Running Field Test Research Articles

The effectiveness of the physical education curriculum following the Sports Club model on the physical development of high school students in Vietnam

Background and Study Aim. The physical development of high school students is often hindered by the limitations of traditional physical education programs, which may not fully engage students or promote balanced physical growth. In light of these concerns, the need to explore alternative educational models that can enhance students' physical development has become evident. The purpose of this article is to evaluate the potential effectiveness of a physical education curriculum following the Sports Club model in improving the physical development of high school students. Material and Methods. A total of 84 female 10th-grade students participated in the study. They were divided into two groups: an experimental group of 42 students following the Sports Club model and a control group of 42 students following the current physical education curriculum. The experiment lasted for 17 weeks. Both groups completed initial and final physical fitness tests. These tests included the 30-second sit-up test (to assess core strength), the 30-meter sprint test (to measure speed), the 4 × 10-meter shuttle run test (to evaluate agility), the standing long jump test (to measure explosive leg power), and the 5-minute running field test (to assess endurance). Results. The female students in the experimental group demonstrated greater physical development compared to the control group in all five assessment tests. The experimental group showed the most significant improvement in the 30-second sit-up test, with a growth rate of 26.71%. The lowest growth was observed in the 5-minute running field test, at 9.92%. In contrast, the control group showed its highest improvement in the 30-second sit-up test, with a growth rate of 9.44%. However, there was minimal to no improvement in the 4 × 10-meter shuttle run and the 5-minute running field test for the control group. Conclusions. The Sports Club model improved students' physical fitness more effectively compared to the current curriculum, offering greater benefits in all tested areas. It is recommended that teachers further integrate and refine the implementation of the Sports Club model in future physical education programs to enhance teaching effectiveness.

EFFECT OF MUSIC ON PHYSICAL FITNESS FOR GRADE 11 IN FEMALE VOVINAM STUDENTS AT TRAN QUANG KHAI HIGH SCHOOL, HOCHIMINH CITY, VIETNAM

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the application of music to female students when participating in Vovinam sessions at Tran Quang Khai High School, Hochiminh City, Vietnam, to improve their physical fitness. 80 healthy female students were chosen and divided into two groups: 40 female students were in the experimental group with the application of music, and the 40 female students remaining were in the 36 training sessions without music. The music tempos were around 120-140 bpm. Two famous Vietnamese songs were chosen to use in Vovinam for training. Six fitness tests, such as 30 seconds sit-up test (evaluated the core strength), 30m sprint test (speed), 4x10m Shuttle run test (agility), standing long jump test (the explosive power of the legs), handgrip strength test (strength of the hand), 5 minutes running field test (maximal aerobic speed-MAS) were used to evaluate the physical fitness for female students. The results indicated that the application of music improved the power of the legs, agility, speed, core strength, strength of the hand, and MAS. In short, the application of music for female students participating in badminton had many benefits in increasing their physical fitness. More studies should evaluate the influence of music on many kinds of sports and assess the concentration of participants when applying music.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0715/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

The Effectiveness of Physical Education Classes Through Collaborative Learning Methods for the Physical Development of 11th-Grade Students in Vietnam

Abstract Introduction. Collaborative Learning (CL) is a group learning method that involves mutual support and assistance among individual students to achieve learning goals. The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of a 14-week Physical Education (PE) class using the CL method in enhancing the physical development of 11th-grade students. Material and Methods. Eighty healthy students were randomly selected and divided into two groups: the experimental group with 40 students applying the CL method in PE classes, and the control group with 40 students studying PE using conventional methods. In this study, five fitness tests were used such as a 30-s sit-up test, a 30-m sprint test, a 4 × 10-m shuttle run test, a standing long jump test, and a 5-min running field test. Results. After 14 weeks of experimentation, independent t-test results indicated a significant difference in the mean values between the experimental and control groups at the threshold of p < 0.05. Paired t-test results for the mean values before and after the experiment in both groups also showed a difference, with the physical fitness growth rate of the experimental group being higher than that of the control group. Particularly, the control group exhibited a post-experiment value that had a negative significance. Conclusions. This demonstrates that the experimental results serve as an illustration, confirming the effectiveness of the CL method in high school PE classes. Teachers should enhance the use of CL in the future to achieve higher learning goals.

Effect 10-Weeks Extracurricular Sports Training Program in Physical Education Courses for Male Students of University of Medicine and Pharmacy

Backgrounds: Extracurricular sports in schools is an activity with a very important position and great meaning to help students improve the quality of the subject of physical education, meet training needs of students. Purposes: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impactiveness of the extracurricular sports training program (ESTP) on the physical development of male students at University of Medicine and Pharmacy after in 10 weeks of experiment. Methods: A total of 60 healthy male students were randomly selected and divided into 2 groups: an experimental group of 30 students and a control group of 30 students. In the study, used 5 criteria to evaluate the physical development, such as 30-s sit-up test, 30-m sprint test, 4 × 10-m shuttle run test, standing long jump test, and 5-min running field test. Results: After 10 weeks of applying for the ESTP, the experimental group had a higher rate of physical growth than the control group in all 5 tests. Accordingly, 30-s sit-up test increased the highest by 27.72%, 30-m sprint test increased by 17.52%, standing long jump test increased by 16.26%, 5-min running test increased by 16.69%, 4 × 10-m shuttle run test increased by 6.53%. Conclusions: The ESTP has many improvements and benefits than the current program. It creates a diverse and healthy learning and physical training environment and meets the learning needs of students at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy. We recommend actively using this program in the coming time to improve the quality of physical education.

A comparative analysis of two novel shuttle running field tests for critical velocity modelling in football players

Background and aim: The study compared differences in derived critical velocity (CV) and maximal speed from the 3-Minute All-Out Shuttle Test (3MST), 7-Minute Intermittent Critical Velocity Shuttle Test (7MST) and 3-Minute All-Out Running Test (3MRT). We also determined test-retest reliability of the 3MST versus the 7MST. Methods: Eleven semi-professional football players completed 10 visits; 3 familiarisation and 7 testing sessions (3 trials for each of the 3MST and 7MST and 1 trial of the 3MRT). CV was calculated, and maximal speed was recorded via GPS. Results: CV via the 3MRT (14.17 ± 1.49 km.h-1) was faster than the 3MST (10.12 ± 0.97 km.h-1, p < 0.001) and 7MST (9.03 ± 0.97 km.h-1, p < 0.001), although minimal differences were observed between the 3MST and 7MST (p = 0.13). Maximal speed differed across all test modes; 3MRT (29.07 ± 2.19 km.h-1, p < 0.001), 3MST (26.18 ± 1.71 km.h-1, p < 0.001) and 7MST (23.14 ± 1.10 km.h-1, p < 0.001). Intra-class correlation coefficient was larger for the 3MST (0.37) than the 7MST (0.05). Coefficient of variation was smaller for the 3MST (7.57%) compared to the 7MST (11.56%). Conclusions: Shuttle tests derive significantly slower CV and maximal speeds compared to linear tests and thus likely provide greater task specificity for CV modelling of team-sport athletes.

Effects of different feedback variants on pacing adherence in a field based running test

ABSTRACT Running field tests are utilised to assess the athlete’s fitness level with high specificity. However, in graded exercise tests the lack of speed control can result in an uneven pace, reducing reproducibility and accuracy. The purpose of this study was to develop feedback variants (FV) and investigate their effect on the athlete’s ability to keep the pace constant. Forty-eight participants completed four trials of a Conconi test (randomised) over four paces (7.5 − 10 km·h−1). A smartphone app provided athletes with four FVs: Classic, Sound (verbal), Vibration, and Sound & Vibration. We found a significant effect of FV on adherence (defined as time within 0.3 km·h−1 of target speed): F(3,141) = 41.45, p < .001, η2 = .268. Adherence in Classic (M± SD) 39.51 ± 13.51% was significantly lower (p < .001) than in Vibration (53.24 ± 14.98%), Sound (60.34 ± 11.21%) and Sound & Vibration (59.17 ± 15.17%). The novel FV provided better adherence compared to the conventional method, with Sound and Sound & Vibration showing the highest adherence. Generally, the novel FVs have the advantage of being easily implemented and decreasing the required time for setup, data collection and processing, therefore proving useful in conducting field performance tests.

Design of MEMS microphone protective membranes for continuous outdoor applications

Although most modern communication devices use of multiple MEMS-based microphones, their application in continuous-outdoor applications has so far been very limited. Specifically, for constant operation in humid, rainy environments, additional weather protection of the MEMS element is required. Thus, a protective 3D-printed membrane has been developed for a multichannel outdoor application to monitor noise emissions. The acoustic characteristics of the protection are assessed analytically, using simulations and experimentally in this paper. The vibrational modes are identified in the simulation, which can be used to implement practically usable membranes. The measurements performed are compared to simulation results. Deviations are explained based on different material parameters of the membrane, model assumptions and manufacturing processes. 3D-printed membranes have a different material structure which is more flexible than solid elements and need adapted simulations inputs. Running field tests show that the membranes developed can adequately protect MEMS-based microphones for several months with only a minor impact on the system’s acoustic performance. This paper proves that an adequate analytical, simulation and practical implementation is a cost effective and adaptable approach for outdoor noise monitoring systems.

Positional differences in some physiological parameters obtained by the incremental field endurance test among elite handball players

The purpose of the study was to assess assumed differences in some physiological parameters, obtained by an incremental intermittent running field test 30–15IFT, among elite handball players to get an insight into the specifics of aerobic capacity profiles of players in different playing positions. Twenty-four elite male handball players were tested using the Cosmed K4 portable telemetry system. The following parameters were analysed: running velocity, heart rate, oxygen uptake, relative oxygen uptake, pulmonary ventilation breath-by-breath, at the three points—lactate threshold (LT), onset of blood lactate accumulation (OBLA), and at the peak velocity achieved on the test (v30–15IFT). Additionally, blood lactate concentration was analysed at v30–15IFT. The players were divided in three groups based on their playing positions: eight backcourt players, eight wing players and eight pivot players. In terms of both the statistically significant and non-significant differences, the wings achieved slightly different results in comparison to the backcourt players and pivots. The wings reached a statistically significant higher velocity at the LT than the players of the other two groups and a significantly higher velocity than the pivots at the OBLA. At all the three points, wings presented the highest HR values, meaning they can operate at higher intensities still within the aerobic work zone. This would probably allow wing players to longer persist in handball game.

A Comparison of Incremental Running Field and Treadmill Tests in Young Soccer Players.

The purpose of this study was to compare the incremental running tests performed by young soccer players on a treadmill (Tr) and in the field (FTcod: 100 m change of direction and FTcir: 100 m circle). Nineteen players (average age 17.4 ± 1.1 years; body height 172.0 ± 5.7 cm; body mass 68.9 ± 6.7 kg) volunteered to perform incremental Tr , FTcod and FTcir running tests. In all three tests, players ran for 3 min at 8, 10, 12 and 14 km∙h-1 and were given a 1 min rest interval between subsequent stages. Blood lactate concentrations (La-) were measured at 1 min rest intervals and the heart rate (HR) responses of players were recorded during the tests. After a 5 min recovery period, the second part of the test started; players ran at 15 km∙h-1 with velocity increments of 1 km∙h-1 every 1 min until exhaustion. This part was performed to determine maximum HR, maximum La- and the players’ final velocities. The results showed that players had significantly lower La- (F = 6.93, p = 0.07, η2 = 0.46, 95%CI(TR-FTcir) = -1.91/-0.34, 95%CI(TR-FTcod) = -1.59/-0.05) and HR (F = 9.08, p = 0.02, η2 = 0.53, 95%CI(TR-FTcir) = -6.98/-1.68, 95%CI(TR-FTcod) = -7.19/1.08) responses in the Tr test than in the FTcir and FTcod tests at 14 km∙h-1. It was also found that players completed the Tr test (F = 58.22, p = 0.00, η2 = 0.87) at higher final running velocities than the FTcir (95%CI(TR-FTcir) = 1.67/2.78) and FTcod (95%CI(TR-FTcod) = 1.69/2.85) tests. In conclusion, when coaches or sports scientists plan to train at higher running velocities or according to the final velocity in the test, it is advisable to carry out testing in the circumstances under which training will be carried out (in the field or on a treadmill).

Implementation of Flexible Displays for Smart Textiles Using Processes of Printed Electronics

Abstract Utilisation of light emitting diodes (LEDs) and printed electroluminescent elements for manufacturing of flexible displays to be integrated in textile items was analysed. The comparative investigation focused on the necessary manufacturing processes, on the architecture of driver electronics, on achievable display brightness, on lifetime expectations and reliability aspects of the systems. Printed electroluminescent display demonstrators were manufactured and integrated in jackets for the currently running field test. Description of the produced systems as well as the results of the comparative analysis are presented.

Prediction of 3000-m Running Performance Using Classic Physiological Respiratory Responses

Introduction: Knowing which physiological variables predict running performance could help coaches to optimize training prescription to improve running performance. Objective: The present study investigated which physiological respiratory responses could predict 3000-m running performance. Methods: Seventeen amateur runners (29.82±7.1years; 173.12±9.0cm; 64.59±9.3kg) performed a maximal graded running test on a treadmill. The ventilatory threshold (VT), respiratory compensation point (RCP), and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) were assessed, as well as the respective velocities (vVT, vRCP, vVO2max). After 72 to 96 hours the runners performed the 3000-m running field test. The relationships between variables were performed using Pearson product momentum correlations. Thereafter, simple and multiple regression models were applied. The significance level adopted was 5% (p&lt;0.05). Results: The majority of physiological responses were positive and well related to each other (r≥0.70; p&lt;0.05). Despite vVT, vRCP, and vVO2max demonstrating a higher and inverse relationship with 3000-m time (r=-0.92; r =-0.96; r =-0.89; p&lt;0.05), the multiple regression model indicated that vRCP and vVO2max are the best variables to predict 3000-m performance in experienced amateur road runners (R2=0.94). The equation proposed by the model was: 3000-m(s)=1399.21–[31.65*vRCP(km.h-1)]–[12.06*vVO2max (km.h-1)]. Conclusion: The vRCP and vVO2max may be used to predict 3000-m performance using only a maximal running test on a treadmill. In practical terms, coaches and physical conditioners can use performance in the 3000-m to select different exercise running intensities to prescribe exercise training intensities.

Acute caffeine supplementation retards aerobic and lactic anaerobic performance decline following a simulated futsal protocol

AbstractThe aim of this study was to examine the effect of caffeine supplementation on aerobic, lactic anaerobic and alactic anaerobic performances in male futsal plyers following a simulated futsal match.Methods: Twenty trained futsal players (age= 34.05±3.7 yr., weight=74.38±8.65 kg, height= 1.75± 4.3 cm, body fat%=20.82±5.6 and BMI=24.15±2.62 kg/m2) participated in this single group, placebo controlled and single blinded study. The participants conducted tow simulated futsal games with 1 week break between them after ingesting either caffeine (3mg/kg body mass) or placebo. The subjects consumed the same food 24 hr. before each protocol protocol. At the baseline and immediately after tow protocols, alactic anaerobic, lactic anaerobic, and aerobic performances were assessed using Sargent jump test, Running based anaerobic sprint (RAST) test and 5 minutes running field test as a measurement of maximal aerobic velocity, respectively. The data were analyzed using repeated measures of analysis of variance.Results: After futsal simulation under caffeine or placebo condition, There were no significant (p≥0.05) differences on alactic anaerobic performance compared to baseline, and alactic anaerobic power output was not significantly(p≥0.05) different between tow conditions after simulated protocol. After futsal simulation, aerobic and lactic anaerobic performances for caffeine and placebo conditions were significantly (p≤0.05) lower that the baseline. Post protocol aerobic and lactic anaerobic performance measures were found significantly (p≤0.05) higher in the caffeine condition than that of in the placebo.Conclusions: Based on these results it can be said that 3 mg/kg body mass acute caffeine supplementation retards aerobic and lactic anaerobic performances decline after simulated futsal protocol. But it is not clear whether these ergogenic effects influence performance during futsal game. Therefore the results need to be confirmed during simulated and true futsal games.

Influence of high-intensity interval training on ventilatory efficiency in trained athletes

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 3 weeks high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on ventilatory efficiency (VE/VCO2 slope) in endurance athletes. Sixteen male well-trained (67.72 ml kg min−1) athletes participated in this study. Each participant performed an incremental exercise test with gas analysis (i.e. VE, VO2) and a 400 m running field test (T400m) before and after the 3 weeks intervention period. HIIT group (HIITG) performed 11 HIIT sessions consisting of four 4-min interval bouts at an exercise intensity of 90–95% of the VO2max, separated by 4-min active recovery periods (work/rest ratio = 1:1). No significant differences were found in the parameters studied. Ventilatory efficiency (up to VT2 and up to exhaustion) did not show any change in HIITG after training intervention (ES = 0.24 HIITG; ES = 0.21 CG). No significant changes were observed on ventilation (VEmax; ES = 0.38). VO2max and T400 m did not show a significant improvement after the training period (no interaction time × group, p < .05) (ES = 0.43 and ES = 0.75 respectively). These results do not support the hypothesis that 3 weeks of HIIT could modify the ventilatory efficiency response in well-trained athletes. Furthermore, they show the lack of relationship between ventilatory efficiency and sport performance.

Strong association between cardiorespiratory fitness and serum lipoprotein subclass pattern in prepubertal healthy children.

This study reveals the lipoprotein subclass pattern associated with cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in healthy children. Serum concentrations of lipoprotein subclasses and concentrations and average particle size of their main classes were quantified in 94 ethnic Norwegian children using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Twenty-four lipoprotein features were used as input to multivariate regression analysis with CRF measured either by peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) using a continuous treadmill protocol or indirectly by the 10-minute Andersen intermittent running field test. By including BMI and gender as descriptors, a predictive cross-validated multivariate regression model was obtained for both CRF measures. CRF correlated positively with average particle size for high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and its subclasses of large HDL particles and negatively with very small HDL particles, chylomicrons, triglycerides, and average size and concentration of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) particles and VLDL subclasses of large particles (P<.05). BMI correlated negatively with both measures of CRF, but exhibited a stronger association with VO2peak than with the Andersen test. Our data showed a strong association between CRF measured either by VO2peak or by the Andersen test and a subclass lipoprotein pattern that is associated with cardiovascular (CV) health. Thus, our results show why high levels of CRF are beneficial for children's CV health. The Andersen test, being a practical field test that involves minimal equipment and, being less influenced by BMI than VO2peak, represents a good measure of CRF, and, accordingly, a proxy measure of cardiovascular health status in children.

Estimation of the Maximal Lactate Steady State in Endurance Runners.

This study aimed to predict the velocity corresponding to the maximal lactate steady state (MLSSV) from non-invasive variables obtained during a maximal multistage running field test (modified University of Montreal Track Test, UMTT), and to determine whether a single constant velocity test (CVT), performed several days after the UMTT, could estimate the MLSSV. Within 4-5 weeks, 20 male runners performed: 1) a modified UMTT, and 2) several 30 min CVTs to determine MLSSV to a precision of 0.25 km·h(-1). Maximal aerobic velocity (MAV) was the best predictor of MLSSV. A regression equation was obtained: MLSSV=1.425+(0.756·MAV); R(2)=0.63. Running velocity during the CVT (VCVT) and blood lactate at 6 (La6) and 30 (La30) min further improved the MLSSV prediction: MLSSV=VCVT+0.503 - (0.266·ΔLa30-6); R(2)=0.66. MLSSV can be estimated from MAV during a single maximal multistage running field test among a homogeneous group of trained runners. This estimation can be further improved by performing an additional CVT. In terms of accuracy, simplicity and cost-effectiveness, the reported regression equations can be used for the assessment and training prescription of endurance runners.

Validity of a single lactate measure to predict fixed lactate thresholds in athletes

ABSTRACTThis study aimed to validate the use of a single blood lactate concentration measure taken following a 12 km h−1 running stage (BLC12) to predict and monitor fixed blood lactate concentration (FBLC) thresholds. Three complementary studies were undertaken. Study I: the relationships between BLC12 and the running speeds at FBLC of 3 mmol L−1 (S3mM) and 4 mmol L−1 (S4mM) measured during a multistage running field test were examined in 136 elite athletes. Study II: data from 30 athletes tested one year apart were used to test the predictive capacity of the equations obtained in Study I. Study III: 80 athletes were tested before and after an intensified training period to examine whether training-induced changes in FBLC thresholds could be predicted and monitored by BLC12. Study I: BLC12 was significantly (P < 0.001) and inversely related to S3mM (R2 = 0.89) and S4mM (R2 = 0.95). Study II: prediction models yielded robust correlations between the estimated and measured FBLC thresholds (r = 0.94–0.99; P < 0.001). Study III: estimated changes predicted actual training-induced changes in FBLC thresholds (r = 0.81–0.91; P < 0.001). This study gives empirical support to use a single lactate measure during a sub-maximal running field test as a simple, low-cost and practical alternative to FBLC thresholds in athletes.

Respiratory muscle endurance, oxygen saturation index in vastus lateralis and performance during heavy exercise

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between respiratory muscle endurance, tissue oxygen saturation index dynamics of leg muscle (TSI) and the time to exhaustion (TTE) during high intensity exercise. Eleven males performed a respiratory muscle endurance test, a maximal incremental running field test (8kmh−1+0.5kmh−1 each 60s) and a high-intensity constant speed field test at 90% VO2max. The TSI in vastus lateralis was monitored with near-infrared spectroscopy. The TSI remained steady between 20 and 80% of TTE. Between 80 and 100% of TTE (7.5±6.1%, p<0.05), a significant drop in TSI concomitant with a minute ventilation increase (16±10lmin−1) was observed. Moreover, the increase of ventilation was correlated to the drop in TSI (r=0.70, p<0.05). Additionally, respiratory muscle endurance was significantly correlated to TSI time plateau (20–80% TTE) (r=0.83, p<0.05) and to TTE (r=0.95, p<0.001). The results of the present study show that the tissue oxygen saturation plateau might be affected by ventilatory work and that respiratory muscle endurance could be considered as a determinant of performance during heavy exercise.

Effects of Small-Sided Games vs. Interval Training in Aerobic Fitness and Physical Enjoyment in Young Elite Soccer Players.

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of Small-Sided Games (SSG) vs. Interval Training (IT) in soccer training on aerobic fitness and physical enjoyment in youth elite soccer players during the last 8 weeks of the season. Seventeen U-16 male soccer players (age = 15.5 ± 0.6 years, and 8.5 years of experience) of a Spanish First Division club academy were randomized to 2 different groups for 6 weeks: SSG group (n = 9) and IT group (n = 8). In addition to the usual technical and tactical sessions and competitive games, the SSG group performed 11 sessions with different SSGs, whereas the IT group performed the same number of sessions of IT. Players were tested before and after the 6-week training intervention with a continuous maximal multistage running field test and the counter movement jump test (CMJ). At the end of the study, players answered the physical activity enjoyment scale (PACES). During the study, heart rate (HR) and session perceived effort (sRPE) were assessed. SSGs were as effective as IT in maintaining the aerobic fitness in elite young soccer players during the last weeks of the season. Players in the SSG group declared a greater physical enjoyment than IT (P = 0.006; ES = 1.86 ± 1.07). Coaches could use SSG training during the last weeks of the season as an option without fear of losing aerobic fitness while promoting high physical enjoyment.

Změny sportovní výkonnosti ve vyšší nadmořské výšce u běžců na lyžích

The article summarizes the results of the influence of 10 day stay and training in high altitude (1850 m ASL) on sport performance changes of cross country skiers at the level of aerobic, anaerobic and critical intensity load measured by heart rate (HR) and lactate concentrations in capillary blood. For verification was used a non-standardized running field tests (3 x 2km, with 10 minute rest). 7 subjects (deliberate sample, cross country skiers) performed the test five times altogether: initially in lowlands (480 m ASL), three times in high altitude (3rd, 6th and 9th day of stay) and the last 10 days after return to lowlands. HR and lactate levels at aerobic and anaerobic thresholds were higher in high altitude compared to lowlands during all tests, however, they did not change at critical intensity in either the places. Average values of HR and lactate levels achieved during the lowland test 10 days after returning from high altitude were significantly lower at all three intensities in comparison with initial data. The sport performance at aerobic and anaerobic thresholds during 10 day stay and training of cross country skiers in high altitude decreases, however significantly improves (in comparison with initial data) after the return to lowlands.

Effect of endurance training on dental erosion, caries, and saliva.

The aim of this investigation was to give insights into the impact of endurance training on oral health, with regard to tooth erosion, caries, and salivary parameters. The study included 35 triathletes and 35 non-exercising controls. The clinical investigation comprised oral examination, assessment of oral status with special regard to caries and erosion, saliva testing during inactivity, and a self-administered questionnaire about eating, drinking, and oral hygiene behavior. In addition, athletes were asked about their training habits and intake of beverages and sports nutrition. For saliva assessment during exercise, a subsample of n = 15 athletes volunteered in an incremental running field test (IRFT). Athletes showed an increased risk for dental erosion (P = 0.001). No differences were observed with regard to caries prevalence and salivary parameters measured during inactivity between athletes and controls. Among athletes, a significant correlation was found between caries prevalence and the cumulative weekly training time (r = 0.347, P = 0.04). In athletes after IRFT and at maximum workload, saliva flow rates decreased (P = 0.001 stimulated; P = 0.01 unstimulated) and saliva pH increased significantly (P = 0.003). Higher risk for dental erosions, exercise-dependent caries risk, and load-dependent changes in saliva parameters point out the need for risk-adapted preventive dental concepts in the field of sports dentistry.