Strength Of Upper Limbs Research Articles

Comparative study on psychological characteristics and biomechanical indicators of rock climbers at different levels: An analysis based on self-efficacy, sport motivation, and muscle function performance

Background: Rock climbing is a comprehensive sport that integrates physical strength, coordination, and psychological resilience. Significant differences may exist in the psychological states and biomechanical performance of athletes at different levels. However, systematic studies on the psychological characteristics and biomechanical indicators of rock climbers at different levels remain limited. Objective: This study aimed to compare the psychological indicators (e.g., self-efficacy and sport motivation) and biomechanical characteristics (e.g., muscle activation levels, relative peak torque, and flexor-extensor peak torque ratios) of rock climbers to explore the differences and intrinsic relationships between athletes of different skill levels. The findings aimed to provide a theoretical basis for optimizing performance and designing training strategies. Methods: Twenty-two rock climbers participated in the study, including 11 elite athletes and 11 novice athletes. Psychological indicators were assessed using standardized questionnaires, including self-efficacy and five dimensions of sport motivation: Fun motivation, ability motivation, appearance motivation, health motivation, and social motivation. Biomechanical data were collected using the Noraxon DTS surface electromyography (sEMG) system and the Biodex System 4 isokinetic dynamometer, which measured muscle activation levels and the relative peak torque and flexor-extensor peak torque ratios of the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and ankle joints at speeds of 60°/s, 120°/s, and 180°/s. Muscle activation signals were normalized as %MVC, and peak torque values were extracted for analysis. The data were grouped by athlete level, and independent sample t-tests were conducted to compare group differences, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Elite athletes demonstrated significantly higher psychological indicators than novice athletes, particularly in self-efficacy (3.19 ± 0.671 vs. 2.77 ± 0.341) and fun motivation (3.28 ± 1.049 vs. 2.78 ± 0.47). Additionally, elite athletes exhibited higher muscle activation levels and relative peak torque in upper limb and core muscle groups compared to novice athletes (p < 0.05), indicating superior strength control and coordination. Conversely, novice athletes had relatively higher peak torque in lower limb muscle groups but showed deficiencies in strength balance and coordination. Conclusion: Significant differences were found in the psychological states and biomechanical characteristics of rock climbers at different levels. These differences likely contribute to variations in athletic performance. Elite athletes displayed stronger psychological advantages and superior strength in upper limb and core muscle groups. In contrast, novice athletes needed to enhance sport motivation and improve upper limb and core strength to develop comprehensive athletic abilities. This study provides a scientific basis for optimizing training strategies for rock climbers at different levels and lays a foundation for future research on the mechanisms underlying climbing performance.

Impact of a Light Volleyball Intervention Among Older Chinese Adult Women

Modified sports offer a strategic approach to promoting health in older adults. Light volleyball, which uses a larger, lighter ball than traditional volleyball, is more accessible for this population. This study investigated the effects of a 16-week light volleyball program on the functional fitness of older adults in Hong Kong. A total of 275 participants aged 60 years or older were recruited and randomly assigned to three groups: a light volleyball intervention group, a Tai Chi group, and a control group. Functional fitness was assessed at the pretest, posttest, and 6-month follow-up. Results revealed that the light volleyball group exhibited more significant improvements in lower and upper limb strength, agility, dynamic balance, and aerobic endurance than did the Tai Chi and control groups. This study highlights the effectiveness of light volleyball as a newly emerging, group-based sport physical activity for promoting healthy aging in older adult women. The use of light volleyball in future health promotion initiatives is highly recommended.

Body fat is related with poor motor skills and physical fitness in socially assisted children and adolescents regardless of age, sex, and body mass index.

To analyze the relationship between body fat, motor skills, and physical fitness in children and adolescents. 216 children and adolescents (143 males and 73 females, aged 5-15 years) from a social project composed this study. Body mass and height were measured to calculate the body mass index (BMI). DXA was used to estimate the percentage of body fat (BF). The Körperkoordinationstest für Kinder (KTK) was used to assess motor skills (jumping sideways test corresponds to speed, walking backwards to balance and moving sideways to laterality), modified pull-ups to measure upper limb strength and the 1-mile run/walk test to estimate maximal oxygen uptake. In unadjusted models, BF was a significant negative predictor for almost all motor skills and physical fitness variables measured (jumping sideways: β= -0.16; 95%CI= -0.40 to 0.03/ walking backwards: β= -0.25; 95%CI= -0.54 to -0.18/ modified pull-ups: β= -0.43; 95%CI= -0.17 to -0.09/ 1-mile run/walk: β= -0.18 95%CI= -0.39 to -0.06). Except moving sideways (β= -0.05; 95%CI= -0.12 to 0.05). Subsequently, it was inserted confounders in the regression models. In the model considering sex and age, the significance remained exactly the same compared to the model without adjustment. When considering the BMI adjustment, only walking backwards (β= -0.37; 95%CI= -0.88; -0.17) and modified pull-up (β= -1.01; 95%CI= -0.39; -0.23) remained significant. In children and adolescents socially assisted, BF was negatively related to motor skills and physical fitness regardless of age, sex, and BMI.

Factors Relating to Sprint Swimming Performance: A Systematic Review.

Swimming performance depends on a wide variety of factors; however, the interaction between these factors and their importance varies between events. In sprint events, the characterized pacing underlines its specific development, as swimmers must achieve the highest possible speed while sustaining it to the greatest extent possible. The aim of this review was to identify the key factors underlying sprint swimming performance and to provide in-depth and practical evidence-based information to optimize performance. The review protocol was not registered. PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases were searched up to October 31, 2023. Studies involving competitive swimmers and investigating sprint swimming performance were included, while studies conducted with young or masters' swimmers, triathletes or waterpolo players or not investigating sprint swimming performance were excluded. The Downs and Black Quality Assessment Checklist was performed on the included articles to assess the methodological quality. After applying the PICOS framework, 39 of the 1330 articles initially identified were included according to the PRISMA guidelines. The included records focused mainly on dry-land strength and in-water forces of both upper and lower limbs. A wide range of kinematic variables were also examined, together with the importance of anthropometric and various physiological parameters. This review highlights the importance of developing muscular strength and effectively transferring it to performance in the water. The evidence suggests that muscular development should prioritize enhancing velocity and effective displacement, rather than merely increasing force and performance in loaded tests. However, further research is needed to confirm this. While in-water forces have been well studied, there is a notable lack of analysis regarding drag. The optimal balance between stroke rate and stroke length should be determined individually, with a primary focus on achieving a high stroke length from a high stroke rate. Although anthropometry may play an important role in performance, the interaction of these traits appears to be complex, suggesting that other factors may be more important in determining performance outcomes. From a physiological perspective, the results indicate that the lactate peak and rate of accumulation should be thoroughly developed. Notwithstanding, this review shows the lack of a solid body of knowledge on the importance of anaerobic and especially aerobic factors. Finally, the absence of a list of potential confounders, together with the lack of high-quality studies involving elite swimmers (level 1 and 2), complicates the interpretation of the results.

Effect of respiratory rehabilitation on quality of life in individuals with post-COVID-19 symptoms: A randomised controlled trial.

Inspiratory and expiratory muscle training (RMT) has been shown to have beneficial effects in individuals with long-term post-COVID-19 symptoms. To assess the effects of adding RMT to an aerobic exercise (AE) training program for health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and exercise tolerance in individuals with long-term post-COVID-19 symptoms, and to evaluate the effects on physical and lung function, and psychological status. 64 individuals with long-term post-COVID-19 symptoms of fatigue and dyspnoea were randomly assigned to AE+RMT or AE+RMTsham groups for an 8-wk intervention (AE: 50min/day, 2 times/wk; RMT: 40min/day, 3 times/wk). Primary outcomes were HRQoL (EuroQol-5D questionnaire) and exercise tolerance (cardiopulmonary exercise test). Secondary outcomes were physical function: respiratory muscle function (inspiratory/expiratory muscle strength and inspiratory muscle endurance), lower and upper limb strength (1-min Sit-to-Stand and handgrip force); lung function: spirometry testing and lung diffusing capacity; and psychological status (anxiety/depressive levels). Postintervention, there were no statistically significant improvements in HRQoL or exercise tolerance in the AE+RMT compared with the AE+RMTsham group. In the AE+RMT group, large improvements in respiratory muscle function (d = 0.7 to 1.3) and low-moderate improvements in peak expiratory flow (d = 0.4) occurred compared with the AE+RMTsham group. Lung function outcomes, lower and upper limb strength and psychological status did not increase more in the AE+RMT group than in the AE+RMTsham group. For individuals with long-term post-COVID-19 symptoms, combining RMT with an AE training program resulted in improvements in respiratory muscle strength, inspiratory muscle endurance and peak expiratory flow; however, the differences between groups were not statistically significant for HRQoL, exercise tolerance, psychological distress, and lung diffusing capacity. United States Clinical Trials Registry (NCT05597774).

Comparing C3, 4, and 5 nerve root block and interscalene with intermediate cervical plexus block in diaphragmatic motion for clavicle surgery

Regional anesthesia is a popular method for surgical anesthesia in clavicular surgery. Selective blocking of the cervical 3, 4, and 5 nerve roots shows promise in clavicle surgery, with its fast onset, good anesthesia and less complications, necessitating evaluation of its impact on diaphragmatic function. The purpose of this study is to examine the safety of C3, 4, and 5 nerve root block for its application in clavicle surgery. We conducted a pragmatic, randomized trial to evaluate the effect of C3, 4, and 5 nerve root block as compared with interscalene with intermediate cervical plexus block in diaphragmatic motion. This study involved forty patients undergoing right clavicle surgery. Patients were assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either a C345 nerve root block (administered with 2, 3, and 5 ml of 0.5% ropivacaine) or an interscalene with intermediate cervical plexus block (ISB + ICPB, each receiving 10 ml of 0.5% ropivacaine). Diaphragmatic kinetics were quantitatively assessed using sonographic techniques. The primary outcome was the incidence of complete hemi-diaphragmatic paralysis, observed at 30 min post-blockade. Secondary outcomes included the rate of complete hemi-diaphragmatic paralysis at 15 min and the degree of diaphragmatic motion restoration at 2, 4, 6, and 8 h post-blockade, onset time of block, motor block score in upper extremity, and adverse events. Results showed that only one patient (5%) in the C345 group vs. fifteen (75%) in the ISB + ICPB group experienced complete hemi-diaphragmatic paralysis at 30 min during deep breathing (P = 0.001). No patients in the C345 group, compared to five (25%) in the ISB + ICPB group exhibited paradoxical movement at 30 min during voluntary sniffing (P = 0.0471). Additionally, the C345 group demonstrated significantly greater diaphragmatic motion and upper limb strength restoration at all measured intervals post-blockade. Moreover, faster onset time and less adverse events were observed in the C345 group vs. in the ISB + ICPB group. Benefit from low volume of local anesthetics, the C345 nerve root block not only significantly reduces the incidence of complete hemi-diaphragmatic paralysis but also facilitates better recovery from diaphragmatic paralysis compared to the ISB + ICPB. It can be inferred that C345 is a more beneficial anesthesia method for early recovery of clavicular patients.Trial registration number: ChiCTR2300078283 04/12/2023.

Causal Associations with Arterial Stiffness and Sarcopenia: A Mendelian Randomization Analysis.

Observational studies and clinical trials indicate a link between arterial stiffness (AS) and sarcopenia (SAR), yet the causal relationship between these remains unclear. The study aims to investigate the causal connection from AS to SAR by Mendelian randomization (MR). We analyzed Genome-Wide Association Studies data for AS indicators: pulse wave arterial stiffness index (PWASI) and pulse wave peak-to-peak time (PPT), and SAR indicators: low hand grip strength (LHGS), usual walking pace (UWP), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity levels (MVPA), and walk or cycle unassisted for 10 minutes. The inverse variance-weighted, MR-Egger, weighted mode, and weighted median were applied to MR. There is a bidirectional causal relationship between the AS and SAR. The PWASI has a causation with UWP (odds ratio [OR] = 0.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.94-0.99). The PPT has a causal association with MVPA (OR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.002-1.144) and UWP (OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.017-1.096). The LHGS is causally associated with PPT (OR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.91-0.98) and UWP has a causal association with PWASI (OR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.65-0.90) and PPT (OR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.17-1.60). The increased AS could reduce the motor ability slightly and the lower upper and lower limb strength could lead to the higher AS. This bidirectional causal relationship of the two may offer novel perspectives for advancing the understanding of the underlying mechanisms related to AS and muscle pathophysiology.

Effectiveness of a brief multicomponent intervention to improve physical activity level and functional capacity in fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome (Synchronize+)

IntroductionFibromyalgia (FM) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) are complex central sensitization syndromes that represent an important public health problem. Low cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle function with habitual intolerance to efforts are common characteristics of FM and CFS. This study aimed to examine the effect of a brief multicomponent intervention based on physical activity (PA), nutrition, and chronobiology on movement behaviors (PA, sedentary and sleep time), muscle strength, and cardiorespiratory capacity.Methodsrandomized controlled trial was conducted in primary healthcare in Catalonia. A total of 143 individuals with FM or FM and CFS concomitantly (age 50.8, SD 8.1; 94.4% women) were randomly allocated to the intervention (IG, n = 69) or control (CG, n = 74) groups. The IG participated in a brief multicomponent (PA, nutrition, and chronobiology) group-based intervention (4 sessions, 3 h/session) while the CG received usual primary care practice. Primary outcome measure was PA measured by the REGICOR-Short Physical Activity Questionnaire. Secondary outcomes were sedentary (International Physical Activity Questionnaire) and sleep time (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), upper- and lower-body muscle strength (handgrip and sit-to-stand test, respectively), and aerobic capacity (6-min walk test). Data were collected at baseline and 3 months post-intervention.ResultsThe IG showed positive differences at 3-month follow-up, with highly appreciably PA levels, less sedentary time, and significantly improved sleep time. Significant between-group differences were also observed at 3 months, with better health values in the IG: PA and sleep time (370.3 ± 307.0 vs. 195.9 ± 289.1 min/week and 6.1 ± 1.6 vs. 5.5 ± 1.8 h/night, respectively) and less sedentary time (266.2 ± 153.3 vs. 209.4 ± 199.9 min/day). The IG also showed higher upper limb strength and significant lower-body strength both between and within groups, as well as significantly improved cardiorespiratory capacity.ConclusionThe Synchronize + multicomponent program implemented at primary healthcare has shown short-term effectiveness in improving 24-h movement behaviors and health outcomes in individuals with FM, with or without CFS. This intervention may be a first step in educating and motivating people with FM and CFS to adopt an active lifestyle, leading to improved health. Long-term follow-up will determine whether the changes are maintained over time and their impact on quality of life and healthcare costs.

Effector-dependent decline in strength and subcortical motor excitability with aging.

A decline in upper limb strength is common with normal aging. However, whether age-related strength decline is paralleled by reduced excitability of descending motor pathways is unclear. The reticulospinal tract is a key subcortical pathway involved in gross motor output and exhibits increased excitability following resistance training. Here, we sought to determine age-related effects on strength and reticulospinal excitability in flexors and extensors of the upper limb in humans. In 15 younger and 14 older adults, we quantified upper limb strength using dynamometry, and reticulospinal excitability by using transcranial magnetic stimulation to elicit ipsilateral motor evoked potentials. We observed a decline in flexion, but not extension strength, in older compared with younger adults. This behavioral pattern was paralleled by an age-related reduction in ipsilateral motor evoked potential presence specific to flexor muscles. Our findings indicate that reduced excitability of the reticulospinal tract, which exhibits strong innervation of flexor muscles, may be a key contributor to upper limb strength decline commonly observed in older adults.

A001: Research on the Physical Education Teaching Model of Professional Physical Fitness for Navigation Majors

Research Purpose: Due to the unique working environment of seagoing vessels, the physical and mental health of crew members is put to special tests. This requires students majoring in navigation not only to have basic vocational and technical abilities, but also to have physical fitness to adapt to future work environments. Research methods: This study used literature review, survey interviews, and logic analysis to analyze the physical fitness required for seafarers to work and live on ships. Research results: 1. Choose activities that meet the basic professional needs of seafarers, such as swimming, high-altitude diving, and surface survival, to exercise their ability to self-rescue in water. 2. Choose activities that meet professional physical fitness, such as yoga, Tai Chi, table tennis, soft net climbing, race walking, long-distance running, pull-up, etc., to exercise attention, concentration, upper and lower limb strength endurance, and cardiopulmonary endurance. Indeed, good cardiovascular endurance plays an important supporting role in responding to emergencies or shipwreck situations. 3. Based on the purpose of protecting seafarers' occupational labor, carrying out teaching on body posture, such as climbing steep gangways, bending down to carry heavy objects, etc. 4. Carrying out psychological counseling for the prevention and treatment of occupational psychological diseases among seafarers, adding content such as self-psychological suggestion and insomnia treatment. 5. The teaching process control shall comply with the provisions of the "Management Rules for Crew Training of the People's Republic of China" and the "Quality Management Rules for Crew Education and Training of the People's Republic of China", and always comply with the value orientation and standards in the crew education and training quality management system. 6. Teaching assessment and evaluation must comply with the rules of the "Quality Management Rules for Crew Education and Training of the People's Republic of China" and the "International Seafarer Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping Standards Convention (STCW78/95 Convention), and the assessment indicators shall be quantified based on the principles of the scientific method and operability. Conclusion: Vocational colleges have varying levels of understanding and emphasis on professional physical fitness, and variability in the allocation of teaching resources. Under limited resources, it is recommended to establish a vocational physical fitness teaching model that is tailored to local conditions, adjusting it according to the original traditional physical education teaching model, listen to feedback and continuously optimize it in practice, and form a characteristic physical education teaching model that meets the school's and students' professional development.

Effects of Different Detraining Periods on the Physical Fitness of Older Adults with Cardiometabolic Risk Factors.

To verify the effects of two different detraining periods on the physical fitness of older adults with cardiometabolic risk factors. This observational study encompassed older individuals with cardiometabolic risk factors, who were assessed after two different detraining periods: 1 month (1DT) and 3 months (3DT). Physical fitness was assessed using the 30-s sit to stand test (STS), 30-s arm curl, chair sit-and-reach, back scratch, timed up and go, and 6-min walk test (6MWT). The comparison between the different periods was carried out using absolute differences (Δ = posttest-pretest) and relative differences (Δ% = (Δ/pretest) × 100), with α = 0.05. Eight older adults were assessed (70.3 ± 7.48 years, 4 female/4 male). Improvements in the STS (+1.88 repetitions; p = 0.007) and 6MWT (+17.38 m; p = 0.007) were found after 1DT. After 3DT, a worsening was observed in the 6MWT (-26.38 m; p = 0.018). The arm curl test worsened in both detraining periods (1DT: -1.38 repetitions; 3DT: -3.5 repetitions; p = 0.001). When comparing Δ% of 1DT and 3DT, STS and 6MWT showed differences, with p = 0.024 and p = 0.005, respectively. The 1-month detraining period had a positive effect on some physical fitness components, while 3 months induced a decline in cardiorespiratory fitness. Upper limb strength appears to be the component most susceptible to detraining.

Upper limb muscle strength and wheelchair-related abilities following an exoskeleton-assisted walking programme in individuals with chronic spinal cord injury: An exploratory study.

To measure the potential effects of an overground exoskeleton-assisted walking programme on upper limb strength and mass, as well as on wheelchair propulsion performances and abilities in individuals with chronic spinal cord injury. Prospective, single-group, pre-post intervention study. Ten individuals with chronic (≥ 18 months) spinal cord injury who use a wheelchair as their primary mode of locomotion and who had little-to-no motor function in the lower limbs. Individuals completed a progressive 16-week exoskeleton-assisted walking programme (34 × 1-h sessions, 1-3 sessions/week). Upper limb muscle strength was measured with dynamometers (isokinetic, Jamar). Upper limb lean mass (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) was used to calculate relative strength. Field tests (20-m wheelchair propulsion, and slalom test) and the Wheelchair Skills Test Questionnaire determined performances and abilities. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used with the following criteria: p < 0.1, effect size ≥ 0.5, and relative variation > 5%. Only natural velocity during the 20-m wheelchair propulsion test (i.e., fundamental wheelchair ability) changed following the intervention (p = 0.01, effect size = 0.82, relative variation = +14.5%). Overall, upper limb muscle function did not significantly and meaningfully change following the exoskeleton-assisted walking programme in this population. Additional research is needed to verify how changes in training volume would affect strength and advanced wheelchair-related abilities and performance, as well as the response in individuals who are deconditioned or novices to wheelchair use (e.g., subacute spinal cord injury).

Physical fitness related to sports performance of preteenagers resident in Jutaí, Amazonas

Performance-oriented physical fitness is directly linked to the development of motor skills. Regular and intense physical activity should be valued as an effective and low-cost strategy to promote healthy growth and development during adolescence. This qualiqualitative, descriptive and cross-sectional study evaluated the physical fitness related to sports performance of 379 pre teen students (46% boys and 54% girls), aged between 11 and 14 years, through the battery of tests and measurements of the Projeto Esporte Brasil (PROESP-BR) that evaluates localized muscle endurance, explosive strength of upper and lower limbs, agility, speed and cardiorespiratory endurance. This study is part of the EFEJU project - Physical Education in the Schools of Jutaí, Amazonas, approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the University of the State of Amazonas under number 5.621.338. The results revealed a weak classification for muscle endurance located in 197 (97%) girls and 118 (67%) boys, for Upper Limb Strength in 66 (37.5%) boys and 151 (74.4%) girls, for Lower Limb Strength, in 98 (55.7%) boys and 184 (90.5%) boys, Agility in 170 (96.6%) boys and 198 (97.5%) girls, in Speed 130 (73.9%) boys and 186 (91.6%) girls and for Cardiorespiratory Fitness 89 (50.6%) and 154 (75.9%) girls. The majority, both pre-adolescents evaluated, presented weak classifications in all tests, indicating the need to encourage regular and systematized physical exercise.

Balance Ability Characteristics and Related Factors in Athletes Across Different Sports: A Preliminary Study.

We conducted a cross-sectional study to examine two-leg- and one-leg-type balance characteristics in athletes and explore factors related to their balance ability. A total of 213 participants, including athletes from various sports (gymnastics, boat racing, swimming, soccer, judo, and baseball) and non-athletes, were included (142 men, 71 women, average age 21.5 ± 2.1 years). Balance ability was classified into two-leg and one-leg types using the modified index of postural stability (mIPS) in a two-leg stance and the one-legged stance duration with eyes closed (OLS). Body composition, upper and lower limb strength, and lower limb sensation were also measured. To examine the balance characteristics of each sport, the mIPS and OLS were used as dependent variables in a multiple regression model with age, height, weight, and sex as independent variables. The results showed a significantly higher mIPS in gymnastics (estimate: 0.22) and boat racing (0.14), and it was lower in swimming (-0.25). The OLS was significantly higher in soccer (16.98), judo (16.23), gymnastics (9.77), and baseball (9.12) and significantly lower in swimming (7.93). Additionally, the mIPS was independently associated with knee extension strength (0.12), sensory motor variables (-0.004), and height (-0.01). The OLS was associated with skeletal muscle mass (1.85) and height (-1.42). In summary, gymnasts showed superior two-leg and one-leg balance; boat racers excelled in two-leg balance; swimmers showed inferior two-leg but better one-leg balance; and soccer, judo, and baseball athletes demonstrated superior one-leg balance. Additionally, the mIPS was associated with knee extensor strength, plantar pressure sensation, and height, whereas the OLS was associated with skeletal muscle mass and height.

Comparing 30 Versus 60min Cognitively Loaded Physical Exercise on Cognitive Function and Physical Health in Community-Dwelling Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is characterized by a mild decline in cognitive function and represents a risk stage for dementia in community-dwelling older adults. Exercise and dual-task training have been used to improve physical health, psychosocial health, and cognitive and learning functions in various subjects. However, the optimal time for these interventions has yet to be clearly identified. This study investigated the effects of cognitively loaded physical exercise (CLPE) on cognitive function and physical health in community-dwelling older adults with mild cognitive impairment and compared the differences according to exercise time. Fifty-one community-dwelling aged 60years or older with MCI were randomly assigned to 30-min CLPE (30CLPE, n=17), 60-min CLPE (60CLPE, n=17), and control (n=17) groups. The CLPE program consisted of a twice-weekly exercise program for 8weeks. During the exercise, a dual task was performed to assess cognitive load. The control group performed a typical exercise program at a dementia center during the same period. The Korean version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment was used to evaluate cognitive function, and various physical health factors were assessed using the handgrip dynamometer and pinch gauge, Senior Fitness Test, dynamic and static balance abilities, and gait variables. After the intervention, both the 30CLPE and 60CLPE groups showed significant improvements in cognitive function, upper limb strength, senior fitness, balance, and gait (p<0.05), while the control group showed no significant changes in any of the variables (p>0.05). In between-group comparisons, both CLPE groups showed significantly improved cognitive and physical functions compared to the control group (p<0.05). However, there was no significant difference between the 30 CLPE and 60 CLPE groups (p>0.05). The results of this study demonstrate that cognitively loaded physical exercise is effective in improving cognitive and physical function in individuals with MCI. Both the 30-min and 60-min sessions resulted in significant improvements, with no statistically significant differences observed between the two durations. This suggests that persistence and consistency of exercise may be more important than the duration of individual sessions. Clinical Trials.gov: KCT0009053.

Physical Fitness, Executive Functions, and Academic Performance in Children and Youth: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the relationship between physical fitness, executive function, and academic performance in children and adolescents. A total of 131 students (49% female) aged 10-15 years from a public school in Rio de Janeiro were assessed in executive functions (hearts and flowers, Corsi's block, and digit span tasks), academic performance (Portuguese, reading, math, and overall school grade), physical tests (touch test disc, agility, lower limb and upper limb explosive strength), and anthropometric measurements. Regression results showed that the composite of sports-related fitness measures was the best predictor of executive functions (β = 0.472; t = -6.075 p < 0.001). Decision tree classifier analysis showed that the combination of factors that discriminated better and worse executive function groups were better performance in hand-eye coordination (TTD), math, and upper limb strength (ULEST). Sports-related fitness is significantly correlated with executive function. Hand-eye motor coordination has been identified as the most important predictor of improved cognitive outcomes, surpassing even academic skills. These findings should be considered in the design of physical activity programs in school settings, which may have a positive impact on child development, reflected in the reduction of academic and socioeconomic disparities.

Parasport and neuromuscular diseases

The benefits of physical activity, on an organic and psychological level, have been demonstrated. In patients suffering from a neuromuscular disease, adapted physical activity and parasport are also means of combating a sedentary lifestyle which adds to that imposed by the disease. Whatever the motor skills of the subject, whether he walks or not, whether he has good upper limb strength or only minimal preserved distal function, a parasport can be practiced. Indeed certain disciplines are possible for patients with very weak motor functions. One of the missions of those involved in the life course of the person suffering from a neuromuscular disease is to talk about this subject. It is essential to make the patient, from a very young age, and their caregivers aware of this field of possibilities and its importance - all respecting possible contraindications or partial incapacities. Supporting a parasport practice means having to "get out of the hospital" and interact with local collaborators, to facilitate orientation, organize the initiation and introduction of the activity in the daily life of the patient. The time given to the patient and his caregivers to address this subject and guide them illustrates the overall care for this patient and the concern for his inclusion and his physical and mental health.

Effects of a 4-Week Detraining Period After 12 Weeks of Combined Training Using Different Weekly Frequencies on Health-Related Physical Fitness in Older Adults.

Detraining refers to the decline in physical fitness that occurs after the cessation of exercise, compromising the adaptations resulting from regular exercise training. To understand how long the benefits acquired from an exercise program can be maintained, the present study evaluated the detraining effects of a 4-week exercise cessation period in older adults who performed combined training at various weekly frequencies for 12 weeks. This randomized controlled trial assigned participants to one of two training programs: a combined training program twice a week (CT2) or four times a week (CT4) over a period of 12 weeks, followed by a four-week detraining period. The resistance training consisted of six bodyweight exercises, while the aerobic training involved either walking or running. Both the CT2 and CT4 groups completed the same total training volume and overload each week; the only difference was the number of training sessions per week. Assessments were conducted at baseline, after the training period, and after the detraining period, and included the 30-s and five-repetition chair-stand tests, isometric handgrip strength, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and waist-to-height ratio. Thirty-one participants completed the study (CT2: 17 and CT4: 14). The groups presented similar attendance records during the training period (CT2: 96 ± 18% versus CT4: 94 ± 19%). After the 12-week training period, CT2 and CT4 improved lower limb strength, CT2 improved upper limb strength, and CT4 reduced waist circumference and waist-to-height ratio compared to baseline. After the 4-week detraining period, the lower limb strength remained improved in both groups (CT2: 4 ± 1 repetition; p < 0.001 and CT4: 4 ± 1 repetition; p < 0.001) when compared to the corresponding baseline values. The handgrip strength decreased in CT2 compared to post-training values. And the body composition benefit in CT4 was not sustained after detraining. The effects of 4 weeks of detraining after 12 weeks of training performed two or four times per week are similar on some but not all health-related physical fitness parameters.

Strategies to Reduce Fall Severity after a Perturbation during Ladder Climbing

OCCUPATIONAL APPLICATIONS Falls from ladders remain a significant cause of injuries in workplaces as well as residential settings. While recent research reveals factors related to fall severity from a ladder, strategies that workers can adopt to minimize fall severity are not well understood. Results from our current study indicated that increased upper limb strength, achieving a higher hand hold, and controlled reestablishment of the foot on the rung have summative benefits to reduce fall severity and increase recovery from a misstep perturbation. Ensuring adequate upper limb strength among workers, and training workers to climb ladders leading with hand placement during ascent and foot placement during descent, can facilitate these beneficial strategies to arrest a ladder fall.

Association of Physical Fitness with Leisure Time Physical Activity in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury

Abstract Background: Physical fitness of persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) is related to their upper limb strength and range of motion. A change in these factors may impact their participation in physical fitness, and consequently leisure time activities. The objective of the study was to examine an association of physical fitness with leisure time physical activity (LTPA) in people with SCI. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study conducted among 30 male and female participants with SCI. Physical fitness and LTPA were assessed using a 6-min push test and physical activity recall assessment for people with SCI, respectively. Spearman’s Rank correlation coefficient was used to estimate the correlation between physical fitness and LTPA in persons with SCI. Results: The mean age of the participants was 33.6 ± 7.73) years. This study found a positive weak to no correlation between physical fitness and LTPA in individuals with SCI (r s = 0.1008) that was statistically nonsignificant (P &gt; 0.596). In this study, 28 (93.33%) participants had good physical fitness, and 19 (63.33%) participants performed LTPA for 20 min or more in a day, whereas 11 (36.67%) performed less than 20 min per day. Conclusion: Though most of the participants had good physical fitness, they performed only exercise-based activities such as walking with orthosis, pushups exercises, and resistance training exercises for upper limb muscles in their leisure time. They did not participate in LTPA such as sports, gardening, swimming, and other recreational activities. Furthermore, studies can be done to understand the perception of physiotherapists and SCI individuals toward the participation of LTPAs.