1
|
Hunter SK, S Angadi S, Bhargava A, Harper J, Hirschberg AL, D Levine B, L Moreau K, J Nokoff N, Stachenfeld NS, Bermon S. The Biological Basis of Sex Differences in Athletic Performance: Consensus Statement for the American College of Sports Medicine. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2023; 55:2328-2360. [PMID: 37772882 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000003300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Biological sex is a primary determinant of athletic performance because of fundamental sex differences in anatomy and physiology dictated by sex chromosomes and sex hormones. Adult men are typically stronger, more powerful, and faster than women of similar age and training status. Thus, for athletic events and sports relying on endurance, muscle strength, speed, and power, males typically outperform females by 10%-30% depending on the requirements of the event. These sex differences in performance emerge with the onset of puberty and coincide with the increase in endogenous sex steroid hormones, in particular testosterone in males, which increases 30-fold by adulthood, but remains low in females. The primary goal of this consensus statement is to provide the latest scientific knowledge and mechanisms for the sex differences in athletic performance. This review highlights the differences in anatomy and physiology between males and females that are primary determinants of the sex differences in athletic performance and in response to exercise training, and the role of sex steroid hormones (particularly testosterone and estradiol). We also identify historical and nonphysiological factors that influence the sex differences in performance. Finally, we identify gaps in the knowledge of sex differences in athletic performance and the underlying mechanisms, providing substantial opportunities for high-impact studies. A major step toward closing the knowledge gap is to include more and equitable numbers of women to that of men in mechanistic studies that determine any of the sex differences in response to an acute bout of exercise, exercise training, and athletic performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra K Hunter
- Exercise Science Program, Department of Physical Therapy, and Athletic and Human Performance Center, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI
| | | | - Aditi Bhargava
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Joanna Harper
- Loughborough University, Loughborough, UNITED KINGDOM
| | - Angelica Lindén Hirschberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, and Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, SWEDEN
| | - Benjamin D Levine
- Institute for Exercise and Environmental Medicine, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, and the Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Kerrie L Moreau
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, and Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Aurora, CO
| | - Natalie J Nokoff
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Endocrinology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Nina S Stachenfeld
- The John B. Pierce Laboratory and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Stéphane Bermon
- Health and Science Department, World Athletics, Monaco and the LAMHESS, University Côte d'Azur, Nice, FRANCE
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bourgois G, Mucci P, Boone J, Colosio AL, Bourgois JG, Pogliaghi S, Caen K. Critical power, W' and W' reconstitution in women and men. Eur J Appl Physiol 2023; 123:2791-2801. [PMID: 37369796 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-023-05268-3] [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: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to compare critical power (CP) and work capacity W', and W' reconstitution (W'REC) following repeated maximal exercise between women and men. METHODS Twelve women ([Formula: see text]O2PEAK: 2.53 ± 0.37 L·min-1) and 12 men ([Formula: see text]O2PEAK: 4.26 ± 0.30 L·min-1) performed a minimum of 3 constant workload tests, to determine CP and W', and 1 maximal exercise repetition test with three work bouts (WB) to failure, to quantify W'REC during 2 recovery periods, i.e., W'REC1 and W'REC2. An independent samples t test was used to compare CP and W' values between women and men, and a repeated-measures ANOVA was used to compare W'REC as fraction of W' expended during the first WB, absolute W'REC, and normalized to lean body mass (LBM). RESULTS CP normalized to LBM was not different between women and men, respectively, 3.7 ± 0.5 vs. 4.1 ± 0.4 W·kgLBM-1, while W' normalized to LBM was lower in women 256 ± 29 vs. 305 ± 45 J·kgLBM-1. Fractional W'REC1 was higher in women than in men, respectively, 74.0 ± 12.0% vs. 56.8 ± 9.5%. Women reconstituted less W' than men in absolute terms (8.7 ± 1.2 vs. 10.9 ± 2.0 kJ) during W'REC1, while normalized to LBM no difference was observed between women and men (174 ± 23 vs. 167 ± 31 J·kgLBM-1). W'REC2 was lower than W'REC1 both in women and men. CONCLUSION Sex differences in W'REC (absolute women < men; fractional women > men) are eliminated when LBM is accounted for. Prediction models of W'REC might benefit from including LBM as a biological variable in the equation. This study confirms the occurrence of a slowing of W'REC during repeated maximal exercise.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gil Bourgois
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Watersportlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Univ. Lille, Univ. Artois, Univ. Littoral Côte d'Opale, ULR 7369-URePSSS-Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport Santé Société, 59000, Lille, France
| | - Patrick Mucci
- Univ. Lille, Univ. Artois, Univ. Littoral Côte d'Opale, ULR 7369-URePSSS-Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport Santé Société, 59000, Lille, France
| | - Jan Boone
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Watersportlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
- Center of Sports Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Alessandro L Colosio
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Watersportlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jan G Bourgois
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Watersportlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Center of Sports Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Silvia Pogliaghi
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Watersportlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Kevin Caen
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Watersportlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Center of Sports Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wrucke DJ, Kuplic A, Adam M, Hunter SK, Sundberg CW. Neural and muscular contributions to the age-related loss in power of the knee extensors in men and women. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.24.563851. [PMID: 37961177 PMCID: PMC10634815 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.24.563851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
The mechanisms for the loss in limb muscle power in old (60-79 years) and very old (≥80 years) adults and whether the mechanisms differ between men and women are not well-understood. We compared maximal power of the knee extensor muscles between young, old, and very old men and women and identified the neural and muscular factors contributing to the age-related loss of power. 31 young (22.9±3.0 years, 15 women), 83 old (70.4±4.9 years, 39 women), and 16 very old adults (85.8±4.2 years, 9 women) performed maximal isokinetic contractions at 14 different velocities (30-450°/s) to identify peak power. Voluntary activation (VA) and contractile properties were assessed with transcranial magnetic stimulation to the motor cortex and electrical stimulation of the femoral nerve. The age-related loss in power was ~6.5 W·year-1 for men (R2=0.62, p<0.001), which was a greater rate of decline (p=0.002) than the ~4.2 W·year-1 for women (R2=0.77, p<0.001). Contractile properties were the most closely associated variables with power output for both sexes, such as the rate of torque development of the potentiated twitch (men: R2=0.69, p<0.001; women: R2=0.57, p<0.001). VA was weakly associated with power in women (R2=0.13, p=0.012) but not men (p=0.191), whereas neuromuscular activation (EMG amplitude) during the maximal power contraction was not associated with power in men (p=0.347) or women (p=0.106). These data suggest that the age-related loss in power of the knee extensor muscles is due primarily to factors within the muscle for both sexes, although neural factors may play a minor role in older women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David J. Wrucke
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Andrew Kuplic
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Mitchell Adam
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Sandra K. Hunter
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Athletic and Human Performance Research Center, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Christopher W. Sundberg
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Athletic and Human Performance Research Center, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Diaz-Canestro C, Pentz B, Sehgal A, Yang R, Xu A, Montero D. Lean body mass and the cardiovascular system constitute a female-specific relationship. Sci Transl Med 2022; 14:eabo2641. [PMID: 36260693 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abo2641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence points toward a link between lean body mass (LBM) and cardiovascular capacity in women. This study aimed at determining the sex-specific relationship of LBM with central and peripheral circulatory variables in healthy women and men (n=70) matched by age (60±12 years versus 58±15 years), physical activity, and cardiovascular risk factors. Regional (legs, arms, and trunk) and whole-body (total) body composition were assessed via dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Cardiac structure, function, and central/peripheral hemodynamics were measured via transthoracic echocardiography and the volume-clamp method at rest and peak incremental exercise. Regression analyses determined sex-specific relationships between LBM and cardiovascular variables. Regional and total LBM were lower in women than men (P<0.001), with little overlap between sexes. Leg and arm LBM positively associated with left ventricular (LV) internal resting dimensions in women (r≥0.53, P≤0.002) but not men (P≥0.156). Leg, arm, and total LBM only associated with LV relaxation in women (r≥0.43, P≤0.013). All LBM variables strongly associated with LV volumes at peak exercise in women (r≥0.54, P≤0.001) but not men and negatively associated with total peripheral resistance at peak exercise in women (r≥0.43, P≤0.023). Adjustment by adiposity-related or cardiovascular risk factors did not alter results. In conclusion, leg and arm LBM independently associate with internal cardiac dimensions, ventricular relaxation, and systemic vascular resistance in a sex-specific manner, with these relationships exclusively present in women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Candela Diaz-Canestro
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 279, Canada.,State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam 999077, Hong Kong.,Department of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Brandon Pentz
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Arshia Sehgal
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Ranyao Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam 999077, Hong Kong.,Department of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Aimin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam 999077, Hong Kong.,Department of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam 999077, Hong Kong.,Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam 999077, Hong Kong
| | - David Montero
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 279, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam 999077, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Azevedo RDEA, Forot J, Iannetta D, Aboodarda SJ, Millet GY, Murias JM. Time Course of Performance Fatigability during Exercise below, at, and above the Critical Intensity in Females and Males. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2022; 54:1665-1677. [PMID: 35551406 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the time course and amplitude of performance fatigability during cycling at intensities around the maximal lactate steady state (MLSS) until task failure (TTF). METHODS Ten females and 11 males were evaluated in eight visits: 1) ramp incremental test; 2-3) 30-min constant power output (PO) cycling for MLSS determination; and 4-8) cycling to TTF at PO relative to the MLSS of (i) -15%, (ii) -10 W, (iii) at MLSS, and (iv) +10 W, and (v) +15%. Performance fatigability was characterized by femoral nerve electrical stimulation of knee extensors at baseline; minutes 5, 10, 20, and 30; and TTF. Oxygen uptake, blood lactate concentration, muscle oxygen saturation, and perceived exertion were evaluated. RESULTS Approximately 75% of the total performance fatigability occurred within 5 min of exercise, independently of exercise intensity, followed by a further change at minute 30. Contractile function declined more in males than females (all P < 0.05). At task failure, exercise duration declined from MLSS -15% to MLSS +15% (all P < 0.05), accompanied by a greater rate of decline after MLSS +15% and MLSS +10 compared with MLSS, MLSS -10 , and MLSS -15% for voluntary activation (-0.005 and -0.003 vs -0.002, -0.001 and -0.001%·min -1 , respectively) and contractile function (potentiated single twitch force, -0.013 and -0.009 vs -0.006, -0.004 and -0.004%·min -1 , respectively). CONCLUSIONS Whereas the time course of performance fatigability responses was similar regardless of exercise intensity and sex, the total amplitude and rate of change were affected by the distinct metabolic disturbances around the MLSS, leading to different performance fatigability etiologies at task failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Danilo Iannetta
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, CANADA
| | | | | | - Juan M Murias
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, CANADA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Stewart JA, Merritt EK, Lidstone DE, McBride JM, Zwetsloot KA. Prolonged cycling lowers subsequent running mechanical efficiency in collegiate triathletes. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2022; 14:149. [PMID: 35915467 PMCID: PMC9344700 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-022-00543-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background A significant challenge that non-elite collegiate triathletes encounter during competition is the decline in running performance immediately after cycling. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine if performing a 40-km bout of cycling immediately before running would negatively influence running economy and mechanical efficiency of running during simulated race conditions in collegiate triathletes. Methods Eight competitive club-level collegiate triathletes randomly performed two trials: cycling for 40 km (Cycle-Run) or running for 5 km (Run–Run), immediately followed by a four-minute running economy and mechanical efficiency of running test at race pace on an instrumented treadmill. Blood lactate, respiratory exchange ratio, mechanical work, energy expenditure, and muscle glycogen were also measured during the four-minute running test. Results Mechanical efficiency of running, but not running economy, was significantly lower in Cycle-Run, compared to Run–Run (42.1 ± 2.5% vs. 48.1 ± 2.5%, respectively; p = 0.027). Anaerobic energy expenditure was significantly higher in the Cycle-Run trial, compared to the Run–Run trial (16.3 ± 2.4 vs. 7.6 ± 1.1 kJ; p = 0.004); while net (151.0 ± 12.3 vs. 136.6 ± 9.6 kJ; p = 0.204) and aerobic energy expenditure (134.7 ± 12.3 vs. 129.1 ± 10.5 kJ; p = 0.549) were not statistically different between trials. Analysis of blood lactate, respiratory exchange ratio, mechanical work, and changes in muscle glycogen revealed no statistically significant differences between trials. Conclusions These results suggest that mechanical efficiency of running, but not running economy, is decreased and anaerobic energy expenditure is increased when a 40-km bout of cycling is performed immediately before running in collegiate triathletes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J A Stewart
- Integrative Muscle Physiology Laboratory, Appalachian State University, ASU Box 32071, Boone, NC, USA.,Biomechanics and Neuromuscular Laboratory, Appalachian State University, ASU Box 32071, Boone, NC, USA
| | - E K Merritt
- Kinesiology Department, Southwestern University, 1001 E. University Ave., Georgetown, TX, USA
| | - D E Lidstone
- Biomechanics and Neuromuscular Laboratory, Appalachian State University, ASU Box 32071, Boone, NC, USA
| | - J M McBride
- Biomechanics and Neuromuscular Laboratory, Appalachian State University, ASU Box 32071, Boone, NC, USA.,Department of Health and Exercise Science, Appalachian State University, ASU Box 32071, Boone, NC, 28608, USA
| | - K A Zwetsloot
- Integrative Muscle Physiology Laboratory, Appalachian State University, ASU Box 32071, Boone, NC, USA. .,Department of Health and Exercise Science, Appalachian State University, ASU Box 32071, Boone, NC, 28608, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
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.
Collapse
|
8
|
Delgadillo JD, Sundberg CW, Kwon M, Hunter SK. Fatigability of the knee extensor muscles during high-load fast and low-load slow resistance exercise in young and older adults. Exp Gerontol 2021; 154:111546. [PMID: 34492255 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2021.111546] [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: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Resistance exercise training is a cornerstone in preventing age-related declines in muscle mass and strength, and fatigability of limb muscle is important to this adaptive response. It is unknown, however, whether fatigability and the underlying mechanisms differ between different resistance exercise protocols in young and older adults. The purpose of this study was to quantify the fatigability of the knee extensors and identify the mechanisms in 20 young (22.2 ± 1.3 yr, 10 women) and 20 older adults (73.8 ± 5.4 yr, 10 women) elicited by a single session of high- and low-load resistance exercise. One leg completed a high-load protocol with contractions performed as fast as possible (HL-fast, ~80% 1 Repetition Max, 1RM), and the contralateral leg a low-load protocol performed with slow contractions (LL-slow, ~30% 1RM, 6 s concentric, 6 s eccentric). Each exercise involved four sets of eight repetitions. Before and immediately following each set, maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVC) were performed, and voluntary activation and contractile properties quantified using electrical stimulation. The reduction in MVC was greater following the LL-slow (20%) than the HL-fast (12%, P = 0.004), with no age or sex differences. Similarly, the reduction in the amplitude of the involuntary electrically-evoked twitch was greater in the LL-slow (14%) than the HL-fast (7%, P = 0.014) and correlated with the reduction in MVC (r = 0.546, P < 0.001), whereas voluntary activation decreased only for the LL-slow protocol (5%, P < 0.001). Thus, low-load resistance exercise with slow contractions induced greater fatigability within the muscle than a more traditional high-load resistance protocol for both young and older men and women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jose D Delgadillo
- Exercise Science Program, Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Christopher W Sundberg
- Exercise Science Program, Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA; Athletic and Human Performance Research Center, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Minhyuk Kwon
- Exercise Science Program, Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA; Department of Kinesiology & Health Promotion, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, CA, USA
| | - Sandra K Hunter
- Exercise Science Program, Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA; Athletic and Human Performance Research Center, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Barreto RV, de Lima LCR, Denadai BS. Moving forward with backward pedaling: a review on eccentric cycling. Eur J Appl Physiol 2020; 121:381-407. [PMID: 33180156 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-020-04548-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is a profound gap in the understanding of the eccentric cycling intensity continuum, which prevents accurate exercise prescription based on desired physiological responses. This may underestimate the applicability of eccentric cycling for different training purposes. Thus, we aimed to summarize recent research findings and screen for possible new approaches in the prescription and investigation of eccentric cycling. METHOD A search for the most relevant and state-of-the-art literature on eccentric cycling was conducted on the PubMed database. Literature from reference lists was also included when relevant. RESULTS Transversal studies present comparisons between physiological responses to eccentric and concentric cycling, performed at the same absolute power output or metabolic load. Longitudinal studies evaluate responses to eccentric cycling training by comparing them with concentric cycling and resistance training outcomes. Only one study investigated maximal eccentric cycling capacity and there are no investigations on physiological thresholds and/or exercise intensity domains during eccentric cycling. No study investigated different protocols of eccentric cycling training and the chronic effects of different load configurations. CONCLUSION Describing physiological responses to eccentric cycling based on its maximal exercise capacity may be a better way to understand it. The available evidence indicates that clinical populations may benefit from improvements in aerobic power/capacity, exercise tolerance, strength and muscle mass, while healthy and trained individuals may require different eccentric cycling training approaches to benefit from similar improvements. There is limited evidence regarding the mechanisms of acute physiological and chronic adaptive responses to eccentric cycling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renan Vieira Barreto
- Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Physical Education, São Paulo State University, Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Benedito Sérgio Denadai
- Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Physical Education, São Paulo State University, Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ansdell P, Škarabot J, Atkinson E, Corden S, Tygart A, Hicks KM, Thomas K, Hunter SK, Howatson G, Goodall S. Sex differences in fatigability following exercise normalised to the power-duration relationship. J Physiol 2020; 598:5717-5737. [PMID: 32964441 DOI: 10.1113/jp280031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Knee-extensors demonstrate greater fatigue resistance in females compared to males during single-limb and whole-body exercise. For single-limb exercise, the intensity-duration relationship is different between sexes, with females sustaining a greater relative intensity of exercise. This study established the power-duration relationship during cycling, then assessed fatigability during critical power-matched exercise within the heavy and severe intensity domains. When critical power and the curvature constant were expressed relative to maximal ramp test power, no sex difference was observed. No sex difference in time to task failure was observed in either trial. During heavy and severe intensity cycling, females experienced lesser muscle de-oxygenation. Following both trials, females experienced lesser reductions in knee-extensor contractile function, and following heavy intensity exercise, females experienced less reduction in voluntary activation. These data demonstrate that whilst the relative power-duration relationship is not different between males and females, the mechanisms of fatigability during critical power-matched exercise are mediated by sex. ABSTRACT Due to morphological differences, females demonstrate greater fatigue resistance of locomotor muscle during single-limb and whole-body exercise modalities. Whilst females sustain a greater relative intensity of single-limb, isometric exercise than males, limited investigation has been performed during whole-body exercise. Accordingly, this study established the power-duration relationship during cycling in 18 trained participants (eight females). Subsequently, constant-load exercise was performed at critical power (CP)-matched intensities within the heavy and severe domains, with the mechanisms of fatigability assessed via non-invasive neurostimulation, near-infrared spectroscopy and pulmonary gas exchange during and following exercise. Relative CP (72 ± 5 vs. 74 ± 2% Pmax , P = 0.210) and curvature constant (51 ± 11 vs. 52 ± 10 J Pmax -1 , P = 0.733) of the power-duration relationship were similar between males and females. Subsequent heavy (P = 0.758) and severe intensity (P = 0.645) exercise time to task failures were not different between sexes. However, females experienced lesser reductions in contractile function at task failure (P ≤ 0.020), and greater vastus lateralis oxygenation (P ≤ 0.039) during both trials. Reductions in voluntary activation occurred following both trials (P < 0.001), but were less in females following the heavy trial (P = 0.036). Furthermore, during the heavy intensity trial only, corticospinal excitability was reduced at the cortical (P = 0.020) and spinal (P = 0.036) levels, but these reductions were not sex-dependent. Other than a lower respiratory exchange ratio in the heavy trial for females (P = 0.039), no gas exchange variables differed between sexes (P ≥ 0.052). Collectively, these data demonstrate that whilst the relative power-duration relationship is not different between males and females, the mechanisms of fatigability during CP-matched exercise above and below CP are mediated by sex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Ansdell
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jakob Škarabot
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.,School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Elliott Atkinson
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Sarah Corden
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Amber Tygart
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Kirsty M Hicks
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Kevin Thomas
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Sandra K Hunter
- Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Glyn Howatson
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.,Water Research Group, School of Environmental Sciences and Development, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Stuart Goodall
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sundberg CW, Fitts RH. Bioenergetic basis of skeletal muscle fatigue. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 10:118-127. [PMID: 31342000 DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2019.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Energetic demand from high-intensity exercise can easily exceed ATP synthesis rates of mitochondria leading to a reliance on anaerobic metabolism. The reliance on anaerobic metabolism results in the accumulation of intracellular metabolites, namely inorganic phosphate (Pi) and hydrogen (H+), that are closely associated with exercise-induced reductions in power. Cellular and molecular studies have revealed several steps where these metabolites impair contractile function demonstrating a causal role in fatigue. Elevated Pi or H+ directly inhibits force and power of the cross-bridge and decreases myofibrillar Ca2+ sensitivity, whereas Pi also inhibits Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). When both metabolites are elevated, they act synergistically to cause marked reductions in power, indicating that fatigue during high-intensity exercise has a bioenergetic basis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W Sundberg
- Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI.,Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Robert H Fitts
- Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Birnbaumer P, Müller A, Tschakert G, Sattler MC, Hofmann P. Performance Enhancing Effect of Metabolic Pre-conditioning on Upper-Body Strength-Endurance Exercise. Front Physiol 2018; 9:963. [PMID: 30079032 PMCID: PMC6062767 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Accepted: 06/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
High systemic blood lactate (La) was shown to inhibit glycolysis and to increase oxidative metabolism in subsequent anaerobic exercise. Aim of this study was to examine the effect of a metabolic pre-conditioning (MPC) on net La increase and performance in subsequent pull-up exercise (PU). Nine trained students (age: 25.1 ± 1.9 years; BMI: 21.7 ± 1.4) performed PU on a horizontal bar with legs placed on a box (angular hanging) either without or with MPC in a randomized order. MPC was a 26.6 ± 2 s all out shuttle run. Each trial started with a 15-min warm-up phase. Time between MPC and PU was 8 min. Heart rate (HR) and gas exchange measures (VO2, VCO2, and VE) were monitored, La and glucose were measured at specific time points. Gas exchange measures were compared by area under the curve (AUC). In PU without MPC, La increased from 1.24 ± 0.4 to 6.4 ± 1.4 mmol⋅l-1, whereas with MPC, PU started at 9.28 ± 1.98 mmol⋅l-1 La which increased to 10.89 ± 2.13 mmol⋅l-1. With MPC, net La accumulation was significantly reduced by 75.5% but performance was significantly increased by 1 rep (4%). Likewise, net oxygen uptake VO2 (50% AUC), pulmonary ventilation (VE) (34% AUC), and carbon dioxide VCO2 production (26% AUC) were significantly increased during PU but respiratory exchange ratio (RER) was significantly blunted during work and recovery. MPC inhibited glycolysis and increased oxidative metabolism and performance in subsequent anaerobic upper-body strength-endurance exercise.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Birnbaumer
- Institute of Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Training and Training Therapy Research Group, University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,Department of Physical Activity and Public Health, Institute of Sports Science, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Alexander Müller
- Institute of Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Training and Training Therapy Research Group, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Gerhard Tschakert
- Institute of Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Training and Training Therapy Research Group, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Matteo C Sattler
- Department of Physical Activity and Public Health, Institute of Sports Science, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Peter Hofmann
- Institute of Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Training and Training Therapy Research Group, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
Performance fatigability is characterized as an acute decline in motor performance caused by an exercise-induced reduction in force or power of the involved muscles. Multiple mechanisms contribute to performance fatigability and originate from neural and muscular processes, with the task demands dictating the mechanisms. This review highlights that (1) inadequate activation of the motoneuron pool can contribute to performance fatigability, and (2) the demands of the task and the physiological characteristics of the population assessed, dictate fatigability and the involved mechanisms. Examples of task and population differences in fatigability highlighted in this review include contraction intensity and velocity, stability and support provided to the fatiguing limb, sex differences, and aging. A future challenge is to define specific mechanisms of fatigability and to translate these findings to real-world performance and exercise training in healthy and clinical populations across the life span.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra K Hunter
- Exercise Science Program, Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Contraction intensity and sex differences in knee-extensor fatigability. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2017; 37:68-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2017.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
|
15
|
Dominelli PB, Molgat-Seon Y, Griesdale DEG, Peters CM, Blouin JS, Sekhon M, Dominelli GS, Henderson WR, Foster GE, Romer LM, Koehle MS, Sheel AW. Exercise-induced quadriceps muscle fatigue in men and women: effects of arterial oxygen content and respiratory muscle work. J Physiol 2017; 595:5227-5244. [PMID: 28524229 DOI: 10.1113/jp274068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS High work of breathing and exercise-induced arterial hypoxaemia (EIAH) can decrease O2 delivery and exacerbate exercise-induced quadriceps fatigue in healthy men. Women have a higher work of breathing during exercise, dedicate a greater fraction of whole-body V̇O2 towards their respiratory muscles and develop EIAH. Despite a greater reduction in men's work of breathing, the attenuation of quadriceps fatigue was similar between the sexes. The degree of EIAH was similar between sexes, and regardless of sex, those who developed the greatest hypoxaemia during exercise demonstrated the most attenuation of quadriceps fatigue. Based on our previous finding that women have a greater relative oxygen cost of breathing, women appear to be especially susceptible to work of breathing-related changes in quadriceps muscle fatigue. ABSTRACT Reducing the work of breathing or eliminating exercise-induced arterial hypoxaemia (EIAH) during exercise decreases the severity of quadriceps fatigue in men. Women have a greater work of breathing during exercise, dedicate a greater fraction of whole-body V̇O2 towards their respiratory muscles, and demonstrate EIAH, suggesting women may be especially susceptible to quadriceps fatigue. Healthy subjects (8 male, 8 female) completed three constant load exercise tests over 4 days. During the first (control) test, subjects exercised at ∼85% of maximum while arterial blood gases and work of breathing were assessed. Subsequent constant load exercise tests were iso-time and iso-work rate, but with EIAH prevented by inspiring hyperoxic gas or work of breathing reduced via a proportional assist ventilator (PAV). Quadriceps fatigue was assessed by measuring force in response to femoral nerve stimulation. For both sexes, quadriceps force was equally reduced after the control trial (-27 ± 2% baseline) and was attenuated with hyperoxia and PAV (-18 ± 1 and -17 ± 2% baseline, P < 0.01, respectively), with no sex difference. EIAH was similar between the sexes, and regardless of sex, subjects with the lowest oxyhaemoglobin saturation during the control test had the greatest quadriceps fatigue attenuation with hyperoxia (r2 = 0.79, P < 0.0001). For the PAV trial, despite reducing the work of breathing to a greater degree in men (men: 60 ± 5, women: 75 ± 6% control, P < 0.05), the attenuation of quadriceps fatigue was similar between the sexes (36 ± 4 vs. 37 ± 7%). Owing to a greater relative V̇O2 of the respiratory muscles in women, less of a change in work of breathing is needed to reduce quadriceps fatigue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo B Dominelli
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Yannick Molgat-Seon
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Donald E G Griesdale
- Division of Critical Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Carli M Peters
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Mypinder Sekhon
- Division of Critical Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Giulio S Dominelli
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - William R Henderson
- Division of Critical Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Glen E Foster
- Centre for Heart, Lung, and Vascular Health, School of Health and Exercise Sciences, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Lee M Romer
- Centre for Human Performance, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Division of Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, UK
| | - Michael S Koehle
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - A William Sheel
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|