Exercise Sessions Research Articles

The impact of single sessions of aerobic exercise at varying intensities on depressive symptoms in college students: evidence from resting-state EEG in the parietal region

BackgroundThe incidence of depression among college students is increasingly high, significantly impacting their daily lives. This study aims to utilize electroencephalography (EEG) to assess the effects of varying intensities of single-session aerobic exercise on depression symptoms in college students.ObjectiveThis study aimed to explore the effects of single sessions of aerobic exercise at varying intensities on depressive symptoms in college students through changes in BDI-II (Beck Depression Inventory-II) scores and resting-state EEG lateralization.MethodsDepressed college students were randomly assigned to low, moderate, high-intensity exercise, and control groups. The study investigated the relationship between BDI-II scores and resting-state EEG parietal region lateralization and the impact of single sessions of aerobic exercise at different intensities on depressive symptoms.ResultsBDI-II scores were negatively correlated with parietal region α2 (P < 0.01) and β1 (P < 0.05) lateralization in depressed students. Low-intensity exercise significantly reduced BDI-II scores (P < 0.05). Moderate-intensity exercise resulted in significant changes in BDI-II scores (P < 0.001), α2 lateralization (P = 0.002), and β1 lateralization (P = 0.006). Post-test comparisons showed significant differences in BDI-II (P = 0.048), α2 (P = 0.002), and β1 (P = 0.041) compared to the control group, and differences in α2 (P = 0.021) and β1 (P = 0.041) compared to the low-intensity group. High-intensity exercise also significantly altered BDI-II scores (P < 0.001) and α2 (P = 0.035). Post-test comparisons showed differences in BDI-II compared to low-intensity (P < 0.001), moderate-intensity (P = 0.01), and control groups (P < 0.001), and differences in α2 compared to the control group (P = 0.011). BDI-II changes were negatively correlated with changes in α2 (P < 0.01) and β1 (P < 0.05).ConclusionFrom the perspective of the BDI-II, various intensities of a single bout of aerobic exercise can alleviate depressive symptoms in college students. Additionally, regarding the lateralization of resting EEG in the parietal region, moderate-intensity aerobic exercise demonstrates a more comprehensive improvement. The alleviation of depressive symptoms in college students is, to some extent, associated with the synergy within the parietal region.Trial registrationThe study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2400087920, 07/08/2024).

Acute psychological and physiological benefits of exercising with virtual reality.

Exercise is a powerful tool for disease prevention and rehabilitation. Commercially available virtual reality (VR) devices and apps offer an immersive platform to gamify exercise and potentially enhance physiological and psychological benefits. However, no work has compared immersive exercise to closely matched 2D screen-based equivalents with the same visual and auditory stimuli. This study aims to compare the acute effects of an exercise session using a commercial immersive VR workout to the same stimuli and workout presented on a screen. 17 healthy participants (male = 7, female = 10; aged 24.18±4.56 years), completed a 12-minute guided VR boxing exercise session in FitXR™ and a screen-based equivalent. Physiological responses were recorded continuously using a heart rate monitor and telemetricmetabolic cart system. Psychological and perceptual responses were measured using their ratings of perceived exertion, the physical activity enjoyment scale, and the physical activity affect scale. In the immersive VR participants chose to engage in more intense exercise (%VO2max; p = 0.044), showed higher levels of all enjoyment subscales (p<0.05) and reported higher positive affect (p = 0.003) and lower negative affect (p = 0.045) following exercise compared to the screen-based equivalent. However, the design here could not determine which elements of immersive VR contributed to the positive effects. Immersive VR may offer a more efficient alternative to other forms of screen based and exergaming workouts and could be offered as a gateway into exercise.

Metastatic breast cancer patients' preferences for exercise programs: a latent class analysis using data from a survey in five European countries.

We aimed to identify metastatic breast cancer (MBC) patients' preferences for exercise programs and identify patients' characteristics associated with these preferences, to facilitate implementation of exercise programs for MBC patients. We used data from a multinational cross-sectional survey conducted among MBC patients. Patients reported their preferred exercise frequency, intensity, type, session duration, and supervision mode. We used latent class analysis to identify subgroups with similar preferences and descriptive statistics to compare demographic and clinical characteristics of patients within subgroups. Four distinct classes were identified based on data from 409 participants. Class 1 (47% of participants) is characterized by a preference for moderate exercise with supervision within the health care setting. Most participants in this class had bone metastases. Class 2 (30%) is characterized by a preference for vigorous exercise with supervision. This class included participants who were, on average, younger, and had a higher education level. Class 3 (13%) is characterized by a preference for active walking. These participants were less likely to have bone metastases or comorbidities. Class 4 (10%) is characterized by a preference for recreational walking and included participants who were, on average, older, and less likely to be employed. We identified four classes of patients with different preferences for exercise programs. Many patients with MBC express exercise preferences that meet the current guideline recommendations. Some patients with MBC may benefit from targeted education to align their preferences and behavior with the amount of exercise that is necessary to gain health benefits.

Wait a Minute? Uniting Physical Exercise and Data Science in Higher Learning

Purpose: This study explores the design and implementation of a novel Data Science course that integrates physical activity and physiological data collection. The course, scheduled twice weekly, combines a 30-minute physical exercise session with data collection activities focusing on metrics such as temperature, three separate heart rates, blood pressure, Functional Movement Screening (FMS), nutritional assessment using MyPlate.gov categories, urinalysis, and other metrics. The primary objective was to provide students with practical experience in data science by engaging them in real-time physiological data collection and analysis. Methods: This study involved a structured course format where students engaged in physical activities and recorded physiological data using standardized measurement tools and techniques. The course structure included instructional sessions on data science principles, data collection procedures, and statistical analysis. Students then applied their knowledge by undertaking a project that involved analyzing the collected data to address specific research questions or hypotheses related to physical health and performance. Each student presented their findings through a PowerPoint presentation, fostering peer review and collaborative learning. Results: Findings indicated that students successfully developed data science skills while gaining insights into the relationship between physical activity and physiological metrics. The projects revealed varied patterns and correlations, demonstrating the practical applicability of data science in health and fitness contexts. Discussion/Conclusions: The study highlights the effectiveness of integrating physical activity with data science education, enhancing both engagement and learning outcomes. The course equips students with technical skills while emphasizing the importance of holistic health data analysis.

The Effect Of Pylates-Based Exercıse Programs On Gırls' Quıckness And Strength

ABSTRACT To investigate the effects of Pilates-based exercise programs on girls' quickness and strength. Conducted at a private Pilates studio in Kırıkkale, the research involved 50 female students aged 9-10 years, with 25 in the experimental group and 25 in the control group. A 10-week training program included exercise sessions twice a week, focusing on basic Pilates movements, balance, and strength development. Quickness and strength levels were assessed at the beginning and end of the study using specific tests. Quickness was measured through short-distance running and reaction tests, while strength was assessed by the number of repetitions in various exercises and resistance tests. The findings indicated that Pilates-based exercise programs positively impacted the quickness and strength of the girls. Specifically, Pilates movements were particularly effective in enhancing muscle strength and developing quickness. These results suggest that Pilates exercises can effectively contribute to the physical development of children. It is recommended that educators and coaches implement Pilates-based programs for children, considering the benefits of such exercises.

Fear of hypoglycemia relates to glycemic levels during and after real-world physical activity in adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

We explore the association between hypoglycaemia fear (FH) and glycaemia during and after exercise sessions in a large sample of physically active youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D). We used data from the Type 1 Diabetes Exercise Initiative Paediatric (T1DEXIP) Study. Youth self-reported on FH using the Hypoglycaemia Fear Survey-Child (HFS-C). They used a smart phone application to self-report food intake and insulin dosing (multiple daily injection only). We collected pump and continuous glucose monitoring data directly from the device. Our sample included n = 251 youth (mean age: 14 ± 2 years, 55% closed loop pump; 42% women). Youth reporting higher HFS-C Total and Helplessness/Worry scores (HFS-C subscale) had slightly fewer competitive and fewer high intensity exercise events compared to youth with lower HFS-C Total and Helplessness/Worry scores. Youth reporting the highest Maintain High Blood Glucose scores (HFS-C subscale) had the lowest percent glucose time in range, higher mean glucose levels, and higher percent time above range during exercise. Youth reporting the highest Maintain High Blood Glucose scores also tended to have higher mean glucose levels post-exercise and a smaller drop in glucose during exercise. FH relates to glycaemia during and after exercise in adolescents with T1D and may signal an inclination for some youth to engage in avoidance behaviours to reduce their vulnerability to exercise-induced hypoglycaemia.

Effectiveness of dry needling combined with eccentric strength training in lateral epicondylalgia with trigger points

IntroductionLateral epicondylalgia (LE) is commonly presented with myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) among adults. Dry needling (DN) is used less frequently as a first-line treatment in LE with trigger points, and the short and long-term effectiveness of DN in these populations were not studied. Hence, this study compared the effectiveness of DN with conventional physiotherapy in the population of LE with myofascial trigger points.MethodsFor four weeks, the experimental group (&lt;i&gt;n&lt;/i&gt; = 19) received DN with weekly one session, and the control group (&lt;i&gt;n&lt;/i&gt; = 19) received therapeutic ultrasound combined with deep friction massage for 2 sessions per week at the active sites of active MTrPs. Both groups performed two eccentric exercises sessions from the 5th to the 6th week. Handgrip, pain and disability scores of patient rated tennis elbow evaluation (PRTEE) at baseline, 4th week, 6th week, and follow-up of 12th week were analysed.ResultsHandgrip strength, pain, and disability scores were significantly improved for the experimental group at 4th week (SMD of 1.21 kg in handgrip, 12.26 in PRTEE scores) and 6th week (SMD of 1.58 kg in handgrip, 10.15 in PRTEE scores) compared to the control group. However, no significant group differences (p &gt; 0.05) after 12th week either grip strength (SMD = 0.84) or PRTEE scores (SMD = 3.74) were obtained.ConclusionsDry needling with exercise produced greater short-term improvements in grip strength and disability compared to the control group. However, no significant difference in outcomes was found between groups over a 12-week follow-up period.

Saving Legs & Lives: the efficacy of a community-based cardiovascular rehabilitation programme versus usual care on exercise capacity and quality of life in patients who have undergone lower limb revascularisation for peripheral arterial disease—protocol for a single-centre randomised-controlled trial

IntroductionPeripheral artery disease (PAD) is an atherosclerotic condition characterised by stenosis or occlusion of the arteries in the lower limbs. Patients with PAD commonly report intermittent claudication (leg pain/discomfort) during...

The Effectiveness of a Specific Exercise Program in Alleviating Work-Related Neck and Upper Back Pain and Improving Mood State in Various Occupational Populations—A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background and Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic brought significant challenges across governmental, industrial, and social systems. Additionally, numerous studies have reported a sharp increase in both mental health issues and musculoskeletal disorders worldwide. This study aimed to investigate whether a specific exercise program could alleviate neck and upper back pain symptoms and improve mood state among healthcare and office employees during the post-COVID-19 period. Materials and Methods: This was an unblinded (open label) randomized controlled trial (both the participants and the researchers knew which treatment or intervention was being administered). In total, 40 healthcare employees from a public hospital and 98 remote office employees, all of whom reported neck and upper back pain, were randomly assigned to an experimental (EG) and control group (CG). The experimental groups underwent the same exercise protocol, while their corresponding control groups underwent the assessments only. Pain assessment using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and mood state using the Feeling Scale (FS) questionnaires of the participants were recorded at baseline (pre-intervention) and immediately following the exercise intervention period of 6 weeks (post-intervention). The intervention consisted of 18 exercise sessions conducted over a 6-week period, with remote office workers participating online and healthcare workers attending exercise sessions on site (at the hospital). Statistical analysis was performed using non-parametric Mann–Whitney and Wilcoxon tests, as appropriate. Results: Following the six-week intervention, the percentage of workers in the EG reporting pain decreased significantly (from 75% to 45% for healthcare workers and from 54% to 25% for office employees), whereas no change was observed for their corresponding control groups. Similarly, the mood state of the EGs significantly improved compared with the control groups, as measured between pre- and post-intervention sessions. Conclusions: The COVID-19 period exacerbated stress and musculoskeletal strain, particularly for workers in demanding occupational roles. To mitigate these effects, exercise programs that can be applied while at work should be implemented, as they are effective in enhancing mood and managing neck pain in employees with physical exertion.

Effects of general magnetic field therapy in comprehensive medical rehabilitation on the quality of life of patients with breast cancer

BACKGROUND: The Short Form-36 (SF-36) is one of the most widely used tools to assess quality of life in breast cancer patients. According to MEDLINE, the SF-36 is used in 95.0% of research studies to assess the quality of life in various diseases. Advantages of SF-36 include wide availability, ease of use, and high validity. AIM: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of general magnetic field therapy in comprehensive medical rehabilitation on the quality of life parameters using a SF-36 questionnaire in breast cancer patients at 2–4 days and 1.0–1.5 months after surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A randomized, placebo-controlled study was conducted in patients (n=107) after surgery for breast cancer. All patients were divided into three groups balanced by age and clinical and functional parameters, and received a course of medical rehabilitation which included individual postoperative sessions of exercise therapy (posture treatment; movement therapy with breathing, general stimulating, special, and relaxation exercises; sensorimotor training using a biofeedback simulator; individual sessions with a medical psychologist; one session of instrumental physiotherapy). Comprehensive medical rehabilitation included fluctuating current therapy in group 1 (n=35), local magnetic field therapy in group 2 (n=35), and general magnetic field therapy in group 3 (n=37). RESULTS: Analysis of quality of life parameters in the early postoperative period demonstrated effectiveness of the comprehensive physical rehabilitation program using exercise therapy, balance boards, and sessions with a psychologist in combination with one of the physical treatment options. Positive results increase patients’ confidence in the success of their rehabilitation. After providing the general magnetic field therapy in comprehensive medical rehabilitation, most of the SF-36 quality of life parameters improved, which indicates the beneficial effects of the general magnetic field on situational and personal anxiety, asthenic and vegetative manifestations, and sleep, as well as prolongation of these effects. Patients who received fluctuating current therapy as part of medical rehabilitation improved their pain index and physical function, probably due to analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of this treatment option. CONCLUSION: Comprehensive physical rehabilitation combined with physical therapy increases the patient’s independence in daily living, self-care, and mobility.

Does Unilateral High-Load Resistance Training Influence Strength Change in the Contralateral Arm Also Undergoing High-Load Training?

Training one limb with a high-load has been shown to augment strength changes in the opposite limb training with a low-load (via cross-education of strength), indicating that within-subject models can be problematic when investigating strength changes. This study examined if the cross-education of strength from unilateral high-load training could augment the strength changes in the opposite arm undergoing the same unilateral high-load training. 160 participants were randomized to one of four groups: (1) training on the dominant arm followed by the non-dominant arm (D + ND), (2) training on the dominant arm only (D-Only), (3) training on the non-dominant arm only (ND-Only), and (4) a non-exercise control. All exercise groups performed 18 sessions of unilateral high-load elbow flexion exercise over 6 weeks. Participants were compared for changes in 1RM strength and muscle thickness. Changes in strength of the non-dominant arm were greater in D + ND (2.7 kg) and ND-Only (2.6 kg) compared to D-Only (1.5 kg) and control (-0.2 kg), while the changes were greater in D-Only compared to control. The same finding was observed in the dominant arm. Only the arms being directly trained observed increases in muscle thickness. Unilateral high-load resistance training increased strength in the opposite untrained arm, without changes in muscle thickness. This cross-education of strength did not augment the strength changes in the contralateral arm undergoing the same unilateral high-load training. However, it does not necessarily indicate that within-subject models are methodologically sound to investigate strength change if both limbs are trained with a high-load.

Glycaemic Response to Acute Aerobic and Anaerobic Exercise Performed in the Morning or Afternoon in Healthy Subjects: A Crossover Trial.

The regular practice of physical activity is considered a health promoter and appears to be one of the main contributors to the prevention of chronic diseases. However, the potential effects of exercise on health depending on the time of day at which it is performed have not yet been fully elucidated. To evaluate the effect of physical exercise (aerobic or anaerobic) and chronobiology (morning or afternoon) on the glycemic metabolism of healthy subjects. Healthy subjects participated in aerobic or anaerobic physical exercise sessions, either in the morning or in the afternoon. Blood was drawn from the subjects before, at the end of the exercise and 2 hours after the end of the exercise. Glycemic parameters were analyzed at these time points. A general linear model test was performed after verifying the normal distribution of the raw data (as assessed by the Shapiro-Wilk test) or after a logarithmic/square root transformation, considering aerobic or anaerobic exercise and morning or afternoon exercise as independent variables. Twenty-three subjects (14 women and 9 men) were included in the study. The rate of change in glucose levels was significantly higher at the end of anaerobic exercise compared to aerobic exercise (1.19 ± 0.04 vs. 0.98 ± 0.02, respectively), with a more pronounced decrease in insulin and C-peptide levels following aerobic exercise. In addition, the increase of glucose was higher after the exercise in the morning compared with the afternoon (1.14 ± 0.03 vs. 1.03 ± 0.03, respectively). The type of exercise and chronobiology influence short-term glucose metabolism.

Impact of green and black tea extracts on swimming performance and caudal fin regeneration in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) following amputation

This study investigates the effects of green tea and black tea extracts on swimming performance and caudal fin regeneration in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) following caudal fin amputation. Zebrafish were treated with either tea extract for 14 days, with applications administered three times daily. Swimming performance was assessed against water currents. Results indicated that green tea-treated fish exhibited the greatest resistance to water flow, primarily occupying the high-force zone during a 15-minute exercise session, while black tea-treated fish were mostly found in middle and lower zones. Cumulative distribution analysis showed that green tea-treated fish maintained their positions in stronger current zones significantly longer than both black tea and control groups (p &lt; 0.0001). Conversely, control fish displayed the highest area of caudal fin regeneration, significantly surpassing both tea-treated groups. Green tea-treated fish showed the least regeneration area, though differences from black tea were not statistically significant. These findings challenge previous studies suggesting that green tea enhances tissue regeneration. The pro-apoptotic effects of green tea's primary component, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), may have limited its regenerative potential despite its antioxidant properties. This research highlights the complex relationship between tea polyphenols, swimming performance, and tissue regeneration, suggesting that while both green and black tea can enhance physiological performance, their effects vary based on the interplay between antioxidative benefits and apoptosis-inducing mechanisms.

Lifelong Exercise Mitigates Aging-Induced Clk2 Elevation and Attenuates Fatty Liver in Mice

PURPOSE: This study investigated how aging regulates the expression of Clk2 (Cdc2-like kinase 2) protein and genes in the liver, and how lifelong spontaneous exercise (LSE) affects this expression.METHODS: Male C57BL/6 mice were housed under controlled conditions and divided into groups with (EXE) and without (CON) access to running wheels to investigate the effects of LSE on Clk2 expression in the liver. The mice were maintained until 99 weeks of age (Old-CON, n=7; Old-EXE, n=7), Young controls underwent the same experiment for 22 weeks and were sacrificed at the same time points as the aged mice (Young-CON, n=7; Young-EXE, n=7), and body composition was assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Liver tissue samples were collected 48 h after the final exercise session and Clk2 expression was analyzed. Histological evaluation of the liver was performed using hematoxylin and eosin staining, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity scores were calculated.RESULTS: Aged mice that underwent LSE exhibited significantly higher bone mineral content (Old-CON vs. Old-EXE, &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt;&lt;.05), and lower hepatic Clk2 expression compared to sedentary aged controls (Old-CON vs. Old-EXE, &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt;&lt;.05). LSE also led to a reduction in the NAFLD activity score (Old-CON vs. Old-EXE, &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt;&lt;.05), indicating less liver fat accumulation.CONCLUSIONS: Clk2 increases in the liver with aging. Additionally, LSE appears to contribute to the suppression of Clk2, thereby reducing hepatic lipid accumulation and the NAFLD activity score. However, further research is required to fully understand the direct relationship between Clk2, aging, and exercise.

Training Status Influences Regulation of Muscle and PBMC TLR4 Expression and Systemic Cytokine Responses to Vigorous Endurance Exercise.

A bout of vigorous endurance exercise transiently activates Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and reduces TLR4 protein expressed on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Endurance training, on the other hand, reduces TLR4-mediated signaling and minimizes the physiological stress imposed by exercise. Less is known about what occurs in skeletal muscle regarding TLR4 regulation and signaling. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the regulation of TLR4 expressed in different tissue types (PBMCs and skeletal muscle samples) between endurance-trained and untrained men following vigorous endurance exercise and determine the effect of training status on cytokine responses associated with TLR4 activation. Endurance-trained (n = 7) and untrained (n = 5) men cycled for 1-hr at their respiratory compensation point, with blood and skeletal muscle samples collected pre- and 3-hours post-exercise. In response to vigorous exercise, untrained men experienced a decrease in inhibitor of κBα (IκBα) protein (suggesting IκB degradation and the activation of TLR4-associated transcription factor NF-κB) and TLR4 protein levels, along with a simultaneous increase in TLR4 mRNA expression in both skeletal muscle and PBMCs. Moreover, this exercise session led to elevated levels of circulating interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-1β. Collectively, these results suggest a heightened TLR4-mediated signaling pathway in untrained men. However, no changes in these targets were observed in endurance-trained men, possibly indicating a potential mechanism by which regular endurance training blunts systemic inflammation. These findings highlight the potential of endurance training to mitigate TLR4-mediated signaling, such as systemic inflammation, and shed light on the effects of exercise on TLR4 expression in PBMCs and skeletal muscle.

Comparison of the Acute Effects of Virtual Reality Exergames and Core Stability Exercises on Cognitive Factors, Pain, and Fear Avoidance Beliefs in People with Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain.

Objective: In this study, we aimed to investigate and compare the acute effects of exergames (EXG) and core stability exercises (CSEs) on cognitive factors, pain, mood, and fear-avoidance beliefs (FAB) in individuals with chronic low back pain (CLBP). Materials and Methods: In a single-blinded clinical trial, 40 participants with CLBP were randomly assigned to either the EXG group or the CSEs group. The EXG group engaged in a single session of exergames using the Xbox Kinect device, while the CSEs group completed a single session of common core stability exercises. Measurements of attention, working memory, pain intensity, mood states, and FAB were taken before and after each intervention. Results: The results showed that a single session of EXG was significantly more effective than CSEs in improving cognitive reaction time, pain intensity, FAB, and positive mood states (P ≤ 0.05). Additionally, participants reported lower perceived exertion due to exercising following EXG compared with CSEs. Conclusion: EXG may have potential therapeutic advantages over traditional exercise interventions for CLBP.

Acute effects of virtual reality exercise bike games on psychophysiological outcomes in college North-African adolescents with cerebral palsy: A randomized clinical trial

Background Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder that can affect motor skills and psychophysiological well-being. Virtual Reality Exercise (VRE) improves cognitive and physical outcomes in patients with CP. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of VRE on attention, vigor, and decision-making abilities in adolescents with CP. Methods A randomized controlled trial was conducted. The intervention consisted of a single 40-minute session of VRE compared to TE conducted in a controlled laboratory environment. Results Fourteen participants (42.9 % female) were included in this analysis. The results indicated that VRE had a statistically significant positive effect on attention and vigor compared to TE. While participants in the VRE group exhibited enhanced attention levels and reported elevated levels of vigor subsequent to the exercise sessions, the memory results did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions The findings suggest that VRE is an effective intervention for improving attention and vigor in adolescents with CP. Registration Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR202308598603482; 31/08/2023). The trial was reported in accordance with the CONSORT reporting guidelines.

Virtual Reality Exercise with Autonomy Support Increases Positive Affect During Time Trial Exercise.

Background: Being able to choose elements of an exercise session, known as autonomy support, improves motor performance and psychological responses. Virtual reality (VR) programs provide many options for embedding autonomy support in exercise sessions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of autonomy support in a VR setting on physiological and psychological responses to self-regulated rowing exercise. Methods: Using a repeated-measures crossover design, healthy untrained men and women (N = 20, age = 23.0 ± 7.4) completed exercise sessions on a rowing ergometer coupled with a head-mounted immersive VR application. In the Choice condition, participants chose the virtual environment, and in the Control condition, the environment was assigned to the participant. Participants were instructed to complete 1500 m as quickly as possible in both conditions, while ratings of perceived exertion, affective valence, and heart rate were recorded throughout the trials. Finishing time and remembered pleasure were assessed at the end of each session. Repeated-measures analyses with an alpha level of 0.05 were used for all variables as appropriate, with Bonferroni adjustments applied for any post hoc tests. Results: There was a main effect of condition on affective valence which was higher in Choice (2.07 ± 1.67) than Control (1.64 ± 2.12, P = 0.03, η2 = 0.22). No other differences were detected between conditions for finishing time or the remaining variables. Conclusion: During self-regulated exercise accompanied by an immersive VR application, being able to choose the virtual environment oneself leads to a more positive affective state without compromising exercise effort, physiological strain, or performance.

Identifying Preferences for Exercise and Sport in Australians With Mild Multiple Sclerosis: Looking Beyond Clinical Characteristics when Implementing Exercise Interventions.

Exercise is a salient component in delaying disability progression in multiple sclerosis (MS). This study considers personal preferences regarding exercise program prescription and the resources needed to facilitate exercise. Cross-sectional study. Community online, Australia. Adults with MS. Participants completed online questionnaires on current exercise and sport, and preferences toward exercise prescription variables, facilitative resource needs, and delivery method. We established preference responses for the entire sample, and separately, we used logistic regression and analysis of variance to compare preferences between participants stratified according to (1) geographical rurality (ie, metro vs rural and remote) and (2) current exercise engagement (ie, active, moderately active, and insufficiently active). Fifty people with a diagnosis of MS completed the survey. Participants had mild disability; most were metro-dwelling (74%) and physically active (58%). Preferences included a program of at least 6 months (70%), where exercise sessions are performed 5 d/wk (38%) at a moderate intensity (50%). Half (50%) of responders wanted to participate in sports for exercise. There was a significant difference in the preference toward higher-intensity exercise in active persons compared with inactive persons. Facilitative resources selected included a behavioral exercise coach (80%) who provides MS-specific information (46%) and behavioral change strategies (41%). Persons with mild MS are interested in participating in various exercises and sports. Encouraging participation will have long-term benefits. We recommend that HCPs and researchers consider individual social factors, in addition to patient symptoms and disability, when designing exercise programs for an Australian MS population.

Noninvasive Assessments of Mitochondrial Capacity in People with Mitochondrial Myopathies

People affected by mitochondrial myopathies (MITOs) are thought to have impaired skeletal muscle oxygenation. The aims of this study were to measure skeletal muscle mitochondrial capacity in MITO participants and able-bodied (AB) participants and evaluate the influence of muscle-specific endurance training in one MITO participant. Participants (n = 7) with mitochondrial disease and controls (n = 9) were tested (ages 18–54 years). Mitochondrial capacity (mVO2max) was measured using the rate constant of recovery of oxygen consumption (mVO2) after exercise in the forearm flexor muscles with near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). One MITO participant was tested before and after performing 18 forearm exercise sessions in 30 days. There were no differences between MITO and AB participants in mVO2max (MITO: 1.4 ± 0.1 min−1; AB: 1.5 ± 0.3 min−1; p = 0.29), resting mVO2 (MITO: −0.4 ± 0.2%/min; AB: −0.3 ± 0.1%/min; p = 0.23), or initial post exercise oxygen consumption rates (MITO: 4.3 ± 1.2%/min; AB: 4.4 ± 1.4%/min; p = 0.9). Exercise oxygen desaturation was greater in MITO (39.8 ± 9.7% range) than in AB (28 ± 8.8% range) participants, p = 0.02. The MITO participant who trained increased her mitochondrial capacity (58%) and muscle-specific endurance (24%) and had reduced symptoms of muscle fatigue. We found no evidence supporting in vivo impairment of forearm muscle mVO2max in genetically confirmed MITO participants. This is consistent with studies that report increased mitochondrial content, which offsets the decrease in mitochondrial function. Positive muscle adaptations to endurance training appear to be possible in people with MITOs. Characterization of study populations will be important when interpreting the relationship between in vivo mitochondrial capacity and mitochondrial disease.