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Rampichini S, Limonta E, Zago M, Bisconti AV, Bertozzi F, Cè E, Borrelli M, Sforza C, Esposito F. Speed Effects on the Accuracy of Heart Rate as Oxygen-Uptake Indicator in Short-Distance Shuttle Running. RESEARCH QUARTERLY FOR EXERCISE AND SPORT 2024; 95:529-536. [PMID: 38100578 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2023.2275800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: Despite the accuracy of heart rate (HR) as an indicator of the aerobic engagement has been evaluated in several intermittent on-court activities, its validity as an oxygen uptake (V ˙ O 2 ) indicator during shuttle running over short paths remains uncertain. Moreover, it is unclear whether speed may affect such validity. This study evaluated the HR ability in estimating the V ˙ O 2 during 5-m shuttle running at different speeds. Methods: V ˙ O 2 and HR of 12 physically active young men were recorded during an incremental forward running (FW) protocol and a 5-m shuttle test at 50%, 60%, and 75% of maximal aerobic speed (MAS). Slope and intercept of the relationship between HR and V ˙ O 2 (HR/V ˙ O 2 ) were individually determined, in both protocols. The HR measured during the shuttle test was used in the FW HR/V ˙ O 2 to estimate V ˙ O 2 at each shuttle speed. A paired Student's t-test compared slopes and intercepts of the two HR/V ˙ O 2 . A two-way RM-ANOVA and an equality test examined, respectively, the differences and the equality between measured and estimated V ˙ O 2 . Lastly, a Bland-Altman plot described the accuracy and precision of the estimated V ˙ O 2 at each shuttle intensity. Results: Slopes and intercepts of the HR/V ˙ O 2 appeared not different between FW and shuttle running. At 50%MAS, HR underestimated the V ˙ O 2 (~7%), whereas returned accurate values at the two higher velocities, although with high variability (±18%). Conclusions: When using HR as V ˙ O 2 indicator during shuttle running over short paths, a separated analysis of the HR validity as V ˙ O 2 indicator is recommended especially when administering different exercise intensities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eloisa Limonta
- Università degli Studi di Milano
- IRCSS Ospedale Galeazzi-Sant'Ambrogio
| | | | | | | | - Emiliano Cè
- Università degli Studi di Milano
- IRCSS Ospedale Galeazzi-Sant'Ambrogio
| | | | | | - Fabio Esposito
- Università degli Studi di Milano
- IRCSS Ospedale Galeazzi-Sant'Ambrogio
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2
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Oxfeldt M, Frederiksen LK, Gunnarson T, Hansen M. Influence of menstrual cycle phase and oral contraceptive phase on exercise performance in endurance-trained females. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2024; 64:236-247. [PMID: 38213268 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.23.15458-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited data exists on the influence of menstrual cycle (MC) phase and oral contraceptive (OC) phase on physical performance in endurance-trained females due to poor control regarding MC verification and differentiation. We aimed to evaluate exercise performance and the respiratory response to exercise in three distinct phases of the MC and OC cycle in endurance-trained females. METHODS Using a prospective cohort study design, we recruited trained females (Vo2max 52±4 mL O2/min/kg) who were either not using oral contraceptives (NOC) or using monophasic OCs. NOC were tested in the early and late follicular phase (FP) and the mid-luteal phase (LP). OC-users were tested in the withdrawal phase (WP) and two times in the active OC phase (OCP). The test battery included DXA scans, blood sampling, a submaximal bike test, a maximal isometric knee-extensor strength test, 4 and 20-second bike sprints, and a 6 min time trial on a bike. MC phases were verified by the use of ovulation kits and circulating sex hormone levels. RESULTS After the exclusion of four NOCs due to inadequate sex hormone levels, 11 NOC and 13 OC users were included in the final analysis. 6 min time trial performance, sprint performance, and most submaximal exercise intensity variables did not differ between MC phases and OC cycle phases. However, in NOC, ventilation (L/min) during exercise at 30% of aerobic peak power was 7.6% lower in the late FP compared to the LP (P<0.05). In OC users, muscle strength was 3.9% higher in the early OCP compared to WP (P<0.05), whereas body mass was higher in the late OCP compared to WP (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our study suggests that MC phase and OCP influence exercise performance to a limited extent in endurance-trained females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikkel Oxfeldt
- Department of Public Health, University of Aarhus, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Louise K Frederiksen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Gunnarson
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mette Hansen
- Department of Public Health, University of Aarhus, Aarhus, Denmark -
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3
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Raberin A, Burtscher J, Citherlet T, Manferdelli G, Krumm B, Bourdillon N, Antero J, Rasica L, Malatesta D, Brocherie F, Burtscher M, Millet GP. Women at Altitude: Sex-Related Physiological Responses to Exercise in Hypoxia. Sports Med 2024; 54:271-287. [PMID: 37902936 PMCID: PMC10933174 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01954-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Sex differences in physiological responses to various stressors, including exercise, have been well documented. However, the specific impact of these differences on exposure to hypoxia, both at rest and during exercise, has remained underexplored. Many studies on the physiological responses to hypoxia have either excluded women or included only a limited number without analyzing sex-related differences. To address this gap, this comprehensive review conducted an extensive literature search to examine changes in physiological functions related to oxygen transport and consumption in hypoxic conditions. The review encompasses various aspects, including ventilatory responses, cardiovascular adjustments, hematological alterations, muscle metabolism shifts, and autonomic function modifications. Furthermore, it delves into the influence of sex hormones, which evolve throughout life, encompassing considerations related to the menstrual cycle and menopause. Among these physiological functions, the ventilatory response to exercise emerges as one of the most sex-sensitive factors that may modify reactions to hypoxia. While no significant sex-based differences were observed in cardiac hemodynamic changes during hypoxia, there is evidence of greater vascular reactivity in women, particularly at rest or when combined with exercise. Consequently, a diffusive mechanism appears to be implicated in sex-related variations in responses to hypoxia. Despite well-established sex disparities in hematological parameters, both acute and chronic hematological responses to hypoxia do not seem to differ significantly between sexes. However, it is important to note that these responses are sensitive to fluctuations in sex hormones, and further investigation is needed to elucidate the impact of the menstrual cycle and menopause on physiological responses to hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Raberin
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Burtscher
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tom Citherlet
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Giorgio Manferdelli
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bastien Krumm
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Bourdillon
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Juliana Antero
- Institut de Recherche Bio-Médicale Et d'Épidémiologie du Sport (EA 7329), French Institute of Sport, Paris, France
| | - Letizia Rasica
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Davide Malatesta
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Franck Brocherie
- Laboratory Sport, Expertise and Performance (EA 7370), French Institute of Sport, Paris, France
| | - Martin Burtscher
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Grégoire P Millet
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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Yoon S, Cederbaum LA, Côté JN. Females show less decline in contractile function than males after repeated all-out cycling. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2024; 49:199-212. [PMID: 37820383 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2023-0184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Females demonstrate greater fatigue resistance during a range of exercise modalities; however, this may be confounded by the lower mechanical work completed. Accordingly, this study examined the sex-specific peripheral and central fatigue mechanisms during repeated all-out cycling and whether they are affected by total mechanical work performed. A total of 26 healthy young adults (12 females) performed 10 × 10 s all-out cycling interspersed by 30 s passive recovery. Metabolic responses, peripheral and central fatigue, were quantified via changes in pre- to post-exercise blood lactate, potentiated quadriceps twitch force (and contractile properties) evoked via supramaximal electrical stimulation of the femoral nerve, and voluntary activation of the knee extensors, respectively. During exercise, mechanical work, vastus lateralis muscle activation (via surface electromyography), and deoxygenation (via near-infrared spectroscopy) were recorded. Sex comparison analyses were performed before and after statistically controlling for total mechanical work (via ANCOVA). Mechanical work and muscle activation plateaued at similar sprint repetition (sprint 5) and voluntary activation change (pre vs. post) was similar between the sexes. Females, however, showed lower %work decrement (i.e., fatigability; P = 0.037) and peripheral responses as evident by lower reductions in quadriceps twitch force (P < 0.001) and muscle deoxygenation (P = 0.001). Adjusting for total mechanical work did not change these sex comparison results. We show that females' greater fatigue resistance during repeated all-out cycling may not be attributed to the greater total mechanical work performed but could be mediated by lower peripheral fatigue in the knee extensor muscles.
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Affiliation(s)
- SangHoon Yoon
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, 475 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada
| | - Lauren A Cederbaum
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, 475 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada
| | - Julie N Côté
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, 475 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada
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D'Souza AC, Wageh M, Williams JS, Colenso-Semple LM, McCarthy DG, McKay AKA, Elliott-Sale KJ, Burke LM, Parise G, MacDonald MJ, Tarnopolsky MA, Phillips SM. Menstrual cycle hormones and oral contraceptives: a multimethod systems physiology-based review of their impact on key aspects of female physiology. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2023; 135:1284-1299. [PMID: 37823207 PMCID: PMC10979803 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00346.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Hormonal changes around ovulation divide the menstrual cycle (MC) into the follicular and luteal phases. In addition, oral contraceptives (OCs) have active (higher hormone) and placebo phases. Although there are some MC-based effects on various physiological outcomes, we found these differences relatively subtle and difficult to attribute to specific hormones, as estrogen and progesterone fluctuate rather than operating in a complete on/off pattern as observed in cellular or preclinical models often used to substantiate human data. A broad review reveals that the differences between the follicular and luteal phases and between OC active and placebo phases are not associated with marked differences in exercise performance and appear unlikely to influence muscular hypertrophy in response to resistance exercise training. A systematic review and meta-analysis of substrate oxidation between MC phases revealed no difference between phases in the relative carbohydrate and fat oxidation at rest and during acute aerobic exercise. Vascular differences between MC phases are also relatively small or nonexistent. Although OCs can vary in composition and androgenicity, we acknowledge that much more work remains to be done in this area; however, based on what little evidence is currently available, we do not find compelling support for the notion that OC use significantly influences exercise performance, substrate oxidation, or hypertrophy. It is important to note that the study of females requires better methodological control in many areas. Previous studies lacking such rigor have contributed to premature or incorrect conclusions regarding the effects of the MC and systemic hormones on outcomes. While we acknowledge that the evidence in certain research areas is limited, the consensus view is that the impact of the MC and OC use on various aspects of physiology is small or nonexistent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alysha C D'Souza
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mai Wageh
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Devin G McCarthy
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alannah K A McKay
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Louise M Burke
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gianni Parise
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Mark A Tarnopolsky
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University Medical Center, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stuart M Phillips
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Cederbaum LA, Yoon S, Côté JN. Males and females have similar neuromuscular coordination strategies of the quadriceps during fatiguing repeated all-out cycling. Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1248303. [PMID: 37780119 PMCID: PMC10541224 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1248303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction An imbalance of vastus medialis (VM) and vastus lateralis (VL) muscle activation and patterns of dyscoordination may contribute to the sex discrepancy in the incidence of patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). While some studies have examined sex-specific VM/VL coordination strategies in some tasks, no previous studies have examined sex-specific VM/VL coordination strategies during repeated sprint exercise (RSE). Methods In this study, asymptomatic young adults (N = 39, 19 females) completed a RSE protocol consisting of 10 × 10 s all-out cycling interspersed by 30 s of passive rest. Electromyographic (EMG) signals from the VM and VL muscles were recorded throughout exercise. Results VM:VL ratio did not change with fatigue and was not different between the sexes. From sprint 1 to 10, VM-VL onset delay increased from 9.62 to 16.95 ms and from 19.28 to 45.09 ms in males and females, respectively (p < 0.001); however, no sex difference was found (p = 0.524). Muscle activation amplitude plateaued at different sprint repetitions in males and females while mechanical work plateaued at similar repetitions. Discussion These findings suggest that sex differences in the incidence of PFPS may not be influenced by VM/VL muscle coordination as assessed by EMG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A. Cederbaum
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, Biomechanics of Occupation and Sport Laboratory, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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7
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Williams JS, Stone JC, Masood Z, Bostad W, Gibala MJ, MacDonald MJ. The impact of natural menstrual cycle and oral contraceptive pill phase on substrate oxidation during rest and acute submaximal aerobic exercise. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2023; 135:642-654. [PMID: 37498292 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00111.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous research has identified sex differences in substrate oxidation during submaximal aerobic exercise including a lower respiratory exchange ratio (RER) in females compared with males. These differences may be related to differences in sex hormones. Our purpose was to examine the impact of the natural menstrual cycle (NAT) and second- and third-generation oral contraceptive pill (OCP2 and OCP3) cycle phases on substrate oxidation during rest and submaximal aerobic exercise. Fifty female participants (18 NAT, 17 OCP2, and 15 OCP3) performed two experimental trials that coincided with the low (i.e., nonactive pill/early follicular) and the high hormone (i.e., active pill/midluteal) phase of their cycle. RER and carbohydrate and lipid oxidation rates were determined from gas exchange measurements performed during 10 min of supine rest, 5 min of seated rest, and two 8-min bouts of submaximal cycling exercise at ∼40% and ∼65% of peak oxygen uptake (V̇o2peak). For all groups, there were no differences in RER between the low and high hormone phases during supine rest (0.73 ± 0.05 vs. 0.74 ± 0.05), seated rest (0.72 ± 0.04 vs. 0.72 ± 0.04), exercise at 40% (0.77 ± 0.04 vs. 0.78 ± 0.04), and 65% V̇o2peak (0.85 ± 0.04 vs. 0.86 ± 0.03; P > 0.19 for all). Similarly, carbohydrate and lipid oxidation rates remained largely unchanged across phases during both rest and exercise, apart from higher carbohydrate oxidation in NAT vs. OCP2 at 40% V̇o2peak (P = 0.019) and 65% V̇o2peak (P = 0.001). NAT and OCPs do not appear to largely influence substrate oxidation at rest and during acute submaximal aerobic exercise.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study was the first to examine the influence of NAT and two generations of OCPs on substrate oxidation during rest and acute submaximal aerobic exercise. We reported no differences across cycle phases or groups on RER, and minimal impact on carbohydrate or lipid oxidation apart from an increase in carbohydrate oxidation in NAT compared with OCP2 during exercise. Based on these findings, NAT/OCP phase controls may not be necessary in studies investigating substrate oxidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer S Williams
- Vascular Dynamics Lab, Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jenna C Stone
- Vascular Dynamics Lab, Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zaryan Masood
- Vascular Dynamics Lab, Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - William Bostad
- Human Performance Lab, Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Martin J Gibala
- Human Performance Lab, Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maureen J MacDonald
- Vascular Dynamics Lab, Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Stankovic M, Djordjevic D, Trajkovic N, Milanovic Z. Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on Physical Performance in Female Team Sports: A Systematic Review. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2023; 9:78. [PMID: 37594624 PMCID: PMC10439062 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-023-00623-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is limited information regarding adaptation of HIIT in female athletes which is important since the adaptation to HIIT may be different compared to male athletes. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review was to summarize the effects of HIIT on physical performance in female team sports athletes. METHODS The following databases Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, ProQuest and Science Direct were searched prior to September 2nd, 2022. The inclusion criteria were longitudinal studies written in English, elite, sub-elite or college female team sports participants, and HIIT intensity had to be at 80-100% maximal heart rate. There were no exclusion criteria regarding the age of the participants or their training experience. The primary outcome measures were maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), repeated sprint ability (RSA), change of direction speed, speed, explosive strength and body composition. RESULTS A total of 13 studies met the inclusion criteria, with a total of 230 participants. HIIT improved VO2max in five studies (ES from 0.19 to 1.08), while three studies showed improvement in their RSA (ES from 0.32 to 0.64). In addition, change of direction speed was improved in five studies (ES from 0.34 to 0.88), while speed improved in four studies (ES from 0.12 to 0.88). Explosive strength results varied (ES from 0.39 to 1.05), while in terms of body composition, the results were inconsistent through observed team sports. CONCLUSION HIIT has significant effects on VO2max, RSA, change of direction speed, speed and explosive strength in female team sports, regardless of the competition level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mima Stankovic
- Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Niš, Čarnojevičeva 10a, 18000, Niš, Serbia
| | - Dusan Djordjevic
- Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Niš, Čarnojevičeva 10a, 18000, Niš, Serbia
| | - Nebojsa Trajkovic
- Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Niš, Čarnojevičeva 10a, 18000, Niš, Serbia
| | - Zoran Milanovic
- Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Niš, Čarnojevičeva 10a, 18000, Niš, Serbia.
- Science and Research Centre, Institute for Kinesiology Research, Garibaldijeva 1, 6000, Koper, Slovenia.
- Faculty of Sports Studies, Incubator of Kinanthropological Research, Masaryk University, 60200, Brno, Czech Republic.
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Benito PJ, Alfaro-Magallanes VM, Rael B, Castro EA, Romero-Parra N, Rojo-Tirado MA, Peinado AB. Effect of Menstrual Cycle Phase on the Recovery Process of High-Intensity Interval Exercise-A Cross-Sectional Observational Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3266. [PMID: 36833959 PMCID: PMC9959793 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Although the study of the menstrual cycle influence on endurance exercise has recently increased, there is a lack of literature studying its influence on females' cardiorespiratory recovery. Thus, the aim of the present work was to assess menstrual cycle influence on post-exercise recovery following a high intensity interval exercise in trained females. Thirteen eumenorrheic endurance-trained females performed an interval running protocol in three menstrual cycle phases: early follicular phase (EFP), late follicular phase (LFP), and mid-luteal phase (MLP). The protocol consisted of 8 × 3-min bouts at 85% of their maximal aerobic speed (vVO2peak) with a 90-s rest between bouts and a final 5-min active recovery at 30% vVO2peak. All variables were averaged every 15 s, obtaining 19 moments during recovery (time factor). To analyze the effects of the menstrual cycle on the final active cardiorespiratory recovery, an ANOVA for repeated measures was performed. ANOVA showed an effect on menstrual cycle phase on ventilation (EFP: 1.27 ± 0.35; LFP: 1.19 ± 0.36; MLP: 1.27 ± 0.37), breathing frequency (EFP: 35.14 ± 7.14; LFP: 36.32 ± 7.11; MLP: 37.62 ± 7.23), and carbon dioxide production (EFP: 1120.46 ± 137.62; LFP: 1079.50 ± 129.57; MLP: 1148.78 ± 107.91). Regarding the interaction results (phase x time), ventilation is higher at many of the recovery times during the MLP, with less frequent differences between EFP and LFP (F = 1.586; p = 0.019), while breathing reserve is lower at many of the recovery times during MLP, with less time differences between EFP and LFP (F = 1.643; p = 0.013). It seems that the menstrual cycle affects post-exercise recovery specially during the MLP, rising ventilation and lowering breathing reserve, giving rise to an impaired ventilatory efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro J. Benito
- LFE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences (INEF), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Víctor M. Alfaro-Magallanes
- LFE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences (INEF), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Rael
- LFE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences (INEF), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Eliane A. Castro
- LFE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences (INEF), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Physical Education, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Bauru 17033-360, SP, Brazil
| | - Nuria Romero-Parra
- LFE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences (INEF), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Fisioterapia, Terapia Ocupacional, Rehabilitación y Medicina Física, Facultad de CC. de la Salud, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, 28933 Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel A. Rojo-Tirado
- LFE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences (INEF), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana B. Peinado
- LFE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences (INEF), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), 28040 Madrid, Spain
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10
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James JJ, Leach OK, Young AM, Newman AN, Mpongo KL, Quirante JM, Wardell DB, Ahmadi M, Gifford JR. The exercise power-duration relationship is equally reproducible in eumenorrheic female and male humans. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2023; 134:230-241. [PMID: 36548510 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00416.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the effect of the menstrual cycle (MC) on exercise performance across the power-duration relationship (PDR). We hypothesized females would exhibit greater variability in the PDR across the MC than males across a similar timespan, with critical power (CP) and work-prime (W') being lower during the early follicular phase than the late follicular and midluteal phases. Seven eumenorrheic, endurance-trained female adults performed multiple constant-load-to-task-failure and maximum-power tests at three timepoints across the MC (early follicular, late follicular, and midluteal phases). Ten endurance-trained male adults performed the same tests approximately 10 days apart. No differences across the PDR were observed between MC phases (CP: 186.74 ± 31.00 W, P = 0.955, CV = 0.81 ± 0.65%) (W': 7,961.81 ± 2,537.68 J, P = 0.476, CV = 10.48 ± 3.06%). CP was similar for male and female subjects (11.82 ± 1.42 W·kg-1 vs. 11.56 ± 1.51 W·kg-1, respectively) when controlling for leg lean mass. However, W' was larger (P = 0.047) for male subjects (617.28 ± 130.10 J·kg-1) than female subjects (490.03 ± 136.70 J·kg-1) when controlling for leg lean mass. MC phase does not need to be controlled when conducting aerobic endurance performance research on eumenorrheic female subjects without menstrual dysfunction. Nevertheless, several sex differences in the power-duration relationship exist, even after normalizing for body composition. Therefore, previous studies describing the physiology of exercise performance in male subjects may not perfectly describe that of female subjects.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Females are often excluded from exercise performance research due to experimental challenges in controlling for the menstrual cycle (MC), causing uncertainty regarding how the MC impacts female performance. The present study examined the influences that biological sex and the MC have on the power-duration relationship (PDR) by comparing critical power (CP), Work-prime (W'), and maximum power output (PMAX) in males and females. Our data provide evidence that the MC does not influence the PDR and that females exhibit similar reproducibility as males. Thus, when conducting aerobic endurance exercise research on eumenorrheic females without menstrual dysfunction, the phase of the MC does not need to be controlled. Although differences in body composition account for some differences between the sexes, sex differences in W' and PMAX persisted even after normalizing for different metrics of body composition. These data highlight the necessity and feasibility of examining sex differences in performance, as previously generated male-only data within the literature may not apply to female subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica J James
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Olivia K Leach
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Arianna M Young
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Audrey N Newman
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Kiese L Mpongo
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Jaron M Quirante
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Devon B Wardell
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Mohadeseh Ahmadi
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Jayson R Gifford
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah.,Program of Gerontology, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
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11
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Paludo AC, Paravlic A, Dvořáková K, Gimunová M. The Effect of Menstrual Cycle on Perceptual Responses in Athletes: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis. Front Psychol 2022; 13:926854. [PMID: 35911030 PMCID: PMC9328165 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.926854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This article aimed to investigate the effects of menstrual cycle phases on perceptual responses in athletes by means of systematic review and meta-analysis. The search was conducted in the PubMed, Web of Science, and Sport Discus databases considering articles with two or more menstrual phases for comparison. The PECO criteria were used for the keywords “menstrual cycle,” “athletes,” and “perceptual responses” with their respective entry terms. Of 1.165 records identified, 14 articles were available for the final evaluation, while eight articles were eligible for a meta-analysis. The perceptual responses evaluated in the studies were: motivation, competitiveness, sleep quality, stress, muscle soreness, fatigue, perceived effort, mood, menstrual symptoms, perceived endurance, and readiness. The meta-analysis was conducted for perceived effort only. The results showed that the level of perceived exertion does not differ two phases of the menstrual cycle (MD = 3.03, Q = 1.58, df = 1, p = 0.209), whereas RPE was 19.81 ± 0.05 and 16.27 ± 0.53 at day 1–5 and day 19–24, respectively. Two studies found statistically significant changes in motivation and competitiveness during the cycle, with better outcomes in ovulatory phase compared to follicular and luteal. One study found an increase in mood disturbance in the pre-menstrual phase (vs. mid-cycle); one decreased vigor in the menstrual phase (vs. luteal); one increased the menstrual symptoms in the follicular phase (vs. ovulation), and one study reported increased fatigue and decreased sleep quality on luteal phase (vs. follicular). The remaining studies and variables were not affected by the menstrual cycle phase. Based on the results from the studies selected, some perceptual responses are affected in different menstrual cycle phases. A “favorable” subjective response in athletes was noticed when the ovarian hormones present an increase in concentration levels compared to phases with lower concentration. Different perceptual variables and methodological approaches limit the generalization of the conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina Paludo
- Incubator of Kinanthropology Research, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Ana Carolina Paludo
| | - Armin Paravlic
- Incubator of Kinanthropology Research, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
- Faculty of Sport, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Science and Research Centre Koper, Institute for Kinesiology Research, Koper, Slovenia
| | - Kristýna Dvořáková
- Department of Health Promotion, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Marta Gimunová
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
- Marta Gimunová
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12
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Rogers B, Gronwald T. Fractal Correlation Properties of Heart Rate Variability as a Biomarker for Intensity Distribution and Training Prescription in Endurance Exercise: An Update. Front Physiol 2022; 13:879071. [PMID: 35615679 PMCID: PMC9124938 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.879071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
While established methods for determining physiologic exercise thresholds and intensity distribution such as gas exchange or lactate testing are appropriate for the laboratory setting, they are not easily obtainable for most participants. Data over the past two years has indicated that the short-term scaling exponent alpha1 of Detrended Fluctuation Analysis (DFA a1), a heart rate variability (HRV) index representing the degree of fractal correlation properties of the cardiac beat sequence, shows promise as an alternative for exercise load assessment. Unlike conventional HRV indexes, it possesses a dynamic range throughout all intensity zones and does not require prior calibration with an incremental exercise test. A DFA a1 value of 0.75, reflecting values midway between well correlated fractal patterns and uncorrelated behavior, has been shown to be associated with the aerobic threshold in elite, recreational and cardiac disease populations and termed the heart rate variability threshold (HRVT). Further loss of fractal correlation properties indicative of random beat patterns, signifying an autonomic state of unsustainability (DFA a1 of 0.5), may be associated with that of the anaerobic threshold. There is minimal bias in DFA a1 induced by common artifact correction methods at levels below 3% and negligible change in HRVT even at levels of 6%. DFA a1 has also shown value for exercise load management in situations where standard intensity targets can be skewed such as eccentric cycling. Currently, several web sites and smartphone apps have been developed to track DFA a1 in retrospect or in real-time, making field assessment of physiologic exercise thresholds and internal load assessment practical. Although of value when viewed in isolation, DFA a1 tracking in combination with non-autonomic markers such as power/pace, open intriguing possibilities regarding athlete durability, identification of endurance exercise fatigue and optimization of daily training guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce Rogers
- College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
- *Correspondence: Bruce Rogers,
| | - Thomas Gronwald
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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13
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Tracking Women's Reproductive Data in Sport: Practical Limitations, Perils and Pitfalls. Sports Med 2022; 52:1723-1727. [PMID: 35380353 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-022-01671-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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14
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Taipale-Mikkonen RS, Raitanen A, Hackney AC, Solli GS, Valtonen M, Peltonen H, McGawley K, Kyröläinen H, Ihalainen JK. Influence of Menstrual Cycle or Hormonal Contraceptive Phase on Physiological Variables Monitored During Treadmill Testing. Front Physiol 2022; 12:761760. [PMID: 34975520 PMCID: PMC8718058 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.761760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To examine the influence of menstrual cycle (MC) and hormonal contraceptive (HC) cycle phases on physiological variables monitored during incremental treadmill testing in physically active women (eumenorrheic, EUM = 16 and monophasic HC-users, CHC = 12). Methods: Four running tests to exhaustion were performed at bleeding, mid follicular (mid FOL)/active 1, ovulation/active 2, and mid luteal (mid LUT)/inactive. HC and MC phases were confirmed from serum hormones. Heart rate (HR), blood lactate (Bla), and V˙O2 were monitored, while aerobic (AerT) and anaerobic (AnaT) thresholds were determined. V˙O2peak, maximal running speed (RUNpeak), and total running time (RUNtotal) were recorded. Results: No significant changes were observed in V˙O2 or Bla at AerT or AnaT across phases in either group. At maximal effort, absolute and relative V˙O2peak, RUNpeak, and RUNtotal remained stable across phases in both groups. No significant fluctuations in HRmax were observed across phases, but HR at both AerT and AnaT tended to be lower in EUM than in CHC across phases. Conclusion: Hormonal fluctuations over the MC and HC do not systematically influence physiological variables monitored during incremental treadmill testing. Between group differences in HR at AerT and AnaT underline why HR-based training should be prescribed individually, while recording of MC or HC use when testing should be encouraged as phase may explain minor, but possibly meaningful, changes in, e.g., Bla concentrations or differences in HR response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritva S Taipale-Mikkonen
- Sports Technology Unit, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Vuokatti, Finland.,Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Anna Raitanen
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Anthony C Hackney
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Department of Nutrition, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Guro Strøm Solli
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, Nord University, Bodø, Norway.,School of Sport Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Maarit Valtonen
- Research Institute for Olympic Sports (KIHU), Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Heikki Peltonen
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Kerry McGawley
- Swedish Winter Sports Research Centre, Department of Health Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Östersund, Sweden
| | - Heikki Kyröläinen
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Johanna K Ihalainen
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
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15
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Indian Endurance Athletes’ Menstrual Cycle: Practices, Knowledge, Communication, Health, and Changes in Perceptions Across the Phases. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2022; 17:1706-1715. [DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2022-0131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: To describe menstrual cycle (MC)-related practices, knowledge, communication, and health in Indian endurance athletes and to investigate the changes in their perception of sleep quality, readiness to train, training quality, fitness, and performance across the MC. Methods: Data on female Indian athletes (N = 96, age 22 [3] y) competing in 7 endurance sports at (inter)national and state level were collected using an online questionnaire. A Friedman rank sum test was used to assess changes in sleep quality, readiness to train, training quality, fitness, and performance across MC phases (ie, during, immediately after, and just before the bleeding phase). Results: Most of the athletes showed poor MC-related practices and suboptimal knowledge and communication about the MC. Despite no clear signs of serious health conditions, many athletes (63.5%) experienced irregular bleeding phases, particularly during periods with high exercise intensity or high training volume (54.4%). Perceived sleep quality, readiness to train, fitness, performance, and the quality of high-intensity and strength training changed significantly throughout the MC (P < .001), with a higher prevalence of a positive perception immediately after the bleeding phase. The perceived quality of low-intensity training did not change significantly throughout the MC (P = .244). Conclusions: Knowledge and communication about the MC were found to be poor in Indian endurance athletes, who reported that the MC significantly influenced their sleep quality, readiness to train, training quality, fitness, and performance.
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Effect of Different Types of Face Masks on the Ventilatory and Cardiovascular Response to Maximal-Intensity Exercise. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10100969. [PMID: 34681068 PMCID: PMC8533493 DOI: 10.3390/biology10100969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The development of new models of face masks makes it necessary to compare their impact on exercise. Therefore, the aim of this work was to compare the cardiopulmonary response to a maximal incremental test, perceived ventilation, exertion, and comfort using FFP2 or Emotion masks in young female athletes. Thirteen healthy sportswomen (22.08 ± 1.75 years) performed a spirometry, and a graded exercise test on a treadmill, with a JAEGER® Vyntus CPX gas analyzer using an ergospirometry mask (ErgoMask) or wearing the FFP2 or the Emotion mask below the ErgoMask, randomized on 3 consecutive days. Also, menstrual cycle status was monitored to avoid possible intrasubject alterations. The results showed lower values for the ErgoMask+FFP2, compared to ErgoMask or ErgoMask+Emotion, in forced vital capacity (3.8 ± 0.2, 4.5 ± 0.2 and 4.1 ± 0.1 l, respectively); forced expiratory volume in 1 s (3.3 ± 0.2, 3.7 ± 0.2 and 3.5 ± 0.1 l); ventilation (40.9 ± 1.5, 50.6 ± 1.5 and 46.9 ± 1.2 l/min); breathing frequency (32.7 ± 1.1, 37.4 ± 1.1 and 35.3 ± 1.4 bpm); VE/VO2 (30.5 ± 0.7, 34.6 ± 0.9 and 33.6 ± 0.7); VE/VCO2 (32.2 ± 0.6, 36.2 ± 0.9 and 34.4 ± 0.7) and time to exhaustion (492.4 ± 9.7, 521.7 ± 8.6 and 520.1 ± 9.5 s) and higher values in inspiratory time (0.99 ± 0.04, 0.82 ± 0.03 and 0.88 ± 0.03 s). In conclusion, in young healthy female athletes, the Emotion showed better preservation of cardiopulmonary responses than the FFP2.
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The Effects of Fasting or Ketogenic Diet on Endurance Exercise Performance and Metabolism in Female Mice. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11060397. [PMID: 34207054 PMCID: PMC8234851 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11060397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The promotion of ketone body (KB) metabolism via ketosis has been suggested as a strategy to increase exercise performance. However, studies in humans and animals have yielded inconsistent results. The purpose of the current study was to examine the effects of ketosis, achieved via fasting or a short-term ketogenic diet (KD), on endurance exercise performance in female mice. After 8 h of fasting, serum KB significantly increased and serum glucose significantly decreased in fasted compared to fed mice. When subjected to an endurance exercise capacity (EEC) test on a motorized treadmill, both fed and fasted mice showed similar EEC performance. A 5-week KD (90% calories from fat) significantly increased serum KB but did not increase EEC times compared to chow-fed mice. KD mice gained significantly more weight than chow-fed mice and had greater adipose tissue mass. Biochemical tissue analysis showed that KD led to significant increases in triglyceride content in the heart and liver and significant decreases in glycogen content in the muscle and liver. Furthermore, KD downregulated genes involved in glucose and KB oxidation and upregulated genes involved in lipid metabolism in the heart. These findings suggest that a short-term KD is not an effective strategy to enhance exercise performance and may lead to increased adiposity, abnormal endogenous tissue storage, and cardiometabolic remodeling.
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