Strength Training Intervention Research Articles

Comparing preferences to evaluations of barrier self-efficacy for two strength training programs in US older adults.

Engagement in regular physical activity is one of the best strategies for older adults to remain healthy. Unfortunately, only 35% of older adults meet guidelines for muscle strengthening activities. Eliciting participant preferences is one possible way to improve physical activity engagement. However, other sources of participant input to improve uptake and maintenance remain uninvestigated. This study compared preferences to self-efficacy ratings for two strength training programs. We conducted a national cross-sectional survey of 611 US adults over age 65. We compared two participant evaluations (the preferred program and the program for which they had higher barrier self-efficacy) of two hypothetical strength training programs (45 minutes performed three times per week (traditional) and 5 minutes performed daily (brief)). Most participants (68%) preferred the brief strength training program. The difference in self-efficacy ratings was an average of 1.2 (SD = 0.92). One in five participants preferred a strength training program for which they had less self-efficacy; nearly all of these participants (92%) preferred the traditional strength training program but had more self-efficacy for the brief strength training program. Older adults reported preferring and having more self-efficacy for a brief compared to a traditional strength training program. Differences in self-efficacy ratings between the two strength training programs were large. Preferences were often not congruent with ratings of self-efficacy. Preferences for strength training programming may not always reflect the program most likely to be maintained. Future investigations should evaluate differences in behavioral uptake, maintenance, and outcomes from two comparative strength training interventions using preferences and self-efficacy.

Effects on the Physical Functioning of Two Exercise Interventions in Patients with Multiple Myeloma: A Pilot Feasibility Study.

Because of the high prevalence of bone destruction in patients with multiple myeloma (MM), physical exercise is oftentimes discouraged by healthcare providers. The goal of this prospective trial was to investigate the feasibility of two six-month exercise interventions in patients with MM (N = 42): a remotely prompted home-based walking intervention or a supervised strength training intervention. Physical function and pain were assessed with the Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care (AM-PAC) Basic Mobility Short Form raw score, a six-minute walk test (6 MWT), a 30-second sit-to-stand test (30 SST), a timed up-and-go (TUG) test, a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, handheld dynamometer tests, heart rate at rest, blood oxygen saturation at rest, and body mass index. No intervention-related serious adverse events were observed. Adverse events mostly affected the musculoskeletal system. In the resistance training group (n = 24), patients showed significant improvements in AM-PAC, TUG, 6 MWT, and 30 SST, with all effects but the 6 MWT sustained six months after the intervention. The walking group (n = 18) saw improvements in the AM-PAC, TUG, 6 MWT, and 30 SST, with a sustained change in the AM-PAC and TUG. This trial shows the feasibility of both exercise interventions with a sustained beneficial effect on the physical functioning of a six-month strength training intervention and, to a lesser extent, a six-month unsupervised walking intervention. A larger study building on these findings is currently underway.

Specificity of early motor unit adaptations with resistive exercise training.

After exposure of the human body to resistive exercise, the force-generation capacity of the trained muscles increases significantly. Despite decades of research, the neural and muscular stimuli that initiate these changes in muscle force are not yet fully understood. The study of these adaptations is further complicated by the fact that the changes may be partly specific to the training task. For example, short-term strength training does not always influence the neural drive to muscles during the early phase (<100ms) of force development in rapid isometric contractions. Here we discuss some of the studies that have investigated neuromuscular adaptations underlying changes in maximal force and rate of force development produced by different strength training interventions, with a focus on changes observed at the level of spinal motor neurons. We discuss the different motor unit adjustments needed to increase force or speed, and the specificity of some of the adaptations elicited by differences in the training tasks.

Strength Training Frequency and Athletic Performance in High School Girls Basketball Players.

This study investigated the effects of a six-week strength training intervention on the physical fitness of female high school athletes, with a focus on training frequency. Twenty-three female high school basketball athletes were recruited and split into two groups: one group participated in strength training once per week (S1), while the other participated in two training sessions per week (S2). The groups were not random as training sessions were voluntary, and some participants were only able to train once per week. Participants were tested before and after the intervention, and the data included: age, body height, body mass, body fat percentage, grip strength, leg/back dynamometer (LBD) strength, a seated medicine ball throw (MBT), a vertical jump (VJ), 505 tests from each foot, 0-5, 0-10, and 0-20 sprint times, and multistage fitness test shuttles. Data were analyzed by a two (time) x two (group) repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA; p < 0.05). When significant F ratios were detected in any ANOVA calculations, post hoc pairwise comparisons were conducted using the Bonferroni adjustment procedure. There were significant main effects for time that indicated the following: increased body height, body mass, grip strength, LBD strength, MBT distance, and VJ height, faster 505 times, and slower 0-5 and 0-10 m sprint times (p ≤ 0.021). There were no significant time by group ANOVAs or between-group main effects. These performance changes occurred irrespective of training frequency. High school girls who participate in at least one strength training session per week can improve their strength (grip, LBD), power (MBT, VJ), and change-of-direction speed (505).

Assessing the individual relationships between physical test improvements and external load match parameters in male professional football players-a brief report.

This study aimed to explore whether a meaningful improvement in physical performance following an in-season strength training intervention can be related to external load match parameters at an individual level in professional male football players. Eight male professional football players (25.4 ± 3.1 years, 184.1 ± 3.4 cm, 79.3 ± 2.2 kg) completed a 10-week strength intervention period in addition to football-specific training and matches. Commonly used physical and external load measures were assessed before and after intervention. Physical performance improvements had to exceed the measurement's typical error and the smallest worthwhile difference (SWD) to be considered meaningful. External load match parameters were assessed before and after the intervention period using SWD and non-overlap of all pairs (NAP) analysis. A Bayesian pairwise correlation analysis was performed to evaluate relationships between changes in physical performance and external load match parameters. Three players displayed meaningful improvements in two to five physical performance measures. However, positive changes exceeding the SWD and positive effects in NAP results were observed for all players in external load match parameters. Kendall's tau correlation analysis showed evidence (base factor >3) for only one correlation (maximum speed - decelerations, τ = -0.62) between the changes in physical performance and external load measures, while the remaining comparisons exhibited no relation. The findings suggest that improvements in physical performance may not necessarily translate to improvements in external load match parameters. Further research, with larger sample sizes, is needed to understand potential mechanisms between acute and chronic physical performance changes and football external load parameters during training and matches.

Mechanisms of Behavior Change for a Digital Resistance Training Intervention: A Mediation Study

ABSTRACT Introduction/Purpose Few interventions that seek to enhance resistance training behavior examine the mechanisms through which they exert their effects. Rather, many trials focus on physiological outcomes under tightly controlled training regimens. Understanding how to promote resistance training in everyday life is vital. This study aimed to examine the mediators of a remote-based 9-wk randomized controlled trial with a 4-wk self-regulation intervention period. Methods Sixty-one participants 18–35 yr of age who were not currently achieving the American College of Sports Medicine resistance training guidelines received two Zoom-based personal training sessions, resistance training equipment, and access to a Web site with training videos. After the two personal training sessions, participants were randomized to an intervention or comparison condition. Participants in the intervention condition received four weekly Zoom-based coaching calls to discuss barriers and solutions to resistance training participation. Resistance training behavior participation, self-efficacy, intention, behavioral expectations, and coping planning were assessed after the intervention period and at a follow-up 4 wk later. A mediation analysis was conducted to examine if the intervention had indirect effects on behavior through changes in any of the measured psychological variables. Results All necessary measures were completed by 96.7% of participants. After the intervention, direct effects were observed on self-efficacy (b = 0.68, standard error (SE) = 0.26, P = 0.01), intention (b = 0.77, SE = 0.27, P = 0.004), coping planning (b = 0.43, SE = 0.13, P = 0.001), and behavioral expectations (b = 19.7, SE = 5.3, P = 0.0001). Self-efficacy (b = 2.07, SE = 0.83, P = 0.01) and intention (b = 3.0, SE = 0.61, P = 0.0001) had direct effects on behavior. In the multiple mediation model, intention emerged as a significant mediator (b = 2.64, SE = 0.83, P = 0.001). Conclusion These findings suggest that changes in intention contributed to changes in behavior. Techniques that target behavioral intention may be appropriate for in-home strength-training interventions in young adults.

EFFECT OF STRENGTH TRAINING ON STATIC BALANCE IN BASEBALL ATHLETES

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of strength on the static balance of Pakistani baseball athletes. This study shows how elite Pakistani baseball players' static balance may improve following a 12-week strength training pre/post-intervention. The participants were separated into two groups of ten: the experimental group and the control group. The experimental group completed 12 weeks of strength training, whereas the control group received no treatment. The Romberg test was used to measure the participants' static balance in four different positions: standing on both feet with eyes open, standing on both feet with eyes closed, standing on the dominant leg with eyes closed, and standing on the nondominant leg with eyes closed. The experimental group's static balance improved significantly following the 12-week strength training intervention. The study's findings demonstrated that 12 weeks of strength training significantly improved Pakistani baseball players' static balance. Furthermore, the strength training program had a substantial and good impact on the static balance of Pakistani baseball players. It is suggested that the Pakistan Baseball Federation implement strength training and focus on improving static balance in order to improve various aspects of Pakistani baseball players' performance.

ACCEPTABILITY OF HIGH-INTENSITY FUNCTIONAL STRENGTH TRAINING AT HOME FOR POSTINJURY OLDER ADULTS

Abstract Regular exercise plays a vital role in optimizing aging and preventing functional decline. Despite the recognized benefit of exercise, adherence is challenging, and acceptability of exercise interventions is crucial. Acceptability is influenced by various factors, including content, context, and delivery. The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study is to determine the acceptability to older adult participants of a home-based high-intensity functional strength training (HIFST) intervention delivered by a physiotherapist via videoconferencing. HIFST involves the use of periods of ‘hard’ effort using everyday strength-building movements alternating with ‘easy’ recovery periods. This study accompanies an ongoing pilot randomized controlled trial investigating the feasibility of HIFST (completion: spring 2023). We are conducting semi-structured interviews and a short anonymous survey with participants who have completed HIFST. Data collected is being analyzed using qualitative content analysis. To date, results from 8 participants (2 men, 6 women, 55-81 years) demonstrate a positive overall impression of HIFST with all participants noting enjoyment, a good experience, and/or meeting their expectations. Participants reported certain aspects less/more enjoyable than others (e.g., specific exercises). No technical difficulties have been noted and many participants appreciated the convenience of an online format. Prior knowledge of interval-based exercise was minimal for most participants and the majority commented on a preference for shorter intervals with shorter rest periods. Further data collection and analysis will provide a contextualized understanding of the HIFST intervention and important considerations for exercise prescription in an aging population.

Risk factors and injury prevention strategies for overuse injuries in adult climbers: a systematic review.

Climbing is an increasingly popular activity and imposes specific physiological demands on the human body, which results in unique injury presentations. Of particular concern are overuse injuries (non-traumatic injuries). These injuries tend to present in the upper body and might be preventable with adequate knowledge of risk factors which could inform about injury prevention strategies. Research in this area has recently emerged but has yet to be synthesized comprehensively. Therefore, the aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the potential risk factors and injury prevention strategies for overuse injuries in adult climbers. This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Databases were searched systematically, and articles were deemed eligible based upon specific criteria. Research included was original and peer-reviewed, involving climbers, and published in English, German or Czech. Outcomes included overuse injury, and at least one or more variable indicating potential risk factors or injury prevention strategies. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed with the Downs and Black Quality Index. Data were extracted from included studies and reported descriptively for population, climbing sport type, study design, injury definition and incidence/prevalence, risk factors, and injury prevention strategies. Out of 1,183 records, a total of 34 studies were included in the final analysis. Higher climbing intensity, bouldering, reduced grip/finger strength, use of a "crimp" grip, and previous injury were associated with an increased risk of overuse injury. Additionally, a strength training intervention prevented shoulder and elbow injuries. BMI/body weight, warm up/cool downs, stretching, taping and hydration were not associated with risk of overuse injury. The evidence for the risk factors of training volume, age/years of climbing experience, and sex was conflicting. This review presents several risk factors which appear to increase the risk of overuse injury in climbers. Strength and conditioning, load management, and climbing technique could be targeted in injury prevention programs, to enhance the health and wellbeing of climbing athletes. Further research is required to investigate the conflicting findings reported across included studies, and to investigate the effectiveness of injury prevention programs. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/, PROSPERO (CRD42023404031).

Effect of Aging on Movement Quality in Australian Urban Firefighters.

Redshaw, AS, Carrick-Ranson, G, Bennett, H, Norton, KI, and Walker, A. Effect of aging on movement quality in Australian urban firefighters. J Strength Cond Res 37(11): e601-e608, 2023-Adequate levels of movement quality (MQ) are required to safely perform occupational tasks in physically demanding and hazardous professions such as firefighting. Although it is well established that MQ deteriorates with age in population studies, there is conflicting evidence in older tactical populations. This study sought to examine the relationship between age and MQ in Australian urban firefighters. The impact of physical activity, injury history, and body mass index on MQ were also explored. The MQ of 324 professional Australian urban firefighters was assessed using MovementSCREEN MQ assessment tool. Scores of whole-body MQ ranged from 35.3 to 82.6 (0-100 scale), with a mean score of 59.2 ± 10.0. There was a moderate, negative association between MQ and age (r = -0.500; p ≤ 0.001), with those older than 50 years of age having significantly lower scores of MQ than their younger counterparts (p ≤ 0.001). Secondary analysis found that higher body mass index (r = -0.285; p ≤ 0.001), lower habitual physical activity levels (r = 0.165; p ≤ 0.003), and the presence of any musculoskeletal injury in the previous 12 months (p = 0.016) had significant negative effects on composite MQ. Firefighters older than 50, obese, and engaging in low levels of physical activity should be considered a high priority for functional strength training interventions to maintain adequate MQ throughout their careers.

Efektivitas Latihan Fisik dalam Meningkatkan Kualitas Hidup Pasien Sirosis Hati

This systematic review aims to examine the effectiveness of physical exercise in improving the quality of life of liver cirrhosis patients. The author's method was to carry out a search process for relevant journals regarding the influence of physical exercise in improving the quality of life of liver cirrhosis patients. The author searched for literature using four data bases, namely; pubmed, embase, clinical key, science direct with year restrictions from 2020 - 2023. During the search process the author typed several keywords, such as: Physical therapy OR Physical exercise OR Physical activity) AND (quality of life OR Life Quality OR Health-Related Quality Of Life) AND (Liver cirrhosis OR Hepatic Cirrhosis. The results of the research, from the initial search results, resulted in 6 articles being analyzed. Of the 6 physical activity articles, The Strength Training Intervention (STRIVE), Home-Based Physical Activity, Resistance Training, were effective in improving quality life in liver cirrhosis patients. In conclusion, physical activity interventions applied to liver cirrhosis patients can improve the quality of life of liver cirrhosis patients.&#x0D; &#x0D; Keywords: Hepatic Cirrhosis, Liver cirrhosis, Physical exercise, Physical therapy, Quality of life.

Acute Effects in Selective Training of the Peroneus Longus and Peroneus Brevis

Category: Other Introduction/Purpose: The peroneal muscles undergo morphological changes and functional decline after a lateral ankle sprain, contributing to recurrence. We reported that different morphological changes occur in the peroneus longus (PL) and peroneus brevis (PB) after the lateral ankle sprain (Arima et al., 2022), and we believe that separate strength training for the PL and PB is necessary. However, the effect of selective training has not been studied. This study examined the acute effects of two different strength training interventions on PL and PB muscle morphology, one emphasizing loading on the ball of foot in PL training and the other emphasizing ankle eversion in PB training. The aim was then to determine the validity of selective strength training interventions for the peroneal muscles. Methods: Twenty healthy adults participated. Two training interventions were performed using a Thera-Band (strength: level +3 (black), Sakai Medical) in the right leg on separate days: the PL intervention in which the Thera-Band was placed on the ball of foot and pushed out from the contact point, and the PB intervention in which the Thera-Band was pushed out from the base of the fifth metatarsal. Muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and thickness of the peroneus muscles at the proximal 25% (showing PL) and 75% (showing PB) from the line connecting the fibular head and lateral malleolus were measured with an ultrasound device. Measurements were taken before (Pre), immediately after (Post), and 10, 20, and 30 minutes after the intervention (time effect). A repeated measures two-way ANOVA was conducted to identify differences in the training effects of PL and PB interventions on PL and PB CSA, thickness. The significance level was 5%. Results: Significant main effects of time and intervention and a significant interaction between time and intervention were found in the proximal 25% and distal 75% CSA and thickness (p &lt; 0.05). For the proximal 25% CSA, only PL intervention significantly increased the CSA compared to Pre at Post, 10 and 20 minutes (p &lt; 0.05). With regard to the proximal 75% CSA, only PB intervention significantly increased the CSA compared to Pre at Post, 10 and 20 minutes (p &lt; 0.05). For the proximal 25% thickness, only PL intervention showed a significant increase in Post compared to Pre (p &lt; 0.05). Regarding proximal 75% thickness, only PB intervention significantly increased the thickness compared to Pre at Post, 10, and 20 minutes (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: Previous studies have reported that PL muscle activity is increased by the ball of foot loading (Ishida et al., 2011), and the PB contributes to ankle eversion compared to the PL (Otis et al., 2007). Transient muscle hypertrophy immediately after training is due to edema caused by muscle damage, indicating an acute effect of training (Damas et al., 2016). The CSA and thickness of the proximal 25% showing PL in the PL intervention and the distal 75% showing PB in the PB intervention increased immediately after those interventions in this study, suggesting the possibility of selectively training PL and PB.

Piloting Res-ET: A Remote Inspiratory Muscle Strength Training Intervention On Young Stroke Survivors

Piloting Res-ET: A Remote Inspiratory Muscle Strength Training Intervention On Young Stroke Survivors

Effects of Acute Loading Induced Fatigability, Acute Serum Hormone Responses and Training Volume to Individual Hypertrophy and Maximal Strength during 10 Weeks of Strength Training

This study investigated whether a strength training session-induced acute fatigue is related to individuals’ strength training adaptations in maximal force and/or muscle hypertrophy, and whether acute responses in serum testosterone (T) and growth hormone (GH) concentrations during the training sessions would be associated with individual neuromuscular adaptations. 26 males completed the 10-week strength-training intervention, which included fatiguing dynamic leg press acute loading bouts (5 x 10 RM) at weeks two, four, six, and ten. Blood samples were collected before and after the loading and after 24h of recovery for serum T, GH, and cortisol (C) concentrations at weeks 2, 6, and 10. The cross-sectional area of the vastus lateralis was measured by ultrasonography. Isometric force measurements were performed before and immediately after loadings, and loading-induced acute decrease in maximal force was reported as the fatigue percentage. The subjects were split into three groups according to the degree of training-induced muscle hypertrophy after the training period. Increases in isometric force were significant for High Responders (HR, n = 10) (by 24.3 % ± 17.2, p = 0.035) and Medium Responders (MR, n = 7) (by 23.8 % ± 5.5, p = 0.002), whereas the increase of 26.2 % (±16.5) in Low Responders (LR, n = 7) was not significant. The amount of work (cm + s) increased significantly at every measurement point in all the groups. A significant correlation was observed between the fatigue percentage and relative changes in isometric force after the training period for the whole group (R = 0.475, p = 0.022) and separately only in HR (R = 0.643, p = 0.049). Only the HR group showed increased acute serum GH concentrations at every measurement point. There was also a significant acute increase in serum T for HR at weeks 6 and 10. HR showed the strongest correlation between acute loading-induced fatigue and isometric force gains. HR was also more sensitive to acute increases in serum concentrations of T and GH after the loading. Acute fatigue and serum GH concentrations may be indicators of responsiveness to muscle strength gain and, to some extent, muscle hypertrophy.

Effects of Acute Loading Induced Fatigability, Acute Serum Hormone Responses and Training Volume to Individual Hypertrophy and Maximal Strength during 10 Weeks of Strength Training.

This study investigated whether a strength training session-induced acute fatigue is related to individuals' strength training adaptations in maximal force and/or muscle hypertrophy, and whether acute responses in serum testosterone (T) and growth hormone (GH) concentrations during the training sessions would be associated with individual neuromuscular adaptations. 26 males completed the 10-week strength-training intervention, which included fatiguing dynamic leg press acute loading bouts (5 x 10 RM) at weeks two, four, six, and ten. Blood samples were collected before and after the loading and after 24h of recovery for serum T, GH, and cortisol (C) concentrations at weeks 2, 6, and 10. The cross-sectional area of the vastus lateralis was measured by ultrasonography. Isometric force measurements were performed before and immediately after loadings, and loading-induced acute decrease in maximal force was reported as the fatigue percentage. The subjects were split into three groups according to the degree of training-induced muscle hypertrophy after the training period. Increases in isometric force were significant for High Responders (HR, n = 10) (by 24.3 % ± 17.2, p = 0.035) and Medium Responders (MR, n = 7) (by 23.8 % ± 5.5, p = 0.002), whereas the increase of 26.2 % (±16.5) in Low Responders (LR, n = 7) was not significant. The amount of work (cm + s) increased significantly at every measurement point in all the groups. A significant correlation was observed between the fatigue percentage and relative changes in isometric force after the training period for the whole group (R = 0.475, p = 0.022) and separately only in HR (R = 0.643, p = 0.049). Only the HR group showed increased acute serum GH concentrations at every measurement point. There was also a significant acute increase in serum T for HR at weeks 6 and 10. HR showed the strongest correlation between acute loading-induced fatigue and isometric force gains. HR was also more sensitive to acute increases in serum concentrations of T and GH after the loading. Acute fatigue and serum GH concentrations may be indicators of responsiveness to muscle strength gain and, to some extent, muscle hypertrophy.

Effects of Physical Training and Associations Between Physical Performance Characteristics and Golf Performance in Female Players: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis.

Robinson, L, Murray, A, Ehlert, A, Wells, J, Jarvis, P, Turner, A, Glover, D, Coughlan, D, Hembrough, R, and Bishop, C. Effects of physical training and associations between physical performance characteristics and golf performance in female players: A systematic review with meta-analysis. J Strength Cond Res 37(12): e646-e655, 2023-The aims of this systematic review were to assess the association between physical performance and measures of golf performance, and the effects of physical training on measures of golf performance, in female golfers. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Medline, and CINAHL. Inclusion criteria required studies to (a) have conducted a physical training intervention of any duration in female players and determine the effects on measures of golf performance, (b) determine the association between physical performance in at least one test and golf performance in female players, and (c) be peer-reviewed and published in English language. Methodological quality was assessed using a modified version of the Downs and Black Quality Index tool, and heterogeneity was examined through the Q statistic and I2 . Pooled effect sizes were calculated using standardized mean differences (SMDs) (with 95% confidence interval [CI]s) within a random-effects model, with Egger's regression test used to assess small study bias (inclusive of publication bias). Of the 2,378 articles screened, only 9 were included in the final review, with 3 of these being associative by design and 6 being training interventions. From an associative standpoint, clubhead speed (CHS) was reported in all 3 studies and was associated with measures of strength ( r = 0.54), lower-body power ( r = 0.60), upper-body power ( r = 0.56-0.57), and flexibility ( r = 0.52-0.71). When assessing the effects of physical training interventions, CHS was again the most commonly reported golf outcome measure ( n = 5). The random-effect model indicated that CHS significantly improves within each training group following training interventions (SMD = 0.73 [95% CIs: 0.32-1.14], Z = 3.50, p < 0.001), with trivial heterogeneity ( I2 = 0.00%, Q = 0.18; p = 0.9963) and no prevalence of small study bias depicted through the Egger's regression test ( z = -0.28, p = 0.78). From the available research, it seems that CHS can be positively affected from strength, power, and flexibility training interventions. From an associative standpoint, only 3 studies have been conducted solely in female players, with one showcasing questionable methodology. Future research should aim to carefully select test measures which better represent the physical capacities needed for the sport when determining the effects of and relationships with golf performance.

Intervention for Treating Sarcopenia Among Older Residents in a Skilled Nursing Facility

The incidence of sarcopenia, a geriatric syndrome characterized by the progressive and generalized loss of muscle quantity or quality, increases with age and is associated with adverse health and quality of life outcomes. A 12-week strength training intervention program (STIP) was designed to improve measures of muscle mass, muscle strength, physical performance, and quality of life in elderly patients with sarcopenia. Data were collected on these measures at 4-week intervals over 12 weeks. Results showed that the STIP was an effective intervention for reducing the characteristics associated with sarcopenia. Significant gains were made in muscle mass, grip strength, balance, gait speed, chair stand, and quality of life over the 12-week period. Reduction in the incidence of sarcopenia among long-term care residents in skilled nursing facilities may contribute to reduced adverse effects of the disease process, such as falls, morbidity, and mortality, and may help residents achieve an overall higher quality of life.

Progress of core strength training intervention for lumbar disc herniation

Core strength training is a highly functional form of training, because it has excellent features like less side effects and less money, so it does not cause a lot of stress to patients both physiologically and psychologically, and nowadays it is extensively used in the intervention of lumbar disc herniation;this type of training is aimed at muscles deep in the core area of the body, core strength can increase trunk stability and reduce injury.In recent years, there have been new developments in the way core strength training is applied, a number of research has demonstrated the effectiveness of combined core strength training in the intervention of lumbar disc herniation.This paper briefly reviews the mechanism of core strength training intervention for lumbar disc herniation and the current status of core strength training in lumbar disc herniation intervention in the past five years, to provide new ideas for the use of exercise in lumbar disc herniation interventions.

The Predictive Ability of Total Genotype Score and Serum Metabolite Markers in Power-Based Sports Performance Following Different Strength Training Intensities — A Pilot Study

Muscular power is one of the factors that contribute to an athlete’s performance. This study aimed to explore the predictive ability of total genotype score (TGS) and serum metabolite markers in power-based sports performance following different strength training (ST) intensities. We recruited 15 novice male field hockey players (age = 16.27 ± .12 years old, body mass index = 22.57 ± 2.21 kg/m2) and allocated them to; high-intensity strength training (HIST, n=5), moderate intensity strength (MIST, n=5), and control group (C, n=5). Both training groups completed an eight-week ST intervention. Pre- and post-training muscular power (vertical jump) was measured. The participants were genotyped for; ACE (rs1799752), ACTN3 (rs1815739), ADRB3 (rs4994), AGT (rs699), BDKRB2 (rs1799722), PPARA (rs4253778), PPARGC1A (rs8192678), TRHR (rs7832552), and VEGF (rs1870377). TGS was calculated to annotate for strength-power (STP) and endurance (END) qualities. Subsequently, serum metabolomics analysis was conducted using Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry Quadrupole-Time-of-Flight (LC-MS QTOF) to profile differentially expressed metabolite changes induced by training. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to explore the ability of TGS and differentially expressed metabolite markers to predict muscular power changes following the intervention. Multiple Regression revealed that only TGS STP might be a significant predictor of muscular power changes following MIST (adjusted R2=.906, p&lt;.05). Additionally, ST also resulted in significant muscular power improvement (p&lt;.05) and perturbation of the sphingolipid metabolism pathway (p&lt;.05). Therefore, selected gene variants may influence muscular power. Therefore, STP TGS might be able to predict muscular power changes following MIST.

Functional and Metabolic Consequences of Sarcopenia

The capacity of older men and women to adapt to regularly performed exercise has been demonstrated by many laboratories. Aerobic exercise results in improvements in functional capacity and reduced risk of developing type II diabetes in the elderly. High intensity resistance training (above 60% of the 1 repetition maximum) causes large increases in strength in the elderly, and resistance training significant increases muscle size. Resistance training also significantly increases energy requirements and insulin action of the elderly. We recently demonstrated that resistance training has a positive effect on multiple risk factors for osteoporotic fractures in previously sedentary post-menopausal women. Because the sedentary lifestyle of individuals in a long-term care facility may exacerbate losses of muscle function, we applied this same training program to frail, institutionalized elderly men and women. In a population of 100 nursing home residents, a randomly assigned high intensity strength training program resulted in significant gains in strength and functional status. In addition, spontaneous activity, measured by activity monitors, increased significantly in those participating in the exercise program; there was no change in the sedentary control group. Before the strength training intervention, the relationship of whole-body potassium and leg strength was relatively weak (r2 = 0.29, P < 0.001), indicating that in very old persons muscle mass is an important but not the only determiner of functional status. Thus exercise may minimize or reverse the syndrome of physical frailty prevalent among very old individuals. Because of their low functional status and high incidence of chronic disease, there is no segment of the population that can benefit more from exercise training than the elderly.