Significant Improvements In Physical Fitness Research Articles

Feasibiliy, safety and patient perceptions of an exercise-based cardiac telerehabilitation programme

Abstract Background Despite proven benefits of exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (EBCR), few patients with myocardial infarction (MI) complete these programs and there is a need to develop more flexible and evidence-based options. Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate feasibility, safety, and patient perceptions of remotely delivered EBCR. Methods This study was conducted at 23 cardiac rehabilitation centres during the Covid-19 pandemic (March 2020-September 2022), when access to centre-based EBCR was restricted. A total of 231 patients with MI <80 years were included 2-4 weeks after discharge to participate in a remote EBCR programme 2 times/week for 3-4 months. Exercise was delivered through a real-time group-based video meeting, connecting the physiotherapist to patients exercising at home. Safety monitoring in terms of adverse events (AE) and serious adverse events (SAE) were recorded. Outcomes were assessed before and after remote EBCR completion and comprised tests of physical fitness and questionnaires: self-reported physical activity and exercise (Haskell questionnaire), physical capacity (VAS), kinesiophobia (TSK-Heart), health-related quality of life (EQ5D-VAS), self-efficacy for exercise, and patient acceptance of the program. Results Patients performed in median 19 (Q1 9 - Q3 23) remote EBCR sessions. A total of 16 AEs were registered during exercise (e.g chest pain, syncope, dizziness, musculoskeletal symptoms) which were all resolved. Two SAEs that required hospitalization were reported (chest pain, in-stent restenosis), both unrelated to exercise. At end of remote EBCR, significant improvements in physical fitness, self-reported exercise and physical capacity, kinesiophobia, and health-related quality of life were observed (Table 1). Delta values were similar to previous centre-based EBCR studies. Patients agreed that remote EBCR improved health care access (83%), was easy to use (94%), and 95% found exercise performance and interaction acceptable. Conclusions This study supports that remote EBCR is feasible and safe with a high patient acceptance post-MI. The clinical effectiveness needs to be confirmed in a randomized controlled design.

Developing the optimal gross movement interventions to improve the physical fitness of 3-10 year-old children: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

To identify the optimal parameters of gross movement interventions to yield the strongest effects on physical fitness among children aged 3-10 years and to provide a reference for the development of gross movement interventions to improve the physical fitness of children. There has been a global decline in children's physical fitness. Previous studies have shown that gross movement interventions can improve children's physical fitness, but the optimal intervention parameters for achieving the strongest effects have yet to be determined. Therefore, we conducted this meta-analysis to determine the optimal intervention parameters for yielding the strongest effects on children's physical fitness. We searched the Web of Science, PubMed, China Biology Medicine, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data, and China Science and Technology Journal databases to identify randomized controlled trials on the effects of gross movement interventions (walking, running, jumping, throwing, batting, rolling, spinning, catching, and leg lifting) on children's physical fitness (upper-body strength, lower-body strength, explosive power, speed, flexibility, and balance). We included studies published up to September 2023. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were developed based on the PICOS framework, and the quality of the included studies was evaluated. Subgroup analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.3, and the data were pooled using a random effects model to obtain the SMD (or WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A total of 23 studies involving 2007 healthy children aged 3-10 years met the inclusion criteria. Gross movement interventions significantly improved the explosive power of children aged 3-10 years [WMD, 6.2]. The most effective intervention duration was 16-18 weeks [WMD, 0.45]. The most effective intervention frequency was one session per week [WMD, 1.06]. The optimal duration of single sessions was 60 min [WMD, 0.47]. Children aged 7-10 years [WMD, 1.41] showed the most significant improvements in physical fitness after gross movement interventions. Gross movement interventions had a positive effect on the physical fitness of children aged 3-10 years. The optimal intervention parameters include 60-min sessions once a week across a total duration of 16-18 weeks.

Optimizing adolescent health: Investigating physical activity’s impact on fitness, working memory, and academic performance

This quasi-experimental study investigates the intricate relationship among adolescents’ physical activity, working memory, and academic performance, recognizing their significance in adolescent development. Employing a quasi-experimental design, 85 13-year-olds from a Taiwanese junior high school were involved. Data scrutiny was facilitated through Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA), with the mediation effect explored via Smart Partial Least Squares structural equation modeling (Smart PLS-SEM). Findings indicate significant improvements in physical fitness among both aerobic and resistance exercise groups compared to controls. Additionally, both exercise cohorts demonstrated a stronger positive association with verbal working memory scores than the control group. Intriguingly, visuospatial working memory fully mediated the relationship between resistance exercise and science performance. These results highlight the potential advantages of incorporating brief daily exercise sessions to bolster adolescent physical fitness and emphasize the mediating function of working memory in connecting physical activity with academic accomplishment. This study furnishes valuable insights for educators and policymakers striving to enhance adolescent well-being and academic achievement through targeted interventions.

The individualization of the educational and training process in fencing in the context of improving efficiency and health of young athletes of different ages

Background and Study Aim. Optimizing the training process in fencing for athletes of different ages, genders, and levels of preparedness is key to achieving high results without compromising health. The aim of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a physical and technical-tactical readiness program for young fencers in mixed age groups. Materials and Methods. The study involved 22 epee fencers, aged between 6 to 17 years. Athletes were divided into two groups by age and level of preparedness: group 1 (10-16 years) and group 2 (6-12 years). The training program lasted for 12 months, including specialized exercises and tests to evaluate progress in physical and technical-tactical readiness. The experiment was conducted in Kharkiv, Ukraine, located in a war zone since February 2022. Requirements of the military administration for ensuring the safety of the experiment participants were met. Results. As a result of the study, both groups showed significant improvement in physical fitness and technical-tactical skills. In group 1, improvements were identified in the "Shuttle Run" and "Standing Long Jump" tests (p < 0.05), while in group 2, there was an alignment among participants in test indicators (p < 0.05). The increase in the level of technical-tactical preparedness and coordination abilities was also confirmed by the improvement in test results (p<0.01). Conclusions. The proposed program underscores the importance of adapting the training process to the individual needs of fencers from various age groups. Such an approach not only facilitates their athletic development but also enhances health levels and overall physical fitness. These results offer valuable insights for coaches aiming to maximize their students' potential while simultaneously reducing health risks.

Osteogenic Effects of Aerobic Both Sides Utilized Ball Versus Aerobic Step Training in Premenopausal Women

Study purpose. Exercise training plays an important role in increasing bone mass. Nevertheless, the osteogenic effects of exercise training using various bench surfaces are unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the osteogenic effects of exercise with a soft surface bench and an aerobic both sides utilized (BOSU) ball with those of aerobic step exercise training (STEP). Materials and methods. Fifty-two sedentary female participants aged 30–45 years were recruited and randomly divided into three groups. Seventeen participants were in the STEP, 17 in the BOSU, and 18 in the control group. The exercise programs of the STEP and BOSU groups were designed to have the same intensity and heart rate range during each stage of the program. During training, music was used to set the tempo for workouts. Results. After week 24, both training groups showed significant improvements in physical fitness, body composition, and body stability (p<0.05). Increased levels of procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide (P1NP), an osteogenesis marker, were observed in both STEP and BOSU groups. Increased bone mineral density was only seen in the BOSU group (p<0.05). Conclusions. Both STEP and BOSU programs effectively improved P1NP levels, muscle strength, and postural control, but only the aerobic BOSU ball training improved bone mineral density in premenopausal women.

Effect of a Physical-Strengthening Exercise Program on Physical Fitness, Depression, and Cognitive Function in Older Patients with Parkinson's Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study

Purpose: The present study aimed to examine the effect of a physical-strengthening exercise program on physical fitness, depression, and cognitive function in older patients with Parkinson's disease (PD).Methods: Forty-one PD patients who were recruited from D University hospital in B Metropolitan City were allocated to the experimental group (n=21) and control group (n=20). Participants completed the physical-strengthening exercise program 2 times a week for 12 weeks. Before and after the intervention, we administered a senior fitness test (SFT), the depression scale (the Korean version of the Montgomery-Asberg depression rating scale, MADRS-K), and cognitive function scale (the Korean version of the Alzheimer’s disease assessment scale, ADAS-K). The data were analyzed by repeated measures ANOVA.Results: The physical-strengthening exercise program was effective as indicated by significant improvement in physical fitness, cognitive function, but not depression in participants.Conclusion: Our results suggest the physical-strengthening exercise program will be a valuable non-pharmacological intervention to promote physical fitness and cognitive function in older patients with PD. In addition, this intervention may be used to alleviate the risk of gait disturbance and falls due to PD.

Effects of a Multicomponent Exercise Program on Improving Frailty in Post-COVID-19 Older Adults after Intensive Care Units: A Single-Group Retrospective Cohort Study.

Simple SummaryOlder adult patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome present greater physical impairment accompanied by frailty, which is why multicomponent exercise programs (MEP) are recommended for their positive effects on improving frailty and physical capacity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a short MEP (Vivifrail; <4 weeks) on the improvement of physical performance and frailty in post-COVID-19 older adults in a hospital setting. Data were collected from the functional gait training program based on selected Vivifrail MEP in a single group, applied to patients admitted with a diagnosis of post-COVID-19 functional impairment. The program was carried out for 3 weeks, with daily sessions lasting 40 min. Patients included were assessed at the beginning and at the end of the protocol on their functionality, strength, balance, gait and coordination, and ability to carry out basic activities of daily living. The results of this study show significant improvements in physical fitness and frailty by means of the MEP applied in its short version (<4 weeks) showing even clinically relevant improvements. The MEP is effective and safe on improving frailty in post-COVID-19 older adult patients.Background: Older adult patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome present greater physical impairment accompanied by frailty than younger patients, which is why multicomponent exercise programs (MEP) are recommended for their positive effects on improving frailty and physical capacity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a short MEP (Vivifrail; <4 weeks) on improving frailty in post-COVID-19 older adults after intensive care units. Methods: To develop a retrospective cohort study, data were collected from the functional gait training program based on selected Vivifrail MEP in a single-group and applied to patients admitted with a diagnosis of post-COVID-19 functional impairment. The MEP was carried out for 3 weeks, with daily sessions lasting 40 min. Patients included were assessed at the beginning and at the end of the protocol by using the Short Performance Physical Battery (SPPB), the number of falls in the last year, the number of falls with medical attention, the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, the presence of dementia, the Trunk Control Test (TCT), the Tinetti balance and gait test, Barthel Index, Medical Research Council Sum Score (MRCSS) and handgrip strength dynamometry. Results: The results of this study show statistically significant improvements in physical fitness and frailty with increases in the Short Physical Performance Battery (Z = 9.12, p < 0.001) by means of the MET applied in its short version (<4 weeks) showing even clinically relevant improvements (>2.5 points). Statistically significant improvements were also found in Medical Research Council Sum Score (Z = 12.345, p < 0.001), Barthel Index Score (Z = 12.272, p < 0.001), Trunk Control Test (Z = 12. 36, p < 0.001), Tinetti–POMA (Z = 12.293, p < 0.001) including the balance (Z = 12.11, p < 0.001), gait (Z = 12.164, p < 0.001) subscales and in the hand dynamometry (Z = 12.172, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The selected Vivifrail MEP is effective and safe for improving frailty in post-COVID-19 older adult’s patients.

Inspiratory Muscle Training and Physical Fitness in Children With Down Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on physical fitness in children with Down syndrome (DS). DesignRandomized control trial. SettingThe study was conducted in a private physical therapy center. ParticipantsForty boys and girls with DS aged between 7 and 10 years were enrolled in this study (N=40). They were randomly and equally divided into 2 groups (A and B). InterventionsAll participants received 30 minutes of aerobic exercise training 3 times per week for 12 weeks, whereas group B received an additional 30 minutes of IMT before each aerobic exercise session. Main Outcomes MeasuresMaximal inspiratory pressure (MIP); maximal expiratory pressure (MEP); submaximal aerobic endurance; muscular strength; endurance. ResultsAmong the group undergoing IMT, there were significant improvements in MIP, MEP, and submaximal aerobic endurance using the six-minute walk test (6MWT); strength and endurance using the curl-up, dumbbell press, trunk lift, standing long jump, seated push-up, pull-up, and flexed-arm hang; and back saver sit and reach tests (P > 0.05). ConclusionsInspiratory muscle training and aerobic exercise training demonstrated more significant improvements in physical fitness than in those children who received only aerobic exercise training.

School-Based High-Intensity Interval Training Programs for Promoting Physical Activity and Fitness in Adolescents: A Systematic Review

Purpose: This review aimed to evaluate the utility of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) programs integrated into physical education classes. Method: Searches of electronic databases from January 2008 to March 2020. Inclusion criteria: Applied to adolescents aged 10–19 years; applied in school settings; reported results on physical fitness, physical activity (PA), and motivation; at least for 4 weeks; and randomized controlled trials. Studies with adolescents with physical or intellectual limitations were excluded, as well as other interventions parallel to HIIT. Results: Fourteen studies were included. All works present significant improvements in physical fitness and PA. Improvements in body composition recorded, at most, a moderate effect size. HIIT is presented as a powerful stimulus on cardiorespiratory fitness. Improvements in PA registered, a least, a moderate effect size. Conclusions: HIIT in the school context has great potential in improving physical fitness and PA in adolescents. HIIT efficiency (about 10 min) reflects the wide applicability that these protocols can have in physical education classes and great adaptation to the facilities.

A novel model of home-based, patient-tailored and mobile application-guided cardiac telerehabilitation in patients with atrial fibrillation: A randomised controlled trial

Objective: To assess the effectiveness of tele-monitored cardiac rehabilitation in patients who have undergone ablation for atrial fibrillation. Design: Single-centre, prospective, assessment-blinded, randomised controlled trial. Setting: Domiciliary rehabilitation with support from a tertiary care hospital. Subjects: One hundred patients who underwent ablation for atrial fibrillation were recruited. Interventions: Participants were randomly allocated to a 12-week standard rehabilitation treatment (control group) or a comprehensive, domiciliary, mobile application-guided and tele-monitored cardiac rehabilitation program (intervention group) in a 1:1 fashion. Main outcome measures: The primary endpoint was the improvement in VO2peak. The secondary outcomes included adherence, physical activity, beliefs related to cardiovascular disease and exercise self-efficacy. Results: Ninety-seven patients completed follow-up. The mean VO2peak increased significantly in both the intervention group (n = 49) (baseline vs 12 weeks: 19.1 ± 4.7 vs 27.3 ± 5.6 ml/(min kg), P < 0.01) and the control group (n = 48) (baseline vs 12 weeks: 18.7 ± 4.9 vs 22.9 ± 6.3 ml/(min kg), P < 0.01). The results of the between-group analysis of aerobic capacity were significantly in favour of the intervention group. During the 12-week program, patients in the intervention group exhibited better adherence than those in the control group. Moreover, self-reported physical activity improved more in the intervention group than in the control group, as did the beliefs related to cardiovascular disease and exercise self-efficacy (all P < 0.01). Conclusions: Our domiciliary, mobile application-guided and tele-monitored cardiac rehabilitation program could lead to a more significant improvements in physical fitness, adherence and health beliefs than standard cardiac rehabilitation in patients who have undergone ablation for atrial fibrillation.

Effectiveness of structured exercises on motor skills, physical fitness and attention in children with ADHD compared to typically developing children-A pilot study.

Purpose: Children with ADHD exhibit decrements in fitness levels, motor skill ability and attention. The purpose was to evaluate the benefits of a structured, school-based exercise program on motor skill, physical fitness and attention in children with ADHD. Method: Ten 8–12 year old school boys with ADHD and ten typically developing (TD) were recruited. They underwent a six week structured exercise program which included aerobics, resistance exercises, motor skills and attention training. Results: Following the 6 week, school -based exercise program significant improvements in physical fitness, motor skills and attention were observed in ADHD children compared to the TD children. Additionally, the exercise sessions were acceptable and enjoyable to all children. Conclusion: It is proposed that an exercise program be incorporated in school physical education curriculum. Exercises should be considered, in addition to other forms of intervention, as an essential treatment for improving problems associated with ADHD in school children.

Effect of intradialytic progressive resistance exercise on physical fitness and quality of life in maintenance haemodialysis patients.

PurposeTo investigate the impact of intradialytic progressive resistance exercise (IPRE) on physical fitness and quality of life in maintenance haemodialysis (MHD) patients.MethodsSubjects were allocated randomly to the exercise group received IPRE and the control group underwent a haemodialysis session alone. Outcomes measured were including physical fitness ascertained by 6‐min walk test, sit‐to‐stand 10 test and handgrip strength. Kidney Disease Quality of Life Instrument was used to assess the quality of life, and also recorded the adverse event at each exercise session.ResultsA total of 87 patients were analysed: 43 in the exercise group and 44 in the control group. After 12 weeks, there were significant improvements in physical fitness and past of the dimension of the scale in the exercise group.ConclusionsIPRE can improve the physical fitness and quality of life in patients underwent MHD with no serious adverse events or safety issues.

Functional Fitness Is An Effective Training Modality In Firefighters

Firefighting is a physical profession requiring at least adequate levels of fitness for performance of necessary activities. Providing firefighters (FFs) with a safe and effective fitness program is essential for optimal performance on the fire ground. PURPOSE: To examine changes in various parameters of physical fitness and FF ability following a 7-week high intensity functional training (HIFT) program instituted as part of a Basic FF Academy. METHODS: Participants were FF recruits (N=89; age=27.1±4.2 yrs, 100% male) enrolled in a Midwest Basic FF Academy during Spring 2018, Fall 2018, and Spring 2019. Fitness (weight, cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance, power, and flexibility) and FF ability (assessed via the Academy FF Challenge (AFC)) were assessed at Weeks 1 and 7 of the Academy. The AFC consisted of six tasks done sequentially: simulated forcible entry; victim search; dummy drag; hose advance; equipment-carry; and ladder raise. Total completion time was recorded, as well as the time to complete each of the six tasks. HIFT training was done for 60 minutes each day during the 7-week Academy. The HIFT program gradually incorporated movements and equipment commonly used during fire-ground activities (e.g., hoses, sledgehammers, tires, stairs, weighted objects), while also utilizing interval training, group runs, and partner workouts. RESULTS: Significant improvements were seen in parameters of physical fitness and FF ability following a 7-week HIFT program. Specifically, fitness (weight, cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance) yielded significant improvements from Week 1 to Week 7 [Hotelling’s T2= 8.96 F(5, 84)= 150.57, P<0.001, η2p= 0.90]. Overall FF ability improved significantly as well [Hotelling’s T2= 3.95, F(7, 82)= 46.26, P< .001, η2p= 0.80]. CONCLUSION: A 7-week Basic FF Academy that included daily HIFT resulted in significant improvements in physical fitness and FF ability. This suggests that HIFT, in conjunction with the 7-week Basic FF Academy, appears to be an effective means of improving fitness and FF ability in recruit FFs. Further research is needed to examine the effects of HIFT training on fitness and FF ability in FFs who are not simultaneously enrolled in a physically demanding FF Academy.

Physical fitness and activity changes after a 24-week soccer-based adaptation of the U.S diabetes prevention program intervention in Hispanic men

PurposeOne third of the U.S. adult population is estimated to have prediabetes. Hispanics have a 50% higher type 2 diabetes (T2DM) death rate compared to non-Hispanic whites, yet low participation in lifestyle change programs, making this subgroup an important target for prevention efforts. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of an exercise intervention implementing the Center for Disease Control and Prevention National Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP) plus recreational soccer (RS) in Hispanic men. MethodsOverweight and obese Hispanic men, aged 30–57 years with prediabetes at screening were recruited from the community. Trained soccer coaches led 30-min facilitated discussion of the NDPP modules after each RS session, with two weekly sessions delivered over 12 wks, then once a wk until 24 wks. The 1-h RS sessions followed the Football Fitness curriculum structure. Standardized study assessments included objectively measured physical activity via fitness tracker, physical fitness via validated field tests, global positional system soccer specific metrics and behavior change questionnaires. Mixed models assessed the outcomes as a function of time and cohort and incorporated an unstructured covariance structure to examine the difference between baseline, 12 and 24 wks. All analyses were conducted as intent-to-treat and generated using SAS v 9.4. RESULTS: Hispanic males (n = 41; mean age 41.9 [6.2 SD] years) were obese at baseline (mean BMI 32.7, standard error [0.7]). After 24 wks of the NDPP+RS intervention, there were significant beneficial changes in vertical jump (2.8 [1.3] cm; p = 0.048), agility and lower extremity muscular power (figure 8-run) at 12 wks (−4.7% change; p = 0.001) and 24 wks (−7.2% change; p < 0.0001), predicted VO2 max (12 wks: 1.9%; p = 0.007; 24 wks 1.0%; p = 0.036), modified push-ups increased 22% (p < 0.0001) at 12 wks and 31% (p < 0.0001) at 24 wks, dynamic sit-ups increased 10% (p = 0.005) at 12 wks and 15% (p < 0.0001) at 24 wks. CONCLUSION: Among middle-aged Latino men, broad-ranging significant improvements in physical fitness were observed after 24 wks participating in lifestyle education plus RS in a single arm feasibility trial.

Efficacy and Safety of an mHealth App and Wearable Device in Physical Performance for Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Development and Usability Study.

BackgroundExercise is predicted to have a positive effect among hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, these patients are hesitant to start and build up an exercise program for one major reason: the vague fear of developing hepatic decompensation, a potentially fatal condition that can lead to death. Integrating mobile health (mHealth) with individualized exercise programs could be a possible option for promoting physical capacity among HCC patients.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rehabilitation exercises, which have been individually prescribed via an mHealth app, on physical fitness, body composition, biochemical profile, and quality of life among HCC patients.MethodsA total of 37 HCC patients were enrolled in a 12-week course with an mHealth app program targeted to HCC patients. The wearable wristband device Neofit (Partron Co) was provided to participants, and recorded daily physical data, such as the number of steps, calorie expenditure, exercise time, and heart rate. Each participant was given an individualized rehabilitation exercise program that was prescribed and adjusted at the 6-week midintervention period based on the assessment results. At baseline, 6-week, and 12-week sessions, participants’ physical fitness levels (ie, 6-minute walk test, grip strength test, and 30-second chair stand test) were measured. Physical activity levels, as measured by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF); body composition (ie, body mass index, body fat percentage, and muscle mass); biochemical profiles; and quality of life, as measured by the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality-of-Life Questionnaire C30, were assessed at baseline and at the end point. At the 6-week midpoint, exercise intensity was individually adjusted.ResultsOf the 37 patients, 31 (84%) completed the 12-week intervention. Grip strength improved significantly after 12 weeks of the intervention. The 30-second chair stand test and the 6-minute walk test showed significant improvement from 0 to 6 weeks, from 0 to 12 weeks, and from 6 to 12 weeks. Muscle mass and the IPAQ-SF score increased significantly after 12 weeks of the intervention without biochemical deterioration.ConclusionsFollowing 12 weeks of mHealth care, including an individually prescribed rehabilitation exercise program, we saw significant improvements in physical fitness, body composition, and physical activity without any complication or biochemical deterioration among compensated HCC patients who had completed therapy.

Eight months of school-based soccer improves physical fitness and reduces aggression in high-school children.

School-based programmes have shown promising results in the reduction of aggressive behaviour, but the effectiveness of physical activity modalities among adolescents remains to be determined. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a school-based soccer programme on physical fitness and aggression in adolescent students. One hundred and five high school students were randomized to a small-sided soccer training group (SG) or a control group (CG). In addition to the regular physical education classes performed as part of a curriculum, the SG completed eight months of small-sided soccer training twice a week after school. Aerobic fitness (YYIR1), vertical jump (VJ), backward overhead medicine ball throw (BOMBT), and Buss and Perry’s aggression questionnaire were evaluated before and after eight months of training. Greater improvements were observed in the SG than in the CG in the BOMBT (%diff=4.3, ŋp 2=.308) and YYIR1 tests (%diff=2.2, ŋp 2=.159), and physical aggression subscale (%diff=-12.1, ŋp 2=.144). Extra, school-based recreational soccer for adolescents was accompanied by a significant improvement in physical fitness, compared to physical education classes only. Moreover, the implementation of recreational soccer into regular physical education classes seems to be a potentially appropriate stimulus for reducing aggression in high-school students.

Effect of Virtual Reality-Based Rehabilitation on Physical Fitness in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of rehabilitation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) using the Kinect system during stationary rehabilitation. The study included 68 patients with COPD (35 men, 33 women, mean age 61.3 ± 3.7). The subjects were randomly assigned to one of the two experimental groups described below. Group I included 34 patients – non‐participants in Kinect training. Group II included 34 patients – participants in Kinect training. In all patients before and after rehabilitation physical fitness was assessed using the Senior Fitness Test (SFT). The Xbox 360 and Kinect motion sensor were used to carry out virtual reality training. In group I, statistically significant improvements in SFT performance were observed. Patients in group II also showed statistically significant improvement in physical fitness in all attempts of the SFT. Virtual rehabilitation training in patients with COPD seems to be a practical and beneficial intervention capable of enhancing mobility and physical fitness.

Yoga Practices as an Alternative Training for Physical Fitness in Children With Visual Impairment.

Physical activities provide fundamental benefits to children's health and well-being. They are vital for development and healthy life, but participation of children with visual impairment is limited. Herein, the authors report results of a 16-wk yoga program, evaluating its effects on physical fitness in children with visual impairment. Eighty-three children age 9-16 years (12.37 ± 2.19) participated in a 2-arm, single-blind wait-list-controlled study at a residential school in south India. Participants (yoga group 41, controls 42) were assessed on muscle strength, flexibility, endurance, coordination, and respiratory health. Significant improvements in physical fitness were observed after the yoga intervention (Group × Time interactions for right-hand grip strength, p < .001; sit-up, p < .001; sit and reach, p < .001; bilateral plate tapping, p < .001; and peak expiratory flow rate, p < .001). Left-hand grip strength showed main effects of time, although there were no Group × Time interactions. Results demonstrate yoga's ability to improve a wide range of physical variables in children with visual impairment.

Effectiveness of an Indoor Cycling Program in Improving the Physical Condition of Young Women

Abstract Introduction. Indoor cycling training programs at fitness clubs offer the possibility of optimizing the structure and amount of physical activity, which reduces the risk of disrupting the adaptive abilities of women’s bodies. The main purpose of this study was to identify the effect of an indoor cycling program on the body composition and physical fitness of young women. Material and methods. Twenty-nine women (age = 29.31 ± 3.40 years, body weight = 70.71 ± 6.15 kg, and height = 169.83 ± 3.17 cm) took part in the study, participating in three classes per week for 16 weeks. Each class included three periods: the preparatory, main, and supporting periods. Body composition (waist circumference and body mass index), cardiorespiratory fitness (VО2max), motor fitness (balance), and musculoskeletal fitness (upper and lower body muscle strength and muscular endurance) were compared before the beginning of the study and after 10 and 16 weeks of training. Changes recorded in each variable over time were analyzed statistically using repeated measures methods. Results. Significant improvements in physical fitness were identified in the values of the body mass index (7.81%; ES: 0.95, p = 0.0001) and VО2max (12.51%; ES: 1.02, p = 0.0001). Moderate improvements were found in lower body muscle strength (11.13%; ES: 0.66, p = 0.0001) and waist circumference (6.05%, ES: 0.65, p = 0.0001). There was an increase in the strength of the muscles of the upper body (5.27%; ES: 0.41, p = 0.0001), muscular endurance (8.20%; ES: 0.32, p = 0.0001), and balance (10.68%; ES: 0.29, p = 0.003). Conclusion. Indoor cycling in a fitness club is an effective form of exercise for young women; it has targeted training effects on the body’s functional systems, adaptive abilities, and physical fitness.

Effect of passive, active and combined warm up on the lower limb of healthy individuals

Aim of the study is to determine the effect of passive, active and combined warmup on lower limb of healthy individuals. The methodology of the study is 30 individuals based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Detailed procedure will be explained in patient words, and informed consent will be obtained from all participants. Effect of active, passive and combined warm-up will be evaluated in the subjects. The post-test value will be taken after four weeks. The results we determined from the static analysis has been revealed that there is a significant improvement in physical fitness of combined warm-up group than the active and passive warm-up separately. In the vertical jump test for passive warm-up group, the pre-test mean is 37.71, with the standard deviation being 6.53 and the post-test mean being 38.24 with a standard deviation of 6.60. And for the active warm-up group, the pre-test mean is 38.69, with the standard deviation being 6.606 and the post-test mean being 39.4 with a standard deviation 6.65. And for the combined warm-up group, the pre-test mean is 38.94, with the standard deviation being 7.12 and the post-test mean being 40.57 with a standard deviation of 6.88. Hence, we conclude that it has been proved statistically that although improvements have been observed in three groups, the improvement is much more significant in the combined warm-up group.