cardiac growth that occurs in response to resistance and endurance exercise trainings using rats distributed into control, endurance, and resistance training groups. Results revealed that the ratio of heart weight to body weight, cardiomycyte number, cardiomyocyte area, thickness of the left ventricular wall were significantly higher in the training groups compared to the control group. We observed increment in the cardiomyocytes surface area and thickness of the left ventricular wall in the resistance-training group than endurance-training group. We conclude that both resistance and endurance exercise trainings will lead to an increased number of cardiac telocytes, consequently, promote activity of the cardiac stem cells, and results in physiological cardiac growth, and this response does not seem to depend on the type of exercise.