Weight Training Equipment Research Articles

Do Looks Matter? A Longitudinal Investigation On The Aesthetic Appeal Of Exercise Equipment Location In Predicting Usage And Behavioral Determinants

PURPOSE: Research on the built environment has largely focused on the macro environment, which has revealed several correlates to physical activity (PA), such as aesthetics. Aesthetics reflect the pleasant appeal of a location that can predict PA. We hypothesize this construct to also function as a determinant of PA in the home (micro environment), specifically, the location aesthetics of where cardiovascular or weight training equipment is stationed. The purpose of this study was to investigate how location aesthetics of home-based exercise equipment predicts PA using the integrated behavior change (IBC) model. METHODS: Adult owners of exercise equipment (n = 231) were recruited using social media. Participants were 65% female and were averaging 168 min (SD = 140) of moderate-to-vigorous PA/week. Participants completed three monthly surveys that assessed the location aesthetics of the owners’ cardiovascular and weight training equipment, behavior/PA levels, and constructs from the IBC model. The framework was tested using a multilevel structural equation model with measured constructs (level 2), nested within time (level 1). RESULTS: The model demonstrated appropriate fit indices and found a linear trajectory pattern to best describe the data. Behavior was found to be predicted by intention (β = .30, p = .003), habit (β = .41, p < .001), and planning (β = .22, p = .007). Specifically, planning moderated the intention-behavior pathway, where those who scored higher on planning engaged in more PA. Autonomous motivation predicted intention (β = .37, p < .001), and habit (β = .44, p < .001), via total effects. Location aesthetics of cardiovascular and strength training equipment directly predicted autonomous motivation (β = .12, p < .001; β = .10, p < .001, respectively), and aesthetics of cardiovascular equipment predicted habit (β = .14, p < .001), and intention (β = .11, p < .001), when accounting for total effects. CONCLUSIONS: The findings revealed determinants of the IBC model along with location aesthetics of equipment to demonstrate several predictive effects of PA. These findings provide translational notes when designing experimental studies. Specifically, situating exercise equipment in an appealing location can help facilitate PA maintenance constructs such as habit, planning, and autonomous motivation.

Similar Associations of Total Adiponectin and High Molecular Weight Adiponectin with Cardio-metabolic Risk Factors in a Population of Overweight and Obese Postmenopausal Women: A MONET Study

The aim of the study was to examine the association between total adiponectin and high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin levels with cardio-metabolic risk factors in a population of sedentary, overweight, and obese postmenopausal women. Cross-sectional study was carried out on 55 nondiabetic sedentary overweight and obese postmenopausal women aged between 50 and 70 years. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp technique. Body composition and visceral fat were measured using dual X-ray absorptiometry and computed tomography, respectively. Other cardio-metabolic risk factors included: plasma lipids, hsC-reactive protein, energy expenditure (doubly labeled water), peak oxygen consumption, muscle strength (using weight training equipment) as well as total and HMW adiponectin. Correlations of total and HMW adiponectin with various cardio-metabolic risk factors were comparable. In addition, regression analysis results showed similar independent predictors of total and HMW adiponectin. Finally, the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves for total and HMW adiponectin to predict insulin sensitivity showed no difference between the areas under curve (AUC) (AUC total adiponectin=0.80 [95% CI: 0.66-0.95] versus AUC HMW adiponectin=0.76 [95% CI: 0.60-0.91], p=0.36). The present study indicates that HMW adiponectin does not seem to provide additional information than total adiponectin in relation to cardio-metabolic risk factors in overweight/obese postmenopausal women.

Comparison between several insulin sensitivity indices and metabolic risk factors in overweight and obese postmenopausal women: A MONET study

Background and aims The purpose of this study was to compare the relationship of several insulin sensitivity indices with cardiometabolic risk factors in overweight and obese postmenopausal women. Methods and results This was a cross-sectional study involving 137 overweight and obese postmenopausal women (age: 57.7 ± 4.8 yrs; body mass index: 32.4 ± 4.6 kg/m 2; body fat: 38.6 ± 9.2 kg). Insulin sensitivity was determined by the euglycaemic–hyperinsulinemic (EH) clamp technique as well as by oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) derived indices (Stumvoll, Matsuda and SI is) and fasting surrogate indices (HOMA, QUICKI). Cardiometabolic risk factors included: body composition and visceral fat that were measured using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and computed tomography, respectively. Peak oxygen consumption, lower body muscle strength (using weight training equipment), physical activity energy expenditure (doubly labeled water), plasma lipids and C-reactive protein were also measured. Correlations of insulin sensitivity indices with metabolic risk factors showed some similarities, however, a wide range of variations were also observed. Furthermore, our results showed that visceral fat was the primary predictor for surrogate and OGTT indices, explaining 15–28% of the variance and the triglycerides/HDL-C ratio was the primary predictor for the EH clamp indices, explaining 15–17% of the variance. Conclusion The present study indicates that the different methods of measuring and/or expressing insulin sensitivity display variations for associations with cardiometabolic risk factors. Therefore, interpretations of relationships between insulin sensitivity indices and cardiometabolic risk factors should take into account the method used to estimate and express insulin sensitivity.

Whole-body vibration augments resistance training effects on body composition in postmenopausal women

Age-related changes in body composition are well-documented with a decrease in lean body mass and a redistribution of body fat generally observed. Resistance training alone has been shown to have positive effects on body composition, however, these benefits may be enhanced by the addition of a vibration stimulus. Objective The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of 8 months of resistance training with and without whole-body vibration (WBV) on body composition in sedentary postmenopausal women. Methods Fifty-five women were assigned to resistance only (RG, n = 22), vibration plus resistance (VR, n = 21) or non-exercising control (CG, n = 12) groups. Resistance training (3 sets 10 repetitions 80% strength) was performed using isotonic weight training equipment and whole-body vibration was done with the use of the power plate (Northbrooke, IL) vibration platform for three times per week for 8 months. Total and regional body composition was assessed from the total body DXA scans at baseline (pre) and after 8 months (post) of training. Results In the VR group, total % body fat decreased from pre- to post-time points ( p < 0.05), whereas, the CG group had a significant increase in total % body fat ( p < 0.05). Both training groups exhibited significant increases in bone free lean tissue mass for the total body, arm and trunk regions from pre to post ( p < 0.05). CG did not show any changes in lean tissue. Conclusion In older women, resistance training alone and with whole-body vibration resulted in positive body composition changes by increasing lean tissue. However, only the combination of resistance training and whole-body vibration was effective for decreasing percent body fat.

Factors associated with high levels of physical activity among adults with intellectual disability

The aim was to identify factors associated with physical activity participation among active (i.e. more than or equal to 10,000 steps per day) individuals with intellectual disability. Staff at day program and supported employment organizations were asked to identify individuals they believed were physically active. To verify participants were active, 7-day pedometer data were collected. Using these data, 13 participants met the inclusion criterion of 10,000 steps per day from 37 individuals identified by staff. Participants (n=13) ranged in age from 18 to 46 years (mean=34, SD= 8) and seven were male. In-depth semistructured interviews were conducted to explore the environmental and social supports for these high levels of physical activity. Three major themes were identified from content and thematic analyses. Key individuals and organizations were important in fostering initial interests and the development of skills. Coaches, staff and parents were important in 'showing them how.' For example, how to vacuum or stack produce, how to bowl, how to use weight training equipment or helping to plan a safe walking route. Motivation for initial and ongoing participation was associated with friendship and social connection. Practical support was needed for continued participation. In particular, transportation and affordable activities were very important. Fostering practical skills, supporting the social aspects of physical activity and keeping activities low cost are important enabling and reinforcing factors for physical activity among active persons with intellectual disability.

Relationship between the metabolic syndrome and physical activity energy expenditure: a MONET study

The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to examine the association between the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and physical activity energy expenditure (PAEE) in overweight and obese sedentary postmenopausal women. The study population consisted of 137 overweight and obese sedentary postmenopausal women (age, 57.7 +/- 4.8 years; BMI, 32.4 +/- 4.6 kg.m(-2)). Subjects had the MetS if 3 out of the following 5 criteria were met: visceral fat > 130 cm2, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol < 1.29 mmol.L(-1), fasting triglycerides > or = 1.7 mmol.L(-1), blood pressure > or = 130/85 mmHg, and fasting glucose > or =5.6 mmol.L(-1). We measured (i) body composition (by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry); (ii) visceral fat (by computed tomography); (iii) insulin sensitivity (using the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp); (iv) plasma lipids, fasting glucose, and insulin, as well as 2 h glucose during an oral glucose tolerance test; (v) resting blood pressure; (vi) peak oxygen consumption (VO2 peak); (vii) PAEE (using doubly labeled water); and (viii) lower-body muscle strength (using weight-training equipment). Forty-two women (30.7%) had the MetS in our cohort. Individuals without the MetS had significantly higher levels of PAEE (962 +/- 296 vs. 837 +/- 271 kcal.d(-1); p < 0.05), VO2 peak (18.2 +/- 3.0 vs. 16.7 +/- 3.2 mL.min(-1).kg(-1); p < 0.05), and insulin sensitivity, as well as significantly lower levels of 2 h glucose and central lean body mass. No differences in total energy expenditure, resting metabolic rate, and muscle strength between groups were observed. Logistic regression analysis showed that 2 h glucose (odds ratio (OR): 1.50 (95% CI 1.17-1.92)), central lean body mass (OR: 1.17 (95% CI 1.05-1.31)), and PAEE (OR: 0.998 (95% CI 0.997-1.000)), but not VO2 peak and (or) muscle strength, were independent predictors of the MetS. Lower levels of PAEE and higher levels of 2 h glucose, as well as central lean body mass, are independent determinants of the MetS in our cohort of overweight and obese postmenopausal women.

Relationship between insulin sensitivity and the triglyceride–HDL-C ratio in overweight and obese postmenopausal women: a MONET study

The objective of this cross-sectional study was to examine the relationship between the triglyceride-HDL-cholesterol ratio (TG:HDL-C) and insulin sensitivity in overweight and obese sedentary postmenopausal women. The study population consisted of 131 non-diabetic overweight and obese sedentary postmenopausal women (age; 57.7+/-5.0 y; body mass index (BMI), 32.2+/-4.3 kg/m2). Subjects were characterized by dividing the entire cohort into tertiles based on the TG:HDL-C (T1<0.86 vs. T2=0.86 to 1.35 vs. T3>1.35, respectively). We measured (i) insulin sensitivity (using the hyperinsulinenic-euglycemic clamp and homeostasis model assessment (HOMA)), (ii) body composition (using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), (iii) visceral fat (using computed tomography), (iv) plasma lipids, C-reactive protein, 2 h glucose concentration during an oral glucose tolerance test (2 h glucose), as well as fasting glucose and insulin, (v) peak oxygen consumption, and (vi) lower-body muscle strength (using weight training equipment). Significant correlations were observed between the TG:HDL-C and the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp (r=-0.45; p<0.0001), as well as with HOMA (r=0.42; p<0.0001). Moreover, the TG:HDL-C significantly correlated with lean body mass, visceral fat, 2 h glucose, C-reactive protein, and muscle strength. Stepwise regression analysis showed that the TG:HDL-C explained 16.4% of the variation in glucose disposal in our cohort, which accounted for the greatest source of unique variance. Other independent predictors of glucose disposal were 2 h glucose (10.1%), C-reactive protein (CRP; 7.6%), and peak oxygen consumption (5.8%), collectively (including the TG:HDL-C) explaining 39.9% of the unique variance. In addition, the TG:HDL-C was the second predictor for HOMA, accounting for 11.7% of the variation. High levels of insulin sensitivity were associated with low levels of the TG:HDL-C. In addition, the TG:HDL-C was a predictor for glucose disposal rates and HOMA values in our cohort of overweight and obese postmenopausal women.

Association of insulin sensitivity and muscle strength in overweight and obese sedentary postmenopausal women

The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between insulin sensitivity and lower body muscle strength in overweight and obese sedentary postmenopausal women. The design of the study was cross-sectional. The study population consisted of 82 non-diabetic overweight and obese sedentary postmenopausal women (age: 58.2 +/- 5.1 y; body mass index (BMI): 32.4 +/- 4.6 kg.m-2). Subjects were classified by dividing the entire cohort into quartiles based on relative insulin sensitivity expressed per kilograms of lean body mass (LBM) (Q1, < 10.3, vs. Q2, 10.3-12.4, vs. Q3, 12.5-14.0, vs. Q4, >14.0 mg.min-1.kg LBM-1). We measured insulin sensitivity (using the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp technique), body composition (using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), visceral fat and muscle attenuation (using computed tomography), and a lower-body muscle strength index expressed as weight lifted in kilograms per kilogram of LBM (kg.kg LBM-1) (using weight-training equipment). A positive and significant relationship was observed between insulin sensitivity and the muscle strength index (r = 0.37; p < 0.001). Moreover, a moderate but significant correlation was observed between the muscle strength index and muscle attenuation (r = 0.22; p < 0.05). Finally, the muscle strength index was significantly higher in the Q4 group compared with the Q2 and Q1 groups, respectively (3.78 +/- 1.13 vs. 2.99 +/- 0.77 and 2.93 +/- 0.91 kg.kg LBM-1; p < 0.05). Insulin sensitivity is positively associated with lower-body muscle strength in overweight and obese sedentary postmenopausal women.

Prospective Study of Bacterial and Viral Contamination of Exercise Equipment

Transmission of bacterial and viral pathogens is known to occur by hand contact with fomites. Exercise equipment in public facilities may serve as such fomites. It is not known whether equipment disinfection might reduce microorganism colonization. We performed studies to address these issues. Observational study of bacterial and viral culture results from hand-contact surfaces of exercise equipment, pre-exercise and postexercise; prospective study of viral culture results before and after intervention with disinfection solution. Two fitness centers in a military community. One week trial of twice-a-day equipment disinfection. Type and number of bacteria and type of viruses present on equipment before and after exercise; prevalence of viral culture positivity on equipment before and after intervention. Bacterial cultures of body contact surfaces on equipment revealed benign bacterial species (coagulase-negative staphylococci, diphtheroids, and so forth) but no pathogenic bacteria whether obtained pre-exercise or postexercise, or whether from aerobic versus weight training equipment. Viral cultures revealed the presence of viruses (generally rhinoviruses) on 63 of 100 (63%) hand-contact surfaces of equipment. Weight equipment was significantly more often contaminated than aerobic equipment (73% vs. 51%; P = 0.026). Disinfection of equipment did not lower the prevalence of virus isolation (48% positive before cleaning; 86% positive after cleaning). There is little risk of exposure to pathogenic bacteria on exercise equipment. Such equipment may commonly serve as fomites for the transmission of viruses. These data do not suggest that disinfection of exercise equipment will offer significant protective effects against virus exposure.

Epidemiology of Weight Training Equipment–Related Injuries to Young Children in the Home

ABSTRACTThe objective of this study was to describe and identify the type, cause, and epidemiology of injuries related to weight training equipment (WTE) to children under 5 reported to U.S. emergency rooms. Methods included a retrospective review of data for children 4 years old and younger from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance (NEISS) system of the U.S. consumer Product Safety Commission for the years 1994–2001. A total of 893 children were identified who obtained treatment at a participating emergency room. Results indicated there were an estimated 28,873 WTE-related injuries (95% CI [CI]: 23,194–34,552) to children 4 years old and younger treated in hospital emergency departments in the United States during the 8-year study period. The annual rate of injury among children was 15.97 per 100,000. Most injuries involved the foot, head, and hand regions. Injury diagnosis included soft tissue injuries (38%), lacerations (35%), and fractures and dislocations (20%). Most hospital admissions were f...

Net Caloric Cost of a 3-Set Flywheel Ergometer Resistance Exercise Paradigm

Subjects (n = 23) performed three 3×8 seated leg press workouts on a flywheel ergometer to note the net caloric cost. This study's purpose was to examine net caloric cost as a function of total work on an inertial resistance exercise device offering more eccentric loading than conventional iso-tonic weight training equipment. High intraclass correlations for net caloric cost (0.89) and total work (0.94) result from data collected from 3 workouts. Average total work and net caloric cost values reveal a significant (r = 0.62, p < 0.05) correlation yielding the following equation: predicted net caloric cost = 33.2 + 0.006014331 (total work). Current study data also show favorable net caloric cost (1.24 kcal·kg−1·d−1), exercise efficiency (9.48 kcal × 10−3 per joule), and estimated mechanical loading (65 W min·kg−1 LBM·d−1) values. The results of the current study serve as baseline knowledge for exercise prescriptions pertaining to net caloric cost, exercise efficiency, and mechanical loading using this device.

STRENGTH CHANGES SIX MONTHS AFTER COMPLETION OF A FORMAL RESISTANCE TRAINING PROGRAM FOR OLDER ADULTS.

It has been well established that participating in a resistance training program can improve the strength and muscle mass of older adults. However, little is known about the liklihood that they will continue to exercise outside of a research setting and how much change will occur in a six month period. PURPOSE: This study involved a six month follow up to either 40 or 80 weeks of formal resistance training in order to examine potential changes in strength for participants who either continued to exercise in a community based setting or stopped their weight training activities. METHODS: The subjects were 60–70 year old men and women and strenght was measured using Cybex weight training equipment and standardized procedures for one repetition maximum (1RM). Measurements were taken at the end of the 40 or 80 weeks of training and then six months following the conclusion of the formal program. Groups were split by community exercisers and non-exercisers and by gender. The muscle groups measured were the biceps, triceps, lat pull down, military press, two-leg press, knee extension, and knee flexion. Data analysis included paired T-tests (SPSS v10.0) to evaluate potential differences in strength following the six month period of time after the end of the formal training program. A probability level of p < 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance. RESULTS: Of the 90 subjects returning six months after the formal training ceased, 21 men and 32 women continued in a community based resistance exercise program while 12 men and 25 women stopped weight training. The results indicated that both exercisers and non-exercisers had significant declines in overall measures of strength, averaged across the seven muscle groups (−9.8% vs û11.9%, respectively) and that men and women responded in a similar fashion (−10.2% vs û10.2%, respectively). The only muscle groups that appeared to be somewhat resistant to the loss of strength were the lower body measures of leg press and knee flexion. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that unsupervised exercise in a community based setting did not maintain strength gains obtained during the 40 or 80 week formal training program.

Net Caloric Cost of a 3-Set Flywheel Ergometer Resistance Exercise Paradigm

Subjects (n = 23) performed three 3 x 8 seated leg press workouts on a flywheel ergometer to note the net caloric cost. This study's purpose was to examine net caloric cost as a function of total work on an inertial resistance exercise device offering more eccentric loading than conventional isotonic weight training equipment. High intraclass correlations for net caloric cost (0.89) and total work (0.94) result from data collected from 3 workouts. Average total work and net caloric cost values reveal a significant (r = 0.62, p < 0.05) correlation yielding the following equation: predicted net caloric cost = 33.2 + 0.006014331 (total work). Current study data also show favorable net caloric cost (1.24 kcal x kg(-1) x d(-1)), exercise efficiency (9.48 kcal x 10(-3) per joule), and estimated mechanical loading (65 W min x kg(-1) LBM x d(-1)) values. The results of the current study serve as baseline knowledge for exercise prescriptions pertaining to net caloric cost, exercise efficiency, and mechanical loading using this device.

Incentive Programs at Campus Recreation Centers

Many colleges and universities today offer students, faculty, alumni, and community members access to on-campus recreation centers. These centers offer cardiovascular and weight-training equipment, swimming pools, snack areas and juice bars, multipurpose gymnasiums, racquetball courts, locker rooms, saunas, steam rooms, and a variety of other amenities. These services are often included in a student's semester activity fee, while many institutions make the facilities available at a nominal charge for faculty and staff. In order to entice faculty and staff utilize these facilities, some institutions have begun creating and offering incentive packages for users. This research is focused on reasons why employee participation is beneficial to both the individual and the institution, how employees can be motivated through the use of incentives, the various types of participation incentives offered, examples of successful incentives, and recommendations for future incentive plans.

Weight Training Injury Trends

ABSTRACTBACKGROUND: Weight training is a popular activity, but injuries can be a consequence. Research has documented the types and venues of weight training injuries.OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to identify weight lifting injury trends.DESIGN: A retrospective review of data from US emergency departments (EDs) that reported injuries from weight training and weight training equipment. The data include people who were treated for injuries from weight training or weight equipment from October 1, 1978, through December 31, 1998, and were identified by the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS).RESULTS: NEISS identified 20,489 weight training-related injuries. An estimated 980, 173 persons were treated in EDs for injuries related to weight training activity or equipment during the study period. The number of ED-treated injuries has increased 35% since 1978. About one of four injuries occurred from the misuse or abuse of weight training equipment.CONCLUSION: Cautionary messages should be aimed at young children, older adults, and users of home gyms. Those who train with weights should be instructed in the proper use of weight equipment.

Selection of Weight Training Equipment

Selection of Weight Training Equipment

Shoulder Rehabilitation: Equipment Modifications

A systematic approach toward weight-training equipment is needed in the physical therapy clinic and in establishing guidelines for the home program. Many different types of exercise equipment are currently being used. With an aggressive patient population, the physical therapist should become familiar with the various types of equipment now available in many of the exercise centers. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 1985;6(4):247-253.

Techniques for improving the strength and fitness of spinal injured patients.

Physiological data on athletes and animals has been used to design this training programme and to suggest new perspectives for trainin the spinal cord injured. The training routines proposed are designed to improve endurance and strength and modern weight training equipment has been modified for this purpose.