Type Of Exercise Research Articles

Can hypoxic exercise retard cellular senescence? A narrative review.

Senescent cells are defined as normal cells that have undergone irreversible division arrest due to various factors. These cells have been found to play a pivotal role in aging and the development of chronic diseases. Numerous studies demonstrated that physical exercise is effective in anti-aging and anti-chronic diseases. Furthermore, the combination of exercise and hypoxia has been shown to optimize the stimulus of oxygen deprivation and extend cellular lifespan. This narrative review offers an exhaustive analysis of existing literature studying the effect of hypoxic exercise on cellular senescence under various conditions. Four electronic databases underwent title and abstract screening to summarize the effect of hypoxic exercise on cellular senescence under various conditions. Papers were deemed eligible if they examined the effect of hypoxic exercise on cellular senescence in full-text, peer-reviewed journals and published in English. The final search was carried out on May 4, 2024. Studied were excluded if they: (a) did not involve the utilization of hypoxic exercise as a sole intervention or a contributing factor; (b) did not investigate cellular senescence; (c) lacked sufficient information regarding the study design and findings. A total of 2033 articles were obtained from four databases. However, only 11 articles were deemed to meet eligibility criteria after thoroughly examining titles, abstracts, and full-text content. Authorship, publication year, details of the experimental subject, types of exercise, training protocols, organ, tissue or cell, markers of senescent cells examined, and their responses elicited by exercise were diligently recorded. This review identified 11 articles for data extraction. The sample sizes varied across a spectrum of complexity, ranging from 4 to 60 (Median=20). The studied population encompassed different healthy cohorts, which comprised sedentary males (n=6), trained males (n=2), mountain climbers (n=1), and older adults (n=2). Included studies preferred using bicycle ergometers (72.7%, n=8) as the exercise modality and 10 studies (90.9%) utilized hypoxia chambers to mimic a normobaric hypoxia environment. Four studies (36.4%) opted to utilize hypoxia chambers to mimic an altitude of 2733 and 4460 m. Additionally, 54.5% of studies (n=6) specifically investigated the effect of hypoxic exercise on lymphocytes, commonly utilizing CD28 (n=3) and CD57 (n=3) as markers of cellular senescence. Four studies (33.3%) examined the impact of hypoxic exercise on erythrocytes using CD47 as the marker for detecting senescent cells. These data support the notion that hypoxic exercise can retard cellular senescence of specific cells. In the future, standardization on the type of hypoxic exercise and markers of cellular senescence will be essential. Additionally, greater attention should be given to female populations and patients with different disease states. Lastly, further studies of the optimal form and dosage of exercise and the underlying cellular mechanisms are warranted. PROSPERO, identifier CRD42023431601.

Review of the book title: recommendations for increasing physical activity after the Covid-19 pandemic

Recommendations for Increasing Physical Activity after the COVID-19 Pandemic focuses on the importance of physical activity, especially after the pandemic, which significantly impacted the lifestyle of many people. The book starts with an analysis of the pandemic's effects on people's physical habits, highlighting a decline in physical activity and an increase in sedentary behaviour. It is followed by recommendations and practical exercises aimed at helping individuals improve their physical fitness and overall health. The book provides a detailed examination of how lockdowns and other restrictions led to decreased physical activity. This section is well-supported by data and scientific studies. The author includes practical guidelines for various types of exercises that are accessible to the general public. Detailed descriptions and step-by-step instructions on how to perform these exercises are included.

Relationship Between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Sports—Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The primary objective of this research is to analyze and compare the effects of physical activity on patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition characterized by repeated episodes of partial or complete obstruction of the upper airway during sleep, leading to disrupted sleep and various health complications. Methods: A systematic and strategic search of 16 peer-reviewed articles was conducted to assess the impact of different types of physical exercise on the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI), a key metric used to quantify the severity of OSA. The selected studies focused on two main exercise modalities: aerobic exercise alone and a combination of aerobic and resistance training. These modalities were examined to determine their respective influences on the AHI among individuals with OSA. Results: The findings revealed that aerobic exercise alone did not significantly alter the apnea–hypopnea index (p = 0.15), suggesting limited effectiveness in reducing the severity of OSA when performed in isolation. However, in patients who engaged in combined physical activity—incorporating both aerobic and resistance exercises—a significant reduction in the AHI was observed (p < 0.01), indicating a more substantial therapeutic effect. Conclusions: This study concludes that a structured exercise program combining aerobic and resistance training produces a significant improvement in the apnea–hypopnea indices of patients with obstructive sleep apnea. These results highlight the potential of combined exercise regimens as a non-pharmacological intervention that could complement traditional OSA treatments, offering a viable approach to managing the condition and improving patient outcomes. Future research should aim to explore the optimal exercise intensity, duration, and frequency to maximize these benefits.

South African occupational therapists' orthotic management of trigger finger and factors influencing their decision regarding splinting type

Background: Orthotic management of trigger finger refers to the use of splints to immobilise affected joints. The prevalence of trigger finger and the management and treatment practices utilised by occupational therapists for this affliction in South Africa, are not yet documented. Aim: To explore occupational therapists' orthotic management for clients with trigger finger in KwaZulu-Natal, and the factors influencing the therapists' decisions when prescribing orthoses. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study design was implemented with a sample size of 102 via a stratified random sampling approach. A survey questionnaire was administered. Data were coded using frequencies and then descriptively analysed using SPSS. Results: Findings indicated that trigger finger is common in clinical settings and the majority (99%) of the occupational therapists use splints when managing trigger finger and as a first line of treatment (69.9%). The joint-blocking splint is preferred by 96.6% of the participants with the MCP joint-blocking splint being favoured by 55.0%. The most considered factors when deciding on the splint type are clinical presentation (99.1%) and the client's occupation (92.4%), and the most preferred measures of the effectiveness of treatment are pain (97.1%) and range of motion (97%). Conclusion: The study has demonstrated that the inconsistencies noted in global research also apply in KwaZulu-Natal. Therefore, further investigation on the effectiveness of splinting and a guide on deciding on splint type as well as appropriate outcome measures, are necessary to ensure that cclients receive optimal care through evidence-informed practice. Implications for Practice: This study informs further understanding of the current assessment ptior to splinting and treatment practices that occupational therapist in the South African context provide for their clients with trigger-finger. The study demonstrates that irrespective of the participant's level of experience and their clinical settings, the considerations when deciding on splint types remain the same. The results are consistent with available literature, particularly with which splint type to use. However, the development for a guide regarding the orthotic management of trigger finger covering aspects like the splint regime and the recommendations of exercises is vital, as discrepancies emerged largely fro these areas. The type of exercises, stages at which they may be introduced, duration and requenccy should be considered for deeper engagement. the development of this protocol will ensure consistency of treatment and evidence-informed practice.

Study on the Development of Explosive Force in Athletic Jumping through Plyometrics Exercises at the Level of Junior Athletes

The purpose of this article is to demonstrate the importance of implementing plyometric exercises especially in the case of students in vocational mainstream education for improving relaxation and implicitly sports performance. The present paper highlights a study based on a theoretical and practical approach to the notion of plyometrics by applying a specific program based on plyometric exercises for the development of explosive force in advanced groups, compared to subjects carrying out a regular training program. By implementing this type of exercise at the level of all students, regardless of the way in which they practice athletics, benefits are brought both in terms of sports performance and health.

Impact of physical activity on physical function and quality of life after liver transplantation

Introduction and aim of the study: Liver-related diseases are very common in our society, and as a result, the number of people requiring liver transplantation is likewise increasing. In our research, we intended to analyze the topic of increasing survival rates and improving comfort along with the quality of life while waiting for a transplant, as well as in the postoperative period. We determined that we would investigate the impact of physical activity on risk factors that increase hospitalizations after surgery and decrease quality of life. We summarized the effect and type of exercise on sarcopenia, frailty, and their direct relation to the pre- and post-operative period of liver transplantation. In addition, we analyzed possible obstacles and difficulties arising from the implementation of physical activity in liver transplant recipients. Materials and methods: The authors conducted an extensive review of articles available in PubMed, Google Scholar, UpToDate, Science Direct, and Cochrane databases. The keywords liver transplantation, physical activity, quality of life, sarcopenia, and frailty were the basis of the review. Studies published between 2001 and 2024 were included in the review. Results: The vast majority of the studies emphasized the positive effects of exercise, particularly aerobic and resistance training, on improving the clinical conditions and well-being of liver transplant patients. The papers with inconsistent results nevertheless underscored the need to delve further into this topic. Thus, the overall evidence supports the inclusion of physical exercise in post-transplant care as a key strategy for improving health and quality of life. Conclusion: Regular physical activity is beneficial for clinical outcomes and patients’ quality of life after liver transplantation.

Clinical management of constipation – the role of physical activity - systematic review

Constipation is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder that affects a significant portion of the global population, yet its management remains challenging due to its complex etiology. This review explores the potential benefits and mechanisms of physical activity in alleviating constipation symptoms. We examined recent studies on the physiological effects of various exercise types and intensities on bowel movements, gastrointestinal blood flow, and microbiome composition. Our findings suggest that aerobic exercise enhances colonic motility and accelerates gastrointestinal transit, though the effects vary depending on exercise duration and intensity. While light to moderate physical activity (less than 60 minutes) appears beneficial, prolonged or intense exercise may inhibit motility and exacerbate symptoms. Additionally, exercise-induced changes in the gut microbiome and blood flow dynamics were observed, influencing stool consistency and colonic function. However, the interplay between diet, hydration, and physical activity is crucial, as adequate dietary fiber and hydration are essential for optimizing exercise's impact on constipation. Although evidence supports the role of physical activity in managing constipation, further research is needed to clarify the most effective exercise regimens and their integration with dietary and lifestyle modifications.

Use of Pilates Training in Back Pain and Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Literature Review

Introduction: Pilates is a type of physical exercise invented by Joseph Pilates. They aim to have a positive effect on the body and mind. Pilates can be performed with special machines called reformers or without any additional equipment, simply on a mat. The exercises focus on strengthening the deep muscles, including the core, which can help in the treatment of patients with back pain. In addition, they have a positive effect on maintaining correct posture and fluidity of movement. Due to the above characteristics, Pilates can be one of the pillars of therapy for back pain, musculoskeletal pain, including that associated with rheumatological diseases. Aim of the study: The aim of this publication is to review the available literature to answer the question of whether Pilates training is a suitable intervention in back pain and musculoskeletal disorders and to compare its effects with other interventions (e.g. the Mckenzie Method or extensiona based exercises). Material and methods: Review of the literature available on PubMed and Google Scholar database searching by the keywords: pilates, pilates and pain, pilates and back pain, pilates and spine, fibromyalgia, pilates and neck pain. Conclusions: Pilates is a training method that can be implemented in the treatment of many ailments. These exercises have produced very good results in the treatment of back pain, neck pain, muscle and joint pain in the course of rheumatic diseases. Studies indicate that Pilates has a beneficial effect on the rehabilitation process, sometimes exceeding the effects of traditional physiotherapy. In addition to its very good therapeutic effect, Pilates is characterised by a good safety profile. Even the pregnant population can benefit from the exercises. It is likely that both mat and equipment exercises have benefits, but research on this issue is required. Given the promising results, further research should be conducted into the effects of Pilates in various pain conditions.

The Impact of Aerobic and Anaerobic Exercise Interventions on the Management and Outcomes of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a metabolic disorder that includes non-alcoholic hepatic steatosis without or with moderate inflammation and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), characterized by necroinflammation and a more rapid progression of fibrosis. It is the primary pathological basis for hepatocellular carcinoma. With its prevalence escalating annually, NAFLD has emerged as a global health epidemic, presenting a significant hazard to public health worldwide. Existing studies have shown that physical activity and exercise training have a positive effect on NAFLD. However, the extent to which exercise improves NAFLD depends on the type, intensity, and duration. Therefore, the type of exercise that has the best effect on improving NAFLD remains to be explored. To date, the most valuable discussions involve aerobic and anaerobic exercise. Exercise intervenes in the pathological process of NAFLD by regulating physiological changes in cells through multiple signaling pathways. The review aims to summarize the signaling pathways affected by two different exercise types associated with the onset and progression of NAFLD. It provides a new basis for improving and managing NAFLD in clinical practice.

Differences in the effects of exercise on blood pressure depending on the physical condition of the subject and the type of exercise: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Although hypertension is a major cause of cardiovascular disease, the control of blood pressure (BP) is insufficient worldwide. Exercise is an effective treatment for reducing BP, but the differences in the blood pressure lowering effects of exercise according to the underlying pathophysiological condition, the type of exercise, and the geographic region are not fully understood. An umbrella review with a meta-analysis of 435 randomized controlled trials that investigated the BP-lowering effects of exercise was performed using Ovid MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library, covering the period from inception to August 1, 2023. A random effects model meta-analysis was performed to estimate the effect size across multiple studies. Exercise significantly reduced systolic BP in healthy subjects (-3.51 mmHg, 95% confidence interval: -3.90, -3.11; p < 0.001) and in those with lifestyle-related diseases including hypertension (-5.48 mmHg, -6.51, -4.45; p < 0.001), but not in those with cardiovascular diseases (-1.16 mmHg, -4.08, 1.76; p = 0.44). According to the type of exercise, all types significantly reduced systolic BP in healthy subjects and in those with lifestyle-related diseases, but not in those with cardiovascular diseases. According to the region, in Oceania, there were no reductions in systolic BP. In Asia, systolic BP was reduced in patients with cardiovascular diseases. In conclusion, any type of exercise reduced BP in healthy subjects and in those with lifestyle-related diseases, but not in those with cardiovascular diseases, and the region affected the effect of exercise. When using exercise to reduce hypertension, it is important to consider the patient's pathophysiological condition and the region.

Lower limb joint loading during high-impact activities: implication for bone health.

Osteoporosis results in low-trauma fractures affecting millions globally, in particular elderly populations. Despite the inclusion of physical activity in fracture prevention strategies, the optimal bone-strengthening exercises remain uncertain, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of lower limb joint loading dynamics across various exercise types and levels. This study examines lower limb joint loading during high-impact exercises across different intensities. A total of 40 healthy, active participants were recruited (mean ± SD: age of 40.3 ± 13.1yr; height 1.71 ± 0.08m; and mass 68.44 ± 11.67kg). Motion capture data and ground reaction forces of 6 different exercises: a self-selected level of walking, running, countermovement jump, squat jump, unilateral hopping, and bilateral hopping were collected for each participant. Joint reaction forces were estimated using lower body musculoskeletal models developed in OpenSim. Running and hopping increased joint forces compared to walking, notably at the hip (83% and 21%), knee (134% and 94%), and ankle (94% and 77%), while jump exercises reduced hip and ankle loading compared to walking (36% and 19%). Joint loading varied with exercise type and intensity, with running faster increasing forces on all joints, particularly at the hip. Sprinting increased forces at the hip but lowered knee and ankle forces. Higher jumps intensified forces on all joints, while faster hopping reduced forces. The wide variation of lower limb joint loading observed across the exercises tested in this study underscores the importance of implementing diverse exercise routines to optimize overall bone health and strengthen the musculoskeletal structure. Practitioners must therefore ensure that exercise programs include movements that are specifically suitable for their intended purpose.

Comparison of forced and voluntary exercise types on male rat brain monoamine levels, anxiety-like behaviour, and physiological indexes under light and dark phases

PurposePhysical exercise improves physical and mental health; however, the differences between voluntary and forced exercise protocols are unclear. In addition, knowledge regarding the consequences of differences in testing timing, such as light and dark phases, in response to exercise type is limited. We investigated the effects of chronic forced and voluntary wheel running on the changes in brain monoamine levels (5-HT: serotonin, DA: dopamine, NA: noradrenaline), anxiety-like behaviours, and physiological stress responses in the light and dark phases. MethodsAdult male Wistar rats were equally and randomly assigned to four groups: sedentary control, voluntary exercise (free running on a wheel, V-EX), voluntary limited exercise (wheel available only 1h/day, VL-EX), and forced exercise (running on a motorised wheel, F-EX). Each group was further divided into dark- or light-experimental condition groups. After 4 weeks, the rats underwent an open-field test. The monoamines and their metabolite levels were measured in the major neural cell bodies and the projection areas related to behaviour, cognition, anxiety, and stress in the brain. ResultsAdrenal hypertrophy and elevated body temperature, except during the exercise period, were observed in the F-EX rats that exhibited anxiety-like behaviour. The levels of monoamines and their metabolites, particularly the 5-HTergic and DAergic systems, in specific areas, were significantly altered in the rats in the V-EX group compared to those in the VL-EX and other groups. These differences were observed only in the dark phase. ConclusionThe results suggest that V-EX mainly stimulates the 5-HTergic and DAergic systems, while F-EX induces physiological stress and increases anxiety-like behaviour during the dark phase. This study highlights the importance of accounting for exercise types and light/dark phases in behavioural neuroscience experiments.

The Impact of Various Types of Exercise on Lipid Metabolism in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Concurrent Overweight/Obesity: A Narrative Review

The Impact of Various Types of Exercise on Lipid Metabolism in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Concurrent Overweight/Obesity: A Narrative Review

Exercise and physical activity for people with chronic kidney disease: A national survey of nephrologist practice patterns in Saudi Arabia.

A variety of health benefits are associated with physical activity (PA) in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The aim of this study was to examine nephrologist practice patterns concerning exercise and PA in CKD patients. This is an online cross-sectional survey study that was conducted between June 2023 and May 2024 in Saudi Arabia. Nephrology fellow, specialists, and consultants in Saudi Arabia formed the study population. A total of 96 physicians participated in this study. Only 9.4% of renal units have exercise programs available to patients. These programs are available mainly for advanced CKD (pre-dialysis) and in-center hemodialysis patients. The major barriers for initiating or expanding exercise programs at their centers are a lack of motivation/interest from front-line staff (55.2%), lack of interest from management (48.3%), and no funding (47.1). Around 56.2% of respondents ask patients about their level of PA. Additionally, 64.6% give patients specific advice on how to increase their level of PA. For the types of exercise most beneficial for people with CKD, 90.6% recommend walking. Around 34.4% of respondents believe that physiotherapists should take ownership in providing exercise counseling and resources to people with CKD. The majority agreed or strongly agreed to recommend exercise in patients with CKD (76.0%). The mean attitude score for the study participants was 32.1 (standard deviation: 3.9) out of 40 (equal to 80.3%); which demonstrates positive attitude towards recommending exercise for CKD patients. Binary logistic regression analysis identified that there is no statistically significant difference between physicians in term of their attitude towards recommending exercise for CKD patients (P > .05). This study highlights a critical gap in the availability of exercise programs for CKD patients. Key barriers include lack of interest by staff and management and funding issues. In spite of these barriers, a majority of physicians acknowledge the role of exercise in CKD patients and advice regarding PA on a frequent basis. It suggests recommendations in order to expand the programs, including increasing staff motivation, securing management support, and getting funding for exercise programs and identifying the role of physiotherapists in exercise counseling for CKD patients.

Attitude toward physical activity among Asian American family caregivers of persons living with dementia

This qualitative study aimed to explore attitudes toward physical activity behaviors in the context of dementia caregiving among Asian Indian, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese American family caregivers of persons living with dementia. We used qualitative data from verbatim transcripts of current caregivers (N = 21) from focus groups and individual interviews. Ethnically or linguistically matched moderators facilitated focus groups and interviews in four languages. Finalized themes included: (1) Physical activity and exercise are different.; (2) Exercise has many benefits.; (3) Health issues and stress from caregiving demotivate engaging in regular exercise.; (4) Prioritizing and planning exercises are necessary; and (5) Social support is essential to engage in physical activity. Caregiving limits the type of exercise some can do, depending on care recipients’ conditions. Efforts to help caregivers prioritize exercise and seek social support from others, including healthcare professionals, would be greatly needed to promote physical activity among this population.

The role and underlying mechanisms of irisin in exercise-mediated cardiovascular protection.

Irisin, a product of the post-translational processing of fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 (FNDC5), is a novel myokine which is upregulated during exercise. This hormone not only promotes the transformation of white adipose tissue into a brown-fat-like phenotype but also enhances energy expenditure and mitigates fat accumulation. Its role is crucial in the management of certain metabolic disorders such as diabetes and heart disease. Of note, the type of exercise performed significantly affects blood irisin levels, indicating the critical role of physical activity in regulating this hormone. This article aims to summarize the current scientific understanding of the role of irisin and the mechanisms through which it mediates cardiovascular protection through exercise. Moreover, this article aims to establish irisin as a potential target for preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases.

Effects of the Aerobic Exercise Types of the Same Amount of Exercise on the Energy Metabolism During Exercise and Recovery Phase

OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of aerobic exercise types on energy metabolism during and after exercise under the same exercise volume conditions.METHODS Ten healthy men were randomly assigned to interval(IV), intermittent(IM), and continuous(CO) exercise, and the experiment was conducted at intervals of one week and consumed 300 kcal. The data were verified by repeated measurement one-way ANOVA, and contrast was conducted. The statistical significance level was set at α=0.05.RESULTS As a result of the study, first, among the energy metabolism variables during exercise, oxygen intake(VO2) was statistically significantly higher in the IM and CO exercise than in the IV exercise(p&lt;0.001). The respiratory exchange rate(RER, p&lt;0.001), energy consumption per minute(ECM, p&lt;0.001), and carbohydrate consumption amount(CCA, p=0.013) were significantly higher in the IM exercise, but there was no statistically significant difference in the fat oxidation rate(FOR), fat consumption amount(FCA), and carbohydrate consumption rate(CCR). Second, there were statistically significant differences in EPOC(p&lt;0.001), RER(p&lt;0.001), and ECM(p&lt;0.001) in the post-exercise recovery phase, among them, the highest in the IM exercise. In terms of FOR(p=0.002) and FCA(p=0.007), IV and CO exercise were significantly higher than IM exercise, and on the contrary, in terms of CCR(p=0.002) and CCA(p&lt;0.001), IM exercise was higher than IV and CC exercise.CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, considering not only during exercise but also the recovery period after exercise, the intermittent exercise seems to have an advantage in increasing energy consumption while having a shorter exercise time than the other two under the condition of the same exercise amount.

Enhancing respiratory function through Yoga and Pilates in women aged 45-50

Background and Study Aim. Respiratory function in women aged 45-50 often declines due to natural physiological changes associated with aging. These changes include reduced lung elasticity, decreased diaphragm efficiency, and a general reduction in physical activity. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of a combined yoga and Pilates program on respiratory function in women aged 45-50. Material and Methods. The study involved 38 women with an average age of 47.7 ± 2.5 years. A pedagogical experiment was conducted over six months. The experimental group (n=19) participated in a training regimen focused on improving respiratory function through a combination of yoga and Pilates. The control group (n=19) followed a yoga-based training program. Both groups completed an equal number of sessions—72 in total. The external respiratory function of the participants was assessed using spirometry at two key points: at the beginning of the study and after six months. Results. The comparison of respiratory function indicators between the experimental and control groups after 6 months of training revealed significant differences across most parameters. The actual value of Vital Capacity was significantly greater in the experimental group compared to the control group by 0.17 L (p &lt; 0.01), forced vital capacity by 0.30 L (p &lt; 0.01), forced expiratory volume by 0.19 L (p &lt; 0.01), peak expiratory flow by 0.23 L/sec (p &lt; 0.01), maximum expiratory flow at 25% of Forced Vital Capacity by 0.96 L/sec (p &lt; 0.001), maximum expiratory flow at 50% of Forced Vital Capacity by 0.59 L/sec (p &lt; 0.001), expiratory reserve volume by 0.47 L (p &lt; 0.001), and maximal voluntary ventilation by 17.00 L/min (p &lt; 0.001). Conclusions. The combined Yoga and Pilates training regimen was more effective in improving external respiratory function than Yoga alone. This result highlights the benefits of an integrated approach to respiratory health for women aged 45-50. The study demonstrates the potential advantages of combining different types of exercise to counteract age-related declines in respiratory function. Such programs could play a significant role in promoting overall well-being in this age group.

Socio-Economic Determinants of the Physical Activity Intensity in Russia

The study examines the socioeconomic, demographic and health determinants of physical activity intensity in Russia. Using RLMS-HSE (the Russia Longitudinal Monitoring Survey – Higher School of Economics) data for 2021 and indicators of six levels of physical activity intensity, the authors built ordered probit models and calculated average marginal effects for a set of covariates. The independent variables were selected based on the SLOTH microeconomic model describing individual preferences towards physical activity.The ordered probit regression provided empirical support for Meltzer and Jena's theoretical framework, stating that as income increases, with the pronounced substitution effect, the time spent on physical activity decreases, and the intensity of physical activity rises. In our study, the thesis about an increase in intensity with rising income was confirmed for a subsample of men but not women. For women, the intensity was determined by factors such as multiple morbidity and residing outside of Moscow or Saint Petersburg, which were not significant in the regressions for men.The study resulted in several important conclusions. The intensity analysis showed that physician recommendations regarding the type of physical activity should consider patients' workload. For individuals with a busy schedule, recommended types of exercise that require a long time (for example, walking) are not suitable. At the same time, intense workouts (such as tennis or gym classes) can be built into the schedule. There is a need to develop sports infrastructure at workplaces, allowing individuals to allocate time for classes without bearing additional time and monetary costs associated with travel to the location of workouts. As income increases, exercising near the workplace allows an individual to increase the intensity of physical activity without incurring additional time costs

Physical Exercise and the Gut Microbiome: A Bidirectional Relationship Influencing Health and Performance.

Background/Objectives: The human gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem of microorganisms that can influence our health and exercise habits. On the other hand, physical exercise can also impact our microbiome, affecting our health. Our narrative review examines the bidirectional relationship between physical activity and the gut microbiome, as well as the potential for targeted probiotic regimens to enhance sports performance. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature review to select articles published up till January 2024 on the topics of physical exercise, sports, probiotics, and gut microbiota from major scientific databases, incorporating over 100 studies. Results: We found that the impact of physical activity on the gut microbiome varies with the type and intensity of exercise. Moderate exercise promotes a healthy immune system, while high-intensity exercise for a long duration can cause a leaky gut and consequent systemic inflammation, which may disrupt the microbial balance. Combining aerobic and resistance training significantly affects bacterial diversity, linked to a lower prevalence of chronic metabolic disorders. Furthermore, exercise enhances gut microbiome diversity, increases SCFA production, improves nutrient utilization, and modulates neural and hormonal pathways, improving gut barrier integrity. Our findings also showed probiotic supplementation is associated with decreased inflammation, enhanced sports performance, and fewer gastrointestinal disturbances, suggesting that the relationship between the gut microbiome and physical activity is mutually influential. Conclusions: The bidirectional relationship between physical activity and the gut microbiome is exemplified by how exercise can promote beneficial bacteria while a healthy gut microbiome can potentially enhance exercise ability through various mechanisms. These findings underscore the importance of adding potential tailored exercise regimens and probiotic supplementation that consider individual microbiome profiles into exercise programs.