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Boccia G, Brustio PR, Beratto L, Peluso I, Ferrara R, Munzi D, Toti E, Raguzzini A, Sciarra T, Rainoldi A. Upper-Limb Muscle Fatigability in Para-Athletes Quantified as the Rate of Force Development in Rapid Contractions of Submaximal Amplitude. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2024; 9:108. [PMID: 38921644 PMCID: PMC11204935 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk9020108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to compare neuromuscular fatigability of the elbow flexors and extensors between athletes with amputation (AMP) and athletes with spinal cord injury (SCI) for maximum voluntary force (MVF) and rate of force development (RFD). We recruited 20 para-athletes among those participating at two training camps (2022) for Italian Paralympic veterans. Ten athletes with SCI (two with tetraplegia and eight with paraplegia) were compared to 10 athletes with amputation (above the knee, N = 3; below the knee, N = 6; forearm, N = 1). We quantified MVF, RFD at 50, 100, and 150 ms, and maximal RFD (RFDpeak) of elbow flexors and extensors before and after an incremental arm cranking to voluntary fatigue. We also measured the RFD scaling factor (RFD-SF), which is the linear relationship between peak force and peak RFD quantified in a series of ballistic contractions of submaximal amplitude. SCI showed lower levels of MVF and RFD in both muscle groups (all p values ≤ 0.045). Despite this, the decrease in MVF (Cohen's d = 0.425, p < 0.001) and RFDpeak (d = 0.424, p = 0.003) after the incremental test did not show any difference between pathological conditions. Overall, RFD at 50 ms showed the greatest decrease (d = 0.741, p < 0.001), RFD at 100 ms showed a small decrease (d = 0.382, p = 0.020), and RFD at 150 ms did not decrease (p = 0.272). The RFD-SF decreased more in SCI than AMP (p < 0.0001). Muscle fatigability impacted not only maximal force expressions but also the quickness of ballistic contractions of submaximal amplitude, particularly in SCI. This may affect various sports and daily living activities of wheelchair users. Early RFD (i.e., ≤50 ms) was notably affected by muscle fatigability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Boccia
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy;
- Neuromuscular Function Research Group, School of Exercise and Sport Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Paolo Riccardo Brustio
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy;
- Neuromuscular Function Research Group, School of Exercise and Sport Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Luca Beratto
- Neuromuscular Function Research Group, School of Exercise and Sport Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Ilaria Peluso
- Research Centre for Food and Nutrition (CREA-AN), 00178 Rome, Italy; (I.P.); (E.T.); (A.R.)
| | - Roberto Ferrara
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, Italian Army Medical Hospital, 00143 Rome, Italy; (R.F.); (T.S.)
| | - Diego Munzi
- Joint Veteran Defence Center, 00184 Rome, Italy;
| | - Elisabetta Toti
- Research Centre for Food and Nutrition (CREA-AN), 00178 Rome, Italy; (I.P.); (E.T.); (A.R.)
| | - Anna Raguzzini
- Research Centre for Food and Nutrition (CREA-AN), 00178 Rome, Italy; (I.P.); (E.T.); (A.R.)
| | - Tommaso Sciarra
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, Italian Army Medical Hospital, 00143 Rome, Italy; (R.F.); (T.S.)
- Joint Veteran Defence Center, 00184 Rome, Italy;
| | - Alberto Rainoldi
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
- Research Centre for Food and Nutrition (CREA-AN), 00178 Rome, Italy; (I.P.); (E.T.); (A.R.)
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Boccia G, D'Emanuele S, Brustio PR, Rainoldi A, Schena F, Tarperi C. Decreased neural drive affects the early rate of force development after repeated burst-like isometric contractions. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2024; 34:e14528. [PMID: 37899668 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
The neural drive to the muscle is the primary determinant of the rate of force development (RFD) in the first 50 ms of a rapid contraction. It is still unproven if repetitive rapid contractions specifically impair the net neural drive to the muscles. To isolate the fatiguing effect of contraction rapidity, 17 male adult volunteers performed 100 burst-like (i.e., brief force pulses) isometric contractions of the knee extensors. The response to electrically-evoked single and octet femoral nerve stimulation was measured with high-density surface electromyography (HD-sEMG) from the vastus lateralis and medialis muscles. Root mean square (RMS) of each channel of HD-sEMG was normalized to the corresponding M-wave peak-to-peak amplitude, while muscle fiber conduction velocity (MFCV) was normalized to M-wave conduction velocity to compensate for changes in sarcolemma properties. Voluntary RFD 0-50 ms decreased (d = -0.56, p < 0.001) while time to peak force (d = 0.90, p < 0.001) and time to RFDpeak increased (d = 0.56, p = 0.034). Relative RMS (d = -1.10, p = 0.006) and MFCV (d = -0.53, p = 0.007) also decreased in the first 50 ms of voluntary contractions. Evoked octet RFD 0-50 ms (d = 0.60, p = 0.020), M-wave amplitude (d = 0.77, p = 0.009) and conduction velocity (d = 1.75, p < 0.001) all increased. Neural efficacy, i.e., voluntary/octet force ratio, largely decreased (d = -1.50, p < 0.001). We isolated the fatiguing impact of contraction rapidity and found that the decrement in RFD, particularly when calculated in the first 50 ms of muscle contraction, can mainly be explained by a decrease in the net neural drive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Boccia
- Neuromuscular Function research group, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Samuel D'Emanuele
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Paolo Riccardo Brustio
- Neuromuscular Function research group, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Alberto Rainoldi
- Neuromuscular Function research group, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Federico Schena
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Cantor Tarperi
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Bender JM, Popkin CA. Ammonia Inhalants: Use, Misuse, and Role in Sports Performance. Sports Health 2023:19417381231217341. [PMID: 38148665 DOI: 10.1177/19417381231217341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Ammonia inhalants, also known as smelling salts, are preparations of ammonia designed to treat fainting but more commonly used by athletes to boost awareness and arousal during competition. Despite their widespread use, the physiological and performance-enhancing effects of ammonia inhalants remain poorly understood. The aim of the present study was to review the current literature surrounding the benefits, risks, and physiological effects of ammonia inhalants. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION An extensive literature review of articles pertaining to ammonia inhalants was performed through MEDLINE and Google Scholar. The search terms "smelling salts," "ammonia inhalants," "strength," "performance," "head injury," and "concussion" were used. STUDY DESIGN Clinical review. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level 4. RESULTS The physiological response to acute ammonia inhalation includes cerebral vasodilation and heart rate elevation without change in blood pressure. The existing evidence demonstrates an ergogenic benefit to ammonia inhalant use only during repeated bouts of high-intensity exercise; in these subjects, ammonia inhalation was associated with increased power as measured by the Wingate anaerobic test. In contrast, there is no performance benefit to ammonia inhalants in a short burst of maximal effort despite elevated arousal and an associated perception of performance enhancement. Importantly, ammonia inhalants have no role in medical management of head injuries, as they have the potential to exacerbate an underlying brain injury due to the involuntary withdrawal reflex associated with ammonia inhalation. Furthermore, the signs and symptoms of a concussion or more threatening head injury may be masked by ammonia inhalation and lead to continued participation in competition, causing additional harm. CONCLUSION Ammonia inhalants have no role in medical management of head injuries and have limited benefit with regards to sports performance. STRENGTH OF RECOMMENDATION B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua M Bender
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Charles A Popkin
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
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Chatrenet A, Piccoli G, Audebrand JM, Torreggiani M, Barbieux J, Vaillant C, Morel B, Durand S, Beaune B. Analysis of the rate of force development reveals high neuromuscular fatigability in elderly patients with chronic kidney disease. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle 2023; 14:2016-2028. [PMID: 37439126 PMCID: PMC10570076 DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.13280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic kidney disease (CKD) induces muscle wasting and a reduction in the maximum voluntary force (MVF). Little is known about the neuromuscular fatigability in CKD patients, defined as the reduction of muscle force capacities during exercise. Neuromuscular fatigability is a crucial physical parameter of the daily living. The quantification of explosive force has been shown to be a sensitive means to assess neuromuscular fatigability. Thus, our study used explosive force estimates to assess neuromuscular fatigability in elderly CKD patients. METHODS Inclusion criteria for CKD patients were age ≥ 60 years old and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) < 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 not on dialysis, and those for controls were GFR > 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 , age and diabetes matched. The fatigability protocol focused on a handgrip task coupled with surface electromyography (sEMG). Scalars were extracted from the rate of force development (RFD): absolute and normalized time periods (50, 75, 100, 150 and 200 ms, RFD50 , RFD75 , RFD100 , RFD150 and RFD200 , respectively), peak RFD (RFDpeak in absolute; NRFDpeak normalized), time-to-peak RFD (t-RFDpeak ) and the relative force at RFDpeak (MVF-RFDpeak ). A statistical parametric mapping approach was performed on the force, impulse and RFD-time curves. The integrated sEMG with time at 0-30, 0-50, 0-100 and 0-200 ms time intervals relative to onset of sEMG activity was extracted and groups were compared separately for each sex. RESULTS The cohort of 159 individuals had a median age of 69 (9IQR ) years and body mass index was 27.6 (6.2IQR ) kg/m2 . Propensity-score-matched groups balanced CKD patients and controls by gender with 66 males and 34 females. In scalar analysis, CKD patients manifested a higher decrement than controls in the early phase of contraction, regarding the NRFDpeak (P = 0.009; η2 p = 0.034) and RFD75 and RFD100 (for both P < 0.001; η2 p = 0.068 and 0.064). The one-dimensional analysis confirmed that CKD males manifest higher and delayed neuromuscular fatigability, especially before 100 ms from onset of contraction. sEMG was lower in CKD patients than controls in the 0-100 ms (at rest: P = 0.049, Cohen's d = 0.458) and 0-200 ms (at rest: P = 0.016, Cohen's d = 0.496; during exercise: P = 0.006, Cohen's d = 0.421) time windows. Controls showed greater decrease of sEMG than CKD patients in the 0-30 ms (P = 0.020, Cohen's d = 0.533) and 0-50 ms (P = 0.010, Cohen's d = 0.640) time windows. As opposite to females, males showed almost the same differences between groups. CONCLUSIONS Our study is the first to show that CKD patients have higher fatigability than controls, which may be associated with an impaired motor-unit recruitment, highlighting a neural drive disturbance with CKD. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Chatrenet
- Le Mans Université, Movement – Interactions – Performance, MIP, UR4334Le MansFrance
- Department of NephrologyCentre Hospitalier Le MansLe MansFrance
| | | | | | | | - Julien Barbieux
- Department of Digestive SurgeryCentre Hospitalier Le MansLe MansFrance
| | - Charly Vaillant
- Department of EndocrinologyCentre Hospitalier Le MansLe MansFrance
| | - Baptiste Morel
- Inter‐University Laboratory of Human Movement Biology (EA 7424)Université Savoie Mont BlancChambéryFrance
| | - Sylvain Durand
- Le Mans Université, Movement – Interactions – Performance, MIP, UR4334Le MansFrance
| | - Bruno Beaune
- Le Mans Université, Movement – Interactions – Performance, MIP, UR4334Le MansFrance
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Nikolaidis PT, Knechtle B. Participation and performance characteristics in half-marathon run: a brief narrative review. J Muscle Res Cell Motil 2023; 44:115-122. [PMID: 36326961 PMCID: PMC10329575 DOI: 10.1007/s10974-022-09633-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Half-marathon (HM) is a running sport of increasing popularity in both sexes and in all age groups worldwide during the last years. Many studies have examined several aspects of HM, such as performance and participation trends, sex and age differences, physiological correlates, and training; however, no comprehensive review has ever been contacted to summarize the recently accumulated knowledge. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to review all previous research in this sport, focusing on participation and performance aspects. It was shown that HM runners had similar anthropometric and physiological characteristics as full-marathon runners which should be attributed to the affinity of these two races in terms of metabolic demands. Performance in HM was related with superior scores in aerobic capacity (maximal oxygen uptake, anaerobic threshold and running economy) and training characteristics (sport experience, weekly distance, training speed, frequency of sessions and long single endurance run distance), and lower scores in adiposity-related scores (e.g. body mass, body mass index, body fat percentage and skinfold thickness). Considering the popularity of HM race and the lack of many original studies (compared to FM race), this is an exciting field for scientific research with a large potential for practical applications, since the majority of HM runners are amateur runners in need of sex-, age- and performance-tailored exercise prescription.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Cesanelli L, Eimantas N, Iovane A, Messina G, Satkunskiene D. The role of age on neuromuscular performance decay induced by a maximal intensity sprint session in a group of competitive endurance athletes. Eur J Transl Myol 2022; 32. [PMID: 35330561 PMCID: PMC8992664 DOI: 10.4081/ejtm.2022.10378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related changes in the neuromuscular system functions may affect profoundly high-level athletes' performance across their careers. The present study aimed to analyse the fatiguing effect of a maximal intensity sprint session (MISS) on competitive athletes of different ages. Thirty-one competitive endurance athletes completed a knee extensors and flexors' maximal-voluntary-isometric-contraction (MVC) test before and after a maximal-intensity-sprint-session (MISS) consisting of 4x15s Wingate-tests. The data have been stratified considering three age categories (18-28, n=11, 29-38; n=10; 39-43, n=10). Overall, both quadricep and hamstring muscles early and late rate of torque development (RTD) dropped significantly more than the maximal voluntary torque (MVT) (p<.05). Age had a significant effect on early RTD, with older athletes exhibiting greater RTD (p<.05). A significant effect of age also emerged for the changes in surface sEMG variables, in which the frequency spectrum variables dropped significantly more than the sEMG amplitude (RMS) (p<.05). The dynamics of changes in neuromuscular performance markers after a MISS suggested that getting older competitive athletes may potentially experience a greater loss in early explosive strength compared to maximal or late explosive strength.
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Sousa MMD, Laett CT, Gavilão UF, Goes RA, Oliveira CGD, Santos LDM, Silva SCD, Cossich VRA. EFFECT OF FATIGUE ON EXPLOSIVE STRENGTH AND MUSCLE ARCHITECTURE OF THE VASTUS LATERALIS. REV BRAS MED ESPORTE 2021. [DOI: 10.1590/1517-8692202127062020_0062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Introduction: There has been little research on changes in rate of torque development (RTD) and muscle architecture. This study evaluated the effect of fatigue on RTD and muscle architecture of the vastus lateralis (VL). Methods: Seventeen volunteers (25.5 ± 6.2 years; 177.2 ± 12.9 cm; 76.4 ± 13.1 kg) underwent isokinetic knee extension assessment at 30°/s to obtain the peak torque (PT-ISK), before and after a set of intermittent maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVIC) (15 reps – 3 s contraction, 3 s rest) used to promote muscle fatigue, monitored by the median frequency (MDF) of the electromyography from the VL, rectus femoris and vastus medialis muscles. Before and after the fatigue protocol, ultrasound images of the VL were obtained to measure muscle thickness (MT), fascicle length (FL), and fascicle angle (FA). The peak isometric torque (PT-ISM) and the RTDs in 50 ms windows were calculated for each MVIC. The RTDs were reported as absolute values and normalized by the PT-ISM. Results: Fatigue was confirmed due to significant reductions in MDF in all three muscles. After the fatigue protocol, the PT-ISK was reduced from 239.0±47.91 to 177.3±34.96 Nm, and the PT-MVIC was reduced from 269.5±45.63 to 220.49±46.94 Nm. All the RTD absolute values presented significant change after the fatigue protocol. However, the normalized RTD did not demonstrate any significant differences. No significant differences were found in the muscle architecture of the VL. Conclusions: The reduction in explosive strength occurred concomitantly with the reduction in maximum strength, as evidenced by the lack of changes in normalized TDT. Level of Evidence III.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Conrado Torres Laett
- Instituto Nacional de Traumatologia e Ortopedia, Brazil; Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ubiratã Faleiro Gavilão
- Instituto Nacional de Traumatologia e Ortopedia, Brazil; Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Victor Rodrigues Amaral Cossich
- Instituto Nacional de Traumatologia e Ortopedia, Brazil; Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Traumatologia e Ortopedia, Brazil
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Campbell AK, Williamson CE, Macgregor LJ, Hamilton DL. Elevated arousal following acute ammonia inhalation is not associated with increased neuromuscular performance. Eur J Sport Sci 2021; 22:1391-1400. [PMID: 34228592 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2021.1953150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Many athletes seek to enhance their performance using legal ergogenic aids, including ammonia inhalants (AIs). AIs trigger the inhalation reflex and increase blood pressure, respiration and heart rate; but, despite their widespread use, there is little evidence for the benefits of AI on exercise performance. We aimed to determine the psychological and neuromuscular impact of acute ammonia inhalation. Fourteen non-resistance trained males completed three trials: control, experimental (AI), and sham. The order of the sham and experimental trials was randomised. Participants completed handgrip and knee extension maximal voluntary contractions (MVC), and countermovement jump (CMJ). Heart rate and alertness were recorded at rest and immediately following control, experimental or sham treatment, followed by functional performance measurements. Reaction time, electromechanical delay, rate of force development and peak force were calculated from MVCs, and peak power from CMJ. On completion of trials, perceived performance was recorded. Statistical significance was accepted at P < .05. Heart rate (P < .001), alertness (P = .009) and perceived performance (P = .036) were elevated by AIs. Markers of functional performance were unaltered by AIs. Alertness was moderately correlated with perceived performance in control (r = 0.61) and sham conditions (r = 0.54), and very-highly correlated in the experimental condition (r = 0.90). AI elevates alertness and perceived physical performance, but not peak strength, power, or neuromuscular drive. AIs may be a useful psychological stimulant to increase focus and mental preparation, however it is unlikely that this will improve functional performance in an untrained population. Our data suggest however, that ammonia inhalants may improve the perception of an individual's performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy K Campbell
- School of Science, Technology and Health, York St John University, York, United Kingdom
| | - Callum E Williamson
- Physiology, Exercise and Nutrition Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, University of Stirling, Stirling, United Kingdom
| | - Lewis J Macgregor
- Physiology, Exercise and Nutrition Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, University of Stirling, Stirling, United Kingdom
| | - D Lee Hamilton
- Faculty of Health, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
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D'Emanuele S, Maffiuletti NA, Tarperi C, Rainoldi A, Schena F, Boccia G. Rate of Force Development as an Indicator of Neuromuscular Fatigue: A Scoping Review. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:701916. [PMID: 34305557 PMCID: PMC8301373 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.701916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Because rate of force development (RFD) is an emerging outcome measure for the assessment of neuromuscular function in unfatigued conditions, and it represents a valid alternative/complement to the classical evaluation of pure maximal strength, this scoping review aimed to map the available evidence regarding RFD as an indicator of neuromuscular fatigue. Thus, following a general overview of the main studies published on this topic, we arbitrarily compared the amount of neuromuscular fatigue between the “gold standard” measure (maximal voluntary force, MVF) and peak, early (≤100 ms) and late (>100 ms) RFD. Seventy full-text articles were included in the review. The most-common fatiguing exercises were resistance exercises (37% of the studies), endurance exercises/locomotor activities (23%), isokinetic contractions (17%), and simulated/real sport situations (13%). The most widely tested tasks were knee extension (60%) and plantar flexion (10%). The reason (i.e., rationale) for evaluating RFD was lacking in 36% of the studies. On average, the amount of fatigue for MVF (−19%) was comparable to late RFD (−19%) but lower compared to both peak RFD (−25%) and early RFD (−23%). Even if the rationale for evaluating RFD in the fatigued state was often lacking and the specificity between test task and fatiguing exercise characteristics was not always respected in the included studies, RFD seems to be a valid indicator of neuromuscular fatigue. Based on our arbitrary analyses, peak RFD and early phase RFD appear even to be more sensitive to quantify neuromuscular fatigue than MVF and late phase RFD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D'Emanuele
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Cantor Tarperi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Alberto Rainoldi
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,NeuroMuscularFunction
- Research Group, School of Exercise and Sport Sciences (SUISM), University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Federico Schena
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,CeRiSM, Sport Mountain and Health Research Centre, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Gennaro Boccia
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,NeuroMuscularFunction
- Research Group, School of Exercise and Sport Sciences (SUISM), University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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10
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Gomes M, Santos P, Correia P, Pezarat-Correia P, Mendonca GV. Sex differences in muscle fatigue following isokinetic muscle contractions. Sci Rep 2021; 11:8141. [PMID: 33854136 PMCID: PMC8046769 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-87443-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Muscle fatigue is a limiting factor of human performance. It is unclear whether sex-based differences in fatigability exist during dynamic exercise of varying velocities of contraction. We aimed at exploring sex differences in muscle fatigue elicited by maximal isokinetic muscle contractions performed at different angular velocities. Twenty-six healthy participants (13 men: 23.2 ± 1.5; 13 women: 21.9 ± 3.0 years) were tested for concentric knee-extension at slow, moderate and fast angular isokinetic velocity (60, 180 and 300º.s-1, respectively), on non-consecutive days. The impact of sex on fatigue resistance and consecutive recovery for each isokinetic condition was explored by calculating the percent change in maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) and in rate of torque development (RTD), from pre- to post-isokinetic exercise (30 repetitions). The isokinetic fatigue index was also determined. No sex differences were obtained in response to isokinetic contractions completed at 60º.s-1. After performing muscle contractions at 300º.s-1, women had a significantly greater loss in MVIC than men (- 18.4 ± 5.5 vs. - 12.9 ± 3.8%; p = 0.009) and larger decreases in work output during isokinetic exercise (- 34.2 ± 8.9 vs - 27.5 ± 10.6%; p = 0.017). Recovery of initial MVIC strength was greater for women post-exercise at 180º.s-1 (15.6 ± 4.1% vs. 6.7 ± 9.5; p = 0.003). No differences were found between sexes in any condition for RTD from pre- to post-fatigue. These results suggest the presence of a sexually dimorphic fatigability in response to dynamic (isokinetic) contractions favouring men at higher absolute velocities of contraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Gomes
- Neuromuscular Research Lab, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada da Costa, 1499-002, Cruz Quebrada, Dafundo, Portugal.
| | - Paulo Santos
- Neuromuscular Research Lab, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada da Costa, 1499-002, Cruz Quebrada, Dafundo, Portugal
| | - Paulo Correia
- Neuromuscular Research Lab, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada da Costa, 1499-002, Cruz Quebrada, Dafundo, Portugal
| | - Pedro Pezarat-Correia
- Neuromuscular Research Lab, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada da Costa, 1499-002, Cruz Quebrada, Dafundo, Portugal.,CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada da Costa, 1499-002, Cruz Quebrada, Dafundo, Portugal
| | - Goncalo V Mendonca
- Neuromuscular Research Lab, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada da Costa, 1499-002, Cruz Quebrada, Dafundo, Portugal.,CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada da Costa, 1499-002, Cruz Quebrada, Dafundo, Portugal
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Festa L, Tarperi C, Skroce K, La Torre A, Schena F. Effects of Different Training Intensity Distribution in Recreational Runners. Front Sports Act Living 2020; 1:70. [PMID: 33344993 PMCID: PMC7739641 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2019.00070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To compare the impact of two different training intensity distributions in terms of conditional and performance parameters and spent time to training in recreational athletes. Methods: Two different training intensity distribution model were performed for 8 weeks by 38 recreational runners. Runners recruited were randomly assigned to 2 different training models based on HR intensity detected with maximal test. The percentage distribution splitted in zone 1, 2, and 3 were by 77/3/20 and 40/50/10 in polarized endurance training group (PET) and focused endurance training (FOC) group, respectively. Programs were balanced for total training impulse (TRIMP). To evaluate effects of training, before and after treatment were performed a maximal exercise test to determine Maximal Oxygen Uptake (V'O2max), Ventilatory Threshold (VT), respiratory-compensation point (RCT) Running Economy (RE), and 2 Km performance. To investigate the effects of training on muscular performance were performed one repetition maximum (1 RM), squat jump (SJ), and counter movement jump (CMJ). Results: Both groups significantly improved their velocity at V'O2max (3.2 and 4.0%), at VT (4.0 and 3.2%), RCT (5.7 and 3.4%), the average velocity in 2 Km performance (3.5 and 3.0%) and RE (−5.3 and −8.7%) for PET and FOC, respectively for each variable. No differences were found between the groups on any parameter investigated except about the total training time (PET = 29.9 ± 3.1 h and FOC = 24.8 ± 2.0 h). Conclusion: Focused Endurance Training obtains similar improvements than Polarized Endurance Training saving 17% of training time in recreational runners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Festa
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Cantor Tarperi
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Kristina Skroce
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Antonio La Torre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Schena
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Boccia G, Dardanello D, Brustio PR, Tarperi C, Festa L, Zoppirolli C, Pellegrini B, Schena F, Rainoldi A. Neuromuscular Fatigue Does Not Impair the Rate of Force Development in Ballistic Contractions of Submaximal Amplitudes. Front Physiol 2018; 9:1503. [PMID: 30405448 PMCID: PMC6207600 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The effect of muscle fatigue on rate of force development (RFD) is usually assessed during tasks that require participants to reach as quickly as possible maximal or near-maximal force. However, endurance sports require athletes to quickly produce force of submaximal, rather than maximal, amplitudes. Thus, this study investigated the effect of muscle fatigue induced by long-distance running on the capacity to quickly produce submaximal levels of force. Twenty-one male amateur runners were evaluated before and shortly after a half-marathon race. Knee extensors force was recorded under maximal voluntary and electrically evoked contractions. Moreover, a series of ballistic contractions at different submaximal amplitudes (from 20 to 100% of maximal voluntary force) was obtained, by asking the participants to reach submaximal forces as fast as possible. The RFD was calculated for each contraction. After the race, maximal voluntary activation, resting doublet twitch, maximal force, and RFD during maximal contraction decreased (-12, -12, -21, and -19%, respectively, all P-values < 0.0001). Nevertheless, the RFD values measured during ballistic contractions up to 60% of maximal force were unaffected (all P-values > 0.4). Long-distance running impaired the capacity to quickly produce force in ballistic contractions of maximal, but not of submaximal, amplitudes. Overall, these findings suggest that central and peripheral fatigue do not affect the quickness to which muscle contracts across a wide range of submaximal forces. This is a relevant finding for running and other daily life activities that rely on the production of rapid submaximal contractions rather than maximal force levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Boccia
- NeuroMuscularFunction Research Group, School of Exercise & Sport Sciences, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,CeRiSM Research Center for Sport, Mountain, and Health, University of Verona, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Davide Dardanello
- NeuroMuscularFunction Research Group, School of Exercise & Sport Sciences, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Paolo Riccardo Brustio
- NeuroMuscularFunction Research Group, School of Exercise & Sport Sciences, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Cantor Tarperi
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Luca Festa
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Zoppirolli
- CeRiSM Research Center for Sport, Mountain, and Health, University of Verona, Rovereto, Italy.,School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Barbara Pellegrini
- CeRiSM Research Center for Sport, Mountain, and Health, University of Verona, Rovereto, Italy.,School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Federico Schena
- CeRiSM Research Center for Sport, Mountain, and Health, University of Verona, Rovereto, Italy.,School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alberto Rainoldi
- NeuroMuscularFunction Research Group, School of Exercise & Sport Sciences, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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13
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Boccia G, Dardanello D, Tarperi C, Festa L, La Torre A, Pellegrini B, Schena F, Rainoldi A. Women show similar central and peripheral fatigue to men after half-marathon. Eur J Sport Sci 2018; 18:695-704. [PMID: 29490592 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2018.1442500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Women are known to be less fatigable than men in single-joint exercises, but fatigue induced by running has not been well understood. Here we investigated sex differences in central and peripheral fatigue and in rate of force development (RFD) in the knee extensors after a half-marathon run. Ten male and eight female amateur runners (aged 25-50 years) were evaluated before and immediately after a half-marathon race. Knee extensors forces were obtained under voluntary and electrically evoked isometric contractions. Maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVC) force and peak RFD were recorded. Electrically doublet stimuli were delivered during the MVC and at rest to calculate the level of voluntary activation and the resting doublet twitch. After the race, decreases in MVC force (males: -11%, effect size [ES] 0.52; females: -11% ES 0.33), voluntary activation (males: -6%, ES 0.87; females: -4%, ES 0.72), and resting doublet twitch (males: -6%, ES 0.34; females: -8%, ES 0.30) were found to be similar between males and females. The decrease in peak RFD was found to be similar between males and females (males: -14%, ES 0.43; females: -15%, ES 0.14). Half-marathon run induced both central and peripheral fatigue, without any difference between men and women. The maximal and explosive strength loss was found similar between sexes. Together, these findings do not support the need of sex-specific training interventions to increase the tolerance to neuromuscular fatigue in half-marathoners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Boccia
- a NeuroMuscularFunction Research Group, School of Exercise & Sport Sciences,Department of Medical Sciences , University of Turin , Turin , Italy.,b CeRiSM Research Center for Sport, Mountain, and Health , Rovereto , Italy
| | - Davide Dardanello
- a NeuroMuscularFunction Research Group, School of Exercise & Sport Sciences,Department of Medical Sciences , University of Turin , Turin , Italy
| | - Cantor Tarperi
- c Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences , School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Verona , Verona , Italy
| | - Luca Festa
- c Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences , School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Verona , Verona , Italy
| | - Antonio La Torre
- d Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health , Università degli Studi di Milano , Milan , Italy
| | - Barbara Pellegrini
- b CeRiSM Research Center for Sport, Mountain, and Health , Rovereto , Italy.,c Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences , School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Verona , Verona , Italy
| | - Federico Schena
- b CeRiSM Research Center for Sport, Mountain, and Health , Rovereto , Italy.,c Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences , School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Verona , Verona , Italy
| | - Alberto Rainoldi
- a NeuroMuscularFunction Research Group, School of Exercise & Sport Sciences,Department of Medical Sciences , University of Turin , Turin , Italy
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