Effects of training with elastic resistance versus conventional resistance on muscular strength: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Comparative analysis of standard and contrast elastic resistance band training effects on physical fitness in female adolescent handball players

This study aimed to compare the effects of two elastic band 10-week training programmes on the athletic performance in adolescent female handball players. Participants aged 16.0 ± 0.5 years were randomly assigned to control (CNT, n = 12), standard elastic band (SEB, n = 12), or contrast elastic band (CEB, n = 12) programmes, each performed twice a week supplementing the regular training. The sprint (10 m and 20 m), modified Illinois change-of-direction test (COD), squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), standing long jump (SLJ), back extensor strength (BES), medicine ball throw (MBT), 1-RM bench press, 1-RM half squat, repeated sprint ability, and force-velocity (F-V) tests were measured before and after the intervention. Both CEB and SEB similarly improved sprint (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01) and COD (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01) when compared to CNT. Jumping performance improved significantly (SJ p < 0.01; CMJ p < 0.05) only in CEB, compared to CNT. Strength improved in both experimental groups (p < 0.01; ES: 0.73 < d < 1.59) compared to CNT, and there was a greater increase for CEB than SEB (p < 0.05) in the medicine ball throw (Table 3). Both CEB and SEB increased all RSA scores compared to CNT (p < 0.01; ES: 0.10 < d < 1.22), without significant difference between them. All F-V scores increased significantly in CEB and SEB compared to CNT (p < 0.01; ES: 0.45 < d < 2.47). In addition, CEB showed substantial gains in performance for PPabs, PPrel, and F0 (p < 0.001, p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively) compared to SEB. Ten-week elastic band training conducted within the competitive season improved limb strength, power and F-V profile in female handball players, with a superior effect of the contrast elastic band training mode for upper-limb strength and F-V characteristics.

Creatine supplementation and resistance training to preserve muscle mass and attenuate cancer progression (CREATINE-52): a protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Muscle mass is important for metastatic prostate cancer survival and quality of life (QoL). The backbone of treatment for men with metastatic castration sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) is androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) with an androgen signaling inhibitor. ADT is an effective cancer treatment, but it facilitates significant declines in muscle mass and adverse health outcomes important to mCSPC survivors, such as fatigue, and reductions in physical function, independence, insulin sensitivity, and QoL. In non-metastatic CSPC survivors, resistance training (RT) preserves muscle mass and improves these related health outcomes, but the biggest barrier to RT in CSPC survivors of all stages is fatigue. Creatine monohydrate supplementation coupled with RT (Cr + RT) may address this barrier since creatine plays a critical role in energy metabolism. Cr + RT in cancer-free older adults and other clinical populations improves muscle mass and related health outcomes. Evidence also suggests that creatine supplementation can complement cancer treatment. Thus, Cr + RT is a strategy that addresses gaps in survivorship needs of people with mCSPC. The purpose of this parallel, double-blind randomized controlled trial is to test the effects of 52-weeks of Cr + RT compared with placebo (PLA) and RT (PLA + RT) on muscle mass, other related health outcomes, and markers of cancer progression.

METHODS

We will carry out this trial with our team's established, effective, home-based, telehealth RT program in 200 mCSPC survivors receiving ADT, and evaluate outcomes at baseline, 24-, and 52-weeks. RT will occur twice weekly with elastic resistance bands, and an established creatine supplementation protocol will be used for supplementation delivery. Our approach addresses a major facilitator to RT in mCSPC survivors, a home-based RT program, while utilizing a supervised model for safety.

DISCUSSION

Findings will improve delivery of comprehensive survivorship care by providing a multicomponent, patient-centered lifestyle strategy to preserve muscle mass, improve health outcomes, and complement cancer treatment (NCT06112990).

Concurrent validation of the resistance intensity scale for exercise for monitoring velocity-based training with elastic bands

The aim was to evaluate the concurrent validity and reliability of the Resistance Intensity Scale for Exercise [RISE], which uses verbal descriptors, to quantify the intensity in velocity-based training with elastic bands. Eighteen trained volunteers performed parallel squats at maximum speed at 40%, 55%, 70%, and 85%1RM in four sessions, two for familiarization and two for reliability. Each set was stopped at a 10% intra-set velocity loss. Participants reported the perceived effort (easy-low-moderate-hard-maximal) at the first and last repetition. The concurrent validation was conducted with external load (i.e., mean propulsive velocity, weight, repetitions, and maximum power) and internal load parameters (i.e., heart rate). Participants' relative strength was calculated to assess its influence on the dependent variable. Acceptable concurrent validity and reliability (ICC>0.77, CV<21%) were observed, with the perceived effort being appropriate to differentiate between intensities and not being influenced by the participants' relative strength (p = 0.88). A categorical linear regression showed significant (p < 0.001) associations between the RISE scores and the weight, repetitions, and mean propulsive velocity (r = 0.43-0.63). The findings certify the usefulness of the perceived exertion for quantifying the intensity during velocity-based training with elastic bands. The perceived exertion of the first and last repetition favors a proper dosage of the training load.

Rubber Band Training Improves Athletic Performance in Young Female Handball Players

This study's objective was to investigate the impact of a 10-week in season contrast rubber band training program on athletic performance in young female handball players. Youth athletes (15.8 ± 0.2 years) were randomly assigned to an intervention (n = 16) or a control group (n = 14). The intervention group performed contrast rubber band training (20 sessions over two weeks), while the control group maintained regular in-season training. The modified T-test, squat jump, countermovement jump, standing long jump, repeated sprint ability, 1-RM bench press and half squat, along with upper and lower limb force-velocity tests were performed. The intervention group experienced significantly larger performance enhancements than the control group in the modified T-test [p < 0.001; d = 1.45%Δ (intervention = -7.1, control = -0.8)], vertical jump [p ≤ 0.009; d ≥ 0.72; %Δ (8.4 < intervention < 19.8, 4.1 < control < 12.2)], 1-RM strength [p ≤ 0.04, d ≥ 0.80; %Δ (37.1 < intervention < 39.7, 7.2 < control < 11.2)], all force-velocity scores for the upper limbs [p ≤ 0.009; d ≥ 0.72; %Δ (21 < intervention < 82, 0.1 < control < 11.6)], three of four force-velocity scores for the lower limb performance [p ≤ 0.02; d ≥ 0.64; %Δ (6.4 < intervention < 31.3, 0.8 < control < 11.1)] and all repeated sprint times [p < 0.001; d ≥ 1.15; %Δ (-3.4 < intervention < -3.1, -1.9 < control < -0.5)]. It was concluded that ten weeks of contrast rubber band training positively affected most motor abilities in youth female handball athletes. Therefore, coaches and practitioners should consider utilizing contrast rubber band strength training as a time and resource-efficient means of improving physical fitness of youth handball players.

Effectiveness of functional training versus resistance exercise in patients with psoriatic arthritis: randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the effect of functional versus resistance exercise training on the functional capacity and quality of life of psoriatic arthritis patients.

METHODS

Forty-one psoriatic arthritis patients (18 to 65 years old) were randomized into two groups: functional training group and resistance exercise group. The functional training group underwent functional exercises with elastic band and the functional training group underwent machine resistance exercise twice a week for 12 weeks. Outcome measures were: The Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI) and Health Assessment Questionnaire for the Spondyloarthropathies (HAQ-S) for functional capacity and functional status, one-repetition maximum test for muscle strength, the Short Form 36 health survey questionnaire (SF-36) for quality of life, and the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) and the Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS-28) for disease activity. Analyzes were performed by a blinded evaluator at baseline (T0), six (T6) and twelve (T12) weeks after the beginning of the exercise.

RESULTS

At baseline, the groups were homogeneous in the clinical and demographic characteristics. There was a statistical intra-group improvement for both groups in the BASFI, BASDAI, HAQ-s, and DAS-28. In the quality-of-life assessment, both groups showed statistical intra-group improvements for all domains except the "emotional aspect" domain in the resistance exercise group. In the muscle strength, there was a statistical improvement for all exercises in both groups, except for the "alternate biceps (bilateral)" exercise.

CONCLUSION

Functional training and resistance exercise are similarly effective in improving functional capacity, functional status, disease activity, general quality of life, and muscle strength in patients with psoriatic arthritis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04304326. Registered 11 March 2020, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04304326?term=NCT04304326&draw=2&rank=1 .

Effect of elastic resistance training on functional capacity in older adults: a systematic review with meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of Elastic Resistance Training (ERT) on functional capacity (FC) in older adults.

METHODS

The databases used were Embase, Virtual Health Library, PubMed, SciElo, Scopus, SPORTS Discus, and Web of Science. Eligibility criteria: aged ≥ 60 years; both sexes; intervention of at least 8 weeks; structured ERT; comparator group that performed other types of training or without any intervention; at least one functional test measurement. Functional tests were grouped according to their specificity for the sub-group meta-analyses.

RESULTS

Twenty-six studies were considered eligible for qualitative synthesis, of which 16 were used for quantitative analysis. Favorable effects (p < .001) of ERT compared to the control group without intervention were observed in the 30-second sit to stand test, Timed Up and Go test, arm curl test, handgrip strength test, 6-minute walk test, lower and upper limb flexibility, and Short Physical Performance Battery (p = .007). Comparisons between ERT and other types of training were not performed because of the high heterogeneity of the studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that ERT is able to improve the FC of older adults when compared to older adults not involved in any type of training.

Preferred Reporting Items for Resistance Exercise Studies (PRIRES): A Checklist Developed Using an Umbrella Review of Systematic Reviews

BACKGROUND

The issues of replication and scientific transparency have been raised in exercise and sports science research. A potential means to address the replication crisis and enhance research reliability is to improve reporting quality and transparency. This study aims to formulate a reporting checklist as a supplement to the existing reporting guidelines, specifically for resistance exercise studies.

METHODS

PubMed (which covers Medline) and Scopus (which covers Medline, EMBASE, Ei Compendex, World Textile Index, Fluidex, Geobase, Biobase, and most journals in Web of Science) were searched for systematic reviews that comprised the primary studies directly comparing different resistance training methods. Basic data on the selected reviews, including on authors, publication years, and objectives, were summarized. The reporting items for the checklist were identified based on the objective of the reviews. Additional items from an existing checklist, namely the Consensus on Exercise Reporting Template, a National Strength and Conditioning Association handbook, and an article from the EQUATOR library were incorporated into the final reporting checklist.

RESULTS

Our database search retrieved 3595 relevant records. After automatic duplicate removal, the titles and abstracts of the remaining 2254 records were screened. The full texts of 137 records were then reviewed, and 88 systematic reviews that met the criteria were included in the umbrella review.

CONCLUSION

Developed primarily by an umbrella review method, this checklist covers the research questions which have been systematically studied and is expected to improve the reporting completeness of future resistance exercise studies. The PRIRES checklist comprises 26 reporting items (39 subitems) that cover four major topics in resistance exercise intervention: 1) exercise selection, performance, and training parameters, 2) training program and progression, 3) exercise setting, and 4) planned vs actual training. The PRIRES checklist was designed specifically for reporting resistance exercise intervention. It is expected to be used with other reporting guidelines such as Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials and Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials. This article presents only the development process and resulting items of the checklist. An accompanying article detailing the rationale for, the importance of, and examples of each item is being prepared.

REGISTRATION

This study is registered with the EQUATOR Network under the title "Preferred Reporting Items for Resistance Exercise Studies (PRIRES)." PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021235259.

Efficacy of resistance training with elastic bands compared to proprioceptive training on balance and self-report measures in patients with chronic ankle instability: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Proprioceptive training and resistance training are physiotherapy treatment methods for Chronic Ankle Instability (CAI).

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy of proprioceptive training to resistance training with elastic bands for treating CAI as measured by the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), and the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT).

METHOD

Our systematic study and meta-analysis was based on the PICOS and PRISMA protocols. The PubMed, PEDro, and ScienceDirect databases were searched for randomized clinical trials on proprioceptive and resistance training. Risk of bias was assessed according to Cochrane guidelines and quality of evidence was reported using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach (GRADE).

RESULTS

Five studies involving 259 patients were included in the review. According to the findings of the meta-analysis, proprioceptive training was similarly effective with resistance training in SEBT and FAAM measures. Compared with resistance exercise, proprioceptive training demonstrated some benefits in CAIT scores (weighted mean difference [WMD] = -2.21, 95% CI = -4.05-0.36), but these intervention results were not clinically significant (MDC, MCID score >3 points).

CONCLUSION

Low-quality evidence from studies showed that neither of the interventions was superior on the SEBT or the FAAM scores in individuals with CAI because no clinically significant differences were found. More high-quality studies comparing the two interventions are needed to draw firm conclusions.

Decision making influences movement variability and performance of high-level female football players in an elastic resistance task

Introduction

The inclusion of sport-specific constraints in resistance training promotes the development of player abilities in an integrated way, which maximises the effectiveness of player adaptations induced by training. Considering that perceptual-cognitive abilities play a fundamental role in football, decision making could be introduced to enhance the cognitive similarity of resistance tasks to sport actions. However, it is unknown how decision making as a constraint could affect the player during an elastic resistance task. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of decision making of high-level female football players on movement variability and performance during an elastic band resistance task.

Methods

Twenty-three high-level female football players performed the elastic resistance task with a ball, both as attackers and as defenders without decision making (NDM) and with decision making (DM). The movement variability was quantified using the sample entropy derived from the acceleration recorded with an accelerometer placed at the lower back of each player. The passing accuracy of the attacker was quantified using a scoring scale.

Results

Results revealed that adding decision making to an elastic resistance task increased the movement variability of the defender but did not affect the movement variability of the attacker. In contrast, the passing accuracy of the attacker was reduced. Overall, the attacker had a higher movement variability compared to the defender.

Discussion

These findings suggest that decision making, as a football-specific constraint, can enhance the potential of an elastic resistance task in training. This is due to the fact that it reduces control and regularity of movement for the defensive role player and increases technical difficulty for the attacking role player. Furthermore, these effects are beneficial, as they can promote the adaptive processes necessary to optimise the performance of the players.

Exercise Resistance Band induced injuries during Covid 19 Pandemic Lockdown Training

The COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic forces athletes to perform their workout at home with alternative training methods. Exercise resistance bands, often used for this purpose, can cause damage when they recoil or tear. Potentially resulting injuries include bruises, head injuries, lacerations, facial fractures and eye injuries. The following article presents two case reports including accident mechanism, injuries, diagnostic evaluation and treatment.The first patient presented with an open depressed skull fracture caused by a recoiling exercise resistance band, while the second patient sustained a complex ocular trauma caused by a tearing exercise resistance band when performing supported chin-ups.

Remotely Supervised Weight Loss and Exercise Training to Improve Rheumatoid Arthritis Cardiovascular Risk: Rationale and Design of the Supervised Weight Loss Plus Exercise Training-Rheumatoid Arthritis Trial

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remain at an increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality. RA CVD results from a combination of traditional risk factors and RA-related systemic inflammation. One hypothetical means of improving overall RA CVD risk is through reduction of excess body weight and increased physical activity. Together, weight loss and physical activity can improve traditional cardiometabolic health through fat mass loss, while also improving skeletal muscle health. Additionally, disease-related CVD risk may improve as both fat mass loss and exercise reduce systemic inflammation. To explore this hypothesis, 26 older persons with RA and overweight/obesity will be randomized to 16 weeks of a usual care control arm or to a remotely Supervised Weight Loss Plus Exercise Training (SWET) program. A caloric restriction diet (targeting 7% weight loss) will occur via a dietitian-led intervention, with weekly weigh-ins and group support sessions. Exercise training will consist of both aerobic training (150 minutes/week moderate-to-vigorous exercise) and resistance training (twice weekly). The SWET remote program will be delivered via a combination of video conference, the study YouTube channel, and study mobile applications. The primary cardiometabolic outcome is the metabolic syndrome Z score, calculated from blood pressure, waist circumference, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose. RA-specific CVD risk will be assessed with measures of systemic inflammation, disease activity, patient-reported outcomes, and immune cell function. The SWET-RA trial will be the first to assess whether a remotely supervised, combined lifestyle intervention improves cardiometabolic health in an at-risk population of older individuals with RA and overweight/obesity.

Effect of progressive resistance exercise using Thera-band on edema volume, upper limb function, and quality of life in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema

This study aimed to determine the effects of progressive resistive exercise (PRE), including complex decongestive physical therapy (CDPT), on edema volume, handgrip strength, upper extremity function, and quality of life (QoL) in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). Twenty patients were randomized between the progressive resistance exercise group (PREG) and the self-home resistance exercise group (SREG). Two patients in each group dropped out of the study, leaving 16 patients: n=8 in the exercise group and n=8 in the SREG. First, the PREG and the SREG received CDPT. Subsequently, the patients in the PREG performed PRE, whereas the patients in the SREG performed self-home resistance exercises. Interventions were performed for 50 min, 3 times a week, for 6 weeks. The results showed that, for the edema volume, a significant intergroup variation was absent, whereas the intragroup variation was significant. The inter- and intragroup variations were significant for both handgrip strength and upper extremity function. Regarding QoL, a significant difference was observed in global health status/QoL and role function between the groups. Furthermore, significant differences were observed within the PREG in global health status/QoL; physical, role, and cognitive function; and dyspnea. No significant differences were observed within the SREG. The results collectively suggest that the exercise program was an intervention with a greater potential contribution to reducing edema and enhancing physical function in patients with BCRL.

Effectiveness of progressive moderate-vigorous intensity elastic resistance training on quality of life and perceived functional abilities in people with hemophilia: Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION AND AIM

Strength exercise training is advised for people with hemophilia (PWH); however, few studies have been published and have methodological limitations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of progressive elastic resistance training on quality of life and perceived functional abilities in PWH.

METHODS

Participants were randomly allocated to the intervention (n = 10) or control (n = 10) group. The intervention group performed progressive moderate-vigorous elastic resistance training (2 days/week, a total of 8 weeks), focusing on the muscles of the knee, elbow, and ankle joints. The control group continued its usual daily activities for 8 weeks. Quality of life (A36 Hemofilia-QoL®) and perceived functional abilities (Haemophilia Activities List) were assessed at baseline and an 8-week follow-up.

RESULTS

The intervention group improved the quality-of-life dimension of joint damage perception in comparison to the control group (p = .015, large effect size). Regarding perceived functional abilities, the intervention group improved lying, sitting, kneeling, and standing (p = .006, small effect size), and complex lower extremities activities (i.e., walking short and long-distance, and up-down stairs) (p = .006, small effect size) compared to the control group. No other significant differences were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Eight weeks of progressive moderate-vigorous elastic resistance training in PWH improve the quality-of-life dimension of joint damage perception and perceived functional abilities (lying/sitting/kneeling/standing, and complex lower extremities activities). Our results suggest a limited effect of the program on the other items of quality of life measured by the questionnaire as emotional functioning, mental health, and social relationships. Importantly, no serious adverse effects occurred.

Estimation of One-Repetition Maximum, Type, and Repetition of Resistance Band Exercise Using RGB Camera and Inertial Measurement Unit Sensors

Resistance bands are widely used nowadays to enhance muscle strength due to their high portability, but the relationship between resistance band workouts and conventional dumbbell weight training is still unclear. Thus, this study suggests a convolutional neural network model that identifies the type of band workout and counts the number of repetitions and a regression model that deduces the band force that corresponds to the one-repetition maximum. Thirty subjects performed five different exercises using resistance bands and dumbbells. Joint movements during each exercise were collected using a camera and an inertial measurement unit. By using different types of input data, several models were created and compared. As a result, the accuracy of the convolutional neural network model using inertial measurement units and joint position is 98.83%. The mean absolute error of the repetition counting algorithm ranges from 0.88 (seated row) to 3.21 (overhead triceps extension). Lastly, the values of adjusted r-square for the 5 exercises are 0.8415 (chest press), 0.9202 (shoulder press), 0.8429 (seated row), 0.8778 (biceps curl), and 0.9232 (overhead triceps extension). In conclusion, the model using 10-channel inertial measurement unit data and joint position data has the best accuracy. However, the model needs to improve the inaccuracies resulting from non-linear movements and one-time performance.

Shoulder vibratory exercises improves shoulder external rotation muscle strength and shoulder function: Randomized comparison trial

BACKGROUND

Based on electromyography measurements, shoulder vibratory exercises efficiently stimulate shoulder muscles activity. Yet very few studies have supported that shoulder vibratory exercises increased shoulder muscles strength and function, and the noninferiority compared with conventional elastic resistance exercises remains unknown.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the effect of vibratory exercises versus conventional elastic resistance exercises with elastic bands on shoulder external rotation muscles strength and functional performance in young adults.

METHODS

26 young adults (7 males and 19 females, with age 23.89 ± 3.02) were recruited and randomly allocated to shoulder vibratory exercises with FLEXI-BAR (FLEXI-BAR group) or conventional resistance exercises with elastic band (TheraBand group) for 3 times/week, 4 weeks totally. Shoulder external rotator muscles strength test and Underkofler softball distance throw test (USDTT) were performed before and after the training period.

RESULTS

After 4 weeks training, shoulder external rotator muscles strength increased 22.25 ± 15.06 N (P= 0.004, effect size = 1.48) within FLEXI-BAR group and 22.81 ± 14.94 N (P= 0.007, effect size = 1.53) within TheraBand group. There were no statistically significant differences between groups in the three muscle strength tests (P> 0.65). Regarding shoulder function, FLEXI-BAR exercises increased the throw distance 0.81 ± 0.92 meters in USDTT (P= 0.041, effect size = 0.88) while TheraBand exercise did not (P= 0.284), yet there was no statistically significant between group effects (P= 0.608).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that shoulder vibratory exercises can improve shoulder muscles strength in young adults and can be a useful alternative to the conventional elastic resistance exercises to improve the shoulder muscles strength and function. This provides therapists with more options in terms of choosing training equipment for rehabilitation programs.

The effects of upper and lower limb elastic band training on the change of direction, jump, power, strength and repeated sprint ability performance in adolescent female handball players

This study aimed to examine the effects of incorporating 10-week elastic band strength training (EBST) program on change of direction, jumping ability, repeated sprint ability, and both muscular strength and power in adolescent female handball players. Participants aged 15.8 ± 0.2 years were divided by playing position, and players from each position were then randomly assigned between the elastic strength (n = 17) and control (n = 17) groups. The experimental group performed periodized upper and lower-body elastic band strength training twice weekly for ten weeks by substitution of some of their regular physical and game preparation. The control group only performed regular handball training. Two-way analyses of variance (group × time) assessed change of direction (COD) via the modified t-agility test, squat jump, countermovement jump, standing long jump, repeated sprint ability (RSA), 1-RM bench press and half squat, and cycle ergometer force-velocity tests for both upper and lower limbs. Relative to the control group, the experimental group enhanced COD performance [p < 0.001; Cohen's effect size (d) = 1.00]; squat and countermovement jump (p = 0.002, d ≥ 0.83), best, mean, and total RSA scores (all p < 0.001, d = 0.92-1.66), 1-RM bench press (p = 0.02, d = 0.59) and half squat (p = 0.009, d = 0.67), all indices of upper limb force-velocity performance (p ≤ 0.025, d = 0.56-1.66), and 3 of 4 indices of lower limb force-velocity performance (p ≤ 0.004, d = 0.75-0.92). We conclude that additional elastic band training performed twice a week for ten weeks improves measures relevant to handball game performance in adolescent female athletes.

The Use of Elastic Bands in Velocity-Based Training Allows Greater Acute External Training Stimulus and Lower Perceived Effort Compared to Weight Plates

The objective was to compare the mean propulsive velocity (MPV), maximum power (PMAX), heart rate, and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) during the parallel squat using elastic bands (EB) or weight plates (WP) to load the bar. The effect of relative strength on the dependent variables was analysed. Additionally, the potential of the RPE to predict external load parameters was assessed. Eighteen trained volunteers squatted at 40%, 55%, 70%, and 85% of their one-repetition maximum with EB and WP (a total of eight sets) in random order. Dependent variables were measured at the first and last repetition (i.e., 10% velocity loss). Two identical sessions were conducted to assess the reliability of measurements. Compared to WP, EB allowed a significantly greater number of repetitions, MPV, and PMAX, and significantly lower RPE. The RPE of the first repetition was a significant predictor of the external load of the set. The RPE showed good repeatability and was not influenced by the relative strength of athletes. In conclusion, compared to WP, the use of EB allows for greater external load with reduced internal load responses in a wide spectrum of load-based intensities. The potential implications of these novel findings are discussed in the manuscript.

The influence of exercise on clinical pain and pain mechanisms in patients with subacromial pain syndrome

Background

Few studies have investigated the underlying mechanisms for unilateral subacromial pain syndrome (SAPS). Therefore, this study examined (1) if 8‐weeks of exercise could modulate clinical pain or temporal summation of pain (TSP), conditioned pain modulation (CPM), and exercise‐induced hypoalgesia (EIH) and (2) if any of these parameters could predict the effect of 8‐weeks of exercise in patients with unilateral SAPS.

Methods

Thirty‐seven patients completed a progressive abduction exercise program every other day for 8‐weeks. Worst shoulder pain in full abduction was rated on a numeric rating scale (NRS). Pain pressure thresholds (PPTs), TSP, CPM, EIH, Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), PainDETECT questionnaire (PD‐Q), Pain Self‐Efficacy Questionnaire (PSE‐Q) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were assessed before and after intervention.

Results

The intervention improved worst pain intensity (p < 0.001), increased the CPM (p < 0.001), improved the sleep scores (p < 0.005) and reduced the PainDETECT ratings (p < 0.001). No changes were observed in PPT, TSP, EIH, SPADI, PCS and PSE‐Q (all p > 0.05). In a linear regression, the combination of all baseline parameters predicted 23.2% variance in absolute change in pain after 8 weeks. Applying backwards elimination to the linear regression yielded that baseline pain intensity combined with TSP predicted 33.8% variance.

Conclusion

This explorative study suggested reduction in pain, improved sleep quality and increased CPM after 8‐weeks of exercise. Furthermore, the results suggests that low pain intensity and high TSP scores (indicative for pain sensitisation) may predict a lack of pain improvement after exercise.

Effects of Variable-Resistance Training Versus Constant-Resistance Training on Maximum Strength: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Greater muscular strength is generally associated with superior sports performance, for example, in jumping, sprinting, and throwing. This meta-analysis aims to compare the effects of variable-resistance training (VRT) and constant-resistance training (CRT) on the maximum strength of trained and untrained subjects. PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were comprehensively searched to identify relevant studies published up to January 2022. Fourteen studies that met the inclusion criteria were used for the systematic review and meta-analysis. Data regarding training status, training modality, and type of outcome measure were extracted for the analyses. The Cochrane Collaboration tool was used to assess the risk of bias. The pooled outcome showed improved maximum strength with VRT, which was significantly higher than that with CRT (ES = 0.80; 95% CI: 0.42−1.19) for all the subjects. In addition, trained subjects experienced greater maximum-strength improvements with VRT than with CRT (ES = 0.57; 95% CI: 0.22−0.93). Based on subgroup analyses, maximum-strength improvement with a VRT load of ≥80% of 1 repetition maximum (1RM) was significantly higher than that with CRT (ES = 0.76; 95% CI: 0.37−1.16) in trained subjects, while no significant differences were found between VRT and CRT for maximum-strength improvement when the load was <80% (ES = 0.00; 95% CI: −0.55−0.55). The untrained subjects also achieved greater maximum strength with VRT than with CRT (ES = 1.34; 95% CI: 0.28−2.40). Interestingly, the improved maximum strength of untrained subjects with a VRT load of <80% of 1RM was significantly higher than that with CRT (ES = 2.38; 95% CI: 1.39−3.36); however, no significant differences were noted between VRT and CRT when the load was ≥80% of 1RM (ES = −0.04; 95% CI: −0.89−0.81). Our findings show that subjects with resistance training experience could use a load of ≥80% of 1RM and subjects without resistance training experience could use a load of <80% of 1RM to obtain greater VRT benefits.

Concurrent Training Promotes Greater Gains on Body Composition and Components of Physical Fitness Than Single-Mode Training (Endurance or Resistance) in Youth With Obesity

The prevalence of obesity in the pediatric population has become a major public health issue. Indeed, the dramatic increase of this epidemic causes multiple and harmful consequences, Physical activity, particularly physical exercise, remains to be the cornerstone of interventions against childhood obesity. Given the conflicting findings with reference to the relevant literature addressing the effects of exercise on adiposity and physical fitness outcomes in obese children and adolescents, the effect of duration-matched concurrent training (CT) [50% resistance (RT) and 50% high-intensity-interval-training (HIIT)] on body composition and physical fitness in obese youth remains to be elucidated. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of 9-weeks of CT compared to RT or HIIT alone, on body composition and selected physical fitness components in healthy sedentary obese youth. Out of 73 participants, only 37; [14 males and 23 females; age 13.4 ± 0.9 years; body-mass-index (BMI): 31.2 ± 4.8 kg·m-2] were eligible and randomized into three groups: HIIT (n = 12): 3-4 sets×12 runs at 80–110% peak velocity, with 10-s passive recovery between bouts; RT (n = 12): 6 exercises; 3–4 sets × 10 repetition maximum (RM) and CT (n = 13): 50% serial completion of RT and HIIT. CT promoted significant greater gains compared to HIIT and RT on body composition (p &lt; 0.01, d = large), 6-min-walking test distance (6 MWT-distance) and on 6 MWT-VO2max (p &lt; 0.03, d = large). In addition, CT showed substantially greater improvements than HIIT in the medicine ball throw test (20.2 vs. 13.6%, p &lt; 0.04, d = large). On the other hand, RT exhibited significantly greater gains in relative hand grip strength (p &lt; 0.03, d = large) and CMJ (p &lt; 0.01, d = large) than HIIT and CT. CT promoted greater benefits for fat, body mass loss and cardiorespiratory fitness than HIIT or RT modalities. This study provides important information for practitioners and therapists on the application of effective exercise regimes with obese youth to induce significant and beneficial body composition changes. The applied CT program and the respective programming parameters in terms of exercise intensity and volume can be used by practitioners as an effective exercise treatment to fight the pandemic overweight and obesity in youth.

Effectiveness of elongation band exercise on the upper limb strength and range of motion among older adults

An elongation band (EB) is used to improve the physical strength of older adults. However, the evidence of its effect on the upper limb is a deficiency. This study investigated the effectiveness of EB exercises on upper limb function in the elderly. Participants were divided into two groups: EB (n=16) and control (n=14). The EB group performed exercises in a sitting position using an EB while the control group performed active stretching exercises without bands. The exercise regimen consisted of four shoulder joint movements. Each group performed the exercise for 20 min per day, 5 days per week over a period of 2 months. Measurements included upper limb muscle strength, shoulder joint range of motion, and grip strength. Measurements were performed at baseline, and 1 and 2 months after the intervention. Analysis of covariance was used to compare differences between the groups. The EB group demonstrated significant increases in muscle strength (upper trapezius, deltoid, middle trapezius muscle), shoulder joint range of motion (right shoulder flexion, internal rotation, external rotation, left shoulder joint extension), and grip strength. In conclusion, EB exercises increased upper limb muscle strength, shoulder joint range of motion, and grip strength in older adults.

The Efficacy of Upper-Extremity Elastic Resistance Training on Shoulder Strength and Performance: A Systematic Review

Elastic resistance exercise is a popular mode of strength training that has demonstrated positive effects on whole-body strength and performance. The purpose of this work was to identify the efficacy of elastic resistance training on improving upper limb strength and performance measures for the shoulder. Seven online databases were searched with a focus on longitudinal studies assessing shoulder elastic training strength interventions. In total, 1367 studies were initially screened for relevancy; 24 full-text articles were included for review. Exercise interventions ranged from 4-12 weeks, assessing pre-/post-strength and performance measures inclusive of isometric and isokinetic strength, 1RM strength, force-velocity tests, and throwing-velocity tests. Significant increases in various isometric strength measures (IR:11–13%, ER:11–42%, FL: 14–36%, EXT: 4–17%, ABD: 8–16%), 1RM strength (~24% in bench press), force-velocities, throwing- and serve-velocities (12%) were all observed. Elastic resistance training elicited positive effects for both strength and performance parameters regardless of intervention duration. Similar significant increases were observed in isometric strength and 1RM strength across durations. Isokinetic strength increases were variable and dependent on the joint velocity conditions. Quantifying the dosage of appropriate exercise prescription for optimal strength and performance gains is inconclusive with this study due to the heterogeneity of the intervention protocols.

Elastic resistance training is more effective than vitamin D3 supplementation in reducing oxidative stress and strengthen antioxidant enzymes in healthy men

OBJECTIVE

Today, reducing oxidative stress and improving the antioxidant system with antioxidant supplements along with exercise training has received a lot of attention. Vitamin D plays a very important role in general health and reducing oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of vitamin D3 supplements during elastic-band resistance training (EBT) on oxidative stress and antioxidant indices in healthy men.

METHODS

Forty healthy men (Serum: 20 ≤ 25 (OH) D ≤ 25 ng/mL) voluntarily participated in the current study and randomly were assigned to EBT-vitamin D3 (ED, n = 10), EBT-placebo (EP, n = 10), vitamin D3 (VD, n = 10), and control (Con, n = 10). EBT was performed three times per week on non-consecutive days for eight weeks, in seven exercises. The subjects in the ED, VD, and EP consumed 50,000 IU vitamin D3 or placebo once every 2 weeks. Ten ccs blood samples were collected before and after exercise training and the total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and creatine kinase (CK) activities were measured in the plasma. Malondialdehyde (MDA), as the lipid peroxidation index, and 25(OH) D were measured in the plasma.

RESULTS

We found that there was a significant difference between ED with VD (p = 0.011) and Con (p = 0.022) for MDA. A significant difference was also seen for SOD in ED with VD (p = 0.024) and Con (p = 0.038) and TAC in ED with VD (p = 0.020) and Con (p = 0.030), and GPX in ED with VD (p = 0.040) and Con (p = 0.010). While there were no significant differences between ED and EP in all mentioned variables (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Finally, it can be said that elastic resistance training improved antioxidant defence. However, vitamin D3 supplementation during resistance elastic training has no synergistic effect on attenuating oxidative stress indices.

The use of elastic band exercise as a physical therapy intervention for improving shoulder function in older adults: a scoping review

Many older adults experience a decline in shoulder function due to aging. This decline leads to limitations in daily activities and a lower quality of life. The incorporation of physical therapy interventions through elastic band exercises has demonstrated improved overall physical faculties among older adults. However, there is limited literature regarding the effect of these interventions on shoulder function in older adults. This scoping review summarized the current literature regarding elastic band exercises targeting shoulder function in older adults. A systematic literature search was performed using the Scopus and PubMed databases. An additional manual search was conducted using the PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database). Articles were included if they were published in a peer-reviewed journal in 2017-2021. After assessing eligibility, five randomized controlled trials articles were included in the analysis. We discovered that two types of elastic interventions were applied to older adults: namely, the TheraBand and tube bands. We observed heterogeneity in participant characteristics among the studies (healthy older adults, older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and older adults with sarcopenic obesity). The duration of the exercise intervention ranged from 3 to 36 sessions. Only one study measured shoulder function as the primary outcome. Our findings suggest that elastic band exercises have been applied to older adults in various conditions and tended to be effective; however, evidence on this topic is insufficient.

The Effects of Elastic Band Exercises with PNF on Shooting Speed and Accuracy in Ball Hockey Players during the COVID-19 Pandemic

The coronavirus pandemic has affected life and left one of the strongest negative effects on sport. The aim of our study was to evaluate how a simple exercise performed with elastic resistance during the COVID-19 pandemic, when athletes cannot train, affects the basic shooting characteristics of ball hockey players. Extra-league ball hockey players (N = 30, age 19-37 years) were randomly divided into an experimental group, which performed elastic resistance exercises with Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) elements for eight weeks, and a control group, which did not perform any exercises. Before the start of the experiment and after it was completed, the speed and accuracy of shooting were measured. In experimental group, there was no decrease after 8 weeks in the shooting speed, and in the control group, there was a statistically significant decrease. There was a deterioration in the accuracy of shooting in both groups; however, in the experimental group, the deterioration was not significant. The results show that even three simple exercises with elastic resistance according to the PNF concept performed 10 times per day for eight weeks can maintain the level of basic skills of ball hockey players-the speed and accuracy of shooting-even when no other training is performed.

Resistance but not elastic tubes training improves bioimpedance vector patterns and body composition in older women: A randomized trial

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of traditional resistance training compared to elastic tubes training on bioimpedance vector patterns, body composition, and strength in older women. Thirty-eight older women (age 68.7 ± 6.9 years, body mass index 28.8 ± 7.2 kg/m²) were randomly assigned to perform traditional resistance or elastic tubes training three times per week for 12 weeks. Body composition was assessed by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and bioelectrical impedance vector analysis. In addition, handgrip strength was measured using a dynamometer. Only the participants who followed the 12-week traditional resistance training program significantly (p < 0.05) decreased fat mass (ES: -0.69) and extracellular water (ES: -1.06), and increased total body water (ES: 0.49), intracellular water (ES: 1.11), body cell mass (ES: 0.82), muscle mass (ES: 0.94), and phase angle (ES: 0.99), while no change occurred in the elastic tubes training group. Furthermore, a vector leftward displacement (ES: 1.11) into the resistance-reactance graph was found only after the traditional resistance training program. The handgrip strength increased for both traditional and elastic tubes training groups (ES: 0.64, ES: 0.71, respectively). Traditional resistance training improved body composition and strength in the older women group, while training using elastic tubes was effective only for the latter. The present outcomes encourage the use of systematic resistance training to counteract the effects of aging in older women.

Modulus of Elasticity of Elastic Tubes Used in Neuromuscular Rehabilitation Programs

CONTEXT

The elastic tubes have been used for clinical rehabilitation programs in which exercises are performed with submaximal intensities due to the difficulty in the measure the applied force. The authors aimed to quantify the elastic constant of elastic tubes used in neuromuscular rehabilitation programs predicting the force related to elastic tube elongation. A force test was performed by stretching the elastic tubes to determine the relationship between force and elongation. Eight elastic tubes with progressive levels of resistance represented by colors (yellow, red, blue, gray, black, grape, purple, and gold-low to higher resistance) were used.

DESIGN

Experimental.

METHODS

The test and retest were compared using the paired t test. The agreement and reliability between the test versus retest of pooled means colors were analyzed by plotting the Bland-Altman graph and intraclass correlation coefficient and the coefficient of variation. Pearson correlation was used to verify the validity between measurements.

RESULTS

The force values generated from the elastic tube elongation increase according to the color and thickness of elastic tubes with a strong and significant association between them (P < .0001). The elastic constant measurements were similar and presented high intraclass correlation coefficient values, low coefficient of variation values, and were reproducible (P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The force could be quantified according to elastic tube length variation by the linear regression equation with reproducibility. It gives greater measurement precision and better training load control when using elastic tubes in strength training programs.

Prescription and Effects of Strength Training in Individuals with Intellectual Disability-A Systematic Review

The practice of physical exercise (PE), especially strength training (ST), has health benefits in the healthy population; however, the literature is scarce in the recommendations related to the population with intellectual disability (ID). This study represents the first analysis on the topic and aims to examine the structure and efficacy of ST experimental intervention programs in individuals with ID. This systematic review was carried out between January and April 2021, using the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus databases, according to the PRISMA guidelines. From a total of 166 studies, eight were included in the present systematic review. The studies included a total of 280 individuals (18.23 ± 2.86 years old). The main features of the exercise programs are: 12 weeks average duration, three weekly sessions of 45–60 min, six to seven exercises targeting the main muscle groups, two to three sets, 6–12 repetitions, and avoiding free weights for safety reasons. The main results showed increments in strength, balance and fat-free mass and decrements in fat mass and waist circumference. It is a useful guideline for PE technicians to prescribe and adjust correctly in order to not only promote physical fitness, but improve the quality of life of individuals with ID.

Efficacy of an Integrated Training Device in Improving Muscle Strength, Balance, and Cognitive Ability in Older Adults

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of an integrated training device for strength and balance on extremity muscle strength, postural balance, and cognition in older adults using a combination with various rehabilitation training games, in which balance, strength, and cognitive training were configured in a single device.

METHODS

This prospective study included 20 healthy participants aged 65-85 years. Participants trained for 30 minutes daily, 3 days weekly, for 6 weeks with an integrated training device for strength and balance (SBT-120; Man&Tel Inc., Gumi, Korea). Main outcomes were measured using the Korean Mini-Mental State Examination (K-MMSE), Korean version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (K-MoCA), Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), Functional Reach Test (FRT), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and Manual Muscle Test. Measurements were taken at three time points: T0 (pretreatment), T1 (immediately after treatment), and T2 (4 weeks after treatment).

RESULTS

All 20 patients completed the training, and TUG, FRT, and BBS scores significantly improved at T1 and T2 compared to T0. Mean TUG scores decreased by 0.99±2.00 at T1 and 1.05±1.55 at T2 compared to T0. Mean FRT scores increased by 6.13±4.26 at T1 and 6.75±4.79 at T2 compared to T0. BBS scores increased by 0.60±0.94 at T1 and 0.45±1.15 at T2 compared to T0. Moreover, muscle strength and cognition (K-MMSE and K-MoCA scores) increased after training.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that an integrated training device for strength and balance can be a safe and useful tool for older adults.

Physical therapy interventions for the treatment of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS): Systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of interventions on pain associated with DOMS.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, EMBASE, PEDro, Cochrane, and Scielo databases were searched, from the oldest records until May/2020. Search terms used included combinations of keywords related to "DOMS" and "intervention therapy".

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Healthy participants (no restrictions were applied, e.g., age, sex, and exercise level). To be included, studies should be: 1) Randomized clinical trial; 2) Having induced muscle damage and subsequently measuring the level of pain; 3) To have applied therapeutic interventions (nonpharmacological or nutritional) and compare with a control group that received no intervention; and 4) The first application of the intervention had to occur immediately after muscle damage had been induced.

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty-one studies were included. The results revealed that the contrast techniques (p = 0,002 I² = 60 %), cryotherapy (p = 0,002 I² = 100 %), phototherapy (p = 0,0001 I² = 95 %), vibration (p = 0,004 I² = 96 %), ultrasound (p = 0,02 I² = 97 %), massage (p < 0,00001 I² = 94 %), active exercise (p = 0,0004 I² = 93 %) and compression (p = 0,002 I² = 93 %) have a better positive effect than the control in the management of DOMS.

CONCLUSION

Low quality evidence suggests that contrast, cryotherapy, phototherapy, vibration, ultrasound, massage, and active exercise have beneficial effects in the management of DOMS-related pain.

Maintaining Weight Loss in Obese Men with Prostate Cancer Following a Supervised Exercise and Nutrition Program-A Pilot Study

Simple Summary

More than 50% of prostate cancer patients will receive androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and 70% will experience ADT-induced weight gain. Supervised exercise and nutrition interventions are viable strategies to mitigate or reverse ADT-induced body composition changes; however, the ability to preserve these benefits when supervision is no longer available is unclear. Our study examined the effects of a home-based weight maintenance program on body composition and physical function in obese men with prostate cancer on ADT who had previously completed a supervised weight loss intervention. We demonstrated that a home-based weight maintenance program can preserve body composition and physical function for at least 12 weeks following a supervised intervention. This study provides insight into the prospect of home-based programs to preserve benefits gained within a supervised environment for patients remaining on ADT when ongoing in-person services are no longer viable.

Abstract

Supervised exercise and nutrition programs can mitigate or reverse androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) induced fat mass (FM) gain, lean mass (LM) loss, and impaired physical function. It is unclear whether these benefits are retained following transition to self-management. This study examined the effect of a home-based weight maintenance program on body composition and physical function in obese men with prostate cancer (PCa) on ADT following a 12-week supervised weight loss intervention. Eleven obese PCa patients (74 ± 5 years, 40.0 ± 4.9% body fat) on ADT (>6 months) completed a 12-week self-managed home-based weight maintenance program consisting of 150 min/week of aerobic and resistance training while maintaining a healthy balanced diet. Body composition (DXA), muscle strength (1RM), and cardiorespiratory fitness (400 m walk) were assessed. Significant reductions in weight (−2.8 ± 3.2 kg) and FM (−2.8 ± 2.6 kg), preservation of LM (−0.05 ± 1.6 kg), and improvements in muscle strength and VO_2max were achieved across the supervised intervention. Across the home-based program, no significant changes were observed in weight (−0.6 ± 2.8 kg, p = 0.508), FM (0.2 ± 1.4 kg, p = 0.619), LM (−0.8 ± 1.6 kg, p = 0.146), muscle strength (−0.2 to 4.1%, p = 0.086–0.745), or estimated VO_2max (0.3 ± 2.1 mL/min/kg, p = 0.649). Self-managed, home-based exercise and nutrition programs are a viable strategy to promote maintenance of body composition and physical function following a supervised intervention in obese PCa patients on ADT.

Effects of a 12-Week Suspension versus Traditional Resistance Training Program on Body Composition, Bioimpedance Vector Patterns, and Handgrip Strength in Older Men: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This investigation aimed to compare the effects of suspension training versus traditional resistance exercise using a combination of bands and bodyweight on body composition, bioimpedance vector patterns, and handgrip strength in older men. Thirty-six older men (age 67.4 ± 5.1 years, BMI 27.1 ± 3.3 kg/m²) were randomly allocated into suspension training (n = 12), traditional training (n = 13), or non-exercise (n = 11) groups over a 12-week study period. Body composition was assessed using conventional bioelectrical impedance analysis and classic and specific bioelectric impedance vector analysis, and handgrip strength was measured with a dynamometer. Results showed a significant (p < 0.05) group by time interaction for fat mass, fat-free mass, total body water, skeletal muscle index, classic and specific bioelectrical resistance, classic bioelectrical reactance, phase angle, and dominant handgrip strength. Classic and specific vector displacements from baseline to post 12 weeks for the three groups were observed. Handgrip strength increased in the suspension training group (p < 0.01, ES: 1.50), remained stable in the traditional training group, and decreased in the control group (p < 0.01, ES: -0.86). Although bodyweight and elastic band training helps to prevent a decline in muscle mass and handgrip strength, suspension training proved more effective in counteracting the effects of aging in older men under the specific conditions studied.

Maintenance of Muscle Mass and Cardiorespiratory Fitness to Cancer Patients During COVID-19 Era and After SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine

There is emerging evidence that decreased muscle mass and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) are associated with increased risk of cancer-related mortality. This paper aimed to present recommendations to prescribe effective and safe exercise protocols to minimize losses, maintain or even improve muscle mass, strength, and CRF of the cancer patients who are undergoing or beyond treatment during the COVID-19 era. Overall, we recommend performing exercises with bodyweight, elastic bands, or suspension bands to voluntary interruption (i.e., interrupt the exercise set voluntarily, according to their perception of fatigue, before concentric muscular failure) to maintain or increase muscle strength and mass and CRF during COVID-19 physical distancing. Additionally, rest intervals between sets and exercises (i.e., long or short) should favor maintaining exercise intensities between 50 and 80% of maxHR and/or RPE of 12. In an exercise program with these characteristics, the progression of the stimulus must be carried out by increasing exercise complexity, number of sets, and weekly frequency. With feasible exercises attainable anywhere, modulating only the work-to-rest ratio and using voluntary interruption, it is possible to prescribe exercise for a wide range of patients with cancer as well as training goals. Exercise must be encouraged; however, exercise professionals must be aware of the patient's health condition even at a physical distance to provide a safe and efficient exercise program. Exercise professionals should adjust the exercise prescription throughout home confinement whenever necessary, keeping in mind that minimal exercise stimuli are beneficial to patients in poor physical condition.

No Time to Lift? Designing Time-Efficient Training Programs for Strength and Hypertrophy: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Lack of time is among the more commonly reported barriers for abstention from exercise programs. The aim of this review was to determine how strength training can be most effectively carried out in a time-efficient manner by critically evaluating research on acute training variables, advanced training techniques, and the need for warm-up and stretching. When programming strength training for optimum time-efficiency we recommend prioritizing bilateral, multi-joint exercises that include full dynamic movements (i.e. both eccentric and concentric muscle actions), and to perform a minimum of one leg pressing exercise (e.g. squats), one upper-body pulling exercise (e.g. pull-up) and one upper-body pushing exercise (e.g. bench press). Exercises can be performed with machines and/or free weights based on training goals, availability, and personal preferences. Weekly training volume is more important than training frequency and we recommend performing a minimum of 4 weekly sets per muscle group using a 6–15 RM loading range (15–40 repetitions can be used if training is performed to volitional failure). Advanced training techniques, such as supersets, drop sets and rest-pause training roughly halves training time compared to traditional training, while maintaining training volume. However, these methods are probably better at inducing hypertrophy than muscular strength, and more research is needed on longitudinal training effects. Finally, we advise restricting the warm-up to exercise-specific warm-ups, and only prioritize stretching if the goal of training is to increase flexibility. This review shows how acute training variables can be manipulated, and how specific training techniques can be used to optimize the training response: time ratio in regard to improvements in strength and hypertrophy.

Graphic Abstract

Effects of TheraBand and Theratube Eccentric Exercises on Quadriceps Muscle Strength and Muscle Mass in Young Adults

Purpose

This study was aimed at comparing the effects of TheraBand and theratube eccentric exercises on quadriceps muscle strength in young adults.

Methods

Thirty young adults (19 females, 11 males) participated in this pretest-posttest experimental study. Participants were randomly assigned to one of the two groups: TheraBand and theratube groups. They received the training intervention 3 times a week for 4 weeks (12 sessions) with progression after 2 weeks. Maximum eccentric quadriceps strength was assessed using the Biodex isokinetic dynamometer system. Additionally, quadriceps muscle mass was measured using a tape.

Results

Both groups showed a significant improvement in the peak torque of the eccentric isokinetic quadriceps' strength after weeks 2 and 4. Strength change in the quadriceps was nonsignificant in the theratube group compared to the TheraBand group after 4 weeks of training (p < 0.05). There was no increase in muscle mass during the 4 weeks of training in any group (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Both the TheraBand and theratube are equally effective in the strengthening of the quadriceps muscle in young adults. Therefore, either the TheraBand or theratube may be used according to the availability and feasibility of the subjects for training intervention.

Characteristics of effective home-based resistance training in patients with noncommunicable chronic diseases: a systematic scoping review of randomised controlled trials

Skeletal muscle atrophy, dysfunction, and weakness are consequences of noncommunicable diseases which result in exercise and functional limitations which contribute to poor quality of life and increased mortality. Home-based resistance training may promote skeletal muscle health. Electronic-based systematic searches were performed identifying randomised controlled trials utilising home-based resistance training in patients with noncommunicable diseases defined as cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus (type 1 and 2), chronic kidney disease (including dialysis), and chronic respiratory disease (asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary hypertension). A comparator group was defined as one containing "non-exercise" or "usual care". Of the 239 studies identified (published between 1996 and 2020), 22 met the inclusion criteria. Sixteen studies contained an adjunct aerobic training component. Study designs and outcome measures showed large variation. Reporting of the principles of training applied within interventions was poor. Heterogeneity in study characteristics, and poor reporting of training characteristics, prevents formal recommendations for optimising home-based resistance training. However, home-based interventions are less resource-intensive than supervised programmes and appear to have the ability to improve or preserve pertinent outcomes such as strength, functional ability, and quality of life; potentially reducing the risk of mortality in patients with chronic disease.

Resistance Training as a Countermeasure for Key Non-communicable Diseases in Low-Resource Settings: A Review

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are responsible for 60% of global deaths. Of these NCD-attributable deaths, about 80% are in low- to middle-income countries (LMICs). The role of exercise in major NCDs is evident; however, popular and cost-effective aerobic modes of exercise, such as walking, consistently do not meet minimum intensity guidelines for health improvement. Interestingly, low-cost resistance training (using callisthenics, Pilates, elastic tubing, etc.) has proven equally effective to conventional resistance training using weight machines in improving several health parameters related to NCDs, although their effectiveness in LMICs is not as well documented as in high-income countries (HICs). Objectives: This review aimed to examine low-cost approaches of resistance training to health promotion, NCD risk reduction, and NCD rehabilitation/management to mitigate the epidemic of NCDs in lower-resource settings. Methods: An electronic search was performed on the following databases from inception until December 2019: PubMed/Medline, Sport Discuss, Embase, Science Direct, Current Contents, CISTI Source, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CINAHL EBM Reviews, and international e-catalogues. Results: Data on resistance training provision cost in low-resource settings indicates that it is not reasonable to use this mode of training in low-resource settings in the same way as it is used in high-resource ones. This review summarized some strategies which can be employed to ensure the delivery of all core resistance training components in low-resource settings. The data suggests that resistance training be adapted for delivery in non-clinical settings in LMICs. Conclusions: Program design variables of resistance training are similar in low- and well-resourced settings. However, only individuals with low-risk will be able to perform exercise without adverse consequences in home-based settings. Health care practitioners in LMICs should take an active role in promoting resistance training when promoting health, reducing NCD risk, and NCD rehabilitation.

Elastic Resistance Training Produces Benefits Similar to Conventional Resistance Training in People With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of elastic resistance training on improving muscle strength, functional exercise capacity, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and dyspnea in people with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

METHODS

For this systematic review, PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Embase (OVID), PEDro, SciELO, and CINAHL were searched from inception to November 2019. Included studies were randomized clinical trials in which people with stable COPD were allocated to (1) an experimental group that received lower-limb resistance training, upper-limb resistance training, or both using elastic resistance; or (2) a control group that received no or sham resistance training or conventional resistance training using weight machines. Data extraction was performed by 3 review authors. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the PEDro scale. Eight studies on 332 participants were included.

RESULTS

Knee extensor strength was higher in the experimental group (standardized mean difference = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.09-0.95) compared with the non-exercise control group. Compared with the conventional exercise control, the experimental group presented similar effects for muscle strength, functional exercise capacity, HRQoL, and dyspnea (95% CI overlapped the line of no effect for all).

CONCLUSIONS

Elastic resistance training improves muscle strength in people with COPD. The current review suggests elastic resistance as a potential alternative to conventional resistance training using weight machines, as they show similar effects on muscle strength, functional exercise capacity, HRQoL, and dyspnea.

IMPACT

Due to its beneficial effects, including reduced risk of exacerbation-related hospitalizations, exercise training is viewed as the cornerstone of pulmonary rehabilitation in people with COPD. This study shows that elastic resistance training can be an effective, portable, practical, and low-cost alternative to conventional weight resistance training.

LAY SUMMARY

Training with elastic resistance tubes or bands-which are easy to carry, easy to use, and relatively low cost-can be an effective way to improve strength for people with COPD and promote similar benefits to those achieved with weight machines.

Effect of 12-week pulmonary rehabilitation on cognitive function in patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: study protocol for a single-center randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Cognitive impairment, an important complication in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), seriously affects self-management of the disease and quality of life (QoL). As an exercise-based intervention programme, pulmonary rehabilitation (PR)-especially aerobic exercise (mainly mind-body exercise) and resistance exercise (RE)-has been proposed for its potential effectiveness in improving cognitive function. However, there is still a lack of strong evidence for PR's effectiveness. In this study, we expect to clarify the effects of pulmonary-based Qigong exercise and elastic band-based RE on cognitive function in patients with COPD and to fill in the relevant evidence blanks.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This study is a single-centre randomised controlled trial with assessor and data analyst blinding. We will recruit 108 participants with stable COPD starting on 23 December 2019, and randomly allocate them into the pulmonary-based Qigong exercise group, elastic band-based RE group, pulmonary-based Qigong exercise and elastic band-based RE combined group, or control group at a 1:1:1:1 ratio. Participants in intervention groups will perform 30 min of exercise two times per day, 5 days a week, for 12 weeks. The primary outcome will be the global cognitive function as assessed by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and auditory event-related potential P300. Secondary outcomes will include the specific cognitive domains-attention, memory, executive function, verbal fluency and mental-processing speed; psychological functions and QoL. Exploratory outcomes will include grey matter volume and levels of inflammatory mediators. Outcomes will be measured before and after the interventions.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethics approval has been granted by the Ethics Committee of Yue-Yang Integrative Medicine Hospital, an affiliate of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China (Grant No. 2019-141). Written informed consent will be obtained from each participant before any procedures are performed. The findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at academic conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ChiCTR1900026869; pre-results.

Effects of a power strength training using elastic resistance exercises on the motor and non-motor symptoms in patients with Parkinson's disease H&Y 1-3: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial (PARK-BAND Study)

INTRODUCTION

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder in Brazil. Physical activity is a complementary intervention in managing inherent declines associated with the disease like strength, balance, gait, and functionality and benefit health-related outcomes. Here, we report the PARK-BAND Study protocol, which aims to investigate potential benefits of power training using elastic devices in participants with PD. Our intervention will be provided in patients with PD using elastic devices like elastic bands and tubes. Therefore, we used the term Park from Parkinson's disease and band from elastic bands.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This randomised single-blind single-centre two-arm parallel, superiority trial will include 50 participants with PD attending the clinical setting. Those who meet the eligibility criteria and provide consent to participate will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to either the exercise group, which will receive power training programme or the health education group, which will receive the education programme. Randomisation will be performed by permuted block randomisation with a block size of eight. Both groups will receive a 12-week intervention. The exercise group will have two sessions per week and the health education group will have one session per week. Changes from baseline in bradykinesia, as assessed by the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale motor examination subscore and physical functional performance, will be the primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes include other neurological, neurophysiological and physical variables, as well as the quality of life, depression, cognition, sleep quality and disturbances, assessed before and after interventions. We hypothesise that the exercise group will have greater improvement in primary and secondary outcomes than the health education group.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study is approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Hospital Universitário Walter Cantidio and all participants will provide their written informed consent (register number 91075318.1.0000.5045).Trial results will be disseminated via peer reviewed journal articles and conference presentations, reports for organisations involved with PD and for participants.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos Registry (RBR-5w2sqt); Pre-results.

Resistance Exercise, Electrical Muscle Stimulation, and Whole-Body Vibration in Older Adults: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

It has been shown that resistance exercise (RT) is one of the most effective approaches to counteract the physical and functional changes associated with aging. This systematic review with meta-analysis compared the effects of RT, whole-body vibration (WBV), and electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) on muscle strength, body composition, and functional performance in older adults. A thorough literature review was conducted, and the analyses were limited to randomized controlled trials. In total, 63 studies were included in the meta-analysis (48 RT, 11 WBV, and 4 EMS). The results showed that RT and WBV are comparably effective for improving muscle strength, while the effects of EMS remains debated. RT interventions also improved some outcome measures related to functional performance, as well as the cross-sectional area of the quadriceps. Muscle mass was not significantly affected by RT. A limitation of the review is the smaller number of WBV and particularly EMS studies. For this reason, the effects of WBV and EMS could not be comprehensively compared to the effect of RT for all outcome measures. For the moment, RT or combinations of RT and WBV or EMS, is probably the most reliable way to improve muscle strength and functional performance, while the best approach to increase muscle mass in older adults remains open to further studies.

Effects of 10 months of Speed, Functional, and Traditional Strength Training on Strength, Linear Sprint, Change of Direction, and Jump Performance in Trained Adolescent Soccer Players

Keiner, M, Kadlubowski, B, Sander, A, Hartmann, H, and Wirth, K. Effects of 10 months of speed, functional, and traditional strength training on strength, linear sprint, change of direction, and jump performance in trained adolescent soccer players. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2020-The current study aimed to compare the effects of plyometric and sprint vs. functional vs. strength training on linear sprint (LS 20 m), change of direction (COD; i.e., turning right and left), jump (squat jump [SJ]), and maximum strength (1 repetition maximum [1RM] for a squat) performance in elite adolescent soccer players. A longitudinal design was chosen, and 48 elite male youth were recruited. The athletes were divided into 4 groups (a traditional strength training group [STG], a plyometric and sprint training group [PSTG], a functional training group [FTG], and a control group [CG]). The intervention groups trained for 10 months with additional sessions added to their regular soccer training (4-5 sessions per week); the additional training (2 sessions a week [each about 60 minutes]) consisted of plyometric and sprint training, functional training, and traditional strength training for the PSTG, FTG, and STG, respectively. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance with repeated measurements. The effect sizes were calculated using Hedges g. This study showed significantly superior performance increases with traditional strength training compared with sprint and jump training and functional training for maximum strength (compared with all other groups g = 0.98-1.61), SJ (g = 0.52-0.87 compared with FGT and CG; not significantly different from PSTG), COD (direction of rotation right: compared with all other groups g = 1.58-2.12; direction of rotation left: no significant differences), and 20-m LS (compared with all other groups g = 0.86-1.39) performance over time. Traditional strength training is recommended to increase strength and speed-strength variables and should therefore be given high priority in athletic training programs for elite youth soccer players.

Quadriceps muscle electromyography activity during physical activities and resistance exercise modes in younger and older adults

BACKGROUND

Understanding the root cause of the age-related impairment in muscle adaptive remodelling with resistance exercise training (RET) and developing pragmatic and accessible resistance exercise for older adults, are essential research directives.

METHODS

We sought to determine whether indices of quadriceps muscle EMG activity in response to different modes of RET and activities of daily living (ADL), differed between 15 healthy younger (25 ± 3 years) and 15 older (70 ± 5 years) adults. On four separate days, participants completed a maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) of the knee extensors, followed by a 15 m walking task, stair climbing task (i.e. ADL) and lower-limb RET through body-weight squats (BW-RET) and seated knee extensions on a machine (MN-RET) or via elastic bands (EB-RET). Surface quadriceps electromyography (EMG) was measured throughout all tasks to provide indirect estimates of changes in muscle activity.

RESULTS

MVC was significantly greater in young vs. older adults (Young: 256 ± 72 vs. Old: 137 ± 48 N·m, P < 0.001). EMG activity during all exercise tasks was significantly higher in older vs. younger adults when expressed relative to maximal EMG achieved during MVC (P < 0.01, for all). In addition, relative quadriceps muscle EMG activity was significantly greater in EB-RET (Young: 20.3 ± 8.7 vs. Old: 37.0 ± 10.7%) and MN-RET (Young: 22.9 ± 10.3, vs. Old: 37.8 ± 10.8%) compared with BW-RET (Young: 8.6 ± 2.9 vs. Old: 27.0 ± 9.3%), in young and older adults (P < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in quadriceps EMG between EB-RET and MN-RET (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, relative quadriceps muscle EMG activity was higher across a range of activities/exercise modes in older vs. younger adults. The similar quadriceps muscle EMG activity between EB-RET and MN-RET provides a platform for detailed investigation of the neuromuscular and muscle metabolic responses to such pragmatic forms of RET to strengthen the evidence-base for this mode of RET as a potential countermeasure to sarcopenia.

Muscle changes after stroke and their impact on recovery: time for a paradigm shift? Review and commentary

In stroke rehabilitation there is a growing body of evidence that not all patients have the same potential to recover. Understanding the processes that give rise to the heterogeneous treatment responses in stroke survivors will lay foundations for any conceivable advance in future rehabilitation interventions. This review was set out to shine new light on the debate of biomarkers in stroke rehabilitation by linking fundamental insights from biogerontological sciences to neurorehabilitation sciences. In particular, skeletal muscle changes and inflammation are addressed as two potential constructs from which biomarkers for stroke rehabilitation can be derived. Understanding the interplay between these constructs as well as their relation to recovery could enhance stroke rehabilitation in the future. The rationale for the selection of these constructs is three-fold: first, recent stroke literature emphasizes the importance of identifying muscle wasting (also called stroke-induced muscle wasting) in stroke patients, a concept that is widely investigated in geriatrics but less in the stroke population. Second, insights from transdisciplinary research domains such as gerontology have shown that inflammation has severe catabolic effects on muscles, which may impede rehabilitation outcomes such as gait recovery. Last, it has been proven that (high-intensity) muscle strengthening exercises have strong anti-inflammatory effects in a non-stroke population. Therefore, an evidence-based rationale is presented for developing research on individual changes of muscle and inflammation after a stroke.

Efficacy of Ultrasound for Localized Fat Treatment on Clinical and Psychological Outcomes: A Randomized, Single-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

Background

The use of ultrasound for localized fat treatment on possible psychological influences is little explored to date. Therefore, it is relevant to elaborate studies that include a placebo group in order to measure the real effects of the exclusive application of ultrasound.

Objectives

To verify the influence of ultrasound application for localized fat treatment on clinical, functional, and psychological outcomes.

Methods

Thirty female participants who were candidates for localized abdominal fat treatment were included and randomly divided into three groups: control (CG, n = 10), experimental (EG, n = 10), and placebo (PG, n = 10). The CG did not receive any intervention. The EG received 10 ultrasound sessions for 20 minutes. For the PG, ultrasound was also applied for 20 minutes, but with zero intensities. Anthropometric assessment, cardiovascular parameters, circumference measurements, photography, endurance test, and subjective questionnaires were performed before and after the treatment protocols.

Results

The EG photographs show an improvement of 60% in the visual appearance. Regarding the other analyzed outcomes, no statistically significant differences were found between moments and groups (P &gt; 0.05).

Conclusions

Pretreatment and posttreatment photographs analysis demonstrate visual improvement in the appearance of abdominal localized fat in the EG. However, ultrasound application, when compared with CG and PG, is not a superior method for improving clinical, functional, and psychological parameters.

Level of Evidence: 2

An Evaluation of Service Provision and Novel Strength Assessment on Patient Outcomes in a UK-Based Pulmonary Rehabilitation Setting

This study's purpose was to (i) assess the impact of a 7-week pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) programme upon patient outcomes; incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT), COPD assessment tool (CAT), Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS); (ii) assess the impact of COPD severity on ISWT, psychological functioning and quality of life measures following PR; (iii) assess the feasibility of incorporating individually prescribed one repetition maximum (1RM) training loads into the existing strength training programme. Patients were people with COPD enrolled onto one of three versions (locations A, B and C) of a 7-week PR programme, which consisted of group exercise sessions and a social plus education element. Two locations incorporated individually prescribed training loads. Minimal clinically important changes (MCICs) are reported for the ISWT across all locations. Statistically significant changes in both CAT and the CCQ were found, with MCIC's evident for CAT score overall and individually at location B. MCIC's were not found for the CCQ. No statistically significant or MCICs were evident for the HADS. MCIC's were present only in patients with mild to moderate severity for the ISWT. For the CAT, moderate, severe and very severe patients with COPD experienced MCIC's. MCIC's and statistically significant increases in 1RM strength were seen at both locations. These findings evidence an effective PR service. Basic strength exercise programming and assessment are feasible and should be implemented in PR services to maximise patient outcomes.