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Moreno Carbajal PB, Corrales Camargo NE, Espinoza-Gutiérrez R, Calleja-Núñez JJ, Montero-Herrera B, Cerna J, Aburto-Corona JA. Energy Expenditure Validation of an Exergame Platform: Ring Fit Adventure Use in Adults with Overweight and Obesity. Games Health J 2024; 13:288-296. [PMID: 38608212 DOI: 10.1089/g4h.2023.0159] [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] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study aims at comparing the energy expenditure (EE) and heart rate (HR) data from Ring Fit Adventure (RFA) with those from indirect calorimetry (COSMED) and a heart rate monitor (Polar FT7). A secondary goal is to evaluate self-reported enjoyment and perceived effort levels. Materials and Methods: Thirty participants (age = 21.8 ± 2.2; body mass index = 31.8 ± 4.4) were recruited for two laboratory visits. The first visit involved baseline measurements. In the second visit, participants performed a 55-minute ad libitum exercise session with the RFA in adventure mode with moderate difficulty. During this session, EE, HR, perceived effort, and enjoyment of physical activity were recorded. Results: Although no statistically significant overestimation of EE was found between the RFA and the metabolic cart, two-way analysis of variance results show a main effect of condition (RFA vs. Polar FT7) on HR (122.8 ± 20.1 bpm and 129.0 ± 18.6 bpm; P = 0.007; ᶯp2 = 0.235). Based on comprehensive statistical evaluations, including the mean absolute percent error, intraclass correlations, typical error of measurement, and limits of agreement, the data suggest that the RFA provides reliable estimates for EE and HR. Overall, participants enjoyed the game considerably (71.3 ± 5.9/80 arbitrary units), and their reported perceived exertion was low. Conclusion: This study underscores that the RFA values are relatively accurate and precise, and thus it can be safely suggested for individuals with overweight and obesity to adopt an active lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Roberto Espinoza-Gutiérrez
- Sports Faculty, Autonomous University of Baja California, Tijuana, Baja California, México
- Research Group UABC-CA-341 Physical Performance and Health, Human Biosciences Laboratory, Tijuana, Baja California, México
| | - Juan J Calleja-Núñez
- Sports Faculty, Autonomous University of Baja California, Tijuana, Baja California, México
- Research Group UABC-CA-341 Physical Performance and Health, Human Biosciences Laboratory, Tijuana, Baja California, México
| | - Bryan Montero-Herrera
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Jonathan Cerna
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Jorge A Aburto-Corona
- Sports Faculty, Autonomous University of Baja California, Tijuana, Baja California, México
- Research Group UABC-CA-341 Physical Performance and Health, Human Biosciences Laboratory, Tijuana, Baja California, México
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Sawai A, Shida T, Hoshikawa Y, Hatanaka S, Ueda M, Kato Y, Tokinoya K, Natsui H, Kawakami Y, Takekoshi K. Effect of acute moderate-intensity cycling on cfDNA levels considering menstrual cycle phases. Front Sports Act Living 2024; 6:1322295. [PMID: 38348376 PMCID: PMC10859457 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2024.1322295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction We aimed to determine the effects of exercise on cell-free DNA (cfDNA) levels and concentration changes during the menstrual cycle in participants with regular menstrual cycles and no exercise habits. Methods Eleven sedentary female students with regular menstrual cycles and ovulation performed bicycle exercises at 60% VO2max for 30 min during the menstrual, ovulatory, and luteal phases. Blood samples were collected before (Pre), immediately after (Post 0), 30 min after (Post 30), and 60 min after (Post 60) exercise. Blood concentrations of ovarian hormones, cfDNA, prostaglandin F2a (PGF2α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and aromatase were evaluated. Results Based on the concentration of ovarian hormones, seven individuals were finally analyzed. No significant phase difference was observed in cfDNA across all time points. cfDNA (menstrual phase: p = 0.028, ovulatory phase: p = 0.018, and luteal phase: p = 0.048) and aromatase concentrations (menstrual phase: p = 0.040, ovulatory phase: p = 0.039, and luteal phase: p = 0.045) significantly increased from Pre to Post 0 in all phases. Serum estradiol (E2) levels were significantly higher in the luteal phase at all time points than in the menstrual phase (Pre: p < 0.001, Post 0: p < 0.001, Post 30: p = 0.005, and Post 60: p = 0.011); however, serum progesterone (P4) levels were significantly higher in the luteal phase at all time points than in the menstrual (Pre: p < 0.001, Post 0: p < 0.001, Post 30: p < 0.001, and Post 60: p < 0.001) and ovulatory phases (Pre: p = 0.005, Post 0: p = 0.005, Post 30: p = 0.003, and Post 60: p = 0.003). E2 levels significantly increased from Pre to Post 0 in the ovulatory and luteal phases, whereas P4 levels increased in the luteal phase. Progesterone to estradiol level ratio (P4/E2) changes from Pre to Post 0 (%baseline) during the luteal phase were significantly negatively correlated (r = -0.82, p = 0.046) with the changes in cfDNA from Pre to Post 0. Furthermore, the repeated measures correlation between P4/E2 and cfDNA level showed a significant negative correlation in ovulatory and luteal phases. Discussion The results indicate that while resting cfDNA levels are unlikely to be affected by a woman's menstrual cycle, the increase in cfDNA after exercise is higher in the ovulatory phase (when only E2 increases) and lower in the luteal phase (when E2 and P4 increase with exercise) compared to that in the menstrual phase (when E2 and P4 are in low levels), suggesting the contribution of increased ovarian hormone levels after exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akemi Sawai
- Research Institute of Physical Fitness, Japan Women’s College of Physical Education, Setagaya City, Japan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Japan
| | - Takashi Shida
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Japan
- Research Team for Promoting Independence and Mental Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Itabashi City, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Hoshikawa
- Department of Sports Science, Japan Women’s College of Physical Education, Setagaya City, Japan
| | - Sho Hatanaka
- Research Team for Promoting Independence and Mental Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Itabashi City, Japan
| | - Mashiro Ueda
- Master’s Program in Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Japan
| | - Yuri Kato
- Master’s Program in Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Japan
| | - Katsuyuki Tokinoya
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Japan
- Embodied Wisdom Division, Center for Liberal Education and Learning, Sophia University, Chiyoda City, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Natsui
- Department of Sports and Health Science, Japan Women’s College of Physical Education, Setagaya City, Japan
| | - Yasushi Kawakami
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Takekoshi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Japan
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D'Souza AC, Wageh M, Williams JS, Colenso-Semple LM, McCarthy DG, McKay AKA, Elliott-Sale KJ, Burke LM, Parise G, MacDonald MJ, Tarnopolsky MA, Phillips SM. Menstrual cycle hormones and oral contraceptives: a multimethod systems physiology-based review of their impact on key aspects of female physiology. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2023; 135:1284-1299. [PMID: 37823207 PMCID: PMC10979803 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00346.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Hormonal changes around ovulation divide the menstrual cycle (MC) into the follicular and luteal phases. In addition, oral contraceptives (OCs) have active (higher hormone) and placebo phases. Although there are some MC-based effects on various physiological outcomes, we found these differences relatively subtle and difficult to attribute to specific hormones, as estrogen and progesterone fluctuate rather than operating in a complete on/off pattern as observed in cellular or preclinical models often used to substantiate human data. A broad review reveals that the differences between the follicular and luteal phases and between OC active and placebo phases are not associated with marked differences in exercise performance and appear unlikely to influence muscular hypertrophy in response to resistance exercise training. A systematic review and meta-analysis of substrate oxidation between MC phases revealed no difference between phases in the relative carbohydrate and fat oxidation at rest and during acute aerobic exercise. Vascular differences between MC phases are also relatively small or nonexistent. Although OCs can vary in composition and androgenicity, we acknowledge that much more work remains to be done in this area; however, based on what little evidence is currently available, we do not find compelling support for the notion that OC use significantly influences exercise performance, substrate oxidation, or hypertrophy. It is important to note that the study of females requires better methodological control in many areas. Previous studies lacking such rigor have contributed to premature or incorrect conclusions regarding the effects of the MC and systemic hormones on outcomes. While we acknowledge that the evidence in certain research areas is limited, the consensus view is that the impact of the MC and OC use on various aspects of physiology is small or nonexistent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alysha C D'Souza
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mai Wageh
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Devin G McCarthy
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alannah K A McKay
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Louise M Burke
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gianni Parise
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Mark A Tarnopolsky
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University Medical Center, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stuart M Phillips
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Recacha-Ponce P, Collado-Boira E, Suarez-Alcazar P, Montesinos-Ruiz M, Hernando-Domingo C. Is It Necessary to Adapt Training According to the Menstrual Cycle? Influence of Contraception and Physical Fitness Variables. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1764. [PMID: 37629621 PMCID: PMC10455893 DOI: 10.3390/life13081764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The influence of the menstrual cycle on physical fitness in athletes is controversial in the scientific literature. There is a marked fluctuation of sex hormones at three key points of the menstrual cycle, where estrogen and progesterone vary significantly. Hormonal contraception induces hormonal levels different from the natural menstrual cycle, requiring specific study in relation to physical fitness. (2) Method: Women aged 18 to 40 years with regular natural menstrual cycles and women using hormonal contraception were recruited, creating two study groups. All participants needed to be athletes classified as level II-III, based on training volume/physical activity metrics, among other variables. To assess their physical fitness, cardiorespiratory fitness (measured by V˙O2max), high-speed strength, hand grip strength, and flexibility were evaluated. Blood samples were taken to determine the menstrual cycle phase through analysis of sex hormone levels. Additionally, urine tests for ovulation detection were performed for the natural menstrual cycle group. Neurosensory stimulation tests were incorporated to measure sensory thresholds and pain thresholds in each phase. Body composition in each phase and its relationship with the other variables were also taken into account. (3) Results: Athletes in the natural cycling group showed differences in V˙O2max (mL·kg-1·min-1) (phase I = 41.75 vs. phase II = 43.85 and (p = 0.004) and phase I vs. phase III = 43.25 mL·kg-1·min-1 (p = 0.043)), as well as in body weight (phase I = 63.23 vs. phase III = 62.48 kg; p = 0.006), first pain threshold (phase I = 1.34 vs. phase II = 1.69 (p = 0.027) and phase III = 1.59 mA (p = 0.011)), and sensitive threshold (phase I = 0.64 vs. phase II = 0.76 mA (p = 0.017)). The pain threshold was found to be an important covariate in relation to V˙O2max, explaining 31.9% of the variance in phase I (p = 0.006). These findings were not observed between the two phases of contraceptive cycling. (4) Conclusion: The natural menstrual cycle will cause significant changes in the physical fitness of athletes. The use of hormonal contraception is not innocuous. Women with natural cycles show an increase in cardiorespiratory fitness in phases II and III, which is a factor to be considered in relation to training level and workload.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eladio Collado-Boira
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Jaime I University, 12071 Castello de la Plana, Spain; (P.R.-P.); (P.S.-A.); (M.M.-R.); (C.H.-D.)
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Arenas-Pareja MDLÁ, López-Sierra P, Ibáñez SJ, García-Rubio J. Influence of Menstrual Cycle on Internal and External Load in Professional Women Basketball Players. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11060822. [PMID: 36981479 PMCID: PMC10047984 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11060822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The menstrual cycle can be seen as a potential determinant of performance. This study aims to analyze the influence of the menstrual cycle in women on sports performance, more specifically on the internal and external load of professional women basketball players. The sample consisted of 16 women players and 14 training sessions were recorded. A descriptive analysis of the mean and standard deviation of the variables according to the different phases of the menstrual cycle was performed, as well as an ANCOVA, partial Eta2 effect size criteria, and Bonferroni’s Post Hoc test to identify differences among phases. The results establish that ovulation is the phase in which higher values of external load are recorded and, therefore, the late follicular phase is the time of the cycle where a greater intensity in explosive distance, accelerations and decelerations are recorded. Considering women’s hormonal cycles, understanding their function and the individual characteristics of each athlete is essential since it allows for the development of specific training, the prevention of injuries and therefore positively affects the performance of women players. To this end, individual training profiles should be created in specific contexts, not following general rules. In addition, psychological factors and the specific position of the athletes should be monitored.
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James JJ, Leach OK, Young AM, Newman AN, Mpongo KL, Quirante JM, Wardell DB, Ahmadi M, Gifford JR. The exercise power-duration relationship is equally reproducible in eumenorrheic female and male humans. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2023; 134:230-241. [PMID: 36548510 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00416.2022] [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: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the effect of the menstrual cycle (MC) on exercise performance across the power-duration relationship (PDR). We hypothesized females would exhibit greater variability in the PDR across the MC than males across a similar timespan, with critical power (CP) and work-prime (W') being lower during the early follicular phase than the late follicular and midluteal phases. Seven eumenorrheic, endurance-trained female adults performed multiple constant-load-to-task-failure and maximum-power tests at three timepoints across the MC (early follicular, late follicular, and midluteal phases). Ten endurance-trained male adults performed the same tests approximately 10 days apart. No differences across the PDR were observed between MC phases (CP: 186.74 ± 31.00 W, P = 0.955, CV = 0.81 ± 0.65%) (W': 7,961.81 ± 2,537.68 J, P = 0.476, CV = 10.48 ± 3.06%). CP was similar for male and female subjects (11.82 ± 1.42 W·kg-1 vs. 11.56 ± 1.51 W·kg-1, respectively) when controlling for leg lean mass. However, W' was larger (P = 0.047) for male subjects (617.28 ± 130.10 J·kg-1) than female subjects (490.03 ± 136.70 J·kg-1) when controlling for leg lean mass. MC phase does not need to be controlled when conducting aerobic endurance performance research on eumenorrheic female subjects without menstrual dysfunction. Nevertheless, several sex differences in the power-duration relationship exist, even after normalizing for body composition. Therefore, previous studies describing the physiology of exercise performance in male subjects may not perfectly describe that of female subjects.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Females are often excluded from exercise performance research due to experimental challenges in controlling for the menstrual cycle (MC), causing uncertainty regarding how the MC impacts female performance. The present study examined the influences that biological sex and the MC have on the power-duration relationship (PDR) by comparing critical power (CP), Work-prime (W'), and maximum power output (PMAX) in males and females. Our data provide evidence that the MC does not influence the PDR and that females exhibit similar reproducibility as males. Thus, when conducting aerobic endurance exercise research on eumenorrheic females without menstrual dysfunction, the phase of the MC does not need to be controlled. Although differences in body composition account for some differences between the sexes, sex differences in W' and PMAX persisted even after normalizing for different metrics of body composition. These data highlight the necessity and feasibility of examining sex differences in performance, as previously generated male-only data within the literature may not apply to female subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica J James
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Olivia K Leach
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Arianna M Young
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Audrey N Newman
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Kiese L Mpongo
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Jaron M Quirante
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Devon B Wardell
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Mohadeseh Ahmadi
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Jayson R Gifford
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah.,Program of Gerontology, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
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Modeling lactate threshold in young squad athletes: influence of sex, maximal oxygen uptake, and cost of running. Eur J Appl Physiol 2023; 123:573-583. [PMID: 36411398 PMCID: PMC9941268 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-022-05084-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate: 1. The influence of sex and age on the accuracy of the classical model of endurance performance, including maximal oxygen uptake ([Formula: see text]), its fraction (LT2%), and cost of running (CR), for calculating running speed at lactate threshold 2 (vLT2) in young athletes. 2. The impact of different CR determination methods on the accuracy of the model. 3. The contributions of [Formula: see text], LT2%, and CR to vLT2 in different sexes. METHODS 45 male and 55 female young squad athletes from different sports (age: 15.4 ± 1.3 years; [Formula: see text]: 51.4 ± 6.8 [Formula: see text]) performed an incremental treadmill test to determine [Formula: see text], LT2%, CR, and vLT2. CR was assessed at a fixed running speed (2.8 [Formula: see text]), at lactate threshold 1 (LT1), and at 80% of [Formula: see text], respectively. RESULTS Experimentally determined and modeled vLT2 were highly consistent independent of sex and age (ICC [Formula: see text] 0.959). The accuracy of vLT2 modeling was improved by reducing random variation using individualized CR at 80% [Formula: see text] (± 4%) compared to CR at LT1 (± 7%) and at a fixed speed (± 8%). 97% of the total variance of vLT2 was explained by [Formula: see text], LT2%, and CR. While [Formula: see text] and CR showed the highest unique (96.5% and 31.9% of total [Formula: see text], respectively) and common (- 31.6%) contributions to the regression model, LT2% made the smallest contribution (7.5%). CONCLUSION Our findings indicate: 1. High accuracy of the classical model of endurance performance in calculating vLT2 in young athletes independent of age and sex. 2. The importance of work rate selection in determining CR to accurately predict vLT2. 3. The largest contribution of [Formula: see text] and CR to vLT2, the latter being more important in female athletes than in males, and the least contribution of LT2%.
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8
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Koşar ŞN, Güzel Y, Köse MG, Kin İşler A, Hazır T. Whole and segmental body composition changes during mid-follicular and mid-luteal phases of the menstrual cycle in recreationally active young women. Ann Hum Biol 2022; 49:124-132. [PMID: 35696275 DOI: 10.1080/03014460.2022.2088857] [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: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Changes in oestradiol and progesterone hormones and associated fluid retention during the menstrual cycle phases might affect body composition (BC) in women. AIM The main objectives of this study were to determine the changes in whole and segmental BC by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and bioelectrical impedance (BIA) during the mid-follicular (MFP) and mid-luteal (MLP) phases. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Thirty recreationally active young women participated in this study. BC was measured by DXA and BIA during MFP and MLP. A mixed linear model for repeated measures analysis was used to determine the differences between the two phases. RESULTS Body mass was higher during MLP than MFP, while total body water, total and segmental fat mass and fat percentages measured by both BIA and DXA were similar during the two phases. DXA-derived fat-free mass and soft lean mass in the android region were higher during MLP than MFP. Large variability in individual responses was evident. CONCLUSION On average, whole and segmental BC variables do not change significantly between MFP and MLP. However, given the large variability among the individual responses, it is suggested to perform repeated BC measurements during the same phase of the menstrual cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Şükran Nazan Koşar
- Division of Exercise Nutrition and Metabolism, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Yasemin Güzel
- Division of Exercise Nutrition and Metabolism, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Gören Köse
- Division of Training and Movement Sciences, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ayşe Kin İşler
- Division of Training and Movement Sciences, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Tahir Hazır
- Division of Training and Movement Sciences, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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Abstract
In recent years, there has been a significant expansion in female participation in endurance (road and trail) running. The often reported sex differences in maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) are not the only differences between sexes during prolonged running. The aim of this narrative review was thus to discuss sex differences in running biomechanics, economy (both in fatigue and non-fatigue conditions), substrate utilization, muscle tissue characteristics (including ultrastructural muscle damage), neuromuscular fatigue, thermoregulation and pacing strategies. Although males and females do not differ in terms of running economy or endurance (i.e. percentage VO2max sustained), sex-specificities exist in running biomechanics (e.g. females have greater non-sagittal hip and knee joint motion compared to males) that can be partly explained by anatomical (e.g. wider pelvis, larger femur-tibia angle, shorter lower limb length relative to total height in females) differences. Compared to males, females also show greater proportional area of type I fibres, are more able to use fatty acids and preserve carbohydrates during prolonged exercise, demonstrate a more even pacing strategy and less fatigue following endurance running exercise. These differences confer an advantage to females in ultra-endurance performance, but other factors (e.g. lower O2 carrying capacity, greater body fat percentage) counterbalance these potential advantages, making females outperforming males a rare exception. The present literature review also highlights the lack of sex comparison in studies investigating running biomechanics in fatigue conditions and during the recovery process.
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10
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Castanier C, Bougault V, Teulier C, Jaffré C, Schiano-Lomoriello S, Vibarel-Rebot N, Villemain A, Rieth N, Le-Scanff C, Buisson C, Collomp K. The Specificities of Elite Female Athletes: A Multidisciplinary Approach. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:622. [PMID: 34206866 PMCID: PMC8303304 DOI: 10.3390/life11070622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Female athletes have garnered considerable attention in the last few years as more and more women participate in sports events. However, despite the well-known repercussions of female sex hormones, few studies have investigated the specificities of elite female athletes. In this review, we present the current but still limited data on how normal menstrual phases, altered menstrual phases, and hormonal contraception affect both physical and cognitive performances in these elite athletes. To examine the implicated mechanisms, as well as the potential performances and health risks in this population, we then take a broader multidisciplinary approach and report on the causal/reciprocal relationships between hormonal status and mental and physical health in young (18-40 years) healthy females, both trained and untrained. We thus cover the research on both physiological and psychological variables, as well as on the Athlete Biological Passport used for anti-doping purposes. We consider the fairly frequent discrepancies and summarize the current knowledge in this new field of interest. Last, we conclude with some practical guidelines for eliciting improvements in physical and cognitive performance while minimizing the health risks for female athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole Castanier
- CIAMS, Université Paris-Saclay, 91405 Orsay, France; (C.C.); (C.T.); (S.S.-L.); (N.V.-R.); (A.V.); (N.R.); (C.L.-S.)
- CIAMS, Université d’Orléans, 45067 Orléans, France
| | | | - Caroline Teulier
- CIAMS, Université Paris-Saclay, 91405 Orsay, France; (C.C.); (C.T.); (S.S.-L.); (N.V.-R.); (A.V.); (N.R.); (C.L.-S.)
- CIAMS, Université d’Orléans, 45067 Orléans, France
| | | | - Sandrine Schiano-Lomoriello
- CIAMS, Université Paris-Saclay, 91405 Orsay, France; (C.C.); (C.T.); (S.S.-L.); (N.V.-R.); (A.V.); (N.R.); (C.L.-S.)
- CIAMS, Université d’Orléans, 45067 Orléans, France
| | - Nancy Vibarel-Rebot
- CIAMS, Université Paris-Saclay, 91405 Orsay, France; (C.C.); (C.T.); (S.S.-L.); (N.V.-R.); (A.V.); (N.R.); (C.L.-S.)
- CIAMS, Université d’Orléans, 45067 Orléans, France
| | - Aude Villemain
- CIAMS, Université Paris-Saclay, 91405 Orsay, France; (C.C.); (C.T.); (S.S.-L.); (N.V.-R.); (A.V.); (N.R.); (C.L.-S.)
- CIAMS, Université d’Orléans, 45067 Orléans, France
| | - Nathalie Rieth
- CIAMS, Université Paris-Saclay, 91405 Orsay, France; (C.C.); (C.T.); (S.S.-L.); (N.V.-R.); (A.V.); (N.R.); (C.L.-S.)
- CIAMS, Université d’Orléans, 45067 Orléans, France
| | - Christine Le-Scanff
- CIAMS, Université Paris-Saclay, 91405 Orsay, France; (C.C.); (C.T.); (S.S.-L.); (N.V.-R.); (A.V.); (N.R.); (C.L.-S.)
- CIAMS, Université d’Orléans, 45067 Orléans, France
| | - Corinne Buisson
- Département des Analyses, AFLD, 92290 Chatenay-Malabry, France;
| | - Katia Collomp
- CIAMS, Université Paris-Saclay, 91405 Orsay, France; (C.C.); (C.T.); (S.S.-L.); (N.V.-R.); (A.V.); (N.R.); (C.L.-S.)
- CIAMS, Université d’Orléans, 45067 Orléans, France
- Département des Analyses, AFLD, 92290 Chatenay-Malabry, France;
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11
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García-Pinillos F, Bujalance-Moreno P, Jérez-Mayorga D, Velarde-Sotres Á, Anaya-Moix V, Pueyo-Villa S, Lago-Fuentes C. Training Habits of Eumenorrheic Active Women during the Different Phases of Their Menstrual Cycle: A Descriptive Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:3662. [PMID: 33915851 PMCID: PMC8036617 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18073662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the training habits of eumenorrheic active women during their menstrual cycle (MC), and its perceived influence on physical performance regarding their athletic level. A group of 1250 sportswomen filled in a questionnaire referring to demographic information, athletic performance and MC-related training habits. Of the participants, 81% reported having a stable duration of MC, with most of them (57%) lasting 26-30 days. Concerning MC-related training habits, 79% indicated that their MC affects athletic performance, although 71% did not consider their MC in their training program, with no differences or modifications in training volume or in training intensity for low-level athletes (LLA) and high-level athletes (HLA) with hormonal contraceptive (HC) use. However, LLA with a normal MC adapted their training habits more, compared with HLA, also stopping their training (47.1% vs. 16.1%, respectively). Thus, different training strategies should be designed for HLA and LLA with a normal MC, but this is not so necessary for HLA and LLA who use HC. To sum up, training adaptations should be individually designed according to the training level and use or non-use of HC, always taking into account the pain suffered during the menstrual phase in most of the athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe García-Pinillos
- Department of Physical Education, Sports and Recreation, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile;
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Granada, 18010 Granada, Spain
| | | | - Daniel Jérez-Mayorga
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Rehabilitación, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago 7591538, Chile;
| | - Álvaro Velarde-Sotres
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Europea del Atlántico, 39011 Santander, Spain;
- Department of Education, Universidad Internacional Iberoamericana, Campeche 24560, Mexico; (V.A.-M.); (S.P.-V.)
| | - Vanessa Anaya-Moix
- Department of Education, Universidad Internacional Iberoamericana, Campeche 24560, Mexico; (V.A.-M.); (S.P.-V.)
- Department of Languages and Education, Universidad Europea del Atlántico, 39011 Santander, Spain
| | - Silvia Pueyo-Villa
- Department of Education, Universidad Internacional Iberoamericana, Campeche 24560, Mexico; (V.A.-M.); (S.P.-V.)
- Department of Languages and Education, Universidad Europea del Atlántico, 39011 Santander, Spain
| | - Carlos Lago-Fuentes
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Europea del Atlántico, 39011 Santander, Spain;
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12
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Carmichael MA, Thomson RL, Moran LJ, Wycherley TP. The Impact of Menstrual Cycle Phase on Athletes' Performance: A Narrative Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:1667. [PMID: 33572406 PMCID: PMC7916245 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The effect of the menstrual cycle on physical performance is being increasingly recognised as a key consideration for women's sport and a critical field for further research. This narrative review explores the findings of studies investigating the effects of menstrual cycle phase on perceived and objectively measured performance in an athletic population. Studies examining perceived performance consistently report that female athletes identify their performance to be relatively worse during the early follicular and late luteal phases. Studies examining objective performance (using anaerobic, aerobic or strength-related tests) do not report clear, consistent effects of the impact of menstrual cycle phase on physical performance. Overall sport performance can be influenced by both perceived and physical factors. Hence, to optimise performance and management of eumenorrheic female athletes, there is a need for further research to quantify the impact of menstrual cycle phase on perceived and physical performance outcomes and to identify factors affecting variability in objective performance outcomes between studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikaeli Anne Carmichael
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; (R.L.T.); (T.P.W.)
| | - Rebecca Louise Thomson
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; (R.L.T.); (T.P.W.)
- Adelaide Medical School and Robinson Research Institute, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia;
| | - Lisa Jane Moran
- Adelaide Medical School and Robinson Research Institute, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia;
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Thomas Philip Wycherley
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; (R.L.T.); (T.P.W.)
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13
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Wang Z, Atakan MM, Yan X, Turnagöl HH, Duan H, Peng L. Graded exercise test with or without load carriage similarly measures maximal oxygen uptake in young males and females. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0246303. [PMID: 33524068 PMCID: PMC7850508 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0246303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this was to compare the effects of the graded exercise test (GXT) with or without load carriage on maximal oxygen uptake ([Formula: see text]) heart rate (HR), and expired ventilation ([Formula: see text]) and blood lactate in young healthy males and females. The study included ten females (age:20.2±0.7 yrs) and ten males (age:19.5±0.7 yrs) who performed the modified Bruce protocol at five load conditions; unloaded, 5, 10, 15, and 20% of body weight (BW) (kg). All the tests were performed in random order, at least 48 hours apart. During the GXTs, HR, [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], workload and test duration were recorded and blood lactate concentration was measured before and immediately after the GXTs. [Formula: see text] remained unchanged during the GXTs in load and unloaded conditions for both sexes (p>0.05). Test duration was significantly less in females during the GXT with 15% BW (15.9±0.51 min vs. 18.1±1.14 min; p = 0.014) and 20% BW load carriage (15.2±0.75 min vs. 18.1±1.14 min; p = 0.020), compared to the unloaded GXT. Males showed significant decrease in the test duration during the GXT with load 15% BW (20.5±0.53 min vs. 22.8±0.61 min; p = 0.047) and with 20% BW (19.6±0.42 min vs. 22.8±0.71 min; p = 0.004), compared to the GXT with 5% BW. [Formula: see text] statistically decreased in female subjects only at 15% BW compared to 20% BW (15% BW = 77.9 ± 10.5 L/min vs. 15% BW = 72.0 ± 10.9 L/min; p = 0.045). There was no difference observed in maximal HR and blood lactate concentration between the GXTs in load and unloaded conditions. This study indicates that no matter the load % used during the GXT, [Formula: see text], but not total exercise time, remains the same in young males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhuan Wang
- Key Lab of General Administration of Sport, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Footscray, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Muhammed M. Atakan
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Footscray, Melbourne, Australia
- Division of Nutrition and Metabolism in Exercise, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Xu Yan
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Footscray, Melbourne, Australia
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Hüseyin H. Turnagöl
- Division of Nutrition and Metabolism in Exercise, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Honglei Duan
- Key Lab of General Administration of Sport, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Peng
- Key Lab of General Administration of Sport, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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14
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V Mendonca G, Matos P, Correia JM. Running economy in recreational male and female runners with similar levels of cardiovascular fitness. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2020; 129:508-515. [PMID: 32702267 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00349.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study explored differences in running economy between well-conditioned young male and female (tested within the early follicular phase of their menstrual cycle) participants, matched for age and percent difference between predicted and actual maximum oxygen uptake (V̇o2max). Twenty-five recreational runners (13 men and 12 women), aged 19-27 yr, performed graded treadmill exercise to assess V̇o2max. Participants also performed three bouts of submaximal continuous treadmill running at 8, 10, and 12 km/h. Sex comparisons revealed lower maximal aerobic speed (MAS) and V̇o2max in women relative to men (P < 0.05). However, the percent difference from predicted V̇o2max was similar between men and women (men: 149.6 ± 18.7%, women: 150.8 ± 16.4%; P > 0.05). Absolute running economy (mL·kg-0.75·km-1) improved in transition between treadmill speeds, and this occurred similarly in both sexes. Despite this, women showed overall lower oxygen cost of running than men during treadmill locomotion at predetermined absolute and relative intensities (P < 0.05). Finally, in a small subset of participants (n = 6, 3 male and 3 female participants) with similar MAS (16 km/h), men still exhibited higher V̇o2max and gross oxygen cost of running than women (difference of ~6%, statistics not computed). The present results indicate that, in men and women with similar percent of predicted V̇o2max, running economy follows a sexually dimorphic pattern throughout a broad spectrum of treadmill speeds. Ultimately, from a motor performance perspective, our data strongly suggest that lower V̇o2max values in female recreational runners are partially compensated by lower gross oxygen cost of locomotion during submaximal running.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our data demonstrate that, compared with that seen in men with similar percent difference from predicted maximum oxygen uptake (V̇o2max), scaled gross oxygen cost of running (in absolute and relative terms) is lower in women throughout a broad spectrum of treadmill speeds. Importantly, these findings were obtained after controlling for the effects of the menstrual cycle on running economy, and this is novel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goncalo V Mendonca
- Neuromuscular Research Lab, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Cruz Quebrada, Dafundo, Portugal.,CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Cruz Quebrada, Dafundo, Portugal
| | - Pedro Matos
- Neuromuscular Research Lab, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Cruz Quebrada, Dafundo, Portugal
| | - Joana M Correia
- Neuromuscular Research Lab, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Cruz Quebrada, Dafundo, Portugal.,CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Cruz Quebrada, Dafundo, Portugal
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