Short Bouts Of Exercise Research Articles

Normalization of global longitudinal strain after 20 squats in elite athletes

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background/Introduction: Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is often the first diagnostic imaging modality of choice in athlete care to differentiate between physiological adaptation to sports and pathology. Left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain (GLS) has been suggested as a tool to detect early signs of myocardial diseases in athletes. However, low rates of myocardial deformation can also be associated with cardiac adaptation to sports. We hypothesized that observing decreased cardiac deformation in elite athletes may be a sign of an outspoken relaxed cardiac state, rather than pathology. Therefore, we investigated whether a short exercise bout can normalize strain values in elite athletes with abnormal resting GLS. Methods We prospectively enrolled elite athletes who participated in the ELITE (Evaluation of Lifetime Participation in Intensive Top-level Sports and Exercise) cohort. In short, ELITE is a prospective athlete cohort, which collects medical history, ECG, TTE and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) data in elite athletes (Olympic/Paralympic level or comparable). For this analysis, we analysed TTEs of asymptomatic athletes without cardiovascular disease and with a structurally normal heart on CMR. TTE (Vivid, GE) was performed in each athlete according to guidelines at rest. After a short exercise bout, consisting of 20 squats, additional GLS, LV ejection fraction (EF), and LV stroke volume (SV) measurements were assessed when heart-rate (HR) was comparable to HR during pre-exercise measurements. TTE data was assessed using EchoPAC (GE). GLS delta (pre- to post-exercise) for each athlete was calculated were plotted, using R. GLS ≥ -16% was considered decreased and -16% ≥ GLS > -18% borderline. Results Our population comprised 73 athletes (26% women), mean age (±SD) of 25.6 ± 6.5 years, BSA of 2 ± 0.2m2, and athletic disciplines road cycling (n = 28), soccer (n = 12), hockey (n = 8), swimming (n = 5), tennis (n = 5) and 8 miscellaneous sports (n = 15). Mean pre- and post-exercise GLS were -18.2 ± 2.1% vs -20.5 ± 2.0% (P < 0.001; Figure 1), EF 57 ± 4% vs 59 ± 6% (P = 0.006; Figure 1), SV 89 ± 20ml vs 99 ± 24ml (P = 0.008), and HR 56 ± 12bpm vs 56 ± 13bpm (P = 0.875). We observed an increase of myocardial deformation after a short bout of exercise: mean GLS delta of -2.3 ± 1.9%. Finally, we found a decreased strain in 14 athletes (19%), in which pre- and post-exercise GLS were -15.1 ± 0.8% and -18.6 ± 2.3%, P= <0.001, Figure 1). Only 1 athlete (1%, no other signs of cardiac pathology: MRI, biomarkers, complaints) had post-exercise decreased GLS. We found 9 athletes with a deteriorated cardiac deformation (delta GLS ≤ 0%), pre- and post-exercise GLS were -20.4 ± 1.4% and -19.9 ± 1.5% (maximal GLS post-exercise was -17.7%, Figure 1). Conclusion GLS normalizes in 99% of healthy (elite) athletes. In athletes with decreased GLS at rest, performing a short exercise bout is a pragmatic method to separate decreased GLS due to pathology from sport adaptation Abstract figure 1

HIIT and Resistance Training Effects on Learning-related Outcomes in Underserved School Children

Research has demonstrated associations between differing modalities of physical activity (PA) and behavioral and learning outcomes; however, little evidence exists in real world settings. To evaluate the effects of embedding high intensity interval training (HITT) and resistance training (RT) into physical education (PE) curriculum on PA, academic performance, and behavior in youth attending urban schools. Forty boys and 30 girls; ages 8-10 yrs. enrolled in an expanded public school supplemental learning program were assigned into one of three conditions using a pragmatic trial design: standard PE curriculum (n = 23), HITT (n = 25), and RT (n = 22). PA was measured using accelerometers; math achievement scores were conducted at baseline and post-intervention using the Math Knowledge Assessment (MKA); behavior was assessed using the Abbreviated Conners Rating Scale (ACRS) daily. Participation in HITT resulted in 1.86 additional vigorous PA minutes (p=0.04) and 0.76 additional very vigorous PA minutes (P=0.02) per session, but was not associated with increased moderate PA minutes compared to the control group. RT PA outcomes did not differ from regular PE. Participating in HIIT, but not RT, was associated with a 1.82-point improvement in math test scores compared to those in the same grade in the standard PE group (p=0.02). No group assignment was associated with behavioral ratings. Embedding HITT within PE has potential for improving vigorous PA levels and may affect learning outcomes in urban youth. This is consistent with prior studies which show how short bouts of intense exercise can improve cognitive outcomes.

Feasibility study to assess the delivery of a novel isometric exercise intervention for people with stage 1 hypertension in the NHS: protocol for the IsoFIT-BP study including amendments to mitigate the risk of COVID-19

BackgroundHypertension (HTN) affects approximately 25% of the UK population and is a leading cause of mortality. Associated annual health care costs run into billions. National treatment guidance includes initial lifestyle advice, followed by anti-hypertensive medication if blood pressure (BP) remains high. However, adoption and adherence to recommended exercise guidelines, dietary advice and anti-hypertensive medication is poor. Four short bouts of isometric exercise (IE) performed 3 days per week (d/wk) at home elicits clinically significant reductions in BP in those with normal to high-normal BP. This study will determine the feasibility of delivering personalised IE to patients with stage 1 hypertension for whom lifestyle changes would be recommended before medication within NHS primary care.MethodsThis is a randomised controlled feasibility study. Participants were 18+ years, with stage 1 hypertension, not on anti-hypertensive medication and without significant medical contraindications. Trial arms will be standard lifestyle advice (control) or isometric wall squat exercise and standard lifestyle advice. Primary outcomes include the feasibility of healthcare professionals to deliver isometric exercise prescriptions in a primary care NHS setting and estimation of the variance of change in systolic BP. Secondary outcomes include accuracy of protocol delivery, execution of and adherence to protocol, recruitment rate, attrition, perception of intervention viability, cost, participant experience and accuracy of home BP. The study will last 18 months. Sample size of 100 participants (50 per arm) allows for 20% attrition and 6.5% incomplete data, based upon 74 (37 each arm) participants (two-sided 95% confidence interval, width of 1.33 and standard deviation of 4) completing 4 weeks. Ethical approval IRAS ID is 274676.DiscussionBefore the efficacy of this novel intervention to treat stage 1 hypertension can be investigated in any large randomised controlled trial, it is necessary to ascertain if it can be delivered and carried out in a NHS primary care setting. Findings could support IE viability as a prophylactic/alternative treatment option.Trial registrationISRCTN13472393, registered 18 August 2020

Normalization of global longitudinal strain after a 30-seconds exercise bout in elite athletes

Abstract Background/Introduction Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is often the first diagnostic imaging modality of choice in athlete care to differentiate between physiological adaptation to sports and pathology. Mechanical strain as outcome measure, i.e. left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain (GLS), has been suggested as a tool to detect early signs of myocardial diseases in athletes. However, low or very low rates of myocardial deformation can also be associated with cardiac adaptation to sports. We hypothesize that observing decreased cardiac deformation in elite athletes may be a sign of an outspoken relaxed cardiac state, rather than pathology. Therefore, we investigated whether a short exercise bout can normalize strain values in elite athletes with abnormal resting GLS. Methods We prospectively enrolled elite athletes who participated in the ELITE (Evaluation of Lifetime Participation in Intensive Top-level Sports and Exercise) cohort. In short, ELITE is a prospective athlete cohort, which collects medical history, ECG, TTE and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) data in elite athletes (Olympic/Paralympic level or comparable). For this analysis, we analysed TTEs of asymptomatic athletes without cardiovascular disease and with a structurally normal heart on CMR. TTE (Vivid, GE) was performed in each athlete according to guidelines at rest. After a short exercise bout, consisting of 20 squats, additional measurements were performed when heart-rate (HR) was comparable to HR during pre-exercise measurements. TTE data was assessed using EchoPAC (GE). Paired t-tests were calculated for functional parameters; boxplots for pre- and post-exercise measurements; and GLS delta (pre- to post-exercise) for each athlete was calculated were plotted; using R. GLS ≥−16% was considered decreased and −16% ≥ GLS >−18% borderline. Results Our population comprised 51 athletes (35% women), with a mean age (±SD) of 26.4±5.2 years, and mean BSA of 2±0.3m2. Athletic disciplines consisted of road cycling (n=25), hockey (n=7), swimming (n=5), and 7 miscellaneous sports (n=14). We observed an increase of myocardial deformation after a short bout of exercise: mean GLS delta of 2.6±2% (pre- vs post-exercise GLS: −18.2±2.1% vs −20.8±1.9%; P≤0.001; Figure, A). Furthermore, mean LV stroke volumes were 94±19ml vs 103±23ml (P=0.020), ejection fractions (EF) 57±4% vs 60±4% (P≤0.001), and HR 55±10bpm vs 54±13bpm (P=0.8). Finally, we found a decreased strain in 8 athletes (16%), in 7 of which increased to normal values. Mean delta GLS was 4.5±2.2 (pre- vs post-exercise GLS: −14.9±1.1% vs −19.4±2.7%, P=0.002, Figure, B). The athlete who did not show an increase to normal GLS levels had a decreased LV EF (42%), but showed no other signs of cardiac pathology (MRI, biomarkers, complaints). Conclusion In athletes with abnormal GLS at rest, performing a short exercise bout may provide a pragmatic method to separate decreased GLS due to true pathology from sports adaptation. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Amsterdam Movement Sciences

Gut leakage markers in response to strenuous exercise in patients with suspected coronary artery disease

Abstract Introduction Although regular physical activity is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), acute vigorous exercise seems to transiently increase the risk of acute coronary events in patients with underlying CVD. Some studies have reported regular physical activity to associate with microbial diversity, whereas elevated levels of gut leakage markers have been shown after strenuous exercise in healthy individuals. Any predictive value of a temporary increase in gut leakage markers on the risk of coronary events in susceptible individuals is unknown. Purpose We aimed to explore gut leakage markers in response to a bout of strenuous exercise in patients with symptoms of chronic coronary syndrome (CCS). We hypothesized that gut leakage markers would increase after acute strenuous exercise, and that the increase would be higher in patients with angiographically verified CAD. Methods Patients referred to exercise stress testing or coronary angiography due to symptoms suggestive of CCS were included (n=327). A maximal exercise ECG stress test was performed using a bicycle ergometer. Venous blood samples were drawn at rest prior to the test and within 5 min after the test ended, for analysis of soluble cluster of differentiation 14 (sCD14), lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) and intestinal fatty-acid binding protein (I-FABP) by ELISAs. Quantification of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and relative quantification of gene expression of the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in circulating leukocytes was performed in a subset of patients (n=101). Patients then underwent coronary angiography, and were grouped according to the degree of CAD. Results Of the 287 patients who completed the exercise stress test and coronary angiography, 69 (24%) had no CAD, 88 (31%) had non-significant CAD and 130 (45%) had significant CAD. Mean exercise duration was 10:05±4:46 min and the duration did not differ between the groups. There were no significant differences in resting levels of gut leakage markers between the groups. In the total population, sCD14, LBP and LPS increased significantly after exercise (p<0.0001, all), whereas I-FABP did not. The gene expression of TLR4 decreased significantly after exercise (p<0.0001). There were no differences in exercise-induced changes in any of the measured markers between groups with no CAD, non-significant CAD and significant CAD. Conclusion In patients with symptoms suggestive of CCS, LPS, LBP and sCD14 increased significantly after strenuous exercise, suggesting that even short bouts of vigorous exercise are associated with gut leakage. The decrease in gene expression of TLR4 may be discussed to be compensatory to the increase in LPS or possibly reflecting an increase in TLR4 translation in response to LPS. The presence of CAD or not did not seem to impact exercise-induced increase in gut leakage markers. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): Stein Erik Hagen Foundation for Clinical Heart Research, Olso, Norway

EFFECT OF DIFFERING EXERCISE INTENSITIES ON THE RESPONSE TIME OF GYMNASTS AND NON-GYMNASTS IN 3D CUBE MENTAL ROTATION TASK

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of different levels of exercise intensity on mental rotation performance in gymnasts vs. non-gymnasts'. Forty-one participants (18 females; mean age 20.94±0.89 years, height 1.65±0.03 m, body mass58.94±5.67 kg, and 23 males; mean age 21.26±0.99 years, height 1.70±0.05 m, body mass 66.87±4.52 kg) divided into two groups (i.e., gymnasts and non-gymnast) voluntarily took part in the present study. The two groups performed a 3D cube mental rotation task at rest, and then performed the same task preceded by short bouts of intense exercise at 60%, 80%, 100% and 120% of their maximum aerobic speed (MAS). The analyses of response times showed that gymnasts performed the mental rotation task faster following bouts of intense exercise than in rest condition, especially in 60% and 80% of MAS, whereas non-gymnasts increased their response times after moderate exercises (i.e., 60 et 80 % of MAS) and stabilized their performance (i.e., equally at the rest) after intense exercises. This finding highlights the specific physical expertise as a variable that can affect the influence of exercise on cognitive processing.

Gut Leakage Markers in Response to Strenuous Exercise in Patients with Suspected Coronary Artery Disease.

Elevated levels of gut leakage markers have been shown after strenuous exercise in healthy individuals. Any association between a temporary increase in these markers and the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) is unknown. We therefore aimed to explore circulating gut leakage markers in response to a bout of strenuous exercise in patients with symptoms of CAD. Patients referred to exercise stress testing due to symptoms of CAD were included (n = 287). A maximal exercise ECG stress test was performed and venous blood samples were drawn at rest and within five minutes after, for analysis of soluble cluster of differentiation 14 (sCD14), lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), intestinal fatty-acid binding protein (I-FABP), lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and gene expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in circulating leukocytes. Patients then underwent coronary angiography. LPS, LBP and sCD14 increased significantly after strenuous exercise in patients with symptoms of CAD, suggesting that even short bouts of vigorous exercise are associated with gut leakage. The gene expression of TLR4 decreased significantly after exercise, possibly as a negative feedback to the increase in LPS. There were no differences in exercise-induced changes between the groups of CAD, suggesting gut leakage to be independent of the presence of CAD.

Fatty Acid Profiles of Serum Lipid Fractions Change Minimally in Sled Dogs Before and After Short Bouts of Exercise

Although emerging data suggests a greater influence of gluconeogenic precursors, endurance sled dogs have long appeared to rely heavily on fatty acid oxidation for sustained energy production. However, much of the research investigating lipid utilization during exercise in sled dogs has been carried out with dogs subjected to extended bouts of endurance exercise. Less is known about changes in fatty acid composition in endurance training sled dogs subjected to short bouts of exercise, and fewer data define how fatty acid composition may change in distinct lipid fractions. As such, the study objective was to assess whether short bouts of submaximal exercise would affect fatty acid profiles of serum lipid fractions in endurance training sled dogs. Fifteen privately-owned Siberian huskies were used (8 females: 4 intact, 4 spayed; 7 males: 2 intact, 5 neutered), with an average age of 4.6 ± 2.5 years and body weight of 24.8 ± 4.2 kg. Throughout the diet acclimation and remainder of the study, all dogs were fed a dry extruded diet that met or exceeded all AAFCO nutrient recommendations. Dogs were weighed weekly and fed to maintain baseline body weight. A 12-week exercise regimen was designed to incorporate weekly increases in running distance, but weather played a role in setting the daily distance. On weeks 2, 5, and 11, an exercise challenge was implemented whereby dogs would run 4 km at 15 km/h in teams of 4. Pre- and post-exercise blood samples were taken, and gas chromatography was used to evaluate fatty acid profiles of all identified serum lipid fractions (cholesterol ester, diacylglycerol, free fatty acid, phospholipids, triglyceride). Data were analyzed using PROC MIXED of SAS, with dog as a random effect and week and sampling time point as fixed effects. Composition of oleic (18:1n9), linoleic (18:2n6), and alpha-linolenic (18:3n3) acids in the free fatty acid fraction decreased by ~9, 10, and 60%, respectively, following exercise (P ≤ 0.05). The results presented herein suggest that aside from a degree of depletion of these 18-carbon unsaturated fatty acids, short bouts of submaximal exercise do not induce considerable changes to sled dog fatty acid profiles.

Commentaries on Viewpoint: Fragile bones of elite cyclists: to treat or not to treat?

Commentaries on Viewpoint: Fragile bones of elite cyclists: to treat or not to treat?

Assessment of Cardiovascular Fitness amongst College Students Involved in Sport Activities and Dance

Purpose- To provide an appropriate measure of cardiovascular fitness. The YMCA 3minute step test is based on how quickly your heart rate recovers following a short bout of exercise. Hence the purpose was to provide a submaximal measure of endurance fitness between the students who are involved in sport activities and dance. Methodology- According to simple random sampling 40 participants were included in the study after screening for the inclusion criteria. Thereafter the Participants were divided into 2 groups. 20 participants included in sports group and 20 in dance group. They were explained the purpose of the study and the procedure involved in the study. Informed Consent was obtained and a YMCA 3minute step test was done. Heart rate measures were recorded in both the groups of population. Data analysis was done at the end of the study. Results – 12 students in the sports group had a good to above average fitness level, and 3 students in dancing group had a above average fitness. No student in dance had a good fitness. Further 7 students in dance had a average fitness compared to 2 students in sports who had average fitness. 6 students involved in sports had below average to very poor fitness and 10 students involved in dance had their fitness in this category. Conclusion- It was concluded from the results obtained that the students involved in sport activities had a significantly good cardiovascular fitness than students involved in dance. Keywords: cardiovascular fitness, sports, dance, YMCA 3minute step test.

Is a single bout of exercise also a viable tool for blood pressure management in African and Asian populations? The HYPE2X trial protocol and design

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction Current national and international guidelines recommend exercise as the first line treatment (class IA recommendation) for hypertension. These guidelines are based on research performed in predominantly Caucasian populations, yet the potency of exercise for lowering blood pressure (BP) is less studied in non-Caucasian populations. It is well-known that a great variability exists in the response to pharmacological antihypertensive treatments among ethnic groups. However, it is not clear whether this variability is also present regarding the BP response to exercise. The ‘Hypertension, Ethnicity and Exercise’ (HYPE²X ) trial will i) investigate whether a short bout of isometric strength or endurance exercise lowers blood pressure in African and Asian populations; ii) evaluate and compare differences in acute response to exercise between the Africans and Asians, and iii) increase our understanding on mechanisms related to blood pressure responses to exercise in these non-Caucasian populations. Methods and analyses A randomized controlled crossover trial will be conducted in 60 adults of African (n = 30; 50% female) or Asian (n = 30, 50% female) origin, ≥ 18 years. Healthy individuals with high to normal blood pressure (SBP: 130 – 139 mmHg or and DBP: 85 – 89 mmHg) or grade I hypertension (grade 1, SBP: 140 – 159 mmHg or DBP: 90 – 99 mmHg) will be recruited at outpatient clinics in Suriname between November 2020 – February 2021. Patients will complete three experimental sessions in a randomized order: a 30 minute walking/running bout at 40-60% of heart rate reserve; an isometric handgrip session at 30% of maximal handgrip strength and a sitting control session. (See Figure 1). Measurements will be performed before and immediately after each session. The primary outcome is daytime blood pressure measured by means of 24h blood pressure monitoring. Secondary outcomes include office BP, autonomic function (heart rate variability), cardiac function (left ventricle function), vascular function (pulse wave velocity and flow-mediated dilation) and the renin-angiotensin aldosterone system (plasma renin and aldosterone levels). Analyses will be performed using mixed models for repeated measures. A two-tailed p-value <0.05 will be considered statistically significant. Conclusion It is anticipated that the HYPE²X trial will contribute to a better understanding of the response of non-Caucasians to lifestyle interventions, in particular exercise therapy. Abstract Figure 1. Flowchart of the RCOT

Low-volume high-intensity interval training for cardiometabolic health.

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is characterised by short bouts of high-intensity submaximal exercise interspersed with rest periods. Low-volume HIIT, typically involving less than 15min of high-intensity exercise per session, is being increasingly investigated in healthy and clinical populations due to its time-efficient nature and purported health benefits. The findings from recent trials suggest that low-volume HIIT can induce similar, and at times greater, improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness, glucose control, blood pressure, and cardiac function when compared to more traditional forms of aerobic exercise training including high-volume HIIT and moderate intensity continuous training, despite requiring less time commitment and lower energy expenditure. Although further studies are required to elucidate the precise mechanisms of action, metabolic improvements appear to be driven, in part, by enhanced mitochondrial function and insulin sensitivity, whereas certain cardiovascular improvements are linked to increased left ventricular function as well as greater central and peripheral arterial compliance. Beyond the purported health benefits, low-volume HIIT appears to be safe and well-tolerated in adults, with high rates of reported exercise adherence and low adverse effects.

The effects of breaking sedentary time with different intensity exercise bouts on energy metabolism: A randomized cross-over controlled trial

Background and aimsBreaking up sedentary periods, particularly with light activity, increases total energy expenditure (EE), and helps provide better glycemic control. However, the effects of activities of various intensities to interrupt prolonged sedentary time are unclear. The purpose of the present study was to examine potential differences in glycemic control and EE from breaking up sedentary time with short exercise bouts of different intensities. Methods and resultsNine overweight/obesity young men underwent whole body indirect calorimetry at 19:00 on day 1 and stayed overnight. After awakening on day 2, they performed short duration jogging every 30 min over 8 h (16-time bouts in total) under 3 different conditions with the same running distance: (1) lactate threshold (LT) for 2 min, (2) 60% LT for 200 s, and (3) onset of blood lactate accumulation (OBLA) for 75 s. The 24-h EE and interstitial glucose concentration (from 8:00 to 19:00 on day 2) was continuously measured throughout the trials. The standard deviation during intervention and indexes of postprandial of the interstitial glucose concentration was significantly lower at LT and OBLA than at 60% LT (p < 0.05). The 24-h EE was not significantly different among conditions, but EE at OBLA during intervention was slightly but significantly higher than at 60% LT and LT. ConclusionBreaking up sedentary time with short-duration jogging at LT and with OBLA intensities may have better glycemic control and increased use of carbohydrate as a fuel, while short-duration a jogging at OBLA intensity may increase EE. Trial registrationUMIN000041361.

Effect of Cold Water Intake During Exercise in Heat on Cognitive Function

PURPOSE:The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of cooling treatment by cold water intake before and during exercise in a hot environment on cognitive function.METHODS: Twelve healthy adult men (26.3±4.4 years, 176.2±5.8 cm, 77.2±14.6 kg, 24.8±3.7 kg/m&lt;sup&gt;2&lt;/sup&gt;) completed 3 exercise tests; with drinking warm water (36.5°C), with drinking cold water (4°C), or without drinking water. Each test was separated at least 3 days. During each test, they ran on a treadmill for 20 minutes at 75% of their maximal heart rate in 40°C with 40% of humidity. For the drinking conditions, the total volume of drinking was set to 1% of the participant’s weight. Before the test in each drinking condition, they consume 1/3 of the total volume at once. The remaining 2/3 was consumed separately 3 times at six-min interval during exercise. A neuropsychological test using the Stroop Color and Word Test (SCWT) was conducted before and after the exercise to examine the changes of cognitive abilities. Data were analyzed using a two way repeated measures ANOVA.RESULTS: Comparing pre- and post-exercise SCWT, the main effects in words, colors, and words and colors were noticed (p=.000, p=.003, and p=.008, respectively). No differences were found between water drinking conditions.CONCLUSIONS: Overall, a short bout of high-intensity exercise in the hot environment improved cognitive functions, but it was not possible to determine how water temperature and water intake affected cognitive ability. Further research is needed considering the ages and fitness levels of participants.

A Short Bout of Exercise With and Without an Immersive Virtual Reality Game Can Reduce Stress and Anxiety in Adolescents: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Anxiety and stress are prominent issues for the adolescent population. Physical activity is known to reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress; however, many adolescents lack the time or motivation to exercise regularly, particularly during stressful exam weeks. Virtual Reality (VR) has the potential to make exercise more enjoyable and more engaging than exercise alone. We aimed to investigate the immediate effect of a 10-min dodgeball exercise session, with and without a VR headset, on self-reported stress, anxiety and cognitive performance in adolescents during times known to induce stress in high school, such as exam weeks. Participants were randomly assigned to a VR group (n = 16) where participants were immersed in a virtual dodgeball environment (exergame), or a dodgeball group (n = 14) which played a simple game of one-on-one dodgeball. Executive function was measured using the Trail Making Test (TMT) Parts A and B. Anxiety was self-reported on the Pediatric Anxiety Short Form 8a (PASF). Stress was self-reported on the Psychological Stress Experiences-Short Form 8a (PSES). Both groups significantly improved their TMT A and B performance and reduced stress and anxiety scores with effect size ranging from 0.59 to 1.2 (main effect of time p &amp;lt; 0.001 for all outcomes). There were no significant differences between groups and no time by group interaction for any outcome. A short bout of exercise, with or without VR, during stressful high school exam weeks was shown to be effective for immediate reduction of stress and anxiety and enhancement of cognitive function in a small sample of high school students. High schools looking to apply interventions to help their students manage anxiety and stress should consider encouraging them to take a “time-out” to exercise and play. The cost-effectiveness of exergames inside the school settings and implications for academic success should be investigated in future research.

Can High-Intensity Interval Training Promote Skeletal Muscle Anabolism?

Exercise training in combination with optimal nutritional support is an effective strategy to maintain or increase skeletal muscle mass. A single bout of resistance exercise undertaken with adequate protein availability increases rates of muscle protein synthesis and, when repeated over weeks and months, leads to increased muscle fiber size. While resistance-based training is considered the 'gold standard' for promoting muscle hypertrophy, other modes of exercise may be able to promote gains in muscle mass. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) comprises short bouts of exercise at or above the power output/speed that elicits individual maximal aerobic capacity, placing high tensile stress on skeletal muscle, and somewhat resembling the demands of resistance exercise. While HIIT induces rapid increases in skeletal muscle oxidative capacity, the anabolic potential of HIIT for promoting concurrent gains in muscle mass and cardiorespiratory fitness has received less scientific inquiry. In this review, we discuss studies that have determined muscle growth responses after HIIT, with a focus on molecular responses, that provide a rationale for HIIT to be implemented among populations who are susceptible to muscle loss (e.g. middle-aged or older adults) and/or in clinical settings (e.g. pre- or post-surgery).

Selective attention is resistant to high intensity exercise and musical distraction

The effects of high-intensity exercise on cognitive performance are not fully understood. Music can affect physiological responses to exercise which may also affect cognitive performance. The aim of this study was to determine if music could impact cognitive performance after a bout of high-intensity exercise. Eleven subjects completed the Stroop test after a short (14 min) bout of high-intensity interval exercise while listening to either Classical, Rock, or No Music. Subjects completed the Brunel Music Rating Inventory after listening to Classical or Rock music during a control (no exercise) session. The order of testing was randomized. There was no significant main effect of either exercise (F(1,2) = 0.585, p = 0.524) or music (F(2,4) = 1.939, p = 0.258) on Stroop reaction time, nor was there a significant interaction effect of exercise and music on Stroop reaction time (F(2,4) = 0.045, p = .956). There was a significant main effect of exercise on heart rate response (F(1,2) = 564.005, p &lt; 0.01). Mean heart rates were consistently higher during exercise (HRex= 148.2 ± 14.7) than during control sessions (HRcon= 76.1 ± 9.1). There was no other significant main effect for music (F(2,4) = 2.537, p = 0.194) or interaction effect of music and exercise (F(2,4) = 2.980, p = 0.161) on heart rate response. The results of the present study suggest that selective attention is resistant to the effects of a short high-intensity interval exercise bout and the distraction of either classical or rock music. The results also suggest that music may lower the average heart rate during high-intensity interval exercise.

Effects of acute exercise on craving, mood and anxiety in non-treatment seeking adults with alcohol use disorder: An exploratory study

BackgroundExercise is increasingly being used in the treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD). We examined the short-term effects of acute exercise on alcohol craving, mood states and state anxiety in physically inactive, non-treatment seeking adults with AUD. MethodsExploratory, single-arm study. In total, 140 adults with AUD (53.7 ± 11.8 years; 70 % female) were included in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to study effects of physical activity on alcohol consumption. This acute exercise study was nested within the larger RCT. The intervention was a 12-minute sub-maximal fitness test performed on a cycle ergometer. Participants self-rated their desire for alcohol (DAQ) and completed mood (POMS-Brief) and state anxiety (STAI-Y1) questionnaires 30-minutes before exercise, immediately before, immediately after, and 30-minutes post. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were collected. Effects of exercise were assessed using RM-ANOVA and dependent sample t-tests with effect sizes (Hedges g). ResultsIn total, 70.6 % had mild or moderate AUD (DSM-5 criteria = 4.9 ± 2). The intervention was generally perceived as ‘strenuous’ (RPE = 16.1 ± 1.6). In the total sample, there was a main effect of time with reductions in alcohol craving [F(3,411) = 27.33, p < 0.001], mood disturbance [F(3,411) = 53.44, p < 0.001], and state anxiety [F(3,411) = 3.83, p = 0.013]. Between-group analyses indicated larger magnitude effects in those with severe compared to mild AUD, however, AUD severity did not significantly moderate the within-group improvements: group x time interaction for alcohol craving [F(6,411) = 1.21, p = 0.305]. Positive effects of exercise were maintained 30-minutes post-exercise. ConclusionA short bout of aerobic exercise reduced alcohol craving and improved mood states in adults with AUD.

Muscle Oxidative Capacity in the Arms and Legs of Various Types of Endurance Trained Athletes

Our study used near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to measure muscle oxidative capacity (mVmax) in the medial gastrocnemius, vastus lateralis, biceps brachii, and wrist flexor muscles in Cross-country (LEG-T) and Swimmer/Rowers (WHOLE-T) and controls. Young male adults: cross-country LEG-Tners (n=6) and swimmers/rowers (n=5), moderately fit (CONTROL, n=7) were tested. mVmax was measured as the rate of post-exercise recovery of oxygen consumption after a short bout of exercise using NIRS. Whole-body peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) was determined during a continuous treadmill protocol. The lower limb muscles had 42% higher mVmax than upper limb muscles in all subjects, with significant differences in 10 of 12 pairwise comparisons (p&lt; 0.05). The LEG-T group had higher mVmax values in both legs than CONTROL group (p&lt; 0.05), while the WHOLE-T group had higher mVmax in the vastus lateralis (p = 0.048). There were no differences in the arm muscles of between the groups. The combined mVmax of both leg muscles in all groups correlated with VO2peak (r2=0.597). Muscle oxidative capacity was consistent with training status, and leg mitochondrial capacity correlated with maximal whole body oxidative capacity. These results support the use of NIRS measurements to characterize oxidative capacity in skeletal muscles of athletic populations.

Repeated prolonged moderate-intensity walking exercise does not appear to have harmful effects on inflammatory markers in patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Background and objectives The role of exercise in the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is inconclusive as most research focused on short or low-intensity exercise bouts and subjective outcomes. We assessed the effects of repeated prolonged moderate-intensity exercise on objective inflammatory markers in IBD patients. Methods In this study, IBD patients (IBD walkers, n = 18), and a control group (non-IBD walkers, n = 19), completed a 30, 40 or 50 km walking exercise on four consecutive days. Blood samples were taken at baseline and every day post-exercise to test for the effect of disease on exercise-induced changes in cytokine concentrations. A second control group of IBD patients who did not take part in the exercise, IBD non-walkers (n = 19), was used to test for the effect of exercise on faecal calprotectin. Both IBD groups also completed a clinical disease activity questionnaire. Results Changes in cytokine concentrations were similar for IBD walkers and non-IBD walkers (IL-6 p = .95; IL-8 p = .07; IL-10 p = .40; IL-1β p = .28; TNF-α p = .45), with a temporary significant increase in IL-6 (p < .001) and IL-10 (p = .006) from baseline to post-exercise day 1. Faecal calprotectin was not affected by exercise (p = .48). Clinical disease activity did not change in the IBD walkers with ulcerative colitis (p = .92), but did increase in the IBD walkers with Crohn’s disease (p = .024). Conclusion Repeated prolonged moderate-intensity walking exercise led to similar cytokine responses in participants with or without IBD, and it did not affect faecal calprotectin concentrations, suggesting that IBD patients can safely perform this type of exercise.