1
|
Proost M, De Bock S, Habay J, Nagels G, De Pauw K, Meeusen R, Roelands B, Van Cutsem J. Electrophysiological impact of mental fatigue on brain activity during a bike task: A wavelet analysis approach. Physiol Behav 2024; 282:114586. [PMID: 38763379 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2024.114586] [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: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
This study explored how mental fatigue affects brain activity during a low-intensity bike task utilising a continuous wavelet transformation in electroencephalography (EEG) analysis. The aim was to examine changes in brain activity potentially linked to central motor commands and to investigate their relationship with ratings of perceived exertion (RPE). In this study, sixteen participants (age: 21 ± 6 y, 7 females, 9 males) underwent one familiarization and two experimental trials in a randomised, blinded, cross-over study design. Participants executed a low-intensity bike task (9 min; 45 rpm; intensity (W): 10 % below aerobic threshold) after performing a mentally fatiguing (individualized 60-min Stroop task) or a control (documentary) task. Physiological (heart rate, EEG) and subjective measures (self-reported feeling of mental fatigue, RPE, cognitive load, motivation) were assessed prior, during and after the bike task. Post-Stroop, self-reported feeling of mental fatigue was higher in the intervention group (EXP) (74 ± 16) than in the control group (CON) (37 ± 17; p < 0.001). No significant differences in RPE during the bike task were observed between conditions. EEG analysis revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in beta frequency (13-30 Hz) during the bike task, with EXP exhibiting more desynchronization during the pedal push phase and synchronization during the pedal release phase. These results suggest that mental fatigue, confirmed by both subjective and neurophysiological markers, did not significantly impact RPE during the bike task, possibly due to the use of the CR100 scale or absence of a performance outcome. However, EEG data did reveal significant beta band alterations during the task, indicating increased neural effort under mental fatigue. These findings reveal, for the first time, how motor-related brain activity at the motor cortex is impacted during a low-intensity bike task when mentally fatigued.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Proost
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium
| | - Sander De Bock
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium; BruBotics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jelle Habay
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium; Vital signs and PERformance monitoring (VIPER) Research Unit, LIFE Department, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium; Research Foundation Flanders (FWO), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Guy Nagels
- AIMS Lab, Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Ke.2.13, Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Elsene, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kevin De Pauw
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium; BruBotics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Romain Meeusen
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium; BruBotics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bart Roelands
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium; BruBotics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Jeroen Van Cutsem
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium; Vital signs and PERformance monitoring (VIPER) Research Unit, LIFE Department, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Proost M, Habay J, DE Wachter J, DE Pauw K, Marusic U, Meeusen R, DE Bock S, Roelands B, VAN Cutsem J. The Impact of Mental Fatigue on a Strength Endurance Task: Is There a Role for the Movement-Related Cortical Potential? Med Sci Sports Exerc 2024; 56:435-445. [PMID: 37847068 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000003322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain how mental fatigue degrades sport performance. In terms of endurance performance, a role for an increased perceived exertion has been demonstrated. Using electroencephalography and, more specifically, the movement-related cortical potential (MRCP), the present study explored the neural mechanisms that could underlie the mental fatigue-associated increase in perceived exertion. METHODS Fourteen participants (age, 23 ± 2 yr; 5 women, 9 men) performed one familiarization and two experimental trials in a randomized, blinded, crossover study design. Participants had to complete a submaximal leg extension task after a mentally fatiguing task (EXP; individualized 60-min Stroop task) or control task (CON; documentary). The leg extension task consisted of performing 100 extensions at 35% of 1 repetition maximum, during which multiple physiological (heart rate, electroencephalography) and subjective measures (self-reported feeling of mental fatigue, cognitive load, behand motivation, ratings of perceived exertion) were assessed. RESULTS Self-reported feeling of mental fatigue was higher in EXP (72 ± 18) compared with CON (37 ± 17; P < 0.001). A significant decrease in flanker accuracy was detected only in EXP (from 0.96 ± 0.03% to 0.03%; P < 0.05). No significant differences between conditions were found in MRCP characteristics and perceived exertion. Specifically in EXP, alpha wave power increased during the leg extension task ( P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Mental fatigue did not impact the perceived exertion or MRCP characteristics during the leg extension task. This could be related to low perceived exertion and/or the absence of a performance outcome during the leg extension task. The increase in alpha power during the leg extension task in EXP suggests that participants may engage a focused internal attention mechanism to maintain performance and mitigate feelings of fatigue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Proost
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, BELGIUM
| | | | - Jonas DE Wachter
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, BELGIUM
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Niu S, Guo J, Hanson NJ, Wang K, Chai J, Guo F. The effects of mental fatigue on fine motor performance in humans and its neural network connectivity mechanism: a dart throwing study. Cereb Cortex 2024; 34:bhae085. [PMID: 38489786 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhae085] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
While it is well known that mental fatigue impairs fine motor performance, the investigation into its neural basis remains scant. Here, we investigate the impact of mental fatigue on fine motor performance and explore its underlying neural network connectivity mechanisms. A total of 24 healthy male university students were recruited and randomly divided into two groups: a mental fatigue group (MF) and a control group (Control). Both groups completed 50 dart throws, while electroencephalography (EEG) data were collected. Following the Stroop intervention, participants in the MF group exhibited a decrease in Stroop task accuracy and throwing performance, and an increase in reaction time along with VAS and NASA scores. The EEG data during dart-throwing revealed that the network connectivity strength of theta oscillations in the frontal and left central regions was significantly higher in the MF group compared with the Control group, while the network connectivity strength of alpha oscillations in the left parietal region was significantly enhanced. The interregional connectivity within the theta and alpha rhythm bands, particularly in the frontal-central-parietal network connections, also showed a significant increase in the MF group. Mental fatigue impairs dart throwing performance and is accompanied by increased connectivity in alpha and theta.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suoqing Niu
- College of Exercise and Health, Shenyang Sport University, Shenyang 110102, China
| | - Jianrui Guo
- Laboratory Management Center, Shenyang Sport University, Shenyang 110102, China
| | - Nicholas J Hanson
- Department of Human Performance and Health Education, College of Education and Human Development, Western Michigan University, Michigan, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, United States
| | - KaiQi Wang
- College of Exercise and Health, Shenyang Sport University, Shenyang 110102, China
| | - Jinlei Chai
- College of Exercise and Health, Shenyang Sport University, Shenyang 110102, China
| | - Feng Guo
- College of Exercise and Health, Shenyang Sport University, Shenyang 110102, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Rubio-Morales A, Díaz-García J, Harper LD, García-Calvo T. The influence of the perceived requirements of the next match and motivation on the mental fatigue of soccer players. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2024; 34:e14580. [PMID: 38339789 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14580] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
The high cognitive and/or emotional demands of competition can lead to a state of mental fatigue which has shown to be detrimental to soccer performance. However, there is a need to further understand the true mental demands of soccer players. The aim of the present study was to analyze the influence of motivation and the perceived requirements of the next match on mental fatigue perceived by soccer players over the passing of a season. The combined effect of both variables on the perception of mental fatigue, as well as the influence of the time of the season on perceived mental fatigue, were also analyzed. Twenty-six semi-professional Spanish male players (M = 26.31 ± 5.18 years) participated in the present study, conducted during the 2020-2021 season. Perceived mental fatigue and motivation were measured at each training session. The perceived requirements of the next match were also measured in each of the competitive weeks. Linear mixed models were run with R Studio to examine the influence of motivation and the perceived difficulty of the next match on perceived mental fatigue, the combined effect of both variables on perceived mental fatigue, and the influence of the passing of the season on perceived mental fatigue. The results showed a negative and significant influence of motivation on perceived mental fatigue (p < 0.001) and a positive and significant influence of the perceived requirements of the next match on perceived mental fatigue (p < 0.001). Regarding the combined effect, there was a positive and significant effect (p < 0.01) of the perceived difficulty of the next match on the relation between motivation and perceived mental fatigue. A negative influence of season passage on perceived mental fatigue levels was found (p < 0.001). We recommended coaches to consider using the most motivating training tasks when higher next-match requirements are perceived and to be careful with avoidance strategies for mental fatigue, especially at the beginning of the season.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Rubio-Morales
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - J Díaz-García
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - L D Harper
- Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
- Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
- Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - T García-Calvo
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Rollo I, Williams C. Carbohydrate Nutrition and Skill Performance in Soccer. Sports Med 2023; 53:7-14. [PMID: 37421586 PMCID: PMC10721660 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01876-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
In soccer, players must perform a variety of sport-specific skills usually during or immediately after running, often at sprint speed. The quality of the skill performed is likely influenced by the volume of work done in attacking and defending over the duration of the match. Even the most highly skilful players succumb to the impact of fatigue both physical and mental, which may result in underperforming skills at key moments in a match. Fitness is the platform on which skill is performed during team sport. With the onset of fatigue, tired players find it ever more difficult to successfully perform basic skills. Therefore, it is not surprising that teams spend a large proportion of their training time on fitness. While acknowledging the central role of fitness in team sport, the importance of team tactics, underpinned by spatial awareness, must not be neglected. It is well established that a high-carbohydrate diet before a match and, as a supplement during match play, helps delay the onset of fatigue. There is some evidence that players ingesting carbohydrate can maintain sport-relevant skills for the duration of exercise more successfully compared with when ingesting placebo or water. However, most of the assessments of sport-specific skills have been performed in a controlled, non-contested environment. Although these methods may be judged as not ecologically valid, they do rule out the confounding influences of competition on skill performance. The aim of this brief review is to explore whether carbohydrate ingestion, while delaying fatigue during match play, may also help retain sport soccer-specific skill performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ian Rollo
- Gatorade Sports Science Institute, PepsiCo Life Sciences, Global R&D, Leicestershire, UK.
- School of Sports Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK.
| | - Clyde Williams
- School of Sports Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tan C, Wang J, Cao G, He Y, Yin J, Chu Y, Geng Z, Li L, Qiu J. Psychological changes in athletes infected with Omicron after return to training: fatigue, sleep, and mood. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15580. [PMID: 37337583 PMCID: PMC10276985 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This study aims to analyze the changes of approximately 1 month in fatigue, sleep, and mood in athletes after returning to training following infection with the COVID-19 Omicron strain and provide recommendations for returning to training after infection. Methods Two hundred and thirty professional athletes who had returned to training after being infected with COVID-19 in December 2022 were recruited to participate in three tests conducted from early January 2023. The second test was completed approximately 1 week after the first, and the third was completed about 2 weeks after the second. Each test consisted of completing scales and the exercise-induced fatigue measure. The scales included a visual analog scale, the Athens Insomnia Scale for non-clinical application, and the Depression-Anxiety-Stress scale. The exercise task was a six-minute stair climb test, and athletes evaluated subjective fatigue levels before and after exercise using another Visual Analog Scale and the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale. Results After returning to training, athletes' physical fatigue decreased initially but increased as training progressed. Cognitive fatigue did not change significantly. The exercise task led to elevated levels of physical fatigue after a longer duration of training. Sleep quality problems decreased rapidly after the start of training but remained stable with prolonged training. Depression levels continued to decline, while anxiety levels only reduced after a longer duration of training. Stress levels decreased rapidly after the start of training but did not change with prolonged training. Conclusion Athletes who return to training after recovering from COVID-19 experience positive effects on their fatigue, sleep, and mood. It is important to prioritize anxiety assessment and interventions during the short period after returning and to continue monitoring fatigue levels and implementing recovery interventions over a longer period of time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chenhao Tan
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science (Shanghai Anti-Doping Agency), Shanghai, China
| | - Jinhao Wang
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science (Shanghai Anti-Doping Agency), Shanghai, China
| | - Guohuan Cao
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science (Shanghai Anti-Doping Agency), Shanghai, China
| | - Yelei He
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science (Shanghai Anti-Doping Agency), Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Yin
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science (Shanghai Anti-Doping Agency), Shanghai, China
| | - Yudan Chu
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science (Shanghai Anti-Doping Agency), Shanghai, China
| | | | - Longji Li
- Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Qiu
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science (Shanghai Anti-Doping Agency), Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Russell S, Halson SL, Jenkins DG, Rynne SB, Roelands B, Kelly VG. Thinking About Elite Performance: The Experience and Impact of Mental Fatigue in Elite Sport Coaching. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2023:1-7. [PMID: 37311561 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2023-0033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Mental fatigue causes decreases in aspects of athletes' performance. Elite coaches commonly undertake cognitively demanding tasks and are seemingly at similar risk of subsequent performance impairment. However, elite sport coaches' experiences of mental fatigue, alongside other markers of psychobiological stress, have yet to be quantified. METHODS Three elite coaching and performance staff (2 women and 1 man) provided 100-mm visual analog scale ratings of mental fatigue, physical fatigue, readiness to perform, and salivary samples for later cortisol (sCort) and alpha-amylase (sAA) analysis. Data were obtained on the same morning each week across a 16-week preseason. Data were subset by individual coach for descriptive and repeated-measures correlational analyses. RESULTS Fluctuating mental fatigue was observed over the 16 weeks (min-max; coach 1 = 25-86 AU; coach 2 = 0-51 AU; and coach 3 = 15 - 76 AU). Elevated levels of mental fatigue were reported at multiple time points, with individual variability observed. sCort (in nanomoles per liter), sAA (in micromoles per liter), and sAA:sCort indicated that coaches experienced psychophysiological stress (min-max; coach 1 sCort = 8.42-17.31, sAA = 52.40-113.06, sAA:sCort = 3.20-12.80; coach 2 sCort = 4.20-9.70, sAA = 158.80-307.20, sAA:sCort = 21.10-61.70; and coach 3 sCort = 6.81-19.66, sAA = 86.55-495.85, sAA:sCort = 4.90-35.50). A significant inverse relationship between mental fatigue and readiness to perform (r = -.44 [-.64 to -.17], P = .002) was identified. CONCLUSIONS Elite sport coaches report elevated instances of mental fatigue during a preseason training period. Those involved in elite sports should act to understand the presence and potential subsequent impacts of staff mental fatigue and consider management or mitigation strategies. Optimization of the cognitive performance of coaches and performance staff presents as a potential source of competitive advantage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanna Russell
- Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury and New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, QLD,Australia
- Sport, Performance, Innovation and Knowledge Excellence, Queensland Academy of Sport, Brisbane, QLD,Australia
- School of Human Movement & Nutrition Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD,Australia
| | - Shona L Halson
- Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury and New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, QLD,Australia
| | - David G Jenkins
- School of Human Movement & Nutrition Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD,Australia
- School of Health and Sport Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, QLD,Australia
- Applied Sports Science Technology and Medicine Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea,United Kingdom
| | - Steven B Rynne
- School of Human Movement & Nutrition Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD,Australia
| | - Bart Roelands
- Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Department of Human Physiology and Sports Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels,Belgium
- Brussels Human Robotics Research Center (Brubotics), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels,Belgium
| | - Vincent G Kelly
- School of Exercise & Nutrition Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD,Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mesas AE, Núñez de Arenas-Arroyo S, Martinez-Vizcaino V, Garrido-Miguel M, Fernández-Rodríguez R, Bizzozero-Peroni B, Torres-Costoso AI. Is daytime napping an effective strategy to improve sport-related cognitive and physical performance and reduce fatigue? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Br J Sports Med 2023; 57:417-426. [PMID: 36690376 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2022-106355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the association between daytime napping and cognitive and physical sport performance and fatigue after normal sleep and partial sleep deprivation (less sleep duration than necessary). DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES The PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Central, SportDiscus and PsycINFO databases. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES Randomised controlled trials on the effect of daytime napping on sport performance and fatigue available from inception to 2 December 2022. Standardised mean differences (SMD) and their 95% compatibility intervals (CI) were estimated with the DerSimonian-Laird method through random effect models. RESULTS In the 22 included trials, 291 male participants (164 trained athletes and 127 physically active adults) aged between 18 and 35 years were studied. When performed after a normal night of sleep, napping from 12:30 hours to 16:50 hours (with 14:00 hours being the most frequent time) improved cognitive (SMD=0.69, 95% CI: 0.37 to 1.00; I2=71.5%) and physical performance (SMD=0.99, 95% CI: 0.67 to 1.31; I2=89.1%) and reduced the perception of fatigue (SMD=-0.76, 95% CI: -1.24 to -0.28; I2=89.5%). The positive effects of napping were also confirmed after partial sleep deprivation. Overall, the benefits were higher with a nap duration between 30 and <60 min and when the time from nap awakening to test was greater than 1 hour. CONCLUSIONS After a night of normal sleep or partial sleep deprivation, a daytime nap between 30 and <60 min has a moderate-to-high effect on the improvement of cognitive performance and physical performance and on the reduction of perceived fatigue. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020212272.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Eumann Mesas
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha - Campus de Cuenca, Cuenca, Spain
- Postgraduate Program in Public Health, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, Brazil
| | | | - Vicente Martinez-Vizcaino
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha - Campus de Cuenca, Cuenca, Spain
- Department of Medical Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile - Sede Talca, Talca, Chile
| | - Miriam Garrido-Miguel
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha - Campus de Cuenca, Cuenca, Spain
- Facultad de Enfermería, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha - Campus de Albacete, Albacete, Spain
| | - Ruben Fernández-Rodríguez
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha - Campus de Cuenca, Cuenca, Spain
| | - Bruno Bizzozero-Peroni
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha - Campus de Cuenca, Cuenca, Spain
- Instituto Superior de Educación Física, Universidad de la Republica Uruguay, Rivera, Uruguay
| | - Ana I Torres-Costoso
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha - Campus de Cuenca, Cuenca, Spain
- Facultad de Fisioterapia y Enfermería, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha - Campus de Toledo, Toledo, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Habay J, Uylenbroeck R, Van Droogenbroeck R, De Wachter J, Proost M, Tassignon B, De Pauw K, Meeusen R, Pattyn N, Van Cutsem J, Roelands B. Interindividual Variability in Mental Fatigue-Related Impairments in Endurance Performance: A Systematic Review and Multiple Meta-regression. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2023; 9:14. [PMID: 36808018 PMCID: PMC9941412 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-023-00559-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The negative effect of mental fatigue (MF) on physical performance has recently been questioned. One reason behind this could lie in the interindividual differences in MF-susceptibility and the individual features influencing them. However, the range of individual differences in mental fatigue-susceptibility is not known, and there is no clear consensus on which individual features could be responsible for these differences. OBJECTIVE To give an overview of interindividual differences in the effects of MF on whole-body endurance performance, and individual features influencing this effect. METHODS The review was registered on the PROSPERO database (CRD42022293242). PubMed, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus and PsycINFO were searched until the 16th of June 2022 for studies detailing the effect of MF on dynamic maximal whole-body endurance performance. Studies needed to include healthy participants, describe at least one individual feature in participant characteristics, and apply at least one manipulation check. The Cochrane crossover risk of bias tool was used to assess risk of bias. The meta-analysis and regression were conducted in R. RESULTS Twenty-eight studies were included, with 23 added to the meta-analysis. Overall risk of bias of the included studies was high, with only three presenting an unclear or low rating. The meta-analysis shows the effect of MF on endurance performance was on average slightly negative (g = - 0.32, [95% CI - 0.46; - 0.18], p < 0.001). The multiple meta-regression showed no significant influences of the included features (i.e. age, sex, body mass index and physical fitness level) on MF-susceptibility. CONCLUSIONS The present review confirmed the negative impact of MF on endurance performance. However, no individual features influencing MF-susceptibility were identified. This can partially be explained by the multiple methodological limitations such as underreporting of participant characteristics, lack of standardization across studies, and the restricted inclusion of potentially relevant variables. Future research should include a rigorous description of multiple different individual features (e.g., performance level, diet, etc.) to further elucidate MF mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jelle Habay
- grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium ,grid.16499.330000 0004 0645 1099Vital Signs and Performance Monitoring Research Unit, LIFE Department, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium ,grid.434261.60000 0000 8597 7208Research Foundation Flanders (FWO), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Robin Uylenbroeck
- grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ruben Van Droogenbroeck
- grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jonas De Wachter
- grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Matthias Proost
- grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bruno Tassignon
- grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium ,grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069BruBotics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kevin De Pauw
- grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium ,grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069BruBotics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Romain Meeusen
- grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium ,grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069BruBotics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nathalie Pattyn
- grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium ,grid.16499.330000 0004 0645 1099Vital Signs and Performance Monitoring Research Unit, LIFE Department, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Van Cutsem
- grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium ,grid.16499.330000 0004 0645 1099Vital Signs and Performance Monitoring Research Unit, LIFE Department, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bart Roelands
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Brussels, Belgium. .,BruBotics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Do Cognitive, Physical, and Combined Tasks Induce Similar Levels of Mental Fatigue? Testing the Effects of Different Moderating Variables. Motor Control 2022; 26:630-648. [PMID: 35905976 DOI: 10.1123/mc.2022-0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Experts have highlighted the importance of coaches knowing the level of mental fatigue (MF) induced by different tasks. This study aimed to compare the mentally fatiguing nature of cognitive, physical, and combined tasks and, additionally, assess the effect of different moderating variables on MF. Twenty-three physically active (16 males: Mage = 24 years; seven females: Mage = 22.57 years) participants performed three experimental sessions: (a) physically fatiguing: 30 min of cycloergometer work (at 65%-75% of maximum heart rate), (b) mentally fatiguing: 30 min of an incongruent Stroop task, and (c) mixed fatiguing: 30 min of combining the physically and mentally fatiguing protocols. Subjective MF (visual analog scale), reaction time (psychomotor vigilance task), and cognitive performance (Stroop) were measured throughout the different protocols. Results showed significant increments in subjective MF after all tasks, with the mental and mixed protocols showing significantly higher increases. Only the mentally fatiguing protocol caused significant impairments in reaction time. No significant effects of sex, years of experience, or degree of mental toughness were observed. These results suggest that the use of all these tasks, and especially the mentally fatiguing exercises, should be avoided immediately prior to competitions due to the negative consequences of MF on performance. Moreover, this effect seems to be independent of the sex, years of experience, or mental toughness of athletes.
Collapse
|
11
|
Proost M, Habay J, De Wachter J, De Pauw K, Rattray B, Meeusen R, Roelands B, Van Cutsem J. How to Tackle Mental Fatigue: A Systematic Review of Potential Countermeasures and Their Underlying Mechanisms. Sports Med 2022; 52:2129-2158. [PMID: 35543922 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-022-01678-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mental fatigue (MF) is a psychobiological state that impairs cognitive as well as physical performance in different settings. Recently, numerous studies have sought ways to counteract these negative effects of MF. An overview of the explored countermeasures for MF is, however, lacking. OBJECTIVES The objective of this review is to provide an overview of the different MF countermeasures currently explored in literature. Countermeasures were classified by the timing of application (before, during or after the moment of MF) and type of intervention (behavioural, physiological and psychological). METHODS The databases of PubMed (MEDLINE), Web of Science and PsycINFO were searched until March 7, 2022. Studies were eligible when MF was induced using a task with a duration of at least 30 min, when they assessed MF markers in at least two out of the three areas wherein MF markers have been defined (i.e., behavioural, subjective and/or [neuro]physiological) and used a placebo or control group for the countermeasure. RESULTS A total of 33 studies investigated one or more countermeasures against MF. Of these, eight studies assessed a behavioural countermeasure, 22 a physiological one, one a psychological countermeasure and two a combination of a behavioural and psychological countermeasure. The general finding was that a vast majority of the countermeasures induced a positive effect on behavioural (e.g., task or sport performance) and/or subjective MF markers (e.g., visual analogue scale for MF or alertness). No definitive conclusion could be drawn regarding the effect of the employed countermeasures on (neuro)physiological markers of MF as only 19 of the included studies investigated these measures, and within these a large heterogeneity in the evaluated (neuro)physiological markers was present. DISCUSSION Within the physiological countermeasures it seems that the use of odours during a MF task or caffeine before the MF task are the most promising interventions in combating MF. Promising behavioural (e.g., listening to music) and psychological (e.g., extrinsic motivation) countermeasures of MF have also been reported. The most assumed mechanism through which these countermeasures operate is the dopaminergic system. However, this mechanism remains speculative as (neuro)physiological markers of MF have been scarcely evaluated to date. CONCLUSION The present systematic review reveals that a wide range of countermeasures have been found to successfully counteract MF on a subjective, (neuro)physiological and/or behavioural level. Of these, caffeine, odours, music and extrinsic motivation are the most evidenced for countering MF. To provide in-detail practical guidelines for the real-life application of MF countermeasures, more research must be performed into the underlying mechanisms and into the optimal dosage and time of application/intake.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Proost
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jelle Habay
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jonas De Wachter
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kevin De Pauw
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,BruBotics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ben Rattray
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia.,Discipline of Sport and Exercise Science, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia
| | - Romain Meeusen
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,BruBotics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bart Roelands
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Van Cutsem
- Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium. .,Vital Signs and Performance Monitoring Research Unit, LIFE Department, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|