Resistance Training Program Research Articles

Effects of Progressive Resistance Training After Hip Fracture: A Systematic Review

Hip fracture presents high morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Some programs have focused on the effect of progressive strength work on post-hip fracture recovery. Therefore, the objective of this systematic review was to understand the effect of a progressive resistance training program on different variables in adults after hip fracture. This review includes randomized controlled trials that apply progressive strength programs in subjects after a hip fracture. The selected databases are PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Ebsco. A total of 7 studies were selected after screening. These studies were published between 2005 and 2022. Most of the research included adults over 65 years of age, showing a mean age of 77.80 years. In the majority of cases, the programs are applied between 3 and 12 months post-fracture. The most commonly applied intervention time is 3 months. The intervention time of the programs typically lasts for 3 months and includes 3–4 lower limb exercises involving, mainly hip and knee movements. All the investigations assess functional capacity and nearly all research the strength. It is shown that the intensity of strength work progresses from 60 to 80% of 1RM. Progressive strength training programs in post-hip fracture patients generally show an improvement in functional capacity, strength, balance, walking speed, flexibility, and cardiorespiratory fitness. However, the effects on independence, quality of life, self-reported physical disability, depression, and cognitive ability do not show conclusive results, and there is little research in this regard.

The effect of resistance training and nandrolone decanoate administration on cardiac tissue in mice.

This study examined the effect of resistance training (RT) by itself and in combination with supraphysiological administration of nandrolone decanoate (ND) on the inflammatory, apoptotic, and oxidative stress response in cardiac tissue. The effect of the training and androgen intervention on adiponectin expression, a potential cardio protectant was also examined. Forty male C57Bl/6J mice, 3 months of age were randomized into four groups (n = 10 per group). Two groups of animals performed a 3-day per week RT program for 7-weeks, while the other two groups remained sedentary (SED). The RT and SED animals were further randomized into an androgen group (RTA and SEDA, respectively) or a sham group (RTS and SEDS, respectively). Animals in the RTA and SEDA groups received 38-mg·kg-1 injected once per week. Mice from RTS and SEDS received sham injections. Main effects for group indicated that RT resulted in significant elevations in NFκβ (p < 0.001), glutamine peroxidase (GPX) (p = 0.007) and adiponectin (p < 0.001). Main effects for treatment indicated that ND administration resulted in greater elevations in NFκβ (p = 0.01) and TNF-α (p = 0.017). In addition, TNF-α expression was greater in RTA compared to RETS (p = 0.006) and the adiponectin response in RTA was greater (p's < 0.05) than all other groups. A significant correlation was noted between average training volume during the RT program and GPX expression (r = 0.716, p < 0.001). Results indicate that RT and ND administration can increase markers of apoptosis and inflammation. Elevations in adiponectin expression suggest that it may act as a compensatory mechanism supporting cardiovascular health.

RETRAGAM: Resistance training based on gamification during physical education. Rationale and study protocol.

Children's physical inactivity and increasing sedentary behaviour have become major public health concerns, with a concurrent decline in muscular fitness (MF) contributing to poor physical outcomes during childhood and adolescence, highlighting the importance of developing resistance training (RT) programs. Furthermore, several educational strategies such as gamification seem to increase students' motivation which can produce an increase in performance outcomes. This study describes the rationale and protocol of a school-based randomized controlled trial called "RETRAGAM" (REsistance TRAining based on GAMification). For this investigation, a total of ≃180 children (grades 5 and 6; 10-12years of age) from 6 randomly selected schools in Valencia (Spain) will be enrolled for 8weeks in one of the experimental groups: EG (15min of RT Functional HIIT circuit program), EG+G (the same EG program but with a gamification approach) or CG (Control Group). Outcomes will include physical activity profile, MF, anthropometry and body composition, as well as the enjoyment and motivation during Physical Education (PE). An interactive app for digital devices will be used for gamified storytelling, earning points for personalized children's avatars, and implementing a flipped classroom learning model. We conclude that the RETRAGAM will provide information about the effectiveness and implementation of a school-based RT intervention during PE with and without gamification in students' MF, body composition, motivation and enjoyment.

Sex Differences in Response to a 12-Week Resistance Training Exercise Intervention After Cardiac Surgery: A Proof-of-Concept Intervention Trial.

Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, which often follows major acute cardiac events, is traditionally focused on aerobic exercise and has been associated with decreased morbidity and mortality. Its benefit among cardiac surgery patients is less clear, as is the role of resistance-based exercise programs and their sex-specific effects. This study seeks to evaluate the safety and feasibility of a 12-week resistance training program in patients post cardiac surgery through a sex-specific lens. We conducted a nonrandomized feasibility trial with a 12-week strength training exercise intervention. The primary outcome was safety and feasibility. Secondary outcomes included changes in strength, endurance, and functional capacity; and sex differences among these. Adult participants post open-heart surgery who had completed traditional cardiac rehabilitation were consented. Both patients who completed (cases) or did not complete (controls) a tailored 12-week resistance training program underwent comprehensive assessment of physiologic and physical fitness measures pre- and postintervention. Nine participants enrolled in the trial, including 6 in the intervention arm (median age 61 years; 67% male) and 3 in the control arm (median age 66 years; 67% male). No serious adverse events were noted, indicating safety of the intervention. Participants completed a mean of 34.8/36 (96.7%) of sessions, indicating the feasibility of the program. Although not powered for statistical significance, patients experienced positive trends of improvement in measures of hand grip strength, endurance, and functional capacity with the intervention. When stratified, females experienced greater gains than males in these measures. This proof-of-concept study found that resistance-based exercise after cardiac surgery is well tolerated and feasible. Although all patients experienced improvements in exercise parameters, females reported greater relative improvement than males.

Tissue oxygenation in response to low-load and high-load back squats with continuous blood flow restriction in athletes

ABSTRACT To determine muscle oxygenation with continuous blood flow restriction (BFR) training in high load (HL), 80% one-repetition maximum (1RM) and low load (LL), 30% 1RM squat exercises. In week-2 of a 4-week resistance training programme as part of their 3-set training routine, two groups of athletes (n = 4 each), one performing HL training with low cuff pressure (20% arterial occlusion pressure (AOP)), the other LL training with high cuff pressure (60% AOP) had muscle oxygenation assessed with near-infrared spectrophotometry (NIRS), arterial oxygen saturation (SPO2), heart rate (HR), barbell velocity and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) during barbell back squats (BBS). Changes in the vastus lateralis oximetry were compared to pre- and post-training squat (1RM). Across athletes, there were significant associations between two pre-set-3 exercise variables and post-training 1RM, Tissue Saturation Index (TSI) (R2 = 0.92, p < 0.0002) and HHb concentration (R2 = 0.79, p < 0.003). Generalised regression models indicated that TSI % and HHb concentrations before and after set 3 timepoints were significant predictors of post-training 1RM in the LL group (R2 = 0.99, BIC = −24.9). Well-tolerated continuous LL-BFR training provided greater increases in strength than HL-BFR in athletes.

A Linear Periodized Resistance Training Program Is Effective at Reducing Depressive Symptoms but Not Anxiety in Females: A Pilot

Background/Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine whether a periodized resistance training program would influence self-reported depression and anxiety scores in college-aged females. Methods: Eight participants participated in a six-week periodized resistance training program. The participants completed a 3–5 repetition maximum (3–5 RM) for the sumo deadlift (SDL), bench press (BP), barbell back squat (BBS), and standing shoulder press (SSP). These data were used to estimate the 1 repetition maximum (1RM), which in turn was used to develop the periodization program. Following baseline testing, participants participated in two full-body workouts per week for six weeks. Each individual was retested after they completed the 6-week program, performing 3–5 RM for the SDL, BP, BBS, and SSP. To determine symptoms of depression and anxiety, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were distributed before and after participating in the resistance training program. A repeated measures 2 × 2 Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to determine the effect of resistance training had on the outcome measures. Results: There was a significant (p = 0.011) decrease in BDI scores after the 6 weeks of resistance training. There was no statistically significant difference in the BAI scores (p = 0.106). There was no correlation between any individual exercise and the outcome scores. Conclusions: The results of the current study indicate that a periodized resistance training program is effective at reducing self-reported measures of depression using the BDI in college-aged females.

Impact of exercise with blood flow restriction on muscle hypertrophy and performance outcomes in men and women.

Blood flow restriction training (BFRT) has been previously studied as an alternative form of resistance training to gain lean mass and improve performance outcomes. However, in all exercise studies of BFRT, the proportion of female participants represents only 17-29% of all research participants. This highlights a strong underrepresentation of females and the need for more knowledge on the impact of BFRT and sex differences. The primary objective was to compare the impact of 6-week BFRT on lean mass, strength, and performance outcomes between males and females. A total of 38 adults [age, 25.3 ± 3.1 years; female, n = 19 (50%)] performed whole-body resistance training program with blood flow restriction three times per week. Exercises were performed at 30% of 1-repetition maximum (1-RM) and blood flow restriction cuffs were set to 60% of each individual's limb occlusion pressure. Body composition was assessed via dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and strength was measured using 1-RM. A significant increase in lean mass was observed in males (p = 0.009) and females (p = 0.023) with no difference in the change between groups (p = 0.279). Both males and females increased 1-RM for upper- and lower-body exercises, with significant interaction effects (time x sex) for chest press (p = 0.003), seated row (p = 0.038), knee flexion (p = 0.043), and knee extension (p = 0.035), suggesting males increased 1-RM more for these exercises. Furthermore, peak power was improved in males (p < 0.001) and females (p = 0.002) during a vertical squat jump, but a significant interaction (time x sex) effect was observed (p = 0.039), suggesting males increased to a greater extent. Males and females significantly increased lean body mass, to a similar degree, following six weeks of resistance training in combination with blood flow restriction. Likewise, both males and females improved muscle strength following 6-week BFRT, however males may improve strength to a greater extent than females.

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

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

A 4-Week Mobile App-Based Telerehabilitation Program vs Conventional In-Person Rehabilitation in Older Adults With Sarcopenia: Randomized Controlled Trial.

Sarcopenia is closely associated with a poor quality of life and mortality, and its prevention and treatment represent a critical area of research. Resistance training is an effective treatment for older adults with sarcopenia. However, they often face challenges when receiving traditional rehabilitation treatments at hospitals. We aimed to compare the effects of a digital rehabilitation program with those of traditional therapist-supervised rehabilitation training on older adults with sarcopenia. In total, 58 older adults with sarcopenia were recruited offline and randomized (1:1) into 2 groups: the telerehabilitation group (TRG, n=29, 50%) and the in-person rehabilitation group (IRG, n=29, 50%). Both groups underwent 4-week resistance training targeting 6 major muscle groups. The TRG received exercise guidance via a mobile app, while the IRG received in-person training from a therapist. Offline assessments of body composition, grip strength, and balance using the 30-Second Arm Curl Test (30SACT), 30-Second Sitting-to-Rising Test (30SSRT), quadriceps femoris extension peak torque (EPT) and extension total power (ETP), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up-and-Go Test (TUGT), 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) scale, were conducted before and after the intervention. Of the 58 patients, 51 (88%; TRG: n=24, 47%; IRG: n=27, 53%) completed the trial. After 4 weeks of intervention, the mean grip strength increased from 18.10 (SD 5.56) to 19.92 (SD 5.90) kg in the TRG (P=.02) and from 18.59 (SD 5.95) to 19.59 (SD 6.11) kg in the IRG (P=.01). The 30SACT and 30SSRT scores increased from 12.48 (SD 2.68) to 14.94 (SD 3.68) times (P=.01) and from 15.16 (SD 7.23) to 16.58 (SD 8.42) times (P=.045), respectively, in the TRG and from 12.25 (SD 4.19) to 14.68 (SD 4.36) times (P=.003) and from 14.31 (SD 4.04) to 16.25 (SD 4.91) times (P=.01), respectively, in the IRG. The quadriceps femoris EPT increased from 26.19 (SD 10.26) to 35.00 (SD 13.74) Nm (P=.004) in the TRG and from 26.95 (SD 11.81) to 32.74 (SD 12.33) Nm (P=.003) in the IRG. The BBS scores significantly improved in both groups (P<.001), with the mean TRG score increasing by 3.19 (SD 2.86) points and the mean IRG score by 3.06 (SD 2.44) points. Neither group exhibited significant within-group changes on the TUGT or the 6MWT. Both groups reported significant improvements in the IADL (TRG: P=.04; IRG: P=.02). Between-group comparisons revealed no significant differences in changes in all indicators. A 4-week remote resistance training program is effective in improving strength, balance, and the IADL in older adults with sarcopenia, with effects comparable to rehabilitation supervised by a physical therapist. Telerehabilitation may be a convenient and effective alternative for older adults with sarcopenia who have limited access to rehabilitation resources. ChiCTR 2300071648; https://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojEN.html?proj=196313.

Validity of a New Portable Sensor to Measure Velocity-Based Resistance Training.

This study evaluated the concurrent validity of the Vitruve linear encoder compared to the T-Force device for measuring mean propulsive velocity (MPV) and peak velocity (PV) during the free-weight bench press exercise. Thirteen resistance-trained men participated in three sessions, during which MPV and PV were recorded simultaneously by both devices. The data were analysed using one-way ANOVA, Pearson's correlation, Bland-Altman analysis, and effect size calculations, with statistical significance set at p ≤ 0.05. The results showed discrepancies between the Vitruve and T-Force devices across different intensity levels. Specifically, the Vitruve device generally reported higher MPV and lower PV values, particularly at moderate and low intensities. Vitruve was deemed useful for MPV measurements, especially at velocities below 0.65 m/s during free-weight bench press exercises. In conclusion, the Vitruve device overestimated MPV and underestimated PV at moderate and low loads (>0.65 m·s-1), with the discrepancies increasing as velocity rose. It can provide valuable data for monitoring and assessing resistance training programs focused on MPV at heavier loads (<0.65 m·s-1). Researchers and practitioners should take these findings into account when incorporating the Vitruve into velocity-based strength training protocols.

The Effect of Free Weight Resistance Training on Cognitive Function Explored Through Eye Tracking: A Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Trial.

In this study, we investigated the impact of a 10-week free weight resistance training (RT) program on cognitive function in healthy young adults. In this randomized controlled trial, 18 participants were assigned to either an experimental or control group. We assessed cognitive function by using eye-tracking (ET) technology during text processing tasks. First-pass reading times (FPRTs) and total reading times (TRTs) were measured. Results revealed a significant three-way interaction between group, moment, and syntactic complexity in FPRTs, demonstrating training effects on cognitive processing. The experimental group showed a distinctive shift in processing patterns: from longer times in low complexity pre-intervention to increased times in high complexity post-intervention, particularly in early processing measures (FPRTs). Complementary analyses of strength improvements showed that increased strength was associated with enhanced attention allocation to complex structures and improved processing efficiency for simpler texts, suggesting RT's potential to modulate cognitive function.

Previous short-term disuse dictates muscle gene expression and physiological adaptations to subsequent resistance exercise.

Short-term unloading experienced following injury or hospitalisation induces muscle atrophy and weakness. The effects of exercise following unloading have been scarcely investigated. We investigated the functional and molecular adaptations to a resistance training (RT) programme following short-term unloading. Eleven males (22.09±2.91years) underwent 10days of unilateral lower limb suspension (ULLS) followed by 21days of knee extensor RT (three times/week). Data collection occurred at Baseline (LS0), after ULLS (LS10) and at active recovery (AR21). Knee extensor maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) was evaluated. Quadriceps volume was estimated by ultrasonography. Muscle fibre cross-sectional area, fibre type distribution, glycogen content and succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activity were measured from vastus lateralis biopsies. Mitochondrial-related proteins were quantified by western blot and transcriptional responses were assessed by RNA sequencing. Following ULLS, quadriceps volume and MVC decreased significantly (3.7%, P<0.05; 29.3%, P<0.001). At AR21 (vs. LS10), MVC was fully restored (42%) and quadriceps volume increased markedly (18.6%, P<0.001). Glycogen content and whole-body water increased at AR21 (14%, P<0.001; 3.1%, P<0.05). We observed a marked increase in fibre type I at AR21 (38%, P<0.05). SDH immunoreactivity increased significantly after exercise (20%, P<0.001). Mitochondrial fusion (MFN1, MFN2 and OPA1) and fission (DRP1) proteins were markedly increased by RT, and the most differentially expressed genes belonged to oxidative phosphorylation pathways. In contrast with what is usually observed after RT, oxidative metabolism, slow fibre type and mitochondrial dynamics were enhanced beyond expected. We propose that prior exposure to short-term muscle unloading may drive the nature of molecular adaptations to subsequent RT. KEY POINTS: Short-term unloading is often experienced during recovery from injuries and hospitalisation, leading to loss of muscle mass and strength. Although exercise can be beneficial in mitigating/reversing such alterations during disuse, only a few studies have focused on the effects of exercise following muscle unloading. With an integrative physiological approach, we aimed to elucidate the basic mechanisms of muscle function recovery in response to 21days of resistance exercise that followed 10days of unilateral lower limb suspension (ULLS), assessing whether the mechanisms underlying recovery are defined by a specific reversal of those that occurred during disuse. Resistance training was successful in recovering functional and structural muscle properties after 10days of ULLS, but in contrast with what is usually observed in response to this training modality, oxidative metabolism and slow fibre type were mostly enhanced. We propose that prior exposure to short-term muscle unloading may drive the adaptations to subsequent exercise.

Salivary testosterone and cortisol responses to seven weeks of practical blood flow restriction training in collegiate American football players.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a 7-week supplemental BFR training intervention on both acute and chronic alterations in salivary testosterone (sTes) and cortisol (sCort) in collegiate American football players. 58 males were divided into 4 groups: 3 completed an upper- and lower-body split resistance training routine (H, H/S, H/S/R; H = Heavy, S = Supplemental, R = BFR), with H/S/R performing end-of-session practical BFR training, and H/S serving as the volume-matched non-BFR group. The final group (M/S/R) completed modified resistance training programming with the same practical BFR protocol as H/S/R. Athletes were further split into AM and PM training groups based upon their pre-determined training schedules, in cooperation with University strength and conditioning staff. Practical BFR consisted of end-of-session barbell bench press and back squat using 20% 1 repetition maximum (1RM) for 30-20-20-20 repetitions across 4 sets, with 45-seconds rest. Saliva samples were taken pre- and post- the first lower-body training sessions in week 1 and week 7 (i.e., test 1 and test 2) of the program, yielding four total. sTes and sCort were analyzed using 4-way (4 × 2 × 2 × 2) mixed model ANOVA's. Hormonal variables all exhibited main effects for time-of-day (p < 0.001). A significant group × time interaction effect (F3,50 = 3.246, p < 0.05) indicated increases in sTes post-training cycle for the H/S/R group only. Further, PM post-exercise sCort decreased from test 1 to test 2 (nmol·L-1: 95% CI: PM test 1 post-exercise = 10.7-17.1, PM test 2 post-exercise = 5.0-8.9). For the testosterone-to-cortisol ratio (T/C), AM pre-exercise was lower than PM (p < 0.05), with no change in post-exercise T/C for both AM and PM conditions when collapsed across testing times. Overall, these findings suggest an ecologically valid method of BFR implementation is capable of inducing heightened concentrations of sTes in well-resistance trained American football athletes, providing additional insight on possible physiological mechanisms underpinning BFR's ability to elicit beneficial muscle hypertrophy and maximal strength adaptations when performed during regimented training programs. Additionally, notable rises in T/C, and a null sCort response post-exercise were observed post-program for all groups, possibly indicative of positive physiological adaptation.

Effect of Body-Weight-Based Resistance Training on Balance Ability and Fear of Falling in Community-Dwelling Older Japanese Women.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 12-week body-weight-based resistance training program on balance ability and fear of falling in community-dwelling older women. Twenty-three older women were assigned to either an intervention group that performed the low-load resistance training with slow movement using the body weight (LRT group; n = 12) or a control group (CON group; n = 11). The LRT group participated in the exercise session twice weekly for 12 weeks, while the CON group maintained their daily routine. The 30 s chair stand test (CS-30) was applied to measure lower-extremity muscle strength, balance ability was evaluated using one-leg standing tests with eyes open (OLST-O) and closed (OLST-C), and fear of falling among all participants was assessed using the Falls Efficacy Scale International (FES-I) before (pre) and after (post) the intervention. A two-way analysis of variance with repeated measures [group (LRT and CON) × time (pre and post)] was carried out to evaluate the intervention effects. Significant interactions were observed in the CS-30 (F = 9.503, p < 0.01, ηp2 = 0.312), OLST-O (F = 5.211, p < 0.05, ηp2 = 0.199), and OLST-C (F = 5.257, p < 0.05, ηp2 = 0.200), though significant simple main effects from pre to post were observed only in the LRT group. The CS-30 scores (pre: 19.8 ± 3.8 times, post: 25.5 ± 5.6 times; p < 0.001), OLST-O time (pre: 78.8 ± 35.8 s, post: 96.2 ± 29.9 s; p < 0.01), and OLST-C time (pre: 10.2 ± 5.9 s, post: 17.4 ± 12.2 s; p < 0.01) were improved before and after the intervention. However, a significant interaction was not observed in FES-I (F = 1.335, p = 0.261, ηp2 = 0.06). The 12-week body-weight-based resistance training program enhanced lower-extremity muscle strength and balance ability but did not lessen the fear of falling in community-dwelling older women. The study findings offer relevant information for fall prevention in older adults.

Shatavari supplementation during eight weeks of resistance training increases training load, enhances skeletal muscle contractility and alters the skeletal muscle proteome in older women.

Shatavari is a herbal dietary supplement that may increase skeletal muscle strength in younger and older adults. Shatavari contains compounds with both estradiol-like and antioxidant properties, which could enhance muscle function. Postmenopausal women may derive the greatest benefit, as estrogen deficiency adversely impacts skeletal muscle function. However, mechanistic insights are limited and the effects of shatavari on muscle function require further characterization. In this randomized, double-blind trial, 17 young (23 ± 5 yr) and 22 older (63 ± 5 yr) women completed an 8-week leg resistance training programme. They consumed either a placebo or shatavari (1000 mg/d, equivalent to 26,500 mg/d fresh weight) supplement throughout. Pre and post training, measures of leg strength, neuromuscular function and vastus lateralis (VL) biopsies were obtained. Tandem-mass-tagged VL proteomic analyses were performed. Data were analyzed using a differential expression (Reactome) approach. Shatavari supplementation increased 8-week training load in older women (leg press repetitions completed, p = 0.049, η p 2 = 0.198; maximum weight lifted each week, p = 0.03, η p 2 = 0.386; ANCOVA). There was no effect of shatavari on muscle strength post-training. VL half relaxation time was shortened post-training in older women supplemented with shatavari (post-training change: shatavari -11.74 ± 11.93%, placebo 0.42 ± 14.73%, p = 0.021; ANCOVA). Shatavari supplementation diminished the expression of extracellular matrix proteins in both cohorts. Expression of proteins related to striated muscle contraction, transcription and translation were decreased by shatavari supplementation in older women. These novel observations support the notion that shatavari supplementation confers resistance to neuromuscular fatigue in older women. This could ameliorate sarcopenic declines in skeletal muscle function.

Effectiveness of Early Versus Late Time-Restricted Eating Combined with Physical Activity in Overweight or Obese Women.

To evaluate the effectiveness of a dual approach involving time-restricted eating (TRE) at different times of the day combined with physical activity (PA) on functional capacity and metabolic health in overweight or obese women. Random allocation of sixty-one participants into four groups: early time-restricted eating plus physical activity (ETRE-PA, n = 15, 31.8 ± 10.76 years, 89.68 ± 13.40 kg, 33.5 ± 5.53 kg/m2), late time-restricted eating with physical activity (LTRE-PA, n = 15, 30.60 ± 7.94 years, 94.45 ± 15.36 kg, 34.37 ± 7.09 kg/m2), late time-restricted eating only (LTRE, n = 15, 27.93 ± 9.79 years, 88.32 ± 10.36 kg, 32.71 ± 5.15 kg/m2) and a control group (CG, n = 15, 36.25 ± 11.52 years, 89.01 ± 11.68 kg, 33.66 ± 6.18 kg/m2). The intervention lasted for 12 weeks in all groups. Both the ETRE-PA and LTRE-PA groups engaged in a rigorous combined aerobic and resistance-training program. Significant reductions in body weight and body mass index were observed in the ETRE-PA and LTRE-PA groups compared to the CG and LTRE groups post-intervention (p < 0.0005). Only the ETRE-PA group exhibited a significant decrease in fat mass (p = 0.02), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = 0.01), and aspartate aminotransferase (p = 0.002). Significant reductions in alanine aminotransferase levels were observed in the ETRE-PA (p = 0.004) and LTRE-PA (p = 0.02) groups. These two latter groups achieved higher performances in the 6-min walking test, bench press, 30-s squat, crunch test, vertical jump (p < 0.0005 for both), and leg extension (p < 0.02 for both) when compared to the LTRE and CG groups. The integration of TRE with PA leads to greater improvements in body composition, lipid profile, and physical performance, with no significant differences between the ETRE-PA and LTRE-PA approaches. This combined strategy offers a promising solution for overweight and obese women.

Effects of Resistance Training Volume on Physical Function, Lean Body Mass and Lower-Body Muscle Hypertrophy and Strength in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis of 151 Randomised Trials.

The optimal prescription and precise recommendations of resistance training volume for older adults is unclear in the current literature. In addition, the interactions between resistance training volume and program duration as well as physical health status remain to be determined when assessing physical function, muscle size and hypertrophy and muscle strength adaptations in older adults. This study aimed to determine which resistance training volume is the most effective in improving physical function, lean body mass, lower-limb muscle hypertrophy and strength in older adults. Additionally, we examined whether effects were moderated by intervention duration (i.e. short term, < 20weeks; medium-to-long term, ≥ 20weeks) and physical health status (i.e. physically healthy, physically impaired, mixed physically healthy and physically impaired; PROSPERO identifier: CRD42023413209). CINAHL, Embase, LILACS, PubMed, Scielo, SPORTDiscus and Web of Science databases were searched up to April 2023. Eligible randomised trials examined the effects of supervised resistance training in older adults (i.e. ≥ 60years). Resistance training programs were categorised as low (LVRT), moderate (MVRT) and high volume (HVRT) on the basis of terciles of prescribed weekly resistance training volume (i.e. product of frequency, number of exercises and number of sets) for full- and lower-body training. The primary outcomes for this review were physical function measured by fast walking speed, timed up and go and 6-min walking tests; lean body mass and lower-body muscle hypertrophy; and lower-body muscle strength measured by knee extension and leg press one-repetition maximum (1-RM), isometric muscle strength and isokinetic torque. A random-effects network meta-analysis was undertaken to examine the effects of different resistance training volumes on the outcomes of interest. We included a total of 161 articles describing 151 trials (n = 6306). LVRT was the most effective for improving timed up and go [- 1.20 standardised mean difference (SMD), 95% confidence interval (95% CI): - 1.57 to - 0.82], 6-min walk test (1.03 SMD, 95% CI: 0.33-1.73), lean body mass (0.25 SMD, 95% CI: 0.10-0.40) and muscle hypertrophy (0.40 SMD, 95% CI: 0.25-0.54). Both MVRT and HVRT were the most effective for improving lower-limb strength, while only HVRT was effective in increasing fast walking speed (0.40 SMD, 95% CI: - 0.57 to 0.14). Regarding the moderators, our results were independent of program duration and mainly observed for healthy older adults, while evidence was limited for those who were physically impaired. A low resistance training volume can substantially improve healthy older adults' physical function and benefits lean mass and muscle size independently of program duration, while a higher volume seems to be necessary for achieving greater improvements in muscle strength. A low volume of resistance training should be recommended in future exercise guidelines, particularly for physically healthy older adults targeting healthy ageing.

Training volume increases or maintenance based on previous volume: the effects on muscular adaptations in trained males.

This study investigated the effects of increasing previous resistance training (RT) weekly set volume by 30% (G30) and 60% (G60) on muscle hypertrophy and strength. Fifty-five resistance-trained men were randomly allocated to the experimental groups, whereas 29 completed the study, as follows: control group (CON): n = 10, G30: n = 10, and G60: n = 9. Participants underwent a lower body RT program twice a week for 8 wk. We assessed pre- and poststudy thigh region-of-interest fat-free mass (ROI-FFM), anterior thigh muscle thickness (MT) at two sites: proximal (PMT) and distal (DMT) and their sum (ΣMT), one-repetition maximum (1RM), and strength-endurance via repetitions to failure (RTF) at 70% of 1RM. ROI-FFM and MT demonstrated a significant increase from pre- to posttraining (main time effect, P < 0.001) (ΔΣMT CON: 1.07 cm, G30: 0.76 cm, and G60: 0.70 cm; ΔROI-FFM CON: 1.57 kg, G30: 0.47 kg, and G60: 1.55 kg). All groups increased back squat 1RM (P < 0.0001). However, the main group effect (P < 0.0268) indicated that the CON group showcased a greater overall 1RM (174.7 kg), than the G30 (159.0 kg) and G60 (149.0 kg). Only the G30 group increased RTF at the posttest (CON: 0.13 reps, G30: 5.45 reps, and G60: -0.41 reps) (P < 0.0263). Our findings suggest that trained males can experience significant muscle growth and strength adaptations while maintaining their previous weekly set number above a certain weekly set volume threshold.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Increasing previous resistance training volume by 30% (G30), 60% (G60), or maintenance (CON) on muscular adaptations in trained individuals. Interestingly, CON group resulted in the greatest overall 1RM strength, whereas G30 showed the highest increase in repetitions to failure, with no differences between groups in muscle mass size. These findings suggest that more is not always better for muscle adaptations in a trained cohort, highlighting muscle growth across a wide range of weekly set numbers.

Impacts of Resistance Training on Endogenous Antioxidants in Older Individuals: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Cellular antioxidant activity and oxidative stress are assumed to be critical factors in the aging process. This study aims to investigate the effects of resistance training (RT) on endogenous antioxidants in healthy older individuals. The records were identified through searches in 5 electronic databases (PubMed, Bireme, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science) in June 2024 for eligible randomized controlled trials that observed older individuals subjected to RT programs that reported endogenous antioxidant outcomes. The Tool for the assEssment of Study qualiTy and reporting in EXercise (ranging from 0 to 15) was used to verify the methodological quality of the studies. Fourteen randomized controlled trials involving 676 healthy older individuals were included in the systematic review. Of these, 10 articles were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis indicated that RT interventions did not have significant effects on improving catalaselevels (standardized mean difference = 0.84; 95% CI, -0.61 to 2.29) or antioxidant activity (standardized mean difference = 0.28; 95% CI, -0.41 to 0.98). However, RT was associated with a significant reduction in superoxide dismutase (mean difference = -0.16; 95% CI, -0.29 to -0.04) and glutathione peroxidase increased (standardized mean difference = 0.57; 95% CI, 0.13 to 1.01). Based on available evidence, the meta-analysis suggests potential improvement in glutathione peroxidase gene expression and reduction in gene expression of superoxide dismutase after the intervention physical activity interventionin healthy older individuals.

The effect of additional proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) training on functional hop test in cerebral palsy athletes: a pilot clinical trial

Introductions. This study investigates the effects of additional proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) training on functional hop test in cerebral palsy athletes. Methods. This is a pilot randomized controlled trial study. The subjects were professional cerebral palsy athletes from National Paralympic Indonesia, 24 athletes aged 18-40 years divided into two groups (n = 12). The interventional group received 2 times per week resistance training and additional PNF training 3 times per week, and the control group underwent resistance training program only 2 times per week for 4 weeks on both legs. This study measured several variables, including age, body weight, body height, and body mass index. We measured functional hop test before and after 4 weeks of intervention by single hop test, triple hop test, crossover hop test in dominant and non-dominant legs. Results. There was a significant increase in the hop distance of the intervention group in the single hop test on the dominant side (p = 0.000) and non-dominant side (p = 0.000), triple hop test on the dominant side and non-dominant side (p = 0.000), crossover hop test on the dominant side (p = 0.000) and non-dominant side (p = 0.000). In the control group, there was also significant increase in hop distance on single hop test non-dominant (p = 0.007), triple hop test dominant (p = 0.011), triple hop test non-dominant (p = 0.026), crossover hop test dominant (p = 0.006), non-dominant crossover hop test (p = 0.003). There was no significant difference in the jump distance between the two groups on both sides of the leg, but there was a significant difference in the difference in the increase in jump distance between the two groups. Conclusion. There were better results of functional hop test in cerebral palsy athletes with the additional PNF training.