Prior upper body exercise reduces cycling work capacity but not critical power

A Higher Kick Frequency Swimming Training Program Optimizes Swim-to-Cycle Transition in Triathlon

ABSTRACT

Ambrosini, L, Presta, V, Vitale, M, Menegatti, E, Guarnieri, A, Bianchi, V, De Munari, I, Condello, G, and Gobbi, G. A higher kick frequency swimming training program optimizes swim-to-cycle transition in triathlon. J Strength Cond Res 38(5): 976-984, 2024-The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of an 8-week swimming training program on biomechanical and physiological responses during a swim-to-cycle simulation. Fifteen triathletes were randomly allocated to 3 groups: a 6-beat-kick group (K6), a 4-beat-kick group (K4), and a control group (CG). Biomechanical and physiological parameters were evaluated during a 400-m swim and a 10-minute cycle segment before (Pretraining) and after (Posttraining) the program. A lower stroke frequency ( p = 0.004) and a higher stroke length ( p = 0.002) was found in K6 compared with CG at Posttraining. A reduction in the K6 emerged between Pretraining and Posttraining during cycling for heart rate ( p = 0.005), V̇O 2 ( p = 0.014), and energy expenditure ( p = 0.008). A positive association emerged between swim kick index and cycling cadence in the K6 group. The improvement in stroke frequency and length observed in the K6 group could be explained as an improvement in swimming technique. Similarly, the reduction in energy expenditure during cycling at Posttraining for the K6 group suggests an improvement in the working economy. Triathlon coaches and athletes should consider the inclusion of high swim kick into their training programs to enhance swim and cycling performance, which can ultimately lead to an improvement in the swim-to-cycle transition and the overall triathlon performance.

Immediate crossover fatigue after unilateral submaximal eccentric contractions of the knee flexors involves peripheral alterations and increased global perceived fatigue

After a unilateral muscle exercise, the performance of the non-exercised contralateral limb muscle can be also impaired. This crossover fatigue phenomenon is still debated in the literature and very few studies have investigated the influence of eccentric contractions. This study was designed to assess neuromuscular adaptations involved in the crossover fatigue of the non-exercised contralateral knee flexor muscles. Seventeen healthy young men performed a unilateral submaximal eccentric exercise of the right knee flexors until a 20% reduction in maximal voluntary isometric contraction torque was attained in the exercised limb. Before (PRE), immediately after exercise cessation (POST) and 24 hours later (POST24), neuromuscular function and perceived muscle soreness were measured in both the exercised limb and non-exercised limb. In addition, global perceived fatigue was assessed at each measurement time. At POST, significant reductions in maximal voluntary isometric contraction were observed in the exercised limb (-28.1%, p < 0.001) and in the non-exercised limb (-8.5%, p < 0.05), evidencing crossover fatigue. At POST, voluntary activation decreased in the exercised limb only (-6.0%, p < 0.001), while electrically evoked potentiated doublet torque was impaired in both the exercised limb and the non-exercised limb (-11.6%, p = 0.001). In addition, global perceived fatigue significantly increased at POST (p < 0.001). At POST24, all measured variables returned to PRE values, except for perceived muscle soreness scores exhibiting greater values than PRE (p < 0.05). A possible cumulative interaction between peripheral alterations and global perceived fatigue may account for the immediate crossover fatigue observed in the non-exercised limb.

A dynamic model of the bi-exponential reconstitution and expenditure of W' in trained cyclists

ABSTRACTThe aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different recovery power outputs on the reconstitution of W' and to develop a dynamic bi-exponential model of W' during depletion and reconstitution. Ten trained cyclists (mass 71.7 ± 8.4 kg; V̇O2max 60.0 ± 6.3 ml·kg-1·min-1) completed three incremental ramps (20 W·min-1) to the limit of tolerance on each of six occasions with recovery durations of 30 and 240 s. Recovery power outputs varied between 50 W (LOW); 60% of critical power (CP) (MOD) and 85% of CP (HVY). W' reconstitution was measured following each recovery and fitted to a bi-exponential model. Amplitude and time constant (τ) parameters were then determined via regression analysis accounting for relative intensity and duration to produce a dynamic model of W'. W' reconstitution slowed disproportionately as recovery power output increased (p < 0.001) and increased with recovery duration (p < 0.001). The amplitudes of each recovery component were strongly correlated to W' reconstitution after 240 s at HVY (r = 0.95), whilst τ parameters were found to be related to the fractional difference between recovery power and CP. The predictive capacity of the resultant model was assessed against experimental data with no differences found between predicted and experimental values of W' reconstitution (p > 0.05). The dynamic bi-exponential model of W' accounting for varying recovery intensities closely described W' kinetics in trained cyclists facilitating real-time decisions about pacing and tactics during competition. The model can be customised for individuals from known CP and W' and a single additional test session.HighlightsA dynamic bi-exponential model of W' accounting for both varying power output and duration.Individual customisation of the model can be achieved with a single specific test session.W' reconstitution slows disproportionally with increasing intensity after repeated bouts.

Competitive Cross-Country Skiers Have Longer Time to Exhaustion Than Recreational Cross-Country Skiers During Intermittent Work Intervals Normalized to Their Maximal Aerobic Power

PURPOSE

To investigate differences in time to exhaustion (TTE), O2 uptake (V˙O2), and accumulated O2 deficit (O2def) between competitive and recreational cross-country (XC) skiers during an intermittent-interval protocol standardized for maximal aerobic power (MAP).

METHODS

Twelve competitive (maximal V˙O2 [V˙O2max]=76.5±3.8 mL·kg-1·min-1) and 10 recreational (V˙O2max=63.5±6.3 mL·kg-1·min-1) male XC skiers participated. All tests were performed on a rollerski treadmill in the V2 ski-skating technique. To quantify MAP and maximal accumulated oxygen deficit (MAOD), the skiers performed a steady-state submaximal test followed by a 1000-m time trial. After a 60-minute break, TTE, V˙O2, and accumulated O2def were measured during an intermittent-interval protocol (40-s work and 20-s recovery), which was individually tailored to 120% and 60% of each subject's MAP.

RESULTS

During the 1000-m time trial, the competitive skiers had 21% (95% CI, 12%-30%) shorter finish time and 24% (95% CI, 14%-34%) higher MAP (all P < .01) than the recreational skiers. No difference was observed in relative exercise intensity (average power/MAP; P = .28), MAOD (P = .18), or fractional utilization of V˙O2max. During the intermittent-interval protocol, the competitive skiers had 34% (95% CI, 3%-65%) longer TTE (P = .03) and accumulated 61% (95% CI, 27%-95%) more O2def (P = .001) than the recreational skiers during work phases.

CONCLUSIONS

Competitive XC skiers have longer TTE and accumulate more O2def than recreational XC skiers during an intermittent-interval protocol at similar intensity relative to MAP. This implies that performance in intermittent endurance sports is related to the ability to repeatedly recharge fractions of MAOD.

The Role of Contraction Mode in Determining Exercise Tolerance, Torque-Duration Relationship, and Neuromuscular Fatigue

PURPOSE

Critical torque (CT) and work done above it ( W ') are key predictors of exercise performance associated with neuromuscular fatigue. The aim of the present study was to understand the role of the metabolic cost of exercise in determining exercise tolerance, CT and W ', and the mechanisms of neuromuscular fatigue.

METHODS

Twelve subjects performed four knee extension time trials (6, 8, 10, and 12 min) using eccentric, isometric, or concentric contractions (3-s on/2-s off at 90°·s -1 or 30°·s -1 ) to modulate the metabolic cost of exercise. Exercise performance was quantified by total impulse and mean torque. Critical torque and W ' were determined using the linear relationship between total impulse and contraction time. Cardiometabolic, neuromuscular, and ventilatory responses were quantified. Neuromuscular function was evaluated by maximal voluntary contraction, resting potentiated single/doublet electrical stimulations, and superimposed single electrical stimulation to quantify neuromuscular, peripheral, and central fatigue, respectively.

RESULTS

Compared with isometric exercise, total impulse (+36% ± 21%; P < 0.001), CT (+27% ± 30%; P < 0.001), and W ' (+67% ± 99%; P < 0.001) were increased during eccentric exercise, whereas total impulse (-25% ± 7%; P < 0.001), critical torque (-26% ± 15%; P < 0.001), and W ' (-18% ± 19%; P < 0.001) were reduced in concentric exercise. Conversely, the metabolic response and the degree of peripheral fatigue were reduced during eccentric exercise, whereas they were increased during concentric exercise. Critical torque was negatively associated with oxygen consumption gain ( R2 = 0.636; P < 0.001), and W ' was negatively associated with rates of neuromuscular and peripheral fatigue indices ( R2 = 0.252-0.880; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The contraction mode influenced both CT and W ', and consequently exercise tolerance, indicating that the metabolic cost of contraction played a key role.

Effect of varying recovery intensities on power outputs during severe intensity intervals in trained cyclists during the Covid-19 pandemic

Purpose

The study aimed to investigate the effects of different recovery intensities on the power outputs of repeated severe intensity intervals and the implications for W' reconstitution in trained cyclists.

Methods

Eighteen trained cyclists (FTP 258.0 ± 42.7 W; weekly training 8.6 ± 1.7 h∙week-1) familiar with interval training, use of the Zwift® platform throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, and previously established FTP (95% of mean power output from a 20-min test), performed 5 × 3-min severe intensity efforts interspersed with 2-min recoveries. Recovery intensities were: 50 W (LOW), 50% of functional threshold power (MOD), and self-selected power output (SELF).

Results

Whilst power outputs declined as the session progressed, mean power outputs during the severe intervals across the conditions were not different to each other (LOW 300.1 ± 48.1 W; MOD: 296.9 ± 50.4 W; SELF: 298.8 ± 53.3 W) despite the different recovery conditions. Mean power outputs of the self-selected recovery periods were 121.7 ± 26.2 W. However, intensity varied during the self-selected recovery periods, with values in the last 15 s being greater than the first 15 s (p < 0.001) and decreasing throughout the session (128.7 ± 25.4 W to 113.9 ± 29.3 W).

Conclusion

Reducing recovery intensities below 50% of FTP failed to enhance subsequent severe intensity intervals, suggesting that a lower limit for optimal W' reconstitution had been reached. As self-selected recoveries were seen to adapt to maintain the severe intensity power output as the session progressed, adopting such a strategy might be preferential for interval training sessions.

Determining voluntary activation in synergistic muscles: a novel mechanomyographic approach

PURPOSE

Drawing on correlations between the mechanomyographic (MMG) and the force signal, we devised a novel approach based on MMG signal analysis to detect voluntary activation (VA) of the synergistic superficial heads of the quadriceps muscle. We hypothesized that, after a fatiguing exercise, the changes in the evoked MMG signal of each quadriceps head would correlate with the changes in the level of VA in the whole quadriceps.

METHODS

Twenty-five men underwent a unilateral single-leg quadriceps exercise to failure. Before and after exercise, VA was assessed by interpolated-twitch-technique via nerve stimulation during and after maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). The force and MMG signal were recorded from vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and rectus femoris. The MMG peak-to-peak was calculated and the voluntary activation index (VA_MMG), defined as the superimposed/potentiated MMG peak-to-peak ratio, was determined from the MMG signal for each head.

RESULTS

VA_MMG presented a very high intraclass correlation coefficient (0.981-0.998) and sensitivity (MDC_95%: 0.42-6.97%). MVC and VA were decreased after exercise in both the exercising [MVC:-17(5)%, ES -0.92; VA: -7(3)%, ES -1.90] and the contralateral limb [MVC: -9(4)%, ES -0.48; VA: -4(1)%, ES -1.51]. VA_MMG was decreased in both the exercising [~ -9(6)%, ES -1.77] and contralateral limb [~ -3(2)%, ES -0.57], with a greater decrease in VA_MMG noted only in the vastus medialis of the exercising limb. Moderate-to-very high correlations were found between VA_MMG and VA (R-range: 0.503-0.886) before and after exercise.

CONCLUSION

VA_MMG may be implemented to assess VA and provide further information when multiple synergistic muscle heads are involved in fatiguing exercises.

Extracellular Buffering Supplements to Improve Exercise Capacity and Performance: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Extracellular buffering supplements [sodium bicarbonate (SB), sodium citrate (SC), sodium/calcium lactate (SL/CL)] are ergogenic supplements, although questions remain about factors which may modify their effect.

OBJECTIVE

To quantify the main effect of extracellular buffering agents on exercise outcomes, and to investigate the influence of potential moderators on this effect using a systematic review and meta-analytic approach.

METHODS

This study was designed in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Three databases were searched for articles that were screened according to inclusion/exclusion criteria. Bayesian hierarchical meta-analysis and meta-regression models were used to investigate pooled effects of supplementation and moderating effects of a range of factors on exercise and biomarker responses.

RESULTS

189 articles with 2019 participants were included, 158 involving SB supplementation, 30 with SC, and seven with CL/SL; four studies provided a combination of buffering supplements together. Supplementation led to a mean estimated increase in blood bicarbonate of + 5.2 mmol L^-1 (95% credible interval (CrI) 4.7-5.7). The meta-analysis models identified a positive overall effect of supplementation on exercise capacity and performance compared to placebo [ES_0.5 = 0.17 (95% CrI 0.12-0.21)] with potential moderating effects of exercise type and duration, training status and when the exercise test was performed following prior exercise. The greatest ergogenic effects were shown for exercise durations of 0.5-10 min [ES_0.5 = 0.18 (0.13-0.24)] and > 10 min [ES_0.5 = 0.22 (0.10-0.33)]. Evidence of greater effects on exercise were obtained when blood bicarbonate increases were medium (4-6 mmol L^-1) and large (> 6 mmol L^-1) compared with small (≤ 4 mmol L^-1) [β_Small:Medium = 0.16 (95% CrI 0.02-0.32), β_Small:Large = 0.13 (95% CrI - 0.03 to 0.29)]. SB (192 outcomes) was more effective for performance compared to SC (39 outcomes) [β_SC:SB = 0.10 (95% CrI - 0.02 to 0.22)].

CONCLUSIONS

Extracellular buffering supplements generate large increases in blood bicarbonate concentration leading to positive overall effects on exercise, with sodium bicarbonate being most effective. Evidence for several group-level moderating factors were identified. These data can guide an athlete's decision as to whether supplementation with buffering agents might be beneficial for their specific aims.

Bi-exponential modelling of [Formula: see text] reconstitution kinetics in trained cyclists

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the individual [Formula: see text] reconstitution kinetics of trained cyclists following repeated bouts of incremental ramp exercise, and to determine an optimal mathematical model to describe [Formula: see text] reconstitution.

METHODS

Ten trained cyclists (age 41 ± 10 years; mass 73.4 ± 9.9 kg; [Formula: see text] 58.6 ± 7.1 mL kg min^-1) completed three incremental ramps (20 W min^-1) to the limit of tolerance with varying recovery durations (15-360 s) on 5-9 occasions. [Formula: see text] reconstitution was measured following the first and second recovery periods against which mono-exponential and bi-exponential models were compared with adjusted R² and bias-corrected Akaike information criterion (AICc).

RESULTS

A bi-exponential model outperformed the mono-exponential model of [Formula: see text] reconstitution (AICc 30.2 versus 72.2), fitting group mean data well (adjR² = 0.999) for the first recovery when optimised with parameters of fast component (FC) amplitude = 50.67%; slow component (SC) amplitude = 49.33%; time constant (τ)_FC = 21.5 s; τ_SC = 388 s. Following the second recovery, W' reconstitution reduced by 9.1 ± 7.3%, at 180 s and 8.2 ± 9.8% at 240 s resulting in an increase in the modelled τ_SC to 716 s with τ_FC unchanged. Individual bi-exponential models also fit well (adjR² = 0.978 ± 0.017) with large individual parameter variations (FC amplitude 47.7 ± 17.8%; first recovery: (τ)_FC = 22.0 ± 11.8 s; (τ)_SC = 377 ± 100 s; second recovery: (τ)_FC = 16.3.0 ± 6.6 s; (τ)_SC = 549 ± 226 s).

CONCLUSIONS

W' reconstitution kinetics were best described by a bi-exponential model consisting of distinct fast and slow phases. The amplitudes of the FC and SC remained unchanged with repeated bouts, with a slowing of W' reconstitution confined to an increase in the time constant of the slow component.

W' Recovery Kinetics after Exhaustion: A Two-Phase Exponential Process Influenced by Aerobic Fitness

PURPOSE

The aims of this study were 1) to model the temporal profile of W' recovery after exhaustion, 2) to estimate the contribution of changing V˙O2 kinetics to this recovery, and 3) to examine associations with aerobic fitness and muscle fiber type (MFT) distribution.

METHODS

Twenty-one men (age = 25 ± 2 yr, V˙O2peak = 54.4 ± 5.3 mL·min-1·kg-1) performed several constant load tests to determine critical power and W' followed by eight trials to quantify W' recovery. Each test consisted of two identical exhaustive work bouts (WB1 and WB2), separated by a variable recovery interval of 30, 60, 120, 180, 240, 300, 600, or 900 s. Gas exchange was measured and muscle biopsies were collected to determine MFT distribution. W' recovery was quantified as observed W' recovery (W'OBS), model-predicted W' recovery (W'BAL), and W' recovery corrected for changing V˙O2 kinetics (W'ADJ). W'OBS and W'ADJ were modeled using mono- and biexponential fitting. Root-mean-square error (RMSE) and Akaike information criterion (∆AICC) were used to evaluate the models' accuracy.

RESULTS

The W'BAL model (τ = 524 ± 41 s) was associated with an RMSE of 18.6% in fitting W'OBS and underestimated W' recovery for all durations below 5 min (P < 0.002). Monoexponential modeling of W'OBS resulted in τ = 104 s with RMSE = 6.4%. Biexponential modeling of W'OBS resulted in τ1 = 11 s and τ2 = 256 s with RMSE = 1.7%. W'ADJ was 11% ± 1.5% lower than W'OBS (P < 0.001). ∆AICC scores favored the biexponential model for W'OBS, but not for W'ADJ. V˙O2peak (P = 0.009) but not MFT distribution (P = 0.303) was associated with W'OBS.

CONCLUSION

We showed that W' recovery from exhaustion follows a two-phase exponential time course that is dependent on aerobic fitness. The appearance of a fast initial recovery phase was attributed to an enhanced aerobic energy provision resulting from changes in V˙O2 kinetics.

Effects of Prior Voluntary Hyperventilation on the 3-min All-Out Cycling Test in Men

INTRODUCTION

The ergogenic effects of respiratory alkalosis induced by prior voluntary hyperventilation (VH) are controversial. This study examined the effects of prior VH on derived parameters from the 3-min all-out cycling test (3MT).

METHODS

Eleven men ( = 46 ± 8 mL·kg-1·min-1) performed a 3MT preceded by 15 min of rest (CONT) or VH ( = 38 ± 5 L·min-1) with PETCO2 reduced to 21 ± 1 mm Hg (HYP). End-test power (EP; synonymous with critical power) was calculated as the mean power output over the last 30 s of the 3MT, and the work done above EP (WEP; synonymous with W') was calculated as the power-time integral above EP.

RESULTS

At the start of the 3MT, capillary blood PCO2 and [H+] were lower in HYP (25.2 ± 3.0 mm Hg, 27.1 ± 2.6 nmol·L-1) than CONT (43.2 ± 2.0 mm Hg, 40.0 ± 1.5 nmol·L-1) (P < 0.001). At the end of the 3MT, blood PCO2 was still lower in HYP (35.7 ± 5.4 mm Hg) than CONT (40.6 ± 5.0 mm Hg) (P < 0.001). WEP was 10% higher in HYP (19.4 ± 7.0 kJ) than CONT (17.6 ± 6.4 kJ) (P = 0.006), whereas EP was 5% lower in HYP (246 ± 69 W) than CONT (260 ± 74 W) (P = 0.007). The ΔWEP (J·kg-1) between CONT and HYP correlated positively with the PCO2 immediately before the 3MT in HYP (r = 0.77, P = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that acid-base changes elicited by prior VH increase WEP but decrease EP during the all-out 3MT.

Slight power output manipulations around the maximal lactate steady state have a similar impact on fatigue in females and males

Neuromuscular fatigue (NMF) and exercise performance are affected by exercise intensity and sex differences. However, whether slight changes in power output (PO) below and above the maximal lactate steady state (MLSS) impact NMF and subsequent performance (time to task failure, TTF) is unknown. This study compared NMF and TTF in females and males in response to exercise performed at MLSS, 10 W below (MLSS_-10) and above (MLSS₊₁₀). Twenty participants (9 females) performed three 30-min constant-PO exercise bouts followed (1-min delay) by a TTF at 80% of the peak-PO. NMF was characterized by isometric maximal voluntary contractions (IMVC) and femoral nerve electrical stimulation of knee extensors [e.g., peak torque of potentiated high-frequency (Db100) and single twitch (TwPt)] before and immediately after the constant-PO and TTF bouts. IMVC declined less after MLSS_-10 (-18 ± 10%) compared to MLSS (-26 ± 14%) and MLSS₊₁₀ (-31 ± 11%; all P < 0.05), and the Db100 decline was greater after MLSS₊₁₀ (-24 ± 14%) compared to the other intensities (MLSS_-10: -15 ± 9%; MLSS: -18 ± 11%; all P < 0.05). Females showed smaller reductions, relative to baseline, in IMVC and TwPt compared to males after constant-PO bouts (all P < 0.05), this difference being not dependent on intensity. TTF was negatively impacted by increasing the PO in the constant-PO (P < 0.001), with no differences in end-exercise NMF (P > 0.05). Slight manipulations in PO around MLSS elicited great changes in the reduction of maximal voluntary force and impairments in contractile function. Although NMF was lower in females compared to males, the changes in PO around the MLSS impacted both sexes similarly.NEW & NOTEWORTHY It is unknown whether minimum changes in power output (PO) below and above the maximal lactate steady state (MLSS) affect neuromuscular fatigue (NMF) development in females and males. The present data showed that a decrease or increase of 10 W in PO in relation to MLSS elicited lower and greater impairments in contractile function, respectively. Even though females had less of an overall decline in NMF than males, similar exercise intensity-dependent response occurred independently of sex.

Non-local Muscle Fatigue Effects on Muscle Strength, Power, and Endurance in Healthy Individuals: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The fatigue of a muscle or muscle group can produce global responses to a variety of systems (i.e., cardiovascular, endocrine, and others). There are also reported strength and endurance impairments of non-exercised muscles following the fatigue of another muscle; however, the literature is inconsistent.

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether non-local muscle fatigue (NLMF) occurs following the performance of a fatiguing bout of exercise of a different muscle(s).

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

SEARCH AND INCLUSION

A systematic literature search using a Boolean search strategy was conducted with PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar in April 2020, and was supplemented with additional 'snowballing' searches up to September 2020. To be included in our analysis, studies had to include at least one intentional performance measure (i.e., strength, endurance, or power), which if reduced could be considered evidence of muscle fatigue, and also had to include the implementation of a fatiguing protocol to a location (i.e., limb or limbs) that differed to those for which performance was measured. We excluded studies that measured only mechanistic variables such as electromyographic activity, or spinal/supraspinal excitability. After search and screening, 52 studies were eligible for inclusion including 57 groups of participants (median sample = 11) and a total of 303 participants.

RESULTS

The main multilevel meta-analysis model including all effects sizes (278 across 50 clusters [median = 4, range = 1 to 18 effects per cluster) revealed a trivial point estimate with high precision for the interval estimate [- 0.02 (95% CIs = - 0.14 to 0.09)], yet with substantial heterogeneity (Q₍₂₇₇₎ = 642.3, p < 0.01), I² = 67.4%). Subgroup and meta-regression analyses showed that NLMF effects were not moderated by study design (between vs. within-participant), homologous vs. heterologous effects, upper or lower body effects, participant training status, sex, age, the time of post-fatigue protocol measurement, or the severity of the fatigue protocol. However, there did appear to be an effect of type of outcome measure where both strength [0.11 (95% CIs = 0.01-0.21)] and power outcomes had trivial effects [- 0.01 (95% CIs = - 0.24 to 0.22)], whereas endurance outcomes showed moderate albeit imprecise effects [- 0.54 (95% CIs = - 0.95 to - 0.14)].

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the findings do not support the existence of a general NLMF effect; however, when examining specific types of performance outcomes, there may be an effect specifically upon endurance-based outcomes (i.e., time to task failure). However, there are relatively fewer studies that have examined endurance effects or mechanisms explaining this possible effect, in addition to fewer studies including women or younger and older participants, and considering causal effects of prior training history through the use of longitudinal intervention study designs. Thus, it seems pertinent that future research on NLMF effects should be redirected towards these still relatively unexplored areas.

Unilateral Quadriceps Fatigue Induces Greater Impairments of Ipsilateral versus Contralateral Elbow Flexors and Plantar Flexors Performance in Physically Active Young Adults

Non-local muscle fatigue (NLMF) studies have examined crossover impairments of maximal voluntary force output in non-exercised, contralateral muscles as well as comparing upper and lower limb muscles. Since prior studies primarily investigated contralateral muscles, the purpose of this study was to compare NLMF effects on elbow flexors (EF) and plantar flexors (PF) force and activation (electromyography: EMG). Secondly, possible differences when testing ipsilateral or contralateral muscles with a single or repeated isometric maximum voluntary contractions (MVC) were also investigated. Twelve participants (six males: (27.3 ± 2.5 years, 186.0 ± 2.2 cm, 91.0 ± 4.1 kg; six females: 23.0 ± 1.6 years, 168.2 ± 6.7 cm, 60.0 ± 4.3 kg) attended six randomized sessions where ipsilateral or contralateral PF or EF MVC force and EMG activity (root mean square) were tested following a dominant knee extensors (KE) fatigue intervention (2×100s MVC) or equivalent rest (control). Testing involving a single MVC (5s) was completed by the ipsilateral or contralateral PF or EF prior to and immediately post-interventions. One minute after the post-intervention single MVC, a 12×5s MVCs fatigue test was completed. Two-way repeated measures ANOVAs revealed that ipsilateral EF post-fatigue force was lower (-6.6%, p = 0.04, d = 0.18) than pre-fatigue with no significant changes in the contralateral or control conditions. EF demonstrated greater fatigue indexes for the ipsilateral (9.5%, p = 0.04, d = 0.75) and contralateral (20.3%, p < 0.01, d = 1.50) EF over the PF, respectively. There were no significant differences in PF force, EMG or EF EMG post-test or during the MVCs fatigue test. The results suggest that NLMF effects are side and muscle specific where prior KE fatigue could hinder subsequent ipsilateral upper body performance and thus is an important consideration for rehabilitation, recreation and athletic programs.

Non-local acute stretching effects on strength performance in healthy young adults

BACKGROUND

Static stretching (SS) can impair performance and increase range of motion of a non-exercised or non-stretched muscle, respectively. An underdeveloped research area is the effect of unilateral stretching on non-local force output.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this review was to describe the effects of unilateral SS on contralateral, non-stretched, muscle force and identify gaps in the literature.

METHODS

A systematic literature search following preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analyses Protocols guidelines was performed according to prescribed inclusion and exclusion criteria. Weighted means and ranges highlighted the non-local force output response to unilateral stretching. The physiotherapy evidence database scale was used to assess study risk of bias and methodological quality.

RESULTS

Unilateral stretching protocols from six studies involved 6.3 ± 2 repetitions of 36.3 ± 7.4 s with 19.3 ± 5.7 s recovery between stretches. The mean stretch-induced force deficits exhibited small magnitude effect sizes for both the stretched (-6.7 ± 7.1%, d = -0.35: 0.01 to -1.8) and contralateral, non-stretched, muscles (-4.0 ± 4.9%, d = , 0.22: 0.08 to 1.1). Control measures exhibited trivial deficits.

CONCLUSION

The limited literature examining non-local effects of prolonged SS revealed that both the stretched and contralateral, non-stretched, limbs of young adults demonstrate small magnitude force deficits. However, the frequency of studies with these effects were similar with three measures demonstrating deficits, and four measures showing trivial changes. These results highlight the possible global (non-local) effects of prolonged SS. Further research should investigate effects of lower intensity stretching, upper versus lower body stretching, different age groups, incorporate full warm-ups, and identify predominant mechanisms among others.

Prior Upper Body Exercise Impairs 4-km Cycling Time-Trial Performance Without Altering Neuromuscular Function

Purpose: This study investigated the effects of previous exhaustive upper body exercise on performance and neuromuscular fatigue following a 4-km cycling time-trial (4-km TT). Methods: Eight recreational cyclists performed a 4-km TT with (ARM_PRE) or without (CONTR) a previous arm-crank maximal incremental test. In each experimental session, neuromuscular fatigue was evaluated with a series of electrically evoked and maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVC). Oxygen uptake ( V ˙ O₂), heart rate, electromyographic muscle activity (EMG_RMS) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were also recorded throughout the 4-km TT. Results: The average power output during the 4-km TT was reduced (P = .027) for the ARM_PRE (299 ± 59 W) group, compared with CONTR (310 ± 59 W) and overall performance in 4-km TT was impaired (P = .021) in ARM_PRE (382 ± 28 s) compared with CONTR (376 ± 27 s). The decrease observed in MVC (P = .033) and potentiated peak twitch force (P = .004) at post-TT were similar between the ARM_PRE and CONTR conditions (P = .739 and P = .493, respectively). There was no (P = .619) change in voluntary activation at post-TT between conditions. V ˙ O₂, EMG_RMS and RPE measured throughout the 4-km TT were not significantly different between the conditions (P = .558, P = .558 and P = .940, respectively). The rate of RPE change relative to power output average and heart rate was higher (P = .030 and P = .013, respectively) in ARM_PRE (0.031 ± 0.018 AU/W and 168 ± 8 bpm) than CONTR (0.022 ± 0.010 AU/W and 161 ± 7 bpm). Conclusion: These results suggest that impaired performance in ARM_PRE was mostly due to pronounced perception of effort rather than neuromuscular fatigue.

The Application of Critical Power, the Work Capacity above Critical Power (W'), and its Reconstitution: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence and Implications for Cycling Training Prescription

The two-parameter critical power (CP) model is a robust mathematical interpretation of the power–duration relationship, with CP being the rate associated with the maximal aerobic steady state, and W′ the fixed amount of tolerable work above CP available without any recovery. The aim of this narrative review is to describe the CP concept and the methodologies used to assess it, and to summarize the research applying it to intermittent cycle training techniques. CP and W′ are traditionally assessed using a number of constant work rate cycling tests spread over several days. Alternatively, both the 3-min all-out and ramp all-out protocols provide valid measurements of CP and W′ from a single test, thereby enhancing their suitability to athletes and likely reducing errors associated with the assumptions of the CP model. As CP represents the physiological landmark that is the boundary between heavy and severe intensity domains, it presents several advantages over the de facto arbitrarily defined functional threshold power as the basis for cycle training prescription at intensities up to CP. For intensities above CP, precise prescription is not possible based solely on aerobic measures; however, the addition of the W′ parameter does facilitate the prescription of individualized training intensities and durations within the severe intensity domain. Modelling of W′ reconstitution extends this application, although more research is needed to identify the individual parameters that govern W′ reconstitution rates and their kinetics.

Physiological and anthropometric determinants of critical power, W' and the reconstitution of W' in trained and untrained male cyclists

Purpose

This study examined the relationship of physiological and anthropometric characteristics with parameters of the critical power (CP) model, and in particular the reconstitution of W′ following successive bouts of maximal exercise, amongst trained and untrained cyclists.

Methods

Twenty male adults (trained nine; untrained 11; age 39 ± 15 year; mass 74.7 ± 8.7 kg; V̇O_2max 58.0 ± 8.7 mL kg⁻¹ min⁻¹) completed three incremental ramps (20 W min⁻¹) to exhaustion interspersed with 2-min recoveries. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to assess relationships for W′ reconstitution after the first recovery (W′_rec1), the delta in W′ reconstituted between recoveries (∆W′_rec)_, CP and W′.

Results

CP was strongly related to V̇O_2max for both trained (r = 0.82) and untrained participants (r = 0.71), whereas W′ was related to V̇O_2max when both groups were considered together (r = 0.54). W′_rec1 was strongly related to V̇O_2max for the trained (r = 0.81) but not untrained (r = 0.18); similarly, ∆W′_rec was strongly related to V̇O_2max (r = − 0.85) and CP (r = − 0.71) in the trained group only.

Conclusions

Notable physiological relationships between parameters of aerobic fitness and the measurements of W′ reconstitution were observed, which differed among groups. The amount of W′ reconstitution and the maintenance of W′ reconstitution that occurred with repeated bouts of maximal exercise were found to be related to key measures of aerobic fitness such as CP and V̇O_2max. This data demonstrates that trained cyclists wishing to improve their rate of W′ reconstitution following repeated efforts should focus training on improving key aspects of aerobic fitness such as V̇O_2max and CP.

Effects of Prior Upper Body Exercise on the 3-min All-Out Cycling Test in Men

INTRODUCTION

Prior upper body exercise reduces the curvature constant (W') of the hyperbolic power-duration relationship without affecting critical power. This study tested the hypothesis that prior upper body exercise reduces the work done over the end-test power (WEP; analog of W') during a 3-min all-out cycling test (3MT) without affecting the end-test power (EP; analog of critical power).

METHODS

Ten endurance-trained men (V˙O2max = 62 ± 5 mL·kg·min) performed a 3MT without (CYC) and with (ARM-CYC) prior severe-intensity, intermittent upper body exercise. EP was calculated as the mean power output over the last 30 s of the 3MT, whereas WEP was calculated as the power-time integral above EP.

RESULTS

At the start of the 3MT, plasma [La] (1.8 ± 0.4 vs 14.1 ± 3.4 mmol·L) and [H] (42.8 ± 3.1 vs 58.6 ± 5.5 nmol·L) were higher, whereas the strong ion difference (41.4 ± 2.2 vs 30.9 ± 4.6 mmol·L) and [HCO3] (27.0 ± 1.9 vs 16.9 ± 3.2 mmol·L) were lower during ARM-CYC than CYC (P < 0.010). EP was 12% lower during the 3MT of ARM-CYC (298 ± 52 W) than CYC (338 ± 60 W; P < 0.001), whereas WEP was not different (CYC: 12.8 ± 3.3 kJ vs ARM-CYC: 13.5 ± 4.1 kJ, P = 0.312). EP in CYC was positively correlated with the peak [H] (r = 0.78, P = 0008) and negatively correlated with the lowest [HCO3] (r = -0.74, P = 0.015).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that EP during a 3MT in endurance-trained men is sensitive to fatigue-related ionic perturbation.

Exercise-Induced Fatigue in One Leg Does Not Impair the Neuromuscular Performance in the Contralateral Leg but Improves the Excitability of the Ipsilateral Corticospinal Pathway

To investigate the influence of pre-induced fatigue in one leg on neuromuscular performance and corticospinal responses of the contralateral homologous muscles, three experiments were conducted with different exercise protocols; A (n = 12): a 60 s rest vs. time-matched sustained left leg knee extension maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), B (n = 12): a 60 s rest vs. time-matched left leg MVC immediately followed by 60 s right leg MVC, and C (n = 9): a similar protocol to experiment B, but with blood flow occluded in the left leg while the right leg was performing the 60 s MVC. The neuromuscular assessment included 5 s knee extensions at 100%, 75%, and 50% of MVC. At each force level, transcranial magnetic and peripheral nerve stimuli were elicited to investigate the influence of different protocols on the right (tested) knee extensors’ maximal force output, voluntary activation, corticospinal excitability, and inhibition. The pre-induced fatigue in the left leg did not alter the performance nor the neuromuscular responses recorded from the right leg in the three experiments (all p > 0.3). However, enhanced corticospinal pathway excitability was evident in the tested knee extensors (p = 0.002). These results suggest that the pre-induced fatigue and muscle ischemia in one leg did not compromise the central and peripheral components of the neuromuscular function in the tested contralateral leg.

Fatigue Induced by Physical and Mental Exertion Increases Perception of Effort and Impairs Subsequent Endurance Performance

Endurance performance involves the prolonged maintenance of constant or self-regulated power/velocity or torque/force. While the impact of numerous determinants of endurance performance has been previously reviewed, the impact of fatigue on subsequent endurance performance still needs to be documented. This review aims to present the impact of fatigue induced by physical or mental exertion on subsequent endurance performance. For the purpose of this review, endurance performance refers to performance during whole-body or single-joint endurance exercise soliciting mainly the aerobic energy system. First, the impact of physical and mental exertion on force production capacity is presented, with specific emphasize on the fact that solely physical exertion and not mental exertion induces a decrease in force production capacity of the working muscles. Then, the negative impact of fatigue induced by physical exertion and mental exertion on subsequent endurance performance is highlighted based on experimental data. Perception of effort being identified as the variable altered by both prior physical exertion and mental exertion, future studies should investigate the underlying mechanisms increasing perception of effort overtime and in presence of fatigue during endurance exercise. Perception of effort should be considered not only as marker of exercise intensity, but also as a factor limiting endurance performance. Therefore, using a psychophysiological approach to explain the regulation of endurance performance would allow a better understanding of the interaction between physiological and psychological phenomena known to impact endurance performance.

Evidence of nonlocal muscle fatigue in male youth

Evidence for nonlocal muscle fatigue (NLMF) has been inconsistent in adults, with no studies investigating youth. The objective was to examine NLMF in youth. Forty-two young males (age, 10-13 years) were tested for maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) force of the ipsilateral and contralateral knee extensors at 90° and 120° knee flexion, elbow flexors at 90°, handgrip, knee extensor isokinetic torque (300°·s^-1 analyzed at 90° and 120° knee flexion), as well as a unilateral countermovement jump (CMJ) and Y Balance test (YBT). Isokinetic fatigue group (n = 15) had unilateral fatigue induced with 10 sets of 20 repetitions of maximal isokinetic knee extensor contractions at 300°·s^-1. Isometric fatigue group (n = 15) used 10 repetitions of 6-s knee extensor MVIC whereas the control group (n = 12) were not fatigued. There was no significant difference in the response to the isometric- or isokinetic-fatigue intervention protocols. Main time effects indicated that NLMF was evident with the contralateral knee extensor MVIC at 90° (p = 0.008; 8.9%), knee extensor isokinetic torque at 90° (p < 0.001; 11.4%), and 120° (p = 0.05; 5.4%), CMJ (p = 0.02; 11.5%), handgrip (p = 0.06; 4.5%), elbow flexors (p < 0.001; 7.7%), and YBT (p = 0.001; 5.6%). Ipsilateral NLMF deficits occurred with handgrip (p < 0.001; 7.3%), elbow flexors MVICs (p < 0.001; 10.7%), CMJ (p = 0.02; 12.2%), and YBT (p = 0.002; 3.8%). NLMF with similar relative fatigue-induced deficits of fatigued and nonfatigued limbs suggest that youth fatigue is highly dependent upon the extent of activation or inhibition of the nervous system. Coaches of young athletes might consider developing technical motor skills before fatiguing exercise components, which might hinder the proficiency of their performance.

Locomotor muscle fatigue is not critically regulated after prior upper body exercise

This study examined the effects of prior upper body exercise on subsequent high-intensity cycling exercise tolerance and associated changes in neuromuscular function and perceptual responses. Eight men performed three fixed work-rate (85% peak power) cycling tests: 1) to the limit of tolerance (CYC); 2) to the limit of tolerance after prior high-intensity arm-cranking exercise (ARM-CYC); and 3) without prior exercise and for an equal duration as ARM-CYC (ISOTIME). Peripheral fatigue was assessed via changes in potentiated quadriceps twitch force during supramaximal electrical femoral nerve stimulation. Voluntary activation was assessed using twitch interpolation during maximal voluntary contractions. Cycling time during ARM-CYC and ISOTIME (4.33 ± 1.10 min) was 38% shorter than during CYC (7.46 ± 2.79 min) (P < 0.001). Twitch force decreased more after CYC (-38 ± 13%) than ARM-CYC (-26 ± 10%) (P = 0.004) and ISOTIME (-24 ± 10%) (P = 0.003). Voluntary activation was 94 ± 5% at rest and decreased after CYC (89 ± 9%, P = 0.012) and ARM-CYC (91 ± 8%, P = 0.047). Rating of perceived exertion for limb discomfort increased more quickly during cycling in ARM-CYC [1.83 ± 0.46 arbitrary units (AU)/min] than CYC (1.10 ± 0.38 AU/min, P = 0.003) and ISOTIME (1.05 ± 0.43 AU/min, P = 0.002), and this was correlated with the reduced cycling time in ARM-CYC (r = -0.72, P = 0.045). In conclusion, cycling exercise tolerance after prior upper body exercise is potentially mediated by central fatigue and intolerable levels of sensory perception rather than a critical peripheral fatigue limit.

Unilateral isometric muscle fatigue decreases force production and activation of contralateral knee extensors but not elbow flexors

Nonlocal muscle fatigue occurs when fatiguing 1 muscle alters performance of another rested muscle. The purpose of the study was to investigate if fatiguing 2 separate muscles would affect the same rested muscle, and if fatiguing the same muscle would affect 2 separate muscles. Twenty-one trained males participated in 2 studies (n = 11; n = 10). Subjects performed 2 pre-test maximum voluntary contractions (MVCs) with the nondominant knee extensors. Thereafter they performed two 100-s MVCs with their dominant knee extensors, elbow flexors, or rested. Between and after the sets, a single MVC with the nondominant rested knee extensors was performed. Subsequently, 12 nondominant knee extensors repeated MVCs were completed. Force, quadriceps voluntary activation (VA), and electromyography (EMG) were measured. The same protocol was employed in study 2 except the nondominant elbow-flexors were tested. Study 1: Compared with control conditions, a significant decrease in nondominant knee extensors force, EMG, and VA was found under both fatiguing conditions (P ≤ 0.05; effect size (ES) = 0.91-1.15; 2%-8%). Additionally, decrements in all variables were found from the first post-intervention MVC to the last (P ≤ 0.05; ES = 0.82-2.40; 9%-20%). Study 2: No differences were found between conditions for all variables (P ≥ 0.33; ES ≤ 0.2; ≤3.0%). However, all variables decreased from the first post-intervention MVC to the last (P ≤ 0.05; ES = 0.4-3.0; 7.2%-19.7%). Whereas the rested knee extensors demonstrated nonlocal effects regardless of the muscle being fatigued, the elbow-flexors remained unaffected. This suggests that nonlocal effects are muscle specific, which may hold functional implications for training and performance.

Validation of a novel intermittent w' model for cycling using field data

Recently, an adaptation to the critical-power (CP) model was published, which permits the calculation of the balance of the work capacity available above the CP remaining (W'bal) at any time during intermittent exercise. As the model is now in use in both amateur and elite sport, the purpose of this investigation was to assess the validity of the W'bal model in the field. Data were collected from the bicycle power meters of 8 trained triathletes. W'bal was calculated and compared between files where subjects reported becoming prematurely exhausted during training or competition and files where the athletes successfully completed a difficult assigned task or race without becoming exhausted. Calculated W'bal was significantly different between the 2 conditions (P < .0001). The mean W'bal at exhaustion was 0.5 ± 1.3 kJ (95% CI = 0-0.9 kJ), whereas the minimum W'bal in the nonexhausted condition was 3.6 ± 2.0 kJ (95% CI = 2.1-4.0 kJ). Receiver-operator-characteristic (ROC) curve analysis indicated that the W'bal model is useful for identifying the point at which athletes are in danger of becoming exhausted (area under the ROC curve = .914, SE .05, 95% CI .82-1.0, P < .0001). The W'bal model may therefore represent a useful new development in assessing athlete fatigue state during training and racing.