Traditional Aerobic Training Research Articles

Comparative analysis of the effects of high-intensity interval training and traditional aerobic training on improving physical fitness and biochemical indicators in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), linked to sedentary lifestyles and metabolic dysfunction, is highly prevalent. Exercise is an established intervention, but the relative efficacy of different exercise modalities remains unclear. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of moderate-intensity continuous aerobic training and High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on physical fitness, biochemical parameters, and liver function in NAFLD patients. Sixty NAFLD patients (32 males, 28 females; age: 49.7±8.7 years; BMI: 31.1±3.3 kg/m2) were randomized into HIIT, aerobic training, and control cohorts. The HIIT cohort performed 4-minute high-intensity intervals at 85-95% of peak heart rate, interspersed with 3-minute active recovery at 60-70% of peak heart rate for 30-40 minutes per session. The aerobic training cohort performed continuous exercise at 60-70% of peak heart rate for 45-60 minutes per session. Both intervention cohorts underwent 12 weeks of supervised training, thrice weekly. Before and after the intervention, assessments included cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, flexibility, lipid profile, liver enzymes, inflammatory markers, insulin sensitivity, and oxidative stress markers. Compared to controls, both exercise cohorts showed significant improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, and flexibility. However, HIIT elicited superior enhancements in cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular strength. Biochemically, both exercise cohorts exhibited reductions in triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, liver enzymes (alanine aminotransferase [ALT], aspartate aminotransferase [AST]), inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein [CRP], interleukin-6 [IL-6]), insulin resistance (homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance [HOMA-IR]), and oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde [MDA], protein carbonyl). Notably, HIIT yielded more substantial improvements in these parameters. HIIT and traditional aerobic training are effective in improving physical fitness and ameliorating biochemical indicators in NAFLD patients. Notably, HIIT appears to be more advantageous in enhancing cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, and metabolic, inflammatory, and oxidative stress profiles, suggesting its potential as a time-efficient and effective exercise modality for managing NAFLD.

Hypotensive effects of exercise training: are postmenopausal women with hypertension non-responders or responders?

We tested the hypothesis that increasing the exercise dose or changing the exercise mode would augment hypotensive effects when traditional aerobic exercise training failed to produce it in postmenopausal women. Sixty-five postmenopausal women with essential hypertension were randomly allocated into the continuous aerobic training (CAT) and non-exercising control (CON) groups. CAT group cycled at moderate intensity 3 times a week for 12 weeks. Individuals who failed to decrease systolic blood pressure (BP) were classified as non-responders (n = 34) and performed an additional 12 weeks of exercise training with either increasing the exercise dose or changing the exercise mode. The 3 follow-up groups were continuous aerobic training 3 times a week, continuous aerobic training 4 times a week, and high-intensity interval training. After the first 12 weeks of exercise training, systolic BP decreased by 1.5 mmHg (NS) with a wide range of inter-individual responses (-23 to 23 mmHg). Sixty-seven percent of women who were initially classified as non-responders participated in the second training period. Sixty percent of women who participated in continuous exercise training 3 or 4 times a week at greater exercise intensities reduced systolic BP. All (100%) of the women who performed high-intensity interval training experienced significant reductions in systolic BP. Traditional aerobic exercise was not sufficient to decrease BP significantly in the majority of postmenopausal women. However, those women who were not sensitive to recommended exercise may reduce BP if they were exposed to continuous aerobic exercise at higher intensities and/or volumes or a different mode of exercise.

EFEITOS DO TREINAMENTO INTERVALADO DE ALTA INTENSIDADE SOBRE O DESEMPENHO DOS JOGADORES DE FUTEBOL

ABSTRACT Introduction High-intensity interval training contributes expressively to physical training and has been gradually applied to the soccer field. This sport has received more attention in colleges and universities in the country. However, studies are needed on the most appropriate training methods to improve the players’ ability among college students, increasing the competitive level among athletes. Objective Investigate the influence of high-intensity intermittent training on soccer players’ sports performance. Methods 30 student soccer players were selected at a university for six weeks, and four training sessions were held per week. The experimental group performed intermittent high-intensity training for training; the control group used the traditional aerobic resistance training method. For the experiment, indicator information was collected for integration and analysis before the start of activities and at the end of the six weeks. Results High-intensity intermittent training can improve the fitness index and FMS index of players and also can keep the fluctuation level in players’ performance higher; the range of performance improvement is considerably larger than the traditional aerobic training method. Conclusion High-intensity intermittent training can improve players’ fitness and agility, reduce sports injuries, improve physical reserve, and promote the progress of soccer players’ sports achievements. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.

ANÁLISE E MEDIDAS PREVENTIVAS DE LESÕES SEM CONTATO NO FUTEBOL

ABSTRACT Introduction: Soccer is characterized by high intensity and great competitiveness, and several sports injuries frequently occur; one of the main categories of injuries is the non-contact ones. Objective: Study the situation of non-contact injuries in soccer and analyze its preventive measures. Methods: The experimental group adopted the intermittent training method to strengthen the proprioception and coordination ability of the athletes. In contrast, the control group adopted mainly traditional aerobic training, with a 40-day duration. Results: Among non-contact injuries in soccer sports, lower limb sprain and joint injuries represented an eminently serious proportion. After preventive exercise, the total FMS test score of the experimental group was 16.75 points, an increase of 26.03%, and that of the control group was 14.14 points, an increase of 3.49%. The performance of the experimental group was significantly improved. Conclusion: The sports training mode proposed in this study significantly reduces the probability of non-contact injuries during sports. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.

EFEITO DO CROSS FIT TRAINING NA FORMA CORPORAL E GORDURA CORPORAL DE ESTUDANTES UNIVERSITÁRIOS OBESOS

ABSTRACT Introduction: Body shape directly influences the physical health of young students and its neglect can develop physiological and psychosocial instabilities, leading to long-term quality of life impairment. Objective: Explore the influences of CrossFit training on body composition in obese female college students. Methods: 200 obese female college students were randomly selected and divided into two groups. The experimental group received eight weeks of CrossFit training, while the control group practiced traditional aerobic training. Data were recorded before and after the experiment. Results: The fat of obese female college students in the experimental group changed from 26.25±6.66 kg to 22.55±5.67 kg, the body fat ratio was from 37.58±4.37% to 32.34±4.84%, the lean mass weight varied from 42.86±5.89 kg to 43.07±6.11 kg, lean trunk weight varied from 24, 12±3.32 kg to 23.25±3.17 kg, lean abdominal weight was from 10.06±1.29 kg to 9.60±1.64 kg, and lean upper limb weight from 4.12±0.84 kg to 4.10±0.84 kg, upper limb fat was from 2.57±0.86 kg to 2.23±0.66 kg. Conclusion: CrossFit training can effectively reduce the body fat of obese female college students and make their body composition more appropriate. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigating treatment outcomes.

Changes in irisin, inflammatory cytokines and aerobic capacity in response to three weeks of supervised sprint interval training in older men.

This study investigated the effects of supervised short-term sprint interval training (SIT) on circulating irisin, interleukin (IL)-6 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α concentrations, and aerobic capacity and body composition values in healthy older men. Eleven older men (63±8 years; 178.0±5.5 cm; 82.7±8.6 kg; 22.7±3.7% body fat) underwent SIT (6 repetitions of 30 s all-out cycling bouts with 4 min active recovery after each bout) three days a week for three consecutive weeks. Body composition measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, aerobic capacity assessed by direct peak oxygen consumption (VO<inf>2peak</inf>) test and morning fasting blood samples were obtained before and after a 3-week SIT intervention. Nine supervised SIT sessions moderately (effect size [ES] =0.65; P<0.05) increased irisin concentrations (from 135.40±28.73 to 154.20±47.09 ng.mL-1) together with moderate decreases (P<0.05) in IL-6 (ES=0.89; from 1.26±0.44 to 0.87±0.44 pg.mL-1) and TNF-α (ES=0.64; from 5.10±1.23 to 4.31±1.20 pg.mL-1) levels in older men. In addition, increase in VO<inf>2peak</inf> was significant but small (ES=0.25; P<0.05; from 36.0±7.1 to 37.8±6.7 mL.min.-1kg-1), while no changes (P>0.05) in body composition variables were observed after a short-term SIT period. A 3-week SIT intervention with only nine training sessions increased circulating irisin concentrations, improved inflammatory profile and aerobic capacity without changes in body composition in healthy older men. Accordingly, a short-term SIT programme is a time efficient alternative for traditional aerobic training to improve metabolic health and aerobic capacity in older adults.

Efficacy of Hot Water Immersion versus Aerobic Exercise Training in Lowering Blood Pressure and Improving Cardiovascular Function in Adults with Untreated Hypertension

INTRODUCTIONHypertension remains among the most prevalent cardiovascular disease risk factors world‐wide. Aerobic exercise training is the current gold‐standard non‐pharmacological intervention for lowering blood pressure, yet passive heat therapy is an effective alternative means of reducing blood pressure and improving cardiovascular health for individuals that are unable or unwilling to engage in traditional exercise training. However, the effectiveness of heat therapy versus exercise training has not been compared in adults with untreated hypertension. Therefore, the purpose of this ongoing clinical trial is to compare the effectiveness of hot water immersion (HWI) versus aerobic exercise training (EX) in lowering blood pressure and improving cardiovascular function. Data presented are preliminary (mid‐point) comparisons following 15 sessions of either HWI or EX.HYPOTHESISIt was hypothesized that hot water immersion would be more effective than traditional aerobic exercise training in reducing blood pressure and improving cardiovascular function in adults with untreated hypertension.METHODSPrior to randomization, all subjects (n=6, 1F) completed resting vascular function testing, including measurements of blood pressure (automated sphygmomanometer), cardiac output (acetylene wash‐in method), and carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV). Systemic vascular conductance (SVC) was calculated as cardiac output/mean arterial pressure (MAP). Following pre‐testing (PRE), subjects were randomized into either HWI (n=4, 1F) or EX (n=2). During HWI, subjects were immersed to the level of the sternum in 40.5°C water for 45 minutes. EX consisted of upright cycling at 60% of heart rate reserve (HRR) for 40 min, with 5 min each for warm‐up and cool‐down at 30% of HRR. Participants completed 15 sessions of either HWI or EX prior to mid‐point (MID) testing. Combined data are presented as the change from PRE as mean ± SD and were analyzed using a paired‐samples t test. Group mean data for HWI versus EX are presented as the change from PRE as means ± SD and were analyzed using an unpaired two sample t‐test.RESULTSFollowing 15 sessions of either HWI or EX, systolic blood pressure tended to be reduced (‐5±4 mmHg; p=0.10). The change in systolic blood pressure (SBP) was directionally similar between HWI and EX (∆ from PRE, HWI vs. EX; ‐3±5 vs. ‐7±7 mmHg; p=0.59), whereas the change in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was divergent between HWI and EX (‐3±8 vs. +5±10 mmHg; p=0.43). Accordingly, changes in MAP were disparate between HWI and EX (‐3±7 vs. +2±9 mmHg; p=0.61). Cardiac output was similar between HWI and EX (‐0.09±0.71 vs. ‐0.76±1.07 L/min; p=0.53), as were changes in SVC (‐0.3±6.6 vs. ‐7.6±15.9 mL•min‐1•mmHg‐1; p=0.63). Overall, PWV was reduced by both interventions (‐0.6±0.3 m/s; p=0.01) and changes in PWV were similar between HWI and EX (‐0.6±0.4 vs. ‐0.5±0.4 m/s; p=0.72).CONCLUSIONSPreliminary data from this ongoing clinical trial suggest both hot water immersion and exercise are similarly effective in lowering systolic blood pressure and reducing arterial stiffness in people with untreated hypertension.

Aerobic Adaptations to Resistance Training: The Role of Time under Tension.

Generally, skeletal muscle adaptations to exercise are perceived through a dichotomous lens where the metabolic stress imposed by aerobic training leads to increased mitochondrial adaptations while the mechanical tension from resistance training leads to myofibrillar adaptations. However, there is emerging evidence for cross over between modalities where aerobic training stimulates traditional adaptations to resistance training (e.g., hypertrophy) and resistance training stimulates traditional adaptations to aerobic training (e.g., mitochondrial biogenesis). The latter is the focus of the current review in which we propose high-volume resistance training (i.e., high time under tension) leads to aerobic adaptations such as angiogenesis, mitochondrial biogenesis, and increased oxidative capacity. As time under tension increases, skeletal muscle energy turnover, metabolic stress, and ischemia also increase, which act as signals to activate the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha, which is the master regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis. For practical application, the acute stress and chronic adaptations to three specific forms of high-time under tension are also discussed: Slow-tempo, low-intensity resistance training, and drop-set resistance training. These modalities of high-time under tension lead to hallmark adaptations to resistance training such as muscle endurance, hypertrophy, and strength, but little is known about their effect on traditional aerobic training adaptations.

Short- and longer-term psychological and behavioral effects of exergaming and traditional aerobic training: A randomized controlled trial

ABSTRACT This study aimed to compare short- and longer-term psychological and behavioral effects of the exergaming (EX-GAME) and traditional group aerobic training (TRAD) on psychological constructs and physical activity adherence. Young adults (n = 55; 18–24 yrs) were randomized to the EX-GAME and TRAD (active control group) training regimens which had identical exercise volume (3/w, 50 min for 6w). The results indicated that EX-GAME was more effective in improving short- and longer-term autonomy satisfaction (F[1, 41] = 6.12, p = .020, ηp 2 = .12) and intrinsic motivation (F[1, 41] = 7.31, p = .009, ηp 2 = .19), but TRAD resulted in greater exercise exertion (t[41] = 5.03, p < .001, d = 1.51), enjoyment (F[1, 41] = 6.27, p = .018, ηp 2 = .13), and relatedness (F[1, 41] = 4.56, p = .032, ηp 2 = .10). TRAD had showed a larger long-term effect on identified regulation (F[1, 41] = 5.10, p = .029, ηp 2 = .11). The results indicated that autonomy is a key agent for a longer-term change, contributing to the positive development of intrinsic motivation (R2 = .45), identified regulation (R2 = .27), and reducing amotivation (R2 = .10). It is noteworthy that interventions did not have longer-term effects on physical activity. The study identified subtle differences between these two training modalities in changing intervention outcomes.

Effects of football versus aerobic exercise training on muscle architecture in healthy men adults: a study protocol of a two-armed randomized controlled trial

BackgroundSports and exercise training can attenuate age-related declines in physical function. As people age, they suffer a progressive deterioration of overall muscle structure and function, such as muscle diameter, strength, mass, and power. Therefore, supporting older adults—aged 50 years and above—to continue being physically active is a very important factor. Several forms of exercise (strength, agility, endurance, balance, and flexibility) are recommended. In this regard, football has been repeatedly shown to be an integrative approach to promote measures of strength, endurance, and agility. However, there has been no previous randomized controlled trial that comparatively investigates the effects of football training versus traditional aerobic exercise training on muscle architecture and patella tendon properties in healthy community dwellers. The study protocol is designed to examine whether football differentially affects muscle thickness, muscle length, fascicle length, pennation angle, patella tendon length, and thickness compared to a workload matched traditional aerobic exercise training regimen.MethodsThe study sample consists of 60 untrained but healthy men (50–60 years old), who will be randomly assigned (strata: age, activate) to two groups: football group (n = 30) and aerobic group (n = 30). The intervention will take place within 12 consecutive weeks, two times a week for 60 min each session. The football group will perform recreational football training as a large-sided game, whereas the aerobic group undergoes a running exercise. Both groups have the same external workload ranging between moderate and high exercise intensity. The outcome measure will be collected before and after the intervention period.DiscussionFindings of this study will provide insight into the effects of 24 sessions of both football and aerobic training program on the selected groups of men adults, including detecting their effects on the thigh muscle architecture.Trial registrationDRKS—German Clinical Trials Register, DRKS00020536. Registered on 30 January 2020.

Can Blood Flow Restriction Used During Aerobic Training Enhance Body Composition in Physique Athletes?

ABSTRACT Emerging evidence indicates low-load blood flow restriction (BFR) training is an effective strategy to increase muscular adaptations when performed during resistance training. Yet, it remains questionable as to whether combining BFR with traditional aerobic training can preserve or perhaps even potentiate hypertrophic adaptations. The purpose of this article is to provide an evidence-based review of current research on the topic and draw practical conclusions as to how BFR can be applied by physique athletes to optimize increases in muscle mass.

Effects of modified aerobic training on muscle metabolism in individuals with peripheral arterial disease: a randomized clinical trial

The primary objective of this study was to compare the effects on muscle metabolism of two types of aerobic training, with and without a load on the lower limbs, in adults with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). A simple blind randomized clinical trial was conducted using two groups: conventional aerobic (CG) and modified aerobic with a load on the lower limbs (MG). Both groups underwent training by walking three times a week over a 12-week period. The ratings of muscle metabolism were determined after a treadmill test with constant velocity and inclination concomitant with the use of near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Altogether 40 individuals with PAD (CG = 65.45 ± 10.60 and MG = 63.10 ± 10.54) were included in the study. After the intervention, in both groups, there was a reduction in the relative time to recovery (p = 0.002), an improvement in the re-oxygenation rate (p = 0.017), an increased time of resistance after reaching the lowest muscle oxygen saturation (StO2) (p < 0.001), an increase in the distance walked (p < 0.001), and an improvement of the walking economy relative to StO2 (p < 0.001). After 12 weeks of training, an improvement in the deoxygenation rate was observed in both groups (p = 0.002), but with a greater magnitude in the CG (p = 0.017). Only the CG presented an increase in time to reach the lowest StO2 on the treadmill after the intervention (p = 0.010). The traditional aerobic training was superior to the modified training in relation to the improvement of muscle metabolism in patients with PAD.

Tabata protocol: a review of its application, variations and outcomes

The great popularity of the Tabata Protocol is accompanied by an uncomfortable lack of consistency and criteria in its use, which results in many controversies in the results obtained from its utilization. The purpose of this study was to analyse the studies that based their interventions on the Tabata Protocol and to provide a critical analysis of its use. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed and Scopus. All articles published between 1996 and October 2017 that cited at least one of the original studies of Tabata etal. were considered. Inclusion criteria were as follows: original articles, human trials and English language. Thirty studies were included for analysis. Almost 37% of the studies (n=11) used a variation of the Tabata Protocol on a cycle ergometer. Only five studies stated the use of the original Tabata Protocol. Exercise intensity was controlled by percentage of i O2 max (n=8) or i O2 peak (n=3), number of bouts performed (n=3), all out (n=10), rate of perceived exertion (n=1), self-perception of paces (n=1), maximal power output (n=1), aerobic power (n=1) and other forms (n=2). Based on our results, variations of the Tabata Protocol seem to be indicated to provide increases in aerobic power that are similar to traditional aerobic training while being less time consuming. These adaptations seem to be mainly due to peripheral adaptations. Moreover, the use of Tabata Protocols to promote weight loss is not substantiated by the reviewed studies.

ACUTE EFFECT OF CIRCUIT AEROBIC AND TRADITIONAL AEROBIC TRAINING ON HAMSTRING FLEXIBILITY IN SEDENTARY WOMEN

The aim of this study is investigation of acute effect of circuit aerobic exercise and traditional aerobic exercise on hamstring muscle flexibility in sedentary women. Forty four sedentary women voluntarily participated in this study as subject. Subjects divided two groups as circuit aerobic training group (n=24), and traditional aerobic training group (n=20). For hamstring flexibility, modified sit and reach test was used. The test was applied three times as: before warm-up (T1), after immediately warm-up (T2), and after immediately exercise (T3). For warm-up intervention, 15 min mild running and static stretching were performed. Traditional aerobic exercise intervention consisted of 30 min moderate interval treadmill running. Circuit aerobic exercise intervention consisted of 30 min, 3x4 station (bench-step, jumping rope, cycling, treadmill running), and all station maintained to 3 min load with 2 min rest. Both training intervention performed at 65-75% HRmax that controlled with chest band. For statistical analysis, 2x3 mixed factor ANOVA and Bonferroni correction were used. Hamstring flexibility determined in the traditional aerobic exercise group as T1 by 13.90±4.22 cm, T2 by 19.90±4.55 cm, T3 by 29.45±6.54 cm; in the circuit aerobic exercise group as T1 by 21.20±6.89 cm, T2 by 24.08±6.67 cm, T3 by 25.62±6.67 cm. Differences between the three measurements of both groups were found statistically significant (p < 0.05). There were significant differences between T3 and T1-T2; and between T2 and T1 in both groups (p < 0.05). Differences in traditional aerobic exercise group were found more significant than circuit aerobic exercise group (p < 0.05). In summary, it could be said that hamstring flexibility increased after aerobic exercise, and at this point, traditional aerobic exercise has one step ahead of circuit aerobic exercise. Article visualizations:

Effects of Two Training Modalities on Body Fat and Insulin Resistance in Postmenopausal Women.

Henríquez, S, Monsalves-Alvarez, M, Jimenez, T, Barrera, G, Hirsch, S, de la Maza, MP, Leiva, L, Rodriguez, JM, Silva, C, and Bunout, D. Effects of two training modalities on body fat and insulin resistance in postmenopausal women. J Strength Cond Res 31(11): 2955-2964, 2017-Our objective was to compare the effects of a low-load circuit resistance training protocol and usual aerobic training in postmenopausal women. Postmenopausal women with at least 1 feature of the metabolic syndrome were randomly allocated to a low-load circuit resistance training protocol or traditional aerobic training in a braked cycle ergometer. The intervention consisted in supervised sessions lasting 40 minutes, 3 times per week, during 6 months. At baseline and at the end of the intervention, fasting serum lipid levels, serum interleukin 6, C-reactive protein, 8 isoprostanes, and insulin resistance (assessed through QUICKI and HOMA-IR) were measured. Body fat was measured by double-beam X-ray absorptiometry and by computed tomography densitometric quantification at lumbar 3 vertebral level. Twenty-one women aged 58 (54-59) years were allocated to aerobic training and 21 women aged 55 (52-61) years were allocated to the low-load circuit resistance training protocol. Eighteen and 16 women in each group completed the 6 months training period. Women in both groups experienced significant reductions in blood pressure, total body, subcutaneous, and intraabdominal body fat. Reductions in total cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels were also observed. No changes in insulin resistance indexes, 8 isoprostanes, C-reactive protein, or interleukin 6 were observed in either group. No significant differences between treatment groups were observed in any of the measured parameters. We conclude that low-load circuit resistance training and aerobic training resulted in the same reductions in body fat and serum lipid levels.

Within-Session Responses to High Intensity Interval Training in Spinal Cord Injury

High intensity interval training (HIIT) has shown to be a robust alternative to traditional aerobic training (Gillen et al. 2014, 2016; Astorino et al. 2011). In most individuals, incorporation of HIIT elicits increases in maximum oxygen uptake and overall health status, yet its feasibility in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) is unknown. PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to compare acute changes in cardiorespiratory and metabolic variables during different HIIT regimens versus moderate intensity continuous exercise training (MICT). METHODS: Nine habitually active men and women (injury duration = 6.8 ± 6.2 yr) with SCI initially underwent determination of peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) on an arm ergometer. During subsequent sessions, they completed MICT, HIIT, or sprint interval training (SIT). MICT consisted of 25 min of arm cycling at 45 %Wpeak. HIIT consisted of eight 60 s bouts at 70 %Wpeak separated by 90 s of active recovery at 10 %Wpeak, while SIT required eight 30 s bouts at 105 %Wpeak separated by 120 s of active recovery at 10 %Wpeak. Gas exchange data, heart rate (HR), and blood lactate concentration were measured. Each session was broken up into 16 phases (eight exercise and eight recovery data points for HIIT/SIT) for which mean oxygen uptake and HR were determined. RESULTS: Peak VO2 was higher (p = 0.03) in response to HIIT (1.13 ± 0.44 L/min at bout 8) and SIT (1.02 ± 0.37 L/min at bout 8) compared to MICT (0.90 ± 0.29 L/min), but mean VO2 was similar (p > 0.05) between MICT (0.86 ± 0.17 L/min), HIIT (0.89 ± 0.20 L/min), and SIT (0.82 ± 0.19 L/min). Peak HR was higher (p < 0.05) with HIIT (90 %VO2peak and 99 % HRpeak) and SIT (80 %VO2peak and 96 %HRpeak) versus MICT. There was no difference in mean HR across bouts (p = 0.16) which was equal to 130.7 ± 19.3, 129.3 ± 18.6, and 126.9 ± 14.9 b/min for HIIT, SIT, and MICT, equivalent to 79 - 82 %HRpeak. CONCLUSION: Despite a higher intensity, all participants preferred HIIT or SIT versus MICT. Compared to MICT, submaximal or supramaximal interval training elicits higher peak oxygen uptake and heart rate. The long-term efficacy and feasibility of HIIT in this population should be explored, considering that exercise intensity seems to be the most important variable manipulated in exercise programming to optimize maximal oxygen uptake. This study was partially funded by a University GPSM grant.

Resistance Training with Blood Flow Restriction and Hypertensive Subjects

Dear Editor-in-Chief, A recent article published in the Journal of Human Kinetics (Araujo et al., 2014) described a post-exercise hypotensive effect in hypertensive subjects after resistance exercise with blood flow restriction. The aim of this letter is to endorse the importance of further research on post-exercise hypotensive effect as a result of resistance training with blood flow restriction, especially in hypertensive subjects. Resistance exercise with blood flow restriction (REBFR) is considered alternative training for enhancing strength and muscle size (hypertrophy) to high intensity conventional resistance training (Pope et al., 2013). It is often recommended to include REBFR in clinical population, including hypertension (HTA), as this type of training carries a lower risk of injury. Additionally, it has been reported that REBFR is safe (Nakajima et al., 2006; Loenneke et al., 2011). For instance, Nakajima et al. (2006) examined the incidence of adverse events of this new methodology using a survey on 12.642 subjects that had received resistance exercise with blood flow restriction. In this report only 2 cases of increasing blood pressure were detected. The author’s conclusion stated that resistance exercise with blood flow restriction was safe including clinical population such as hypertension (Nakajima et al., 2006). The Journal of Human Kinetics has recently published an article in which 14 type-1 hypertensive women were enrolled in knee extension exercise, 3 sets of 15 repetitions. One group used blood flow restriction (80% of arterial occlusion pressure) with a 30% RM intensity and the other group trained without occlusion using 80% 1RM. Researchers monitored blood pressure after 60 minutes and found that the occlusive group experienced a significant post-exercise hypotensive effect (PEHE). These data are very promising because they show that a PEHE after REBFR in HTA, an effect that has already been noticed previously in normotensive subjects (Benito and Chulvi, 2013), exists. We found that the intensity was a meaningful variable, taking into account that 70% 1RM decreased the blood pressure more than 30% (Benito and Chulvi, 2013). In hypertensive subjects, high intensity resistance training is contraindicated, but muscular strength is an important component of physical fitness. According to this, applying blood flow restriction in resistance training may be an excellent choice. On the other hand, little evidence has been accumulated supporting the hypothesis of a PEHE after REBFR. It is important to highlight that research in a PEHE after REBFR is not consistent in normotensive subjects. For instance, Rossow et al. (2011) did not find a PEHE after REBFR performing 20% 1RM for lower extremity. Therefore, further investigation is required to assess the physiological effects on hypertensive subjects comparing: a) resistance training with different levels of blood flow restriction; b) different intensities in resistance training; c) REBFR versus traditional resistance training; d) REBFR versus traditional aerobic training in hypertensive subjects.

Acute Cardiorespiratory and Metabolic Responses in Kettlebell High-Intensity Interval Training versus Sprint Interval Cycling

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has become a popular training modality due to similar adaptations it can produce in comparison to traditional aerobic training and the time-efficiency it provides. A common form of HIIT is sprint interval cycling, however little empirical evidence exists regarding the effects that other modalities of HIIT produce. One promising modality is kettlebell exercise. PURPOSE: To compare cardiorespiratory (CR) and metabolic (MB) responses of a KB-HIIT protocol to a sprint interval cycling (SIC) protocol. METHODS: Eight male participants (21.5±0.86 yrs) volunteered for this study. They completed two preliminary sessions (an informational session and a CR fitness and anthropometric assessment session), as well as two 12-min experimental sessions (KB-HIIT and SIC) in a counterbalanced-randomized fashion. CR and MB responses were measured across both experimental sessions. In the KB-HIIT bout, the participants performed three circuits of four exercises (sumo squat, swings, clean & press, and sumo deadlift) using a Tabata protocol (20-sec of exercise, 10-sec of rest). In the SIC bout, the participants performed three 30-sec sprints at an “all-out” effort, with 4-min of recovery after sprints 1 & 2 and 2-min after sprint 3. Group (2) x time (12) effects were determined for oxygen consumption (VO2), respiratory exchange ratio (RER), tidal volume (TV), breathing frequency (fB), minute ventilation (VE), caloric expenditure rate (kcal/min), and heart rate (HR). Additionally, total caloric expenditure (kcals) was compared. RESULTS: In addition to a significant (p<0.05) time effect and group x time interaction, there was a significant group effect for VO2 [F(1,14)=4.886, p<0.05], RER [F(1,14)=133.151, p<0.001], and TV [F(1,14)=10.416, p<0.05]. In the KB-HIIT bout vs. the SIC bout there was a higher mean (±SE) VO2 [22.6±1.48 vs.19.9±1.01 ml/kg/min] and lower mean (±SE) for RER [0.93±0.02 vs. 1.22±0.04 l/min] and TV [1.7±0.07 vs. 2.2±0.15 l/min]. There was only a significant (p<0.05) time effect and group x time interaction for fB, VE, kcal/min, and HR. Total caloric expenditure was also significantly higher during the KB-HIIT bout vs. the SIC bout [144.87±6.56 vs. 122±7.34 kcals, p<0.05]. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study offer new evidence that KB-HIIT is an effective form of HIIT for eliciting CR and MB responses essential for aerobic fitness adaptation.

Effectiveness of high-intensity interval training in patients with coronary heart disease: a systematic review protocol

Review question/objective What is the effectiveness of high-intensity interval training for the improvement of cardiorespiratory fitness and other measures of cardiovascular function in patients with coronary heart disease? Inclusion criteria Types of participants This review will consider studies that include male and female adults, of all ages, diagnosed with a condition meeting International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10,WHO 2010) I20-I25 classification of ischemic heart disease including coronary heart disease (atherosclerotic heart disease), myocardial infarction, angina pectoris and ischemic cardiomyopathy. Patients who have undergone recent revascularization procedures (coronary artery stenting, coronary artery bypass grafting or percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty) will also be included. Studies of patients with heart failure, following valve surgery, following heart transplantation, or patients with implantable defibrillators will be excluded from this review. Types of intervention(s)/phenomena of interest This review will consider studies that evaluate exercise programs, between four and 12 weeks in duration, consisting of INT, characterized by brief, intermittent bursts of high-intensity exercise (typically 80-95% HR peak ), interspersed by periods of rest or low-intensity exercise. Exercise programs consisting of outpatient, inpatient, community or home-based exercise, will be included for review. The exercise program may stand alone or form a part of comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation. For the purposes of this review, INT will be compared to traditional aerobic exercise training characterized by at least 30 minutes of rhythmic aerobic exercise, such as cycling, walking, running or swimming, performed at a moderate-intensity that is sustainable for the duration of the session (60-70% HR peak ). Types of outcomes The primary outcomes of interest are measures of cardiac and total mortality, as well as cardiac events characterized by hospital admission. Cardiorespiratory fitness, namely peak oxygen consumption (VO 2peak ) will be used as a surrogate measure of cardiovascular health. Other secondary outcomes relating to cardiovascular health, including systolic blood pressure, endothelial function assessed by flow-mediated dilation, and echocardiographically determined cardiac function will be considered.

Effects of Hip Stabilization Exercises on Running Performance

Running performance (RP) is influenced by aerobic power (VO2max), running economy (RE), and lactate threshold (LT). The use of hip stabilization training to supplement traditional aerobic training may further improve RP. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of a hip stabilization training program on 2-mile running time trial (TT) performance. METHODS: 22 (nmale=10 nfemale=12; 23.2±3.4 yrs old, 67.8±3.28 kg, 158.5±26.07 cm) actively running (>30 minutes, 3-5 times·week-1, moderate to high intensity) subjects were randomly assigned to control (CON) or experimental (EXP) groups. Pre- and post-training, all subjects completed a 2-mile running TT to measure RP. All testing was performed on a 200-m indoor track to standardize environmental conditions. Subjects were started 15-sec apart to minimize congestion or pacing with other subjects. Times were recorded to the nearest 1-sec using a hand stopwatch. Between pre- and post-testing, EXP subjects performed 4-wks of hip stabilization exercises, 3 times/wk. The exercises included: 1) bodyweight hip hikes, 2) lying leg abduction with ext. rotation, and 3) abducted fwd-bkwd leg swings. All exercises were performed for 2 sets of 20 reps. Both groups were asked to maintain normal exercise patterns during the training period. A two-way ANOVA with repeated measures was used to evaluate statistical differences in RP. RESULTS: Mean ± SD for RP were - Pre-CON: 916.45 ± 158.14 sec and Post-CON: 914.36 ± 150.10 sec; Pre-EXP: 893.7 ± 57.51 sec and Post-EXP: 891.70 ± 92.84 sec. There were no significant differences in RP for the within subjects pre-post comparison (p=0.831) or the between subjects comparison (p=0. 675). CONCLUSION: The results suggest that the hip stabilization exercises had no effect on RP. However, differences in pre- and post-testing pacing strategies may have significantly affected the TT results for both groups. Performing multiple TTs during a familiarization period might have reduced the intra-subject variability in TT performance attributed to a learning effect. In addition, the training regiments for all subjects varied considerably making it hard to discern the true effect of the intervention for EXP subjects.