Step Test Research Articles

Effects of controlled supramaximal high-intensity interval training on muscle capacities and physical functions for older adults: analysis of secondary outcomes from the Umeå HIT study-a randomised controlled trial.

This study investigated the effectiveness of supramaximal high-intensity interval training (supramaximal HIT) on muscle capacities and physical function compared to moderate-intensity training (MIT) for older adults. Sixty-eight older adults (66-79years, 56% women), not engaged in regular exercise, were randomised to 3months of twice-weekly supramaximal HIT (20minutes including 10 × 6-second intervals) or MIT (40minutes including 3 × 8-minute intervals). Both groups performed the training on stationary bicycles in a group setting. Target intensity was watt-controlled, with standardised cadence and individualised resistance. Outcomes analysed with linear-mixed models included leg power (Nottingham Power Rig), hand grip strength (Jamar dynamometer), static and dynamic balance (One leg stance, 30-second step test), chair stand (30-second chair stand), and anaerobic cycling performance (modified Borg Cycle Strength Test). Baseline values were (supramaximal HIT/MIT, mean ± SD) leg power 198 ± 60/189 ± 53W, hand grip strength 4.2 ± 1.0/4.3 ± 1.1N/kg, static balance 64 ± 41/62 ± 41s, dynamic balance 39 ± 7/38 ± 5 steps, chair stands 22 ± 6/22 ± 6 and anaerobic cycling performance 224 ± 60/217 ± 55W. At 3-month follow-up, a between-group difference in favour of supramaximal HIT [95% CI] was observed in anaerobic cycling performance of 19[3;35] W. Within-group mean changes for supramaximal HIT/MIT were for leg power 8.4[0.9;15.8]/6.0[-1.3;13.3] W, hand grip strength 0.14[0.00;0.27]/0.13[-0.01;0.26] N/kg, static balance 11[3;20]/10[1;18] s, dynamic balance 1.6[0.3;2.8]/2.3[1.1;3.6] steps, 2.1[1.1;3.1]/1.4[0.4;2.3] chair stands and anaerobic cycling performance 31.3[19.6;43.0]/12.0[0.4;23.5] W. Supramaximal HIT showed superior effect on anaerobic cycling performance when compared to MIT. Additionally, the results indicate that supramaximal HIT is comparably beneficial as MIT in terms of effects on muscle capacity and physical function for older adults.

Test-retest and inter-rater reliability and construct validity of the 2-minute step test in individuals with Parkinson's disease

ObjectiveTo evaluate the test-retest and inter-rater reliability and construct validity of the 2-minute step test (2MST) in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). MethodsTwo previously trained examiners applied the 2MST in two moments. Clinical measurements of PD were obtained using the following instruments: Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), modified Hoehn and Yahr Scale (H&Y), gait speed and cadence, 5-time Sit-to-Stand Test (5TSST) and Timed Up and Go (TUG). For reliability, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC) were calculated. For construct validity, Pearson's and Spearman's correlation coefficient were used. The agreement between the measurement in person and via recorded video was assessed by means of Bland-Altman plots. ResultsThe 2MST showed adequate test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.80, SEM = 10.59, MDC = 29.35) and excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.93, SEM = 4.49, MDC = 12.46). There was acceptable agreement between assessments made with in person and via video. A correlation magnitude above 0.50 was found between 2MST and gait speed, and a correlation magnitude between 0.30 and 0.50 with BBS, gait cadence, UPDRS and TUG. ConclusionThe 2MST presents adequate test-retest and inter-rater reliability and a valid construct to evaluate the aerobic endurance of individuals with PD.

Photobiomodulation therapy to prevent oral mucositis and functional impairment in adult patients with haematological cancer undergoing haematopoietic stem cell transplantation: randomised trial protocol

IntroductionOral mucositis is a highly prevalent condition in individuals treated for haematological neoplasms, primarily during haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The condition is known to delay recovery processes, increasing the...

Intra-rater and test-retest reliability of videography observation method to check diversion time in Fukuda step test among college going students.

The Fukuda step test is a valuable tool for identifying vestibular dysfunction in humans. This study evaluated the intra-rater and test-retest reliabilities of videograph observations to determine the diversion time while performing the Fukuda test. This study aimed to determine the use of videographic observation as a beneficial tool for recording real-time assessment procedures in clinical settings. Fifty college students who were selected based on the inclusion criteria performed three consecutive sessions of the Fukuda step test. Intra-rater and test-retest reliabilities of the videograph observations were identified using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). We noted both, good intra-rater (ICC= 0.78) and moderate-to-good test-retest reliabilities (ICC= 0.69) of the videograph observations. Videographic observation can be used in clinical settings to identify diversion times while performing the Fukuda step test.

Estimates of the accuracy of identification of a nonlinear dynamic system using step test signals

Machine learning (ML) has become widespread in everyday life. On its basis, programs with artificial intelligence work, on the basis of which many virtual assistants have evolved. ML plays an important role in various spheres of activity of many enterprises. ML helps to automate many processes, simplifying the functioning of the company. Named Entity Recognition (NER) models allow to automatically select and search for information according to certain criteria in mobile data extracted, for example, by the logistic method. Support for NER by Python models makes it possible to flexibly program specific requests that are generated in the forensic examination process. Open source creates a unique opportunity to continuously improve the model by training it on datasets. A powerful NER package is the spaCy framework, which helps to simplify data and extract detailed information from input data, train a model, perform model tuning, and more. spaCy is compatible with 64-bit CPython 3.7+ and runs on Unix/Linux, macOS/OS X and Windows. The latest spaCy releases are available over pip and conda.

Feasibility, reliability, and validity of the two-minute step test for assessing aerobic exercise capacity and functional endurance in participants with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility, test–retest reliability, and construct validity of the 2-min step test (2MST) in measuring aerobic exercise capacity and functional endurance in participants with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Fifty participants with quadriceps tendon autograft, bone-patellar tendon-bone graft, or hamstring autograft were included. Feasibility was assessed by the time and support required to complete the measures and the feedback from participants, including their satisfaction ratings. Test–retest reliability was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC2,1), a Bland–Altman plot with 95% limits of agreement (LoA), SEM, SEM%, and minimum detectable change (MDC95). The participants were assessed with the visual analogue scale (VAS), Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), stair climbing test (SCT), and 6-min walk test to assess construct validity. The test took less than 5 min to describe and perform, and participants required minimal verbal support. The satisfaction rate was notably high. The ICC2,1 was 0.98 (0.96–0.99). SEM and MDC95 were 2.96 and 8.20 (2.41–14.00), respectively. The SEM% of 2.99 was considered to be at a very good level. The Bland–Altman plot illustrates that the 2MST scores had a 95% LoA ranging from −21.52 to 2.68 steps. The SCT score and VAS rest score were found to be associated with the 2MST performance, explaining 42.5% of the variance. The 2MST is a feasible, reliable, and valid test to measure aerobic exercise capacity and functional endurance in participants with ACLR.

Correlation of body mass index, with cardiometabolic and cardiorespiratory fitness in health care professionals of Multan.

The current study was conducted at Ali-Ul-Murtaza Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Muhammad Institute of Medical and Allied Sciences, Multan, Pakistan, from October to December 2022 to explore the correlation of body mass index with cardiometabolic and cardiorespiratory parameters in 393 male and female healthcare professionals, including physiotherapists, pharmacists and medical laboratory technicians, aged 22- 40 years. The evaluation was on the basis of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire, body mass index, lipid profile, body fat and correlation of blood pressure, temperature, oxygen saturation, respiration rate and heart rate with cardiorespiratory fitness assessed through shuttle-run test, step test and treadmill test. Data was analysed using SPSS 25. Of the 393 subjects, 140(35.62) were underweight, 140(35.62) were overweight and 113(28.75) were obese. Of the total, 153(38.93) were pleased with their general health, while 240(61.06) had a history of cardiovascular and metabolic conditions. There was a highly significant correlation between lipid profiles and the subjects' quality of life (p<0.05).

Step Test Evaluation of Performance on Stairs (STEPS): Assessing Stair Function in Older Adults.

Stair negotiation is crucial for functional independence and is a leading cause of fall-related injuries in older adults. The Step Test Evaluation of Performance on Stairs (STEPS) is a quick and easily administered outcome measure for assessing stair negotiation. This study investigated the reliability and concurrent content validity of the STEPS test to determine its usefulness in older adults. Eighty-two community-dwelling older adults (mean age 81.2years, 51 females) were assessed on the STEPS test, Timed Up and Go (TUG), 5-times sit to stand (5XSTS), stair self-efficacy (SSE) questionnaire, and time to ascend and descend stairs. Participants repeated the STEPS test 7 to 14days later for intrarater reliability by the same rater. Spearman rank and intraclass correlations were used to determine the association of measures and intrarater reliability. The mean STEPS score was 15.6 (SD=3.7) out of 20. The STEPS total score demonstrated excellent intra- and interrater reliability. It had moderate to good and significant correlations with TUG, 5XSTS, SSE, and time to ascend and descend measures. Faster performance on the 5XSTS, TUG, and time to ascend and descend correlated with better performance on the STEPS test, indicating validity for assessing balance and mobility during stair negotiation in older adults. Lower SSE correlated with lower observer ratings of performance on stairs (STEPS scores), indicating agreement between participant reports of self-efficacy and observer ratings of performance. Step Test Evaluation of Performance on Stairs items that demonstrated the most frequent loss of points were balance (use of handrail), step continuity, foot placement, and self-propulsion (ascent only). Assessment of older adults' safety and performance on stairs is vital given the increased difficulty of stair navigation and the high risk for injurious falls in this population. This study demonstrates that the STEPS test is a reliable and valid outcome measure for assessing stair performance in older adults.

A 10-week multicomponent outdoor exercise program improves hemodynamic parameters and physical fitness in cardiovascular disease adult and elderly patients

AbstractThis study aimed to assess the effects of a 10-week multicomponent outdoor exercise program on hemodynamic, physical fitness and psychological variables in subjects with CVDs. Twenty participants (12 M and 8 F; age 68.5 ± 8.6 years; BMI 28.49 ± 4.98 kg/m2) suffering from CVDs participated in this randomized controlled study and were allocated into two groups: an experimental group (EG; 6 M, 5 F) who underwent a multicomponent training (i.e., cardiorespiratory, resistance, mobility and breathing exercises; 60’, 2d·wk-1), or a wait-list control group (CG; 6 M, 3 F) who did not engage in any PA. Hemodynamic parameters were assessed through resting heart rate (RHR) and peripheral blood pressure (P-SBP/P-DBP). Physical fitness was assessed via a 30″ chair stand test (30CST), timed up and go (TUG) test, handgrip strength (HGS) test, and 2’ step test (TMST). The health status and quality of life (QoL) were evaluated with short form-12 (SF-12) and World Health Organization QoL (WHOQoL-bref), respectively. After the intervention, EG showed significant reduction in hemodynamic parameters (RHR p &lt; 0.001, ES = 0.98; P-SBP p &lt; 0.001, ES = 0.53; P-DBP: p &lt; 0.001, ES = 0.78), physical fitness (30CST p &lt; 0.001, ES = 0.92; TUG p = 0.001, ES = 0.67; TMST p &lt; 0.05, ES = 0.79) and physical component of SF-12 (PSC-12 p &lt; 0.05, ES = 0.42) compared to CG; no significant changes were observed in HGS, QoL and mental health component of the SF-12 (p &gt; 0.05). The findings showed significant improvements in hemodynamic parameters and physical fitness suggesting the effectiveness of the multicomponent outdoor exercise program in adults and elderly with stabilized CVDs.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus negatively affects the functional performance of 6-min step test in chronic heart failure: a 3-year follow-up study

BackgroundType 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and chronic heart failure (CHF) present a decrease in functional capacity due to the intrinsic nature of both pathologies. It is not known about the potential impact of T2DM on functional capacity when assessed by 6-min step test (6MST) and its effect as a prognostic marker for fatal and non-fatal events in patients with CHF.Objectiveto evaluate the coexistence of T2DM and CHF in functional capacity through 6MST when compared to CHF non-T2DM, as well as to investigate the different cardiovascular responses to 6MST and the risk of mortality, decompensation of CHF and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) over 36 months.MethodsThis is a prospective cohort study with 36 months of follow-up in individuals with T2DM and CHF. All participants completed a clinical assessment, followed by pulmonary function testing, echocardiography, and 6MST. The 6MST was performed on a 20 cm high step and cardiovascular responses were collected: heart rate, systemic blood pressure, oxygen saturation, BORG dyspnea and fatigue. The risk of mortality, acute myocardial infarction and decompensation of CHF was evaluated.ResultsEighty-six participants were included. The CHF-T2DM group had a significantly lower functional capacity than the CHF non-T2DM group (p < 0.05). Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (L), ejection fraction (%), gender and T2DM influence and are predictors of functional capacity (p < 0.05; adjusted R squared: 0.419). CHF-T2DM group presented a higher risk of mortality and acute myocardial infarction over the 36 months of follow-up (p < 0.05), but not to the risk of decompensation (p > 0.05).ConclusionT2DM negatively affects the functional performance of 6MST in patients with CHF. Gender, ejection fraction (%), FEV1 (L) and T2DM itself negatively influence exercise performance.

Dietary protein intake and its association with physical fitness test among older adults with pre-sarcopenia and sarcopenia: A cross-sectional study.

Low protein intake and physical inactivity are factors that associated with muscle deterioration and poor physical performance among older adults. To assess the association between dietary protein intake and physical fitness tests among older adults with pre-sarcopenia and sarcopenia. A total of 110 older adults were recruited through a convenience sampling method. Data including sociodemography, anthropometry, body composition, medical history, and dietary protein intake were obtained through the interview-administered method. Most of the subjects have low household income (<RM 3030) (90%), Malay ethnicity (66.4%), and are married (64.5%). 74.55% of the subjects were pre-sarcopenic, whereas 25.45% were sarcopenic. Those with sarcopenia were mostly underweight (± 21.78 kg/m2), whereas those with pre-sarcopenia had a slightly higher Body Mass Index (BMI) (± 27.30 kg/m2). Both men and women did not meet the dietary protein requirement (± 43.86 g/ day) based on the Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) of 2017. Moreover, both pre-sarcopenic and sarcopenic subjects have reduced functional ability. Although no significant differences were found in the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) score, those with sarcopenia had poorer physical performance than those with pre-sarcopenia (82.1% versus 69.5%). Apart from that, there was a significant association between the 2-min step test (2MST) and dietary protein intake among those with pre-sarcopenia (r-value = 0.252). In conclusion, lifestyle interventions among older adults are important, including ensuring adequate protein intake and encouraging appropriate physical activity to enhance muscle mass, strength, and performance to improve their daily life efficiency and quality of life.

Training volume, intensity, and performance of world-class Chinese rowers prior to the 2019 world championships: A case study

Six world-class Chinese male rowers (age: 28.2 ± 3.2 years; height: 1.93 ± 0.02 m; body mass: 94.7 ± 3.9 kg) participated in the study. The training volume in different modalities and intensities were recorded over 44 weeks. To evaluate rowing performance, rowers completed four 2000 m and 5000 m maximum effort time trials and two incremental step tests. Total training time for the season was 907 h, which consisted of 67.5% of rowing training, 16.9% of strength training, 15.2% of warm-up and flexibility, and 0.4% of non-specific endurance training. The rowing training intensity distribution (TID) was 87.0% performed at low intensity (LIT), 8.4% at moderate intensity (MIT), and 4.6% at high intensity (HIT). There was no significant difference in average weekly rowing training volume (distance) at LIT across four phases (p = 0.12), as well as rowing training at MIT (p = 0.07) and HIT (p = 0.97). The fourth 2000 m time trials performance significantly improved from the first trial (−6.4 s, p = 0.02). The fourth 5000 m time trial performance was significantly improved from the first (−13.4 s, p = 0.02) and second trial (−14.1 s, p = 0.01). The final-step mean power output (W) in the second incremental step test improved significantly (p = 0.04). In the 2018–19 season, China's world-class rowers conducted considerable LIT rowing. The training volume distribution and rowing TID were similar in all phases.

Development of Material Sensors Made of Metastable Austenitic Stainless Steel for Load Monitoring

AbstractMetastable stainless steels can be used as a load-sensitive sensor. In combination with an eddy current testing system, mechanical overloads of a component can be detected directly during operation. Material sensors were prepared by shot peening fatigue specimen of metastable austenitic steel to obtain a martensitic surface layer and a local heating by a laser beam to obtain an austenitic area in the layer. In order to investigate the response of the material sensor to overload and achieve different trigger thresholds, the thermal energy applied to create the sensor material and the geometry of the material sensors were varied. It is shown that the austenitized volume and the martensite fraction in the material sensor correlate with the phase of the eddy current signals. Starting from the martensitic surface layer, the phase decreases as the austenitized volume increases. If martensite formation takes place due to an overload, the phase increases as a result. To determine the threshold stress needed to trigger the material sensor, cyclic rotating bending tests were carried out on austenitic stainless steel 1.4301 (AISI 304). In step tests, the bending stress was gradually increased and subsequently ex-situ eddy current testing was carried out. The potential for predicting and classifying an overload is significantly greater with a higher applied thermal energy. Three different sensor geometries (rhombus, cross and ring) were employed in tests. In comparison, the rhombus-shaped material sensor provided the greatest potential for load history interpretation due to the significant phase change.

Research on anti-rollover control of three-axle rescue vehicle based on active suspension and differential braking

Abstract. Due to its intricate operational environment, substantial mass, and elevated center of mass, the three-axle emergency rescue vehicle is more prone to rollover. This study aims to enhance the operational stability and mitigate rollover risks by establishing a rollover dynamic model with 11 degrees of freedom. Using the coupling characteristics of vehicle dynamics and tire force, an anti-rollover control strategy of the three-axle vehicle based on the cooperative work of differential braking and active suspension is proposed. According to the vehicle motion characteristics, the active suspension controller is built by using a fuzzy PID algorithm, and the differential braking controller is built by using the improved adaptive model predictive control algorithm. The step and fishhook tests of differential braking, active suspension control and joint control are carried out respectively. The simulation results show that the joint control strategy can effectively reduce the rollover tendency of the vehicle, and further improve the anti-rollover ability of the vehicle compared with the single system control.

The IntegraPark Study: An Opportunity to Facilitate High-Intensity Exercise with Immersive Virtual Reality in Parkinson's Disease Patients.

high-intensity exercise is a feasible and effective modality in the early stages of Parkinson's disease (PD). However, there are only a few studies that have carried out this type of intervention in customizable immersive virtual reality (IVR) environments. We explore the feasibility and effects of IVR-based high-intensity training through rowing and cycling exercises on the functional capacity, quality of life, and progression of PD. a total of 12 participants (61.50 ± 10.49 years old; 41.7% female, 58.3% male; stages I-III) were part of the study, which consisted of interventions of rowing and cycling in an IVR commercial exergame (25 min; twice per week for 14 weeks). The main variables measured were functional capacity, handgrip strength, functional mobility (TUG), functional lower-limb strength (FTSST), aerobic capacity (2-min step test), quality of life (PDQ-39), and Parkinson's disease progression (MDS-UPDRS). the results showed a general improvement in handgrip strength in both hands (p = 0.008; d = 0.28), FTSST (p = 0.029; d = 0.96), and TUG times (p = 0.152; d = 0.22). Aerobic capacity, assessed by a 2-min step test, showed enhanced scores (p = 0.031; d = 0.78). Related to the PDQ-39, all dimensions of the scale were enhanced, highlighting activities of daily living (p = 0.047; d = 0.29) and bodily discomfort (p = 0.041; d = 0.37). Finally, the main symptoms of the disease were reduced, with an improvement in the parameters that show a better incidence of disease progression, such as Part IA and IB (p = 0.013; d = 0.29 and p = 0.021; d = 0.25, respectively), Part II (p = 0.021; d = 0.23), Part III (p = 0.040; d = 0.39), and Part IV (p = 0.013; d = 0.39). the therapeutic exercise (rowing and cycling), when carried out at a high intensity and in a personalized IVR scenario, appear to be a feasible and safe modality for patients with stages I-III of PD, improving their functional capacity, quality of life, and disease progression.

Effectiveness of mobile health for exercise promotion on cardiorespiratory fitness after a cancer diagnosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Cancer survivors are at greater risk for cardiovascular-related mortality. Mobile health (mHealth) is an increasingly prevalent strategy for health promotion, but whether it consistently improves cardiorespiratory outcomes after a cancer diagnosis is unknown. We sought to determine the effectiveness of mHealth fitness/physical activity interventions on cardiorespiratory fitness outcomes among cancer patients and survivors. Leveraging MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and ClinicalTrials.gov, we identified studies through May 2023. Included studies provided a quantitative evaluation of an mHealth intervention in a primary or secondary capacity on cardiorespiratory fitness (6-minute walk test, VO2max, 3-minute step test, or systolic blood pressure; or any mention of cardiac measure) and were meta-analyzed (using a random effects model) if they were a randomized controlled trial with sufficient quantitative information. Four coders were involved in applying inclusion/exclusion criteria, coding using a standardized data extraction sheet, and assessing study quality, with each study coded by at least two. Of 656 articles, nine (n = 392) met systematic review inclusion criteria (mean age range 19-62 years, 71.9% female, 60.9% breast cancer). Interventions included mobile apps (k = 6), smartwatches (k = 2), or a smartwatch plus a supplemental web/mobile/tablet app (k = 1); median duration of mHealth-use was 12 weeks. Seven (n = 341) fit criteria for meta-analysis. mHealth was associated with improved cardiorespiratory fitness (d = 0.33; 95% CI = 0.07-0.60) compared to a control group. Relationships remained after accounting for lipid-based outcomes (d = 0.30; 95% CI = 0.03-0.56). There was no evidence for heterogeneity or publication-bias. mHealth exercise interventions appear to be a viable strategy for improving cardiorespiratory fitness after a cancer diagnosis.

A cardiac rehabilitation programme based on neuromuscular training improves the functional capacity of patients with acute coronary syndrome: a preliminary randomised controlled trial

ObjectivesTo evaluate the effects of a cardiac rehabilitation programme based on neuromuscular training (NMT) compared with classic rehabilitation strength training (CRST) in patients diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). DesignPreliminary randomised, double-blinded, parallel clinical trial. SettingUniversity health clinic in Valencia, Spain. ParticipantsThirty patients with ACS, InterventionsPatients were assigned to one of two groups at random: the NMT group (n=15) and the CRST group (n=15). All patients attended the 20 sessions of the exercise programme. Main outcome measuresThe primary outcome was the Incremental Shuttle Walk Test (ISWT). The secondary outcomes were the Chester Step Test (CST), the 30-Second Chair Stand Test (30CST), and hip flexor dynamometry. Assessments were made at baseline, immediately post-treatment, and at 6-month follow-up. ResultsThe NMT group showed a greater improvement in the ISWT than the CRST group, both at post-treatment {mean 648 [standard deviation (SD) 197] vs 493 (SD 219), mean difference 155, 95% confidence interval (CI) -1 to 310} and at follow-up [732 (SD 183) vs 518 (SD 222), mean difference 214, 95% CI 61 to 367]. The secondary outcomes showed significant between-group differences in favour of the NMT group at 6-month follow-up, except for the 30CST. ConclusionsThese preliminary findings indicate that a cardiac rehabilitation programme based on NMT may improve functional capacity in terms of patient performance, cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength. Moreover, the improvements were maintained at medium-term follow-up. This could help improve the design of rehabilitation sessions, considering factors associated with performing everyday activities in patients affected by ACS.

Feeling good means doing good: body appreciation as a predictor of physical activity, fitness, and motivation

The study aimed to investigate the influence of body appreciation on physical activity motivation, physical activity level, and physical fitness among 423 randomly selected state university students. The Body Appreciation Scale-2 was used to quantify body appreciation. For measuring physical activity level, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire was utilized. The Physical Activity and Leisure Motivation was also used to quantify physical activity motivation. Various field tests, such as a 3-minute Step test, a 1-minute Push-up test, a Plank test, a Wall sit test, and a Sit and Reach test, were used to assess physical fitness. The questionnaire, scale, and field tests were completed and performed by the participants. The data gathered were analyzed using multiple linear regression with SPSS Version 29. Body appreciation was found to be a predictor of physical activity and leisure motivation for males, females, and all participants. It also predicted the physical activity levels of males, females, and all participants. However, its influence on physical fitness was only found in male participants. Future studies should measure variables using alternative instruments, such as a varied scale for body appreciation, real-time physical activity tracking through wearables and fitness apps, and additional physical fitness components to better assess the influence of body appreciation on physical fitness.

Comparison of functionality, physical activity, cardiac and respiratory parameters between patients with mood disorders and healthy controls

Background The cardiorespiratory effect in mental illnesses has recently received much attention. However, the cardiovascular and pulmonary effects of mood disorders have not been clearly demonstrated. Aims This study aims to compare individuals with mood disorders and healthy people in terms of exercise capacity, functionality, respiratory muscle strength, pulmonary function, dyspnoea and physical activity level. Method This cross-sectional study involved 30 patients with mood disorders and 35 age- and gender-matched healthy individuals. Exercise capacity (6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), 3-Minute Step Test (3MST)), functionality (vertical jump test, functional reach test), respiratory parameters (respiratory muscle strength, pulmonary function test), dyspnoea (Modified Medical Research Council Dyspnoea Scale) and physical activity level (Short-Form International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)) were evaluated. Results 6MWT results (P &lt; 0.001) and functional test scores (vertical jump test, P = 0.006; functional reach test, P &lt; 0.001) were significantly lower, and heart rate recovery after 3MST (P &lt; 0.001) was higher in mood disorder patients. Although patients' respiratory parameters were lower than healthy individuals, only measured and predicted respiratory muscle strength (P &lt; 0.001), peak expiratory flow rate litres (P &lt; 0.001), forced vital capacity predicted (P = 0.010) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s predicted (P = 0.002) values were statistically significantly different. Dyspnoea with activities was higher in patients (P &lt; 0.001). Patients spent more time sitting (IPAQ, P &lt; 0.001), but overall physical activity levels were similar between the two groups (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusions Patients with mood disorders had decreased exercise capacity and pulmonary function, lower functionality scores and respiratory muscle strength, and increased dyspnoea. Exercise-based rehabilitation protocols are recommended for the management of risk factors affecting the mood disorder patients' cardiorespiratory status.

Pilot Study-Estimated VO2max via Modified Harvard Step Test (MHST) in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Patients Undergoing Pre-Op Rehabilitation

Introduction: Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury ranging from partial to full thickness tear causes much dysfunction physically and psychologically. It affects both daily &amp; sporting activities with potential of creating long term complications such as post-traumatic osteoarthritis of knee, functional limitations, increase in body mass index (BMI) and loss of cardiorespiratory fitness. Cardiorespiratory fitness is an important indicator for functional and fitness capacity and VO2max is used to measure cardiorespiratory fitness. VO2max is the maximum rate of oxygen consumption during a vigorous exercise. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing is usually done on a treadmill with gaseous exchange system, a process that is time consuming, expensive and difficult to assess and not available in our public health setting. Modified Harvard step test is easy to do, cost friendly and allows mass testing to measure cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) however there are inadequate data on ACL injury and its influence on cardiorespiratory fitness using modified Harvard step test. Method: A prospective study was done using patients attending Sports Medicine Gym Hospital Tuanku Ja’afar 2023 and data from 20 patients who were undergoing pre-ACL reconstruction rehabilitation were evaluated. Patients were divided into two groups according to post trauma duration; (&lt;6 months of injury and rehabilitation and &gt;6 months injury and rehabilitation). Patients were required to do modified Harvard step test and translated into VO2max scores. Anthropometric data were also taken from patients. Results: The mean age for our study is 21.9±4.3 years. The mean VO2max for the entire participant was 43.2ml/kg/min. Mean VO2max for groups &lt;6 months injury rehabilitation and &gt;6 months injury rehabilitation was at 35.4±1.8 ml/kg/min and 49.0± 5.8ml/kg/min respectively. We report difference in both groups VO2max Conclusion: Cardiorespiratory fitness is often reduced during earlier phase of injury due to inability to perform aerobic exercises. Progressive rehabilitation can improve cardiorespiratory fitness, aid in patients return to sports and reduces morbidity post operatively. Modified Harvard step test is a reliable and cost-effective method to test VO2max. It is also important to increase cardiorespiratory fitness to maintain healthy BMI.