A comparison of the effects of two protocols of concurrent resistance and aerobic training on physical fitness in middle school students

Objective

This study aimed to compare the effects of two concurrent training (CT) protocols on the physical fitness of middle school students.

Method

A 12-week quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test study was conducted with 157 middle school students (age = 12.48 ± 0.34, n = 90 females) divided into three groups: CT group A (CT-0h) received combined resistance training (RT) and aerobic training (AT) in each physical education session, CT group B (CT-48h) received RT and AT across two separate physical education classes 48 h apart, and a control group (Con) received no training. Training occurred twice a week. Test indicators included cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) measured by estimated VO2max and 20 m shuttle run (laps), as well as muscle strength assessed through long jump, vertical jump, and handgrip strength.

Results

The intervention groups exhibited significant increases in estimated VO2max and muscle strength compared to their baseline values (p < 0.05). Both CT-0h and CT-48h groups demonstrated significant improvements in 20 m shuttle run (laps) (mean difference: 8.88 laps, p < 0.01; mean difference: 4.81 laps, p < 0.01, respectively), standing long jump (mean difference: 6.20 cm, p < 0.01; mean difference: 3.68 cm, p < 0.01, respectively), vertical jump (mean difference: 4.95 cm, p < 0.01; mean difference: 4.04 cm, p < 0.01, respectively), and handgrip strength (mean difference: 11.17 kg, p < 0.01; mean difference: 6.99 kg, p < 0.01, respectively). CT-0h group exhibited significantly increased estimated VO2max (mean difference: 1.47 ml/kg/min, p < 0.01) compared to the CT-48h group.

Conclusion

Both CT programs effectively improved adolescents' physical fitness indicators. However, the program that integrated RT and AT within the same physical education class demonstrated superior enhancement in adolescents' CRF.

Comparative efficacy of concurrent training types on lower limb strength and muscular hypertrophy: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

Objective

This study aims to compare, through quantitative analysis, the effectiveness of different endurance training types on increasing lower limb strength and muscle cross-sectional area (MCSA) in concurrent training.

Methods

This systematic literature search was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) [PROSPERO ID: CRD42023396886]. Web of Science, SportDiscuss, Pubmed, Cochrane, and Scopus were systematically searched from their inception date to October 20, 2023.

Results

A total of 40 studies (841 participants) were included in this meta-analysis. MCSA analysis showed that, compared to resistance training alone, concurrent high-intensity interval running training and resistance training and concurrent moderate-intensity continuous cycling training and resistance training were more effective (SMD = 0.15, 95% CI = -0.46 to 0.76, and SMD = 0.07, 95% CI = -0.24 to 0.38 respectively), while other modalities of concurrent training not. Lower body maximal strength analysis showed that all modalities of concurrent training were inferior to resistance training alone, but concurrent high-intensity interval training and resistance training showed an advantage in four different concurrent training modalities (SMD = -0.08, 95% CI = -0.25 to 0.08). For explosive strength, only concurrent high-intensity interval training and resistance training was superior to resistance training (SMD = 0.06, 95% CI = -0.21 to 0.33).

Conclusion

Different endurance training types have an impact on the effectiveness of concurrent training, particularly on lower limb strength. Adopting high-intensity interval running as the endurance training type in concurrent training can effectively minimize the adverse effects on lower limb strength and MCSA.

The preconditioning effect of different exercise training modes on middle cerebral artery occlusion induced-behavioral deficit in senescent rats

Introduction

Brain abilities decrease after brain stroke in elderly. The neuroprotective effect of exercise training has been proved in clinical trials and animal experiment. Nevertheless, it is not still clear what kind of exercise has greater protective effect. The present study aimed at investigating pre-conditioning effect of endurance, resistance, and concurrent training on learning ability, anxiety, and spatial memory in aged rats following stroke strength with middle cerebral artery occlusion.

Method

We used 50 male Wistar rats (age = 24 months) that were assigned randomly in five groups; 1: sham group, 2: Control group 3: Endurance training 4: Resistance training, and 5: concurrent training. The exercise training groups received training for four weeks. Following training, middle cerebral artery occlusion was applied to induce cerebral ischemia. Using the elevated plus maze, shuttle box test, and Morris water maze, neurocognitive functions were tested in the sample rats.

Results

It was found that resistance training did not affect spatial memory in the acquisition phase, while concurrent training and endurance training enhanced spatial memory in the acquisition phase. On the contrary, spatial memory was improved by resistance training in the retention phase, while concurrent and endurance exercises did not affect spatial memory in the retention phase. Passive avoidance learning ability at acquisition phase was more in resistance group compared to the endurance and concurrent training in shuttle box test, but in retention phase was similar between training groups. Unlike endurance and concurrent training, resistance training reduced anxiety in senescent rats.

Conclusion

All three exercise types alleviated aversive learning and memory impairment induced by stroke in senescent rats. Notably, the resistance training showed a greater protective effect compared to the other two training methods.

Effect of High-Intensity Interval Treadmill Exercise on Subsequent Lower and Upper Limb Strength Performance

Purpose: The aim of this study was to analyze the acute effect of a treadmill high-intensity interval protocol on subsequent upper body and lower body strength exercise performance. Method: Sixteen young men had their maximal aerobic capacity and one-repetition maximum (1RM) determined and underwent four randomized conditions: a half-squat control session; a bench press control session; a treadmill interval protocol followed by a half-squat experimental session; and a treadmill interval protocol followed by a bench press experimental session. During the control sessions, four sets to failure for each exercise were performed at 80% of 1RM. In the experimental sessions, participants performed eight sprints of 40 s at 100% velocity of maximal oxygen uptake with 20 s of passive interval between them, followed by the same strength exercise protocol of the control sessions. The number of repetitions during each protocol and participants' heart rate (HR),and blood lactate concentration ([lac]) were compared pre and post protocols and exercises. Results: Fewer repetitions were completed in the experimental session compared to the control sessions (p < .001). Moreover, the reduction in number of repetitions performed was more evident in half-squat compared to bench press (p = .018). HR was higher at the end of sessions with the interval protocol for both exercises (p < .001). The [lac] was higher at the end of session with the interval protocol for half-squat (p = .003). Conclusions: These findings suggest that previous high-intensity interval running may impair subsequent strength exercise performance, but the magnitude of the negative effect is greater in the lower limbs.

Efficacy of progressive versus severe energy restriction on body composition and strength in concurrent trained women

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the concurrent training (CT) effect in combination with either progressive energy restriction (PER) or severe energy restriction (SER) on body composition and strength-related variables in resistance-trained women.

METHODS

Fourteen women (29.5 ± 3.8 years; 23.8 ± 2.8 kg·m^-2) were randomly assigned to a PER (n = 7) or SER (n = 7) group. Participants performed an 8-week CT program. Pre- and post-intervention measures of fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM) were assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and strength-related variables were assessed through 1-repetition maximum (in the squat and bench press) and countermovement jump.

RESULTS

Significant reductions in FM were observed in PER and SER (Δ = - 1.7 ± 0.4 kg; P =  < 0.001; ES = - 0.39 and Δ = - 1.2 ± 0.6 kg; P = 0.002; ES = - 0.20, respectively). After correcting FFM for fat-free adipose tissue (FFAT), no significant differences for this variable were found either in PER (Δ = - 0.3 ± 0.1; P = 0.071; ES = - 0.06) or in SER (Δ = - 0.2 ± 0.1; P = 0.578; ES = - 0.04). There were no significant changes in the strength-related variables. No between-group differences were found in any of the variables.

CONCLUSION

A PER has similar effects to a SER on body composition and strength in resistance-trained women performing a CT program. Given that PER is more flexible and thus may enhance dietary adherence, it might be a better alternative for FM reduction compared to SER.

Acute effects of concurrent muscle power and sport-specific endurance exercises on markers of immunological stress response and measures of muscular fitness in highly trained youth male athletes

PURPOSE

To examine the acute effects of concurrent muscle power and sport-specific endurance exercises order on immunological stress responses, muscular-fitness, and rating-of-perceived-exertion (RPE) in highly trained youth male judo athletes.

METHODS

Twenty male participants randomly performed two concurrent training (CT) sessions; power-endurance and endurance-power. Measures of immune response (e.g., white blood cells), muscular-fitness (i.e., counter-movement-jump [CMJ]), RPE, blood-lactate, and -glucose were taken at different time-point (i.e., pre, mid, post, and post6h).

RESULTS

There were significant time*order interactions for white blood cells, lymphocytes, granulocytes, granulocyte-lymphocyte-ratio, and systemic-inflammation-index. Power-endurance resulted in significantly larger pre-to-post increases in white blood cells and lymphocytes while endurance-power resulted in significantly larger pre-to-post increases in the granulocyte-lymphocyte-ratio and systemic-inflammation-index. Likewise, significantly larger pre-to-post6h white blood cells and granulocytes increases were observed following power-endurance compared to endurance-power. Moreover, there was a significant time*order interaction for blood-glucose and -lactate. Following endurance-power, blood-lactate and -glucose increased from pre-to-mid but not from pre-to-post. Meanwhile, in power-endurance blood-lactate and -glucose increased from pre-to-post but not from pre-to-mid. A significant time*order interaction was observed for CMJ-force with larger pre-to-post decreases in endurance-power compared to power-endurance. Further, CMJ-power showed larger pre-to-mid performance decreases following power-endurance, compared to endurance-power. Regarding RPE, significant time*order interactions were noted with larger pre-to-mid values following endurance-power and larger pre-to-post values following power-endurance.

CONCLUSION

CT induced acute and delayed order-dependent immune cell count alterations in highly trained youth male judo athletes. In general, power-endurance induced higher acute and delayed immunological stress responses compared to endurance-power. CMJ-force and RPE fluctuated during both CT sessions but went back to baseline 6 h post-exercise.

The eight-week concurrent training effect on functional capacity in person living with unilateral transtibial amputation: A randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

The main causes of amputation include vascular diseases, trauma, cancer, and congenital limb abnormalities. The person with transtibial amputation (TA) is affected by a greater cardiorespiratory, metabolic, and muscular load to walk and perform daily activities. The sedentary lifestyle contributes to the process of chronic non-communicable diseases. The purpose of the study was to compare the effects of eight-week concurrent training (CT) for dependent variables as muscle strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, agility, and postural balance in persons with unilateral TA.

METHODS

A eight-week, randomized, controlled trial. Thirty-one people using prostheses for three or more months were selected. They were randomly divided into two groups: Experimental Group (EG; n = 17) - concurrent training and Control group (CG; n = 14) - no training. All patients were evaluated at the baseline and after eight weeks by the functional performance, isokinetic knee evaluation, static and dynamic posturography and cardiopulmonary test.

RESULTS

The patients showed improvements in all measures after training (size effect >0.80).

CONCLUSION

The main limitations are the sample size, related to the socioeconomic status and availability training and no comparison to other types of training. Eight weeks of CT was effective and favorably modified the dependent variables in TA patients. Therefore, CT is a good option to improve functional performance after the regular rehabilitation program discharge and decreases the metabolic and functional deficits of these patients.

Improved arterial stiffness after combined aerobic and resistance training: correlation with heart rate variability change in prehypertensive offspring of hypertensive parents

Prehypertensive offspring of hypertensive parents are strongly linked to pathological processes of hypertension in later life. It is observed that young adults with high blood pressure (BP) have increased arterial stiffness, which is linked to autonomic anomalies. The purpose of the present study was to assess the effect of combined resistance and aerobic exercise training on BP, brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baP-WV), and heart rate variability (HRV) in prehypertensive young men with hypertensive parents. Thirty prehypertensive males aged 19.6±1.2 years were randomly assigned to either a combined exercise training group (CBT, n=15) or no exercise group (CON, n=15). The CBT group performed combined exercise for 8 weeks, 3 times per week. BP, baP-WV, HRV, peak oxygen consumption (VO_2peak), and muscle strength were measured before and after the exercise intervention. Systolic BP (-5.1 mmHg, 3.9% decrease, P<0.05), diastolic BP (-3.9 mmHg, 6.1% decrease, P<0.01), mean arterial pressure (-4.2 mmHg, 4.7% decrease, P<0.05), baPWV (-0.4 m/sec, 3.5% decrease, P<0.01), standard deviation of all RR intervals (+58.5% increase, P<0.05) and very low frequency (VLF) (+34.6% increase, P<0.01), VO_2peak (+11.7% increase, P<0.01) and one-repetition maximum leg press (+30.3% increase, P<0.01) were significantly improved in the CBT group after 8 weeks of training versus the CON group. Additionally, a reduction in baPWV was associated with an increase in the VLF power of HRV (r=0.72, P<0.01). These findings indicate that the combined training improves BP, arterial stiffness, vagal activity, cardiorespiratory fitness, and lower-body muscle strength in prehypertensive offspring of hypertensive parents.

Heavy Resistance Training Versus Plyometric Training for Improving Running Economy and Running Time Trial Performance: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

As an adjunct to running training, heavy resistance and plyometric training have recently drawn attention as potential training modalities that improve running economy and running time trial performance. However, the comparative effectiveness is unknown. The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine if there are different effects of heavy resistance training versus plyometric training as an adjunct to running training on running economy and running time trial performance in long-distance runners.

METHODS

Electronic databases of PubMed, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus were searched. Twenty-two studies completely satisfied the selection criteria. Data on running economy and running time trial performance were extracted for the meta-analysis. Subgroup analyses were performed with selected potential moderators.

RESULTS

The pooled effect size for running economy in heavy resistance training was greater (g = - 0.32 [95% confidence intervals [CIs] - 0.55 to - 0.10]: effect size = small) than that in plyometric training (g = -0.13 [95% CIs - 0.47 to 0.21]: trivial). The effect on running time trial performance was also larger in heavy resistance training (g = - 0.24 [95% CIs - 1.04 to - 0.55]: small) than that in plyometric training (g = - 0.17 [95% CIs - 0.27 to - 0.06]: trivial). Heavy resistance training with nearly maximal loads (≥ 90% of 1 repetition maximum [1RM], g = - 0.31 [95% CIs - 0.61 to - 0.02]: small) provided greater effects than those with lower loads (< 90% 1RM, g = - 0.17 [95% CIs - 1.05 to 0.70]: trivial). Greater effects were evident when training was performed for a longer period in both heavy resistance (10-14 weeks, g = - 0.45 [95% CIs - 0.83 to - 0.08]: small vs. 6-8 weeks, g = - 0.21 [95% CIs - 0.56 to 0.15]: small) and plyometric training (8-10 weeks, g = 0.26 [95% CIs - 0.67 to 0.15]: small vs. 4-6 weeks, g = - 0.06 [95% CIs 0.67 to 0.55]: trivial).

CONCLUSIONS

Heavy resistance training, especially with nearly maximal loads, may be superior to plyometric training in improving running economy and running time trial performance. In addition, running economy appears to be improved better when training is performed for a longer period in both heavy resistance and plyometric training.

Interindividual variability of adaptations following either traditional strength or power training combined to endurance training in older men: A secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial

This study aimed to investigate the interindividual responses following two different concurrent training (CT) regimens in neuromuscular, cardiorespiratory and functional outcomes of older men. Thirty-five older men (65.8 ± 3.9 years) were randomly allocated into one of two CT groups: power training (PT) + high-intensity interval training (HIIT) (n = 17); or traditional strength training (TST) + HIIT (n = 18). Maximal dynamic strength (one-repetition maximum, 1RM), rate of force development at 100 milliseconds (RDF₁₀₀), countermovement jump power (CMJ), quadriceps femoris muscle thickness (QF MT), functional tests (sit-to-stand, timed-up-and-go, and stair climbing), and peak oxygen consumption (VO_2peak) were assessed pre-, post-8 and post-16 weeks of training. The Chi-squared test was used for assessing differences in the prevalence of responders (Rs), non-responders (NRs), and adverse responders (ARs). Similar prevalence of individual responses (Rs, NRs and ARs) between groups were observed after intervention in almost all outcomes: 1RM; power at CMJ; QF MT, and functional tests (P > 0.05). However, a significant difference in the distribution of Rs, NRs and ARs between groups was observed in the RFD₁₀₀ after 16 weeks (p = 0.003), with PT + HIIT group presenting high prevalence of Rs than TST + HIIT (100 % vs. 50 %). The inclusion of explosive-type of contractions in a concurrent training regime induces greater responsiveness in the RFD₁₀₀ in older men, while no differences compared to traditional strength training are observed in maximal strength, muscle size, VO_2peak, and functional performance.

Acute and long-term exercise differently modulate plasma levels of oxylipins, endocannabinoids, and their analogues in young sedentary adults: A sub-study and secondary analyses from the ACTIBATE randomized controlled-trial

BACKGROUND

Fatty acid-derived lipid mediators including oxylipins, endocannabinoids (eCBs), and their analogues, have emerged as key metabolites in the inflammatory and immune response to physiological stressors.

METHODS

This report was based on a sub-study and secondary analyses the ACTIBATE single-center unblinded randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT02365129). The study was performed in the Sport and Health University Research Institute and the Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital of the University of Granada. Eligible participants were young, sedentary adults with no chronic diseases. Here, we performed both an acute endurance and resistance exercise sub-studies (n.ß=.ß14 and 17 respectively), and a 24-week supervised exercise intervention, combining endurance and resistance exercise training at moderate-intensity (MOD-EX) or vigorous-intensity (VIG-EX) exercise groups, in young sedentary adults. Randomization was performed by unrestricted randomization. Plasma levels of oxylipins, eCBs, and their analogues were measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

FINDINGS

Both endurance and resistance exercise increased by.ß+50% the plasma levels of dihomo-..-linolenic acid and arachidonic acid (AA) omega-6 derived oxylipins, as well as eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid omega-3 derived after 3 and 120.ßmin of the bout of exercise (all ..².ß....ß0.219 and P.ß..±.ß0.039). These exercise modalities also increased the levels of anandamide and eCBs analogues (+25%). 145 young sedentary adults were assigned to a control (CON, n.ß=.ß54), a MOD-EX (n.ß=.ß48) or a VIG-EX (n.ß=.ß43). 102 participants were included in the final long-term analyses (CON, n.ß=.ß36; MOD-EX, n.ß=.ß33; and VIG-EX, n.ß=.ß33) of the trial. After 24-week of supervised exercise, MOD-EX decreased plasma levels of omega-6 oxylipins, concretely linoleic acid (LA) and adrenic acid derived oxylipins, and the eCBs analogues OEA and LEA in comparison to the CON (all P.ß..±.ß0.021). VIG-EX decreased LA-derived oxylipins and LEA compared to CON. No relevant adverse events were recorded.

INTERPRETATION

Endurance and resistance exercises acutely increased plasma levels of oxylipins, eCBs, and their analogues, whereas 24 weeks of exercise training decreased fasting plasma levels of omega-6 oxylipins, and eCBs analogues in young, sedentary adults.

FUNDING

See Acknowledgments section.

Effect of performing high-intensity interval training and resistance training on the same day vs. different days in women with type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is associated with chronic inflammation as a critical factor for muscle atrophy and disease progression. Although the combination of aerobic and resistance training leads to more significant improvements in health-related indices for T2D patients, the interference effect in concurrent training can decrease positive adaptations. The purpose of this study was to investigate the physiological adaptations in performing high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and resistance training on the same day vs. different days in T2D patients. Twenty-four non-athletic 45-65-year-old women with T2D participated in an 8-week intervention. They were randomly divided into three groups: same days (SD), different days (DD), and treatment as usual (control). SD group had resistance training followed by HIIT on Saturday, Monday, and Wednesday. In contrast, the DD group had the same volume of resistance training on Saturday, Monday, and Wednesday and HIIT on Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday, with Friday as a resting day. Blood samples were collected 24 h before the first and 48 h after the last session in each group to measure glucose, insulin, glycosylated hemoglobin, IGF1, IL1β, CRP, lipid profile, miR-146a, and miR-29b. Three subjects dropped out during the study, and 21 participants (SD = 7, DD = 6, Control = 8) completed the 8-week intervention. MiR-146a changed significantly (P = 0.006) in both SD and DD groups compared to the control group. IGF1 (P = 0.001) and fat-free mass (P = 0.001) changed significantly in SD and DD groups compared to the control group, and also DD led to more significant increases in IGF1 and fat-free mass in comparison with SD. MiR-29 (P = 0.001) changed significantly in the DD group compared to the control group. The reduction of IL-1β, fat mass and insulin resistance was significant in SD and DD compared to the control group; DD showed more potent effects than the SD group on the fat mass (P = 0.001) and insulin resistance (P = 0.001). This study demonstrated that a combination of HIIT and resistance training could be practical for improving health-related outcomes in T2D. Our study indicated for the first time that training strength and HIIT on separate days appeared to be more effective to combat muscle atrophy and insulin resistance.

Impact of concurrent training versus aerobic or resistance training on cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular strength in middle-aged to older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The effects of aerobic training (AT) on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), and resistance training (RT) on muscular strength, are well known in older adults. However, less is known about the potential additive benefits of concurrent training (CT) versus AT or RT alone in this population. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the effects of CT, versus AT or RT, on CRF and muscular strength in middle-aged to older adults. PubMed and Web of Science were searched through October 2021 to identify randomized trials evaluating CT versus AT and/or RT in middle-aged and older adults (>50 yrs). Studies were included that measured CRF, using maximal or peak oxygen uptake (VO_2max/peak); and/or lower- and upper-body muscular strength measured using 1-repetition maximum (1RM) to 10RM tests during isoinertial contractions, or peak torque during isometric dynamometry or isokinetic dynamometry at 30 to 60°/s. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were determined using random or fixed effects models. Forty-nine studies involving 2,587 middle-aged to older participants with mean ages ranging from 55 to 88 years, were included in the meta-analysis. Results indicated that CT effectively increased VO_2max/peak (SMD: 0.77, p = 0.005, 12 intervention arms) when compared to RT. In addition, CT effectively increased lower- (SMD: 0.60, p = 0.001, 43 intervention arms) and upper-body (SMD: 0.57, p = 0.001, 28 intervention arms) muscular strength when compared to AT. However, there were no differences in VO_2max/peak (SMD: 0.09, p = 0.09, 33 intervention arms) between CT and AT, or in lower-body (SMD: 0.07, p = 0.48, 21 intervention arms) and upper-body (SMD: -0.07, p = 0.38, 17 intervention arms) muscular strength between CT and RT. Overall, CT was shown to be effective for increasing CRF and muscular strength in middle-aged to older adults and there was no negative effect on the magnitude of changes in these outcomes compared to either AT or RT alone. These results suggested that CT should be considered a viable strategy to improvement of CRF and muscular strength with aging.

Effects of concurrent training on irisin and fibronectin type-III domain containing 5 (FNDC5) expression in visceral adipose tissue in type-2 diabetic rats

CONTEXT

Evidence suggests that myokines could have clinical implications for metabolic diseases such as type-2 diabetes.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the effects of concurrent training (CT) on irisin and fibronectin type-III domain containing five (FNDC5) expressions in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) in type-2 diabetic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighteen male Wistar rats (ages four to eight weeks) became diabetic using nicotinamide and streptozotocin and were assigned to either a control (CON) or a CT group using a randomised block design. The CT group exercised on a motor-driven treadmill at 60 to 75 per cent of VO_2max (0% grade) for 10-40 min/day (aerobic training) and performed 10 climbs on a 1-meter ladder utilising weighted resistance of 30-100% of body mass (resistance exercise) for 5 days/week over 8 weeks. Forty-eight hours after the last training session, the VAT of rats was removed and washed. FNDC5-relative gene expression and irisin were measured by the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Additionally, insulin resistance and plasma insulin and glucose levels were determined.

RESULTS

Our findings revealed that CT significantly increased FNDC5-relative gene expression in the VAT of type-2 diabetic rats compared to controls. Furthermore, eight weeks of CT improved insulin resistance and insulin and glucose levels but did not significantly alter irisin levels in type-2 diabetic rats.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The results of this study demonstrated that CT increased FNDC5 mRNA and improved insulin resistance, insulin, and glucose levels. Also observed were increased trends (non-significant, p = .051) in irisin levels. Hence, CT may play a role in attenuating metabolic disorders such as obesity and type-2 diabetes.

Quality of life responses after combined and aerobic water-based training programs in older women: a randomized clinical trial (ACTIVE Study)

BACKGROUND

Quality of life (QoL) is an important health index for older adults.

AIM

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of 16 weeks of aerobic training to 8 weeks of aerobic followed by 8 weeks of combined (i.e., resistance and aerobic exercises) training, as well as to a control group on the QoL of older women exercising in the aquatic environment.

METHODS

52 older women were first randomized to either aerobic training (n = 35) or a control group (n = 17). After 8 weeks of intervention, participants initially assigned to the aerobic training group were again randomized to either 8 additional weeks of aerobic (n = 17) or combined training (n = 18). Aerobic training was performed at the heart rate percentage associated with the anaerobic threshold, while resistance training sets were performed at maximal effort. The control group performed low-intensity water-based therapeutic exercises. QoL was assessed before (week 0) and after the intervention (week 17) using the WHOQOL-BREEF and WHOQOL-OLD questionnaires. Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) and Bonferroni post hoc tests (α = 0.05) were used to compare time points and groups.

RESULTS

QoL improved significantly only in the training groups after the 16-week training intervention, whereas it remained unchanged in the control group. In addition, autonomy, environment, and present, past and future activities domains were more impacted after combined training.

CONCLUSION

QoL improved only in the water-based training groups, and the addition of resistance exercises to the training program resulted in additional benefits to autonomy, environment, and past, present, and future activities domains.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical Trials NCT03892278.

Effects of recreational sports and combined training on blood pressure and glycated hemoglobin in middle-aged and older adults: A systematic review with meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Combined resistance and aerobic training (CT) is the most suitable form of exercise training to simultaneously improve strength and cardiometabolic profile in middle-aged and older adults. Recreational sports (RS) emerge as an alternative to CT to improve these outcomes. We performed a meta-analysis on the effects of RS and CT on systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in middle-aged and older adults and to compare these exercise interventions to a non-exercising control group (CON).

METHODS

Search was conducted using the databases at PubMed, COCHRANE and SciELO between July and August 2020. Studies that included men and women aged ≥45 years, healthy or with values for SBP ≥130 mmHg or DBP ≥80 mmHg or with type 2 diabetes and performed RS or CT versus CON.

RESULTS

From 6017 records, 27 studies were included (9 RS and 18 CT). The analysis included 1411 participants with 55 ± 8 years. RS and CT were associated with reductions in SBP (RS: -7.2 mmHg, P = 0.03; CT: -3.6 mmHg, P < 0.001) and DBP (RS: -3.6 mmHg, P = 0.02; CT: -3.1 mmHg, P < 0.001) versus CON. Only CT was associated with a reduction in HbA1c versus CON (-0.47%; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

RS and CT are effective exercise interventions to improve BP in middle-aged and older adults. CT seems to be an excellent strategy to reduce HbA1c, and future studies are necessary to confirm the effectiveness of RS to improve HbA1c.

Effects of high-intensity interval training combined with traditional strength or power training on functionality and physical fitness in healthy older men: A randomized controlled trial

Concurrent training (CT) is an efficient strategy to improve neuromuscular function and cardiorespiratory fitness in older adults, which are factors of pivotal importance for the maintenance of functional capacity with aging. However, there is a lack of evidence about the effectiveness of power training (PT) as an alternative to traditional strength training (TST) during CT. Thus, the aim of the present study was to examine the effect of 16 weeks (twice weekly) TST combined with high intensity interval training (TST + HIIT) vs. PT combined with HIIT (PT + HIIT) on functional performance, cardiorespiratory fitness and body composition in older men. Thirty five older men (65.8 ± 3.9 years) were randomly allocated into two training groups: TST + HIIT (n = 18), and PT + HIIT (n = 17). TST + HIIT performed resistance training at intensities ranging from 65% to 80% 1RM at slow controlled speed (≅ 2 s for each concentric phase), whereas PT + HIIT trained at intensities ranging from 40% to 60% of 1RM at maximal intentional speed. Both groups performed HIIT at intensities ranging from 75 to 90% of VO_2peak. Participants performed functional tests (sit-to-stand, timed-up-and-go, stair climbing); cardiopulmonary exercise testing (maximal cycling power output: W_max, peak oxygen uptake: VO_2peak, cycling economy), as well as body composition assessment (DXA) before, post 8 and post 16 weeks of training. The groups improved similarly (P < 0.05) with training in all functional capacity outcomes, W_max, cycling economy, VO_2peak and body composition (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that HIIT based CT programs involving TST vs. PT are equally effective in improving functionality, cardiorespiratory fitness and body composition in healthy older men.

Combined exercise training improves specific domains of cognitive functions and metabolic markers in middle-aged and older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus

AIM

To investigate the effects of 8-weeks of CT on specific domains of cognitive function, metabolic and cardiovascular parameters of subjects with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

31 sedentary T2DM adults and older divided into CT (3x/week, during 8-week, n = 16) or Control group (CONT, n = 15). Before and after the intervention, a cognitive task battery, blood samples, and functional tests were assessed.

RESULTS

CT improved inhibitory control (d = 0.89), working memory (d = 0.88), cognitive flexibility (d = 0.67) and attention/concentration (d = 0.64) in T2DM subjects. However, memory, verbal fluency, and processing speed (d < 0.1, p > 0.05 for all) were not changed. The CT-induced improvements on global cognitive z-score (r = -0.51; p < 0.001) were inversely correlated to cognitive screening scores. Moreover, CT improved functional performance (p < 0.05) and reduced insulin levels (p = 0.04). Although there was no statistical significance, there were a clinically relevant reduction of peripheral insulin sensitivity (d = 0.51, p = 0.09), resistin levels (d = 0.53, p = 0.08), diastolic (d = 0.63, p = 0.09) and mean blood pressure (d = 0.50, p = 0.09). Conversely, no changes were observed for glucose, fructosamine and blood lipids (d < 0.2 for all).

CONCLUSION

CT partially reversed the negative effects of T2DM on specific cognitive domains possibly by amelioration of metabolic regulation. Moreover, lower cognitive scores may modulate the responsivity of cognitive function to CT.

Concurrent training and Eri silkworm pupae ingestion improve resting and exercise fat oxidation and energy expenditure in obese adults

A randomized control trial was conducted to investigate the effects of combined concurrent training and Eri silkworm pupae ingestion on resting and exercise fat oxidation (FAO), as well as energy expenditure, and cardiometabolic risk markers in obese adults. Thirty-six sedentary, obese participants were divided into three groups: (1) placebo control group (CON, n=12), (2) Eri silkworm pupae ingestion group (ERI, n=12), and (3) combined concurrent training and Eri silkworm pupae ingestion group (CBT-ERI, n=12). Participants in the ERI and the CBT-ERI con-sumed 5-g Eri silkworm pupae/day (approximately 2.5-g linolenic acid). The concurrent training program comprised of supervised aerobic and resistance training: three 1-hr sessions/wk for 8 weeks. Body composi-tion, energy expenditure, and FAO at rest and during exercise, heart rate variability, and blood chemistry were measured before and after the 8-week interventions. Following the interventions, resting FAO, the natural logarithm of very low-frequency power (lnVLF), and high-sensi-tive C-reactive protein concentration significantly improved in both the ERI and the CBT-ERI. Only the CBT-ERI improved resting energy expen-diture, FAO during exercise, trunk and gynoid fat mass, total cholesterol concentration, the standard deviation of normal R-R intervals (SDNN), and the percentage difference between adjacent normal R-R intervals >50 ms. Furthermore, there were significant correlations between rest-ing energy expenditure and FAO, lnVLF and SDNN in the CBT-ERI. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that concurrent training together with dietary Eri silkworm pupae leads to increased energy expenditure through a significant increase in FAO at rest and during exercise, as well as reduced fat mass.

Adaptations to strength training differ between endurance-trained and untrained women

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to investigate if endurance athletes, sustaining their normal endurance training, experience attenuated adaptations to strength training compared to untrained individuals.

METHODS

Eleven non-strength-trained female endurance athletes (E + S) added 11 weeks of strength training to their normal endurance training (5.1 ± 1.1 h per week), and 10 untrained women (S) performed the same strength training without any endurance training. The strength training consisted of four leg exercises [3 × 4 - 10 repetition maximum (RM)], performed twice a week for 11 weeks.

RESULTS

E + S and S displayed similar increases in 1RM one-legged leg press (E + S 39 ± 19%, S 42 ± 17%, p < 0.05), maximal isometric torque in knee extension (E + S 12 ± 11%, S 8 ± 10%, p < 0.05) and lean mass in the legs (E + S 3 ± 4%, S 3 ± 3%, p < 0.05). However, S displayed superior increases in peak torque in knee extension at an angular velocity of 240° sec^-1 (E + S 8 ± 5%, S 15 ± 7%, p < 0.05) and maximal squat jump height (E + S 8 ± 6%, S 14 ± 7%, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, concurrent training did not impair the adaptations in the ability to develop force at low contraction velocities or muscle hypertrophy. However, concurrent training attenuated strength training-associated changes in the ability to develop force at higher muscular contraction velocities.

Adaptations in mechanical muscle function, muscle morphology, and aerobic power to high-intensity endurance training combined with either traditional or power strength training in older adults: a randomized clinical trial

PURPOSE

There is a lack of information on the effects of power training (PT) as an alternative to traditional strength training (TST) during concurrent training (CT) in older individuals. This study aimed to verify the neuromuscular adaptations that occurred following 16-week interventions with two CT models in older men: high-intensity interval training (HIIT) combined with either TST or PT.

METHODS

Thirty-five older men (65.8 ± 3.9 years) were randomly assigned into one of two training groups CTS: TST + HIIT (n = 18) or CTP: PT + HIIT (n = 17). CTS performed resistance training at intensities ranging from 65 to 80% of 1 RM at slow controlled speed, whereas CTP trained at intensities ranging from 40 to 60% of 1 RM at maximal intentional speed. Lower body one-repetition maximum (1 RM), isometric rate of force development (RFD), countermovement jump (CMJ) muscle power output, quadriceps femoris muscles thickness (QF MT), and peak oxygen uptake (VO_2peak) were assessed before training and after 8 and 16 weeks of CT.

RESULTS

Groups improved similarly in all primary outcomes (P < 0.05), with mean increases ranging: 1 RM (from 39.4 to 75.8%); RFD (from 9.9 to 64.8%); and CMJ muscle power (from 1.8 to 5.2%). Significant increases (P < 0.05) were observed in all secondary outcomes (QF MT, specific tension and VO_2peak) with no differences between groups.

CONCLUSION

CT models were effective for improving maximal and explosive force (1 RM, RFD, and CMJ power), QF MT, and VO_2peak. Moreover, despite that using lower loading intensities, PT induced similar adaptations to those of TST.

The effect of training order on neuromuscular, endocrine and mood response to small-sided games and resistance training sessions over a 24-h period

OBJECTIVES

This study examined the acute effect of small-sided-game (SSG) and resistance training sequence on neuromuscular, endocrine and mood response over a 24-h (h) period.

DESIGN

Repeated measures.

METHODS

Fourteen semi-professional soccer players performed SSG-training (4vs4+goalkeepers; 6×7-min, 2-min inter-set recovery) followed by resistance training 2h later (back-squat, Romanian deadlift, barbell-hip-thrust; 4×4 repetitions, 4-min inter-set recovery; 85% 1 rep-max) (SSG+RES), and on a separate week reversed the session order (RES+SSG). Physical demands of SSG's were monitored using global positioning systems (GPS) and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE). Countermovement-jump (CMJ; peak power output; jump height) and brief assessment of mood were collected before (pre), during (0h) and after (+24h) both protocols. Salivary testosterone and cortisol concentrations were obtained at the same time-points but with the inclusion of a measure immediately prior to the second training session (+2h).

RESULTS

GPS outputs and RPE were similar between SSG-training during both protocols. Between-protocol comparisons revealed no significant differences at +24h in CMJ performance, mood, and endocrine markers. Testosterone was higher at 0h during RES+SSG in comparison to SSG+RES (moderate-effect; +21.4±26.7pgml^-1; p=0.010), yet was similar between protocols by +2h.

CONCLUSIONS

The order of SSG and resistance training does not appear to influence the physical demands of SSG's with sufficient recovery between two sessions performed on the same day. Session order did not influence neuromuscular, endocrine or mood responses at +24h, however a favourable testosterone response from the resistance first session may enhance neuromuscular performance in the second session of the day.

Metabolic rate in sedentary adults, following different exercise training interventions: The FIT-AGEING randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

This study compares the influence of different exercise training programs on basal metabolic rate (BMR) and fat oxidation, in basal conditions (BFox) and during exercise (MFO), in sedentary, middle-aged adults.

METHODS

The study subjects of this 12 week-long, randomised controlled trial, were 71 middle-aged adults (age 53.5 ± 4.9 years; 52% women). Subjects were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: (1) no exercise, (2) concurrent training based on international physical activity recommendations (PAR group), (3) high intensity interval training (HIIT group), and (4) high intensity interval training plus whole-body electromyostimulation (HIIT + EMS group). Subject BMR, BFox and MFO were determined by indirect calorimetry before and after the intervention.

RESULTS

The HIIT + EMS subjects showed significant increases in BFox following the intervention compared with the control group (all P = 0.043); no such differences were seen in the PAR and HIIT compared with the control group (all P ≥ 0.1). A significant increase in post-intervention MFO was noted for the HIIT and HIIT + EMS group compared to the non-exercise control group (P < 0.05); no such difference was seen in the PAR group compared to the control group (all P ≥ 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Twelve weeks of high intensity interval training plus whole-body electromyostimulation may increase the BFox and MFO of middle-aged sedentary adults. These findings have important clinical implications; a well-designed high-intensity interval training program plus whole-body electromyostimulation might be followed to help combat the appearance of chronic metabolic diseases characterized by metabolic inflexibility in middle-aged sedentary adults, though it will be necessary to determine how long the effects last.

Low intensity rowing with blood flow restriction over 5 weeks increases V̇O2max in elite rowers: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

The present randomized controlled intervention study examined the effects of practical blood flow restriction (pBFR) on maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O₂max) during low intensity rowing.

DESIGN

Thirty-one elite rowers were either assigned to the intervention (INT) or control (CON) group, using the minimization method (Strata: Gender, Age, Height, V̇O₂max).

METHOD

While INT (n=16; 4 female, 12 male, 21.9±3.2 years, 180.4±8.7cm, 73.6±10.9kg, V̇O₂max: 63.0±7.9ml/min/kg) used pBFR during boat- and indoor-rowing training, CON (n=15, 4 female, 11 male, 21.7±3.7 years, 180.7±8.1cm, 72.5±12.1kg, V̇O₂max: 63.2±8.5ml/min/kg) completed the identical training without pBFR. pBFR of the lower limb was applied via customized elastic wraps. Training took place three times a week over 5 weeks (accumulated net pBFR: 60min/week; occlusion per session: 2-times 10min/session) and was used exclusively at low intensities (<2mmol/L). A spiroergometric ramp test (V̇O₂max; 30-40W/min increase) on rowing-ergometer and one-repetition maximum test of the squat exercise (SQ1RM) was employed to assess endurance and strength capacity.

RESULTS

Significant group×time interactions (η_p²=0.26) in favor of INT were found for V̇O₂max (+9.1±6.2%, Effect Size=1.3) compared to CON (+2.5±6.1%, ES=0.3). SQ1RM (η_p²=0.01) was not affected by the pBFR intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that 15 sessions of pBFR application with a cumulative total pBFR load of 5h over a 5 weeks macrocycle remarkably increased V̇O₂max. Thus, pBFR might serve as a promising means to improve aerobic capacity in highly trained elite rowers.

The neuromuscular, endocrine and mood responses to a single versus double training session day in soccer players

OBJECTIVES

This study profiled the 24h neuromuscular, endocrine and mood responses to a single versus a double training day in soccer players.

DESIGN

Repeated measures.

METHODS

Twelve semi-professional soccer players performed small-sided-games (SSG's; 4 vs 4+goalkeepers; 6×7-min, 2-min inter-set recovery) with neuromuscular (peak-power output, PPO; jump height, JH), endocrine (salivary testosterone, cortisol), and mood measures collected before (pre) and after (0h, +24h). The following week, the same SSG protocol was performed with an additional lower body strength training session (back-squat, Romanian deadlift, barbell hip thrust; 4×4 repetitions, 4-min inter-set recovery; 85% 1 rep-max) added at 2h after the SSG's.

RESULTS

Between-trial comparisons revealed possible to likely small impairments in PPO (2.5±2.2Wkg^-1; 90% Confidence Limits: ±2.2Wkg^-1), JH (-1.3; ±2.0cm) and mood (4.6; ±6.1AU) in response to the double versus single sessions at +24h. Likely to very likely small favourable responses occurred following the single session for testosterone (-15.2; ±6.1pgml^-1), cortisol (0.072; ±0.034ugdl^-1) and testosterone/cortisol ratio (-96.6; ±36.7AU) at +24h compared to the double session trial.

CONCLUSIONS

These data highlight that performance of two training sessions within a day resulted in possible to very likely small impairments of neuromuscular performance, mood score and endocrine markers at +24h relative to a single training session day. A strategy of alternating high intensity explosive training days containing multiple sessions with days emphasising submaximal technical/tactical activities may be beneficial for those responsible for the design and delivery of soccer training programs.

The epidemiology of aerobic physical activity and muscle-strengthening activity guideline adherence among 383,928 U.S. adults

BACKGROUND

The World Health Organization's 'Global Recommendations on Physical Activity for Health' state that adults should engage in regular moderate-to-vigorous intensity aerobic physical activity (MVPA; e.g. walking, running, cycling) and muscle-strengthening activity (MSA; e.g. strength/resistance training). However, assessment of both MVPA and MSA is rare in physical activity surveillance. The aim of this study is to describe the prevalence, correlates and chronic health conditions associated with meeting the combined MVPA-MSA guidelines among a population representative sample of U.S. adults.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, data were drawn from the U.S. 2015 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. During telephone interviews, MVPA and MSA were assessed using validated questionnaires. We calculated the proportions meeting both the global MVPA and MSA physical activity guidelines (MVPA ≥150 min/week and MSA ≥2 sessions/week). Poisson regressions with a robust error variance were used to assess: (i) prevalence ratios (PR) for meeting both guidelines across sociodemographic factors (e.g. age, sex, education, income, race/ethnicity); and (ii) PRs of 12 common chronic health conditions (e.g. diabetes, coronary heart disease, hypertension, depression) across different categories of physical activity guideline adherence (met neither [reference]; MSA only; MVPA only; met both).

RESULTS

Among 383,928 adults (aged 18-80 years), 23.5% (95% CI: 20.1, 20.6%) met the combined MVPA-MSA guidelines. Those with poorer self-rated health, older adults, women, lower education/income and current smokers were less likely to meet the combined guidelines. After adjustment for covariates (e.g. age, self-rated health, income, smoking) compared with meeting neither guidelines, MSA only and MVPA only, meeting the combined MVPA-MSA guidelines was associated with the lowest PRs for all health conditions (APR range: 0.44-0.76), and the clustering of ≥6 chronic health conditions (APR = 0.33; 95% CI: 0.31-0.35).

CONCLUSIONS

Eight out of ten U.S. adults do not meet the global physical activity guidelines. This study supports the need for comprehensive health promotion strategies to increase the uptake and adherence of MVPA-MSA among U.S. adults. Large-scale interventions should target specific population sub-groups including older adults, women, those with poorer health and lower education/income.

Associations between aerobic and muscle-strengthening exercise with depressive symptom severity among 17,839 U.S. adults

For the prevention and management of chronic diseases, global physical activity guidelines state that an adult should engage in regular moderate-to-vigorous aerobic physical activity (MVPA; e.g. walking, cycling, running) and muscle-strengthening exercise (MSE; e.g. strength/resistance training). However, the associations between combined MVPA-MSE with chronic health conditions are rarely examined in large population studies. In particular, little is known associations between combined MVPA-MSE with depressive disorders, one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. The aim of this study is to describe the associations between MVPA and MSE with depressive symptom severity among a large sample of U.S. adults. Data were drawn from the U.S. 2015 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. During phone interviews, MVPA, MSE and depressive symptom severity were assessed by validated questionnaires. Poisson regression with a robust error or variance were used to assess prevalence ratios (PR) of depressive symptom severity (mild, moderate, moderately severe/severe) across categories of physical activity guideline adherence (met neither [reference]; MSE only; MVPA only; met both), adjusting for a set of potential cofounders. Data were available on 17,839 adults (18-85 years). When compared with those meeting neither guideline, for mild, moderate and moderately severe/severe depressive symptoms, the PRs were lowest among meeting both guidelines (range: 0.26-0.54), followed by MVPA only (range: 0.36-0.62) and MSE only (range: 0.49-0.84). Among a large sample of U.S. adults, compared to other guideline adherence categories, meeting both MVPA-MSE guidelines was associated with a lowest likelihood of reporting depressive symptoms.

Combined effects of very short "all out" efforts during sprint and resistance training on physical and physiological adaptations after 2 weeks of training

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to compare the combined effects of resistance and sprint training, with very short efforts (5 s), on aerobic and anaerobic performances, and cardiometabolic health-related parameters in young healthy adults.

METHODS

Thirty young physically active individuals were randomly allocated into four groups: resistance training (RTG), sprint interval training (SITG), concurrent training (CTG), and control (CONG). Participants trained 3 days/week for 2 weeks in the high-intensity interventions that consisted of 6-12 "all out" efforts of 5 s separated by 24 s of recovery, totalizing ~ 13 min per session, with 48-72 h of recovery between sessions. Body composition, vertical jump, lower body strength, aerobic and anaerobic performances, heart rate variability (HRV), and redox status were evaluated before and after training. Total work (TW), rating of perceived exertion (CR-10 RPE) and mean HR (HR_mean) were monitored during sessions. Incidental physical activity (PA), dietary intake and perceived stress were also controlled.

RESULTS

Maximum oxygen consumption (VO_2max) significantly increased in SITG and CTG (P < 0.05). Lower body strength improved in RTG and CTG (P < 0.05), while countermovement jump (CMJ) was improved in RTG (P = 0.04) only. Redox status improved after all interventions (P < 0.05). No differences were found in TW, PA, dietary intake, and psychological stress between groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

RT and SIT protocols with very short "all out" efforts, either performed in isolation, or combined, demonstrated improvement in several physical fitness- and health-related parameters. However, CT was the most efficient exercise intervention with improvement observed in the majority of the parameters.

The effects of concurrent training (aerobic-resistance) and milk consumption on some markers of bone mineral density in women with osteoporosis

Background

Osteoporosis is a skeletal metabolic disorder characterized by low bone mineral density (BMD) and reduced bone strength leading to higher bone fractures risk. The present study attempted to investigate the effects of concurrent training (aerobic-resistance) and milk consumption on some markers of BMD in women with osteoporosis.

Methods

For this purpose, forty women diagnosed with osteoporosis within an age range of 30-45 years were divided into four groups of ten including concurrent training-milk, concurrent training, milk consumption and control group. The concurrent exercises were performed in ten weeks with three sessions in each week including aerobic training (running at 55–75% of maximum heart rate) and resistance training (4 move in a circle performed two times with 10 repetition maximum (RM)). Milk consumption was two times of 250 ml per day in ten weeks. Before and after treatment, BMDs in the hip and lumbar spine area were estimated with Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) device and 5 cc blood was taken from a vein in the arm to determine the blood levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OH-D) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP).

Results

Based on the results, blood levels 25OH-D and ALP significantly increased in concurrent training-milk, concurrent training and milk group with higher increase in concurrent training-milk group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the right and left hip BMD in concurrent training-milk and concurrent training groups increased significantly with higher increase in concurrent training-milk group (p < 0.05). Also, lumbar spine BMD increased significantly in concurrent training-milk and concurrent training (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

It seems that combination of concurrent training and milk consumption has more efficient impacts on the BMD of young women diagnosed with osteoporosis compared to the milk or concurrent training groups alone. This treatment can be used as an effective way to improve BMD in young women with diagnosed osteoporosis.

Heavy strength training improves running and cycling performance following prolonged submaximal work in well-trained female athletes

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of adding heavy strength training to female duathletes' normal endurance training on both cycling and running performance. Nineteen well‐trained female duathletes (VO_2max cycling: 54 ± 3 ml∙kg⁻¹∙min⁻¹, VO_2max running: 53 ± 3 ml∙kg⁻¹∙min⁻¹) were randomly assigned to either normal endurance training (E, n = 8) or normal endurance training combined with strength training (E+S, n = 11). The strength training consisted of four lower body exercises [3 × 4‐10 repetition maximum (RM)] twice a week for 11 weeks. Running and cycling performance were assessed using 5‐min all‐out tests, performed immediately after prolonged periods of submaximal work (3 h cycling or 1.5 h running). E+S increased 1RM in half squat (45 ± 22%) and lean mass in the legs (3.1 ± 4.0%) more than E. Performance during the 5‐min all‐out test increased in both cycling (7.0 ± 4.5%) and running (4.7 ± 6.0%) in E+S, whereas no changes occurred in E. The changes in running performance were different between groups. E+S reduced oxygen consumption and heart rate during the final 2 h of prolonged cycling, whereas no changes occurred in E. No changes occurred during the prolonged running in any group. Adding strength training to normal endurance training in well‐trained female duathletes improved both running and cycling performance when tested immediately after prolonged submaximal work.

Adding high-intensity interval training to conventional training modalities: optimizing health-related outcomes during chemotherapy for breast cancer: the OptiTrain randomized controlled trial

Purpose

Exercise training is an effective and safe way to counteract cancer-related fatigue (CRF) and to improve health-related quality of life (HRQoL). High-intensity interval training has proven beneficial for the health of clinical populations. The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to compare the effects of resistance and high-intensity interval training (RT–HIIT), and moderate-intensity aerobic and high-intensity interval training (AT–HIIT) to usual care (UC) in women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy. The primary endpoint was CRF and the secondary endpoints were HRQoL and cancer treatment-related symptoms.

Methods

Two hundred and forty women planned to undergo chemotherapy were randomized to supervised RT–HIIT, AT–HIIT, or UC. Measurements were performed at baseline and at 16 weeks. Questionnaires included Piper Fatigue Scale, EORTC-QLQ-C30, and Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale.

Results

The RT–HIIT group was superior to UC for CRF: total CRF (p = 0.02), behavior/daily life (p = 0.01), and sensory/physical (p = 0.03) CRF. Role functioning significantly improved while cognitive functioning was unchanged for RT–HIIT compared to declines shown in the UC group (p = 0.04). AT–HIIT significantly improved emotional functioning versus UC (p = 0.01) and was superior to UC for pain symptoms (p = 0.03). RT–HIIT reported a reduced symptom burden, while AT–HIIT remained stable compared to deteriorations shown by UC (p < 0.01). Only RT–HIIT was superior to UC for total symptoms (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

16 weeks of resistance and HIIT was effective in preventing increases in CRF and in reducing symptom burden for patients during chemotherapy for breast cancer. These findings add to a growing body of evidence supporting the inclusion of structured exercise prescriptions, including HIIT, as a vital component of cancer rehabilitation.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov Registration Number: NCT02522260.

The Individual, Joint, and Additive Interaction Associations of Aerobic-Based Physical Activity and Muscle Strengthening Activities on Metabolic Syndrome

PURPOSE

Previous research has demonstrated that physical activity and muscle strengthening activities are independently and inversely associated with metabolic syndrome. Despite a number of studies examining the individual associations, only a few studies have examined the joint associations, and to our knowledge, no previous studies have examined the potential additive interaction of performing muscle strengthening activities and aerobic-based physical activity and their association with metabolic syndrome.

METHOD

Using data from the 2003 to 2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), we computed three separate multivariable logistic regression models to examine the individual, combined, and additive interaction of meeting guidelines for accelerometer-assessed physical activity and self-reported muscle strengthening activities, and their association with metabolic syndrome.

RESULTS

We found that individuals meeting physical activity and muscle strengthening activity guidelines, respectively, were at 61 and 25 % lower odds of having metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, individuals meeting both guidelines had the lowest odds of having metabolic syndrome (70 %), in part due to the additive interaction of performing both modes of exercise.

CONCLUSION

In this national sample, accelerometer-assessed physical activity and muscle strengthening activities were synergistically associated with metabolic syndrome.

A critical review of the current evidence examining whether resistance training improves time trial performance

A number of reviews have concluded that resistance training is beneficial for improving sports performance despite the inclusion of studies which do not actually measure a performance outcome (i.e. a timed trial). The purpose of this review was to examine only those studies which would allow us to infer the benefits of resistance training on improving time trial performance. Of the nine studies meeting all inclusion criteria only three demonstrated an additive effect of adding resistance training to the current activity-specific training being performed. These three studies demonstrated improvements in either 5 or 10 km time trial among recreationally skilled athletes (i.e. non-elite level time). Previous reviews have included studies which did not include: (1) performance outcomes; (2) control groups; and/or (3) equal volumes of activity-specific exercise among the resistance training and control groups. Presently, there is little evidence that adding resistance exercise to a sport-specific training program will augment time trial performance. While it is difficult to perform such long-term studies assessing the effects of resistance training among time trial athletes, the statement that resistance training is efficacious for improving time trial performance should be tempered until sufficient evidence is presented to support such claims.

Moderate Intensity Cycling Exercise after Upper Extremity Resistance Training Interferes Response to Muscle Hypertrophy but Not Strength Gains

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of 30-min moderate intensity cycling exercise immediately after upper-body resistance training on the muscle hypertrophy and strength gain. Fourteen subjects were randomly divided between two groups. One group performed moderate intensity (55% of maximum oxygen consumption [VO_2max], 30 min) cycle training immediately after arm resistance training as concurrent training (CT; n = 7, age: 21.8 ± 0.7 years, height: 1.68 ± 0.06 m, weight: 60.3 ± 7.4 kg); the second group performed the same endurance and arm RT on separate days as control group (SEP; n=7, age: 22.1 ± 0.7 years, height: 1.76 ± 0.05 m, weight: 63.8 ± 3.6 kg). The supervised progressive RT program was designed to induce muscular hypertrophy (3-5 sets of 10 repetitions) with bilateral arm-curl exercise using 75% of the one repetition maximum (1RM) with 2-min rest intervals. The RT program was performed for 8 weeks, twice per week. Muscle cross-sectional area (CSA), 1RM, and VO_2max were measured pre- and post-training. Significant increases in muscle CSA from pre- to post-training were observed in both the SEP (p = 0.001, effect size [ES] = 0.84) and the CT groups (p = 0.004, ES = 0.45). A significant increase in 1RM from pre- to post-training was observed in the SEP (p = 0.025, ES = 0.91) and CT groups (p = 0.001, ES = 2.38). There were no interaction effects (time × group) for CSA, 1RM, or VO_2max. A significantly higher percentage change of CSA was observed in the SEP group (12.1 ± 4.9%) compared to the CT group (5.0 ± 2.7%, p = 0.029), but no significant difference was observed in the 1RM (SEP: 19.8 ± 16.8%, CT: 24.3 ± 11.1%). The data suggest that significant improvement of CSA and strength can be expected with progressive resistance training with subsequent endurance exercise performed immediately or on a different day. Changes in CSA might be affected by subsequent cycling exercise after 8 weeks of training.

Effects of concurrent and aerobic exercises on postexercise hypotension in elderly hypertensive men

Despite the fact that simultaneous performance of resistance and aerobic exercises (i.e., concurrent exercise) has become a standard exercise prescription for the elderly, no information is available on its effects on post-exercise hypotension (PEH) in elderly men with hypertension.

PURPOSE

To compare the effects of different types of exercise on PEH in elderly men with hypertension.

METHODS

Twenty elderly men with essential hypertension participated in three crossover interventions, in random order, and on separate days: a non-exercise control session at seated rest, aerobic exercise performed for 45min, and 45min of concurrent resistance and aerobic exercise consisted of 4 sets of 8 repetitions at 70% 1RM of resistance exercise followed by aerobic exercise on treadmill. After each session, blood pressure (BP) was measured continuously for 1h in the laboratory and for 24h under ambulatory conditions.

RESULTS

During the first hour in laboratory, diastolic BP was lower after aerobic (-5mmHg) and concurrent exercise (-6mmHg) in comparison with Control. Day-time diastolic BP was significantly lower after aerobic exercise (-7mmHg) when compared to the control. No significant differences were found among the three experimental sessions for night-time and 24-hour diastolic BP, as well as day-time, night-time and 24-hour systolic BP.

CONCLUSION

Concurrent exercise produced acute PEH similar to aerobic exercise but such effect did not last as long as aerobic exercise in elderly patients with essential hypertension.

Effects of high-intensity interval cycling performed after resistance training on muscle strength and hypertrophy

Aim of the study was to investigate whether high-intensity interval cycling performed immediately after resistance training would inhibit muscle strength increase and hypertrophy expected from resistance training per se. Twenty-two young men were assigned into either resistance training (RE; N = 11) or resistance training plus high-intensity interval cycling (REC; N = 11). Lower body muscle strength and rate of force development (RFD), quadriceps cross-sectional area (CSA) and vastus lateralis muscle architecture, muscle fiber type composition and capillarization, and estimated aerobic capacity were evaluated before and after 8 weeks of training (2 times per week). Muscle strength and quadriceps CSA were significantly and similarly increased after both interventions. Fiber CSA increased significantly and similarly after both RE (type I: 13.6 ± 3.7%, type IIA: 17.6 ± 4.4%, type IIX: 23.2 ± 5.7%, P < 0.05) and REC (type I: 10.0 ± 2.7%, type IIA: 14.8 ± 4.3% type IIX: 20.8 ± 6.0%, P < 0.05). In contrast, RFD decreased and fascicle angle increased (P < 0.05) only after REC. Capillary density and estimated aerobic capacity increased (P < 0.05) only after REC. These results suggest that high-intensity interval cycling performed after heavy-resistance exercise may not inhibit resistance exercise-induced muscle strength/hypertrophy after 2 months of training, while it prompts aerobic capacity and muscle capillarization. The addition of high-intensity cycling after heavy-resistance exercise may decrease RFD partly due to muscle architectural changes.

10 weeks of heavy strength training improves performance-related measurements in elite cyclists

Elite cyclists have often a limited period of time available during their short preparation phase to focus on development of maximal strength; therefore, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of 10-week heavy strength training on lean lower-body mass, leg strength, determinants of cycling performance and cycling performance in elite cyclists. Twelve cyclists performed heavy strength training and normal endurance training (E&S) while 8 other cyclists performed normal endurance training only (E). Following the intervention period E&S had a larger increase in maximal isometric half squat, mean power output during a 30-s Wingate sprint (P < 0.05) and a tendency towards larger improvement in power output at 4 mmol ∙ L^-1 [la^-] than E (P = 0.068). There were no significant difference between E&S and E in changes in 40-min all-out trial (4 ± 6% vs. -1 ± 6%, respectively, P = 0.13). These beneficial effects may encourage elite cyclists to perform heavy strength training and the short period of only 10 weeks should make it executable even in the compressed training and competition schedule of elite cyclists.

Effects of concurrent aerobic and strength training on breast cancer survivors: a pilot study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of a combined aerobic and strength program on physiological and psychological parameters in female breast cancer survivors.

STUDY DESIGN

Randomised controlled trial.

METHODS

20 patients (age: 45.6 ± 2.7 yrs) surgically treated for breast cancer that had completed all cancer therapies at least 6 months before and with no contraindications to physical activity, were recruited and randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 10) and a control group (n = 10). Intervention group patients attend to a 24-week combined aerobic and strength training program. Physiological (i.e. VO2max, bioelectrical impedance test, maximal strength of principal muscular groups) and psychological (i.e. functional assessment of chronic illness therapy-fatigue: FACIT-F) parameters were assessed at baseline and after 24 weeks.

RESULTS

After 24 weeks the intervention group showed significant improvement in VO2max (38.8%), strength of upper and lower limbs (ranging from 13 to 60%) and decrease in fat mass percentage (-6.3%). The FACIT-F showed significant increase in all of the three scores that can be derived (FACIT-F Trial outcome: 13%; FACT-G total score: 18%; FACIT-F total score: 15%) showing patient's quality of life (QOL) improvement. No significant change in all the parameters was found for the control group.

CONCLUSION

These results show the positive effects of a combined aerobic and strength training program on breast cancer survivors and underline the importance of the early inclusion of structured physical activity in the rehabilitation protocol.

Early phase interference between low-intensity running and power training in moderately trained females

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of low-intensity running performed immediately after lower-body power-training sessions on power development.

METHODS

Twenty young females participated in 6 weeks, 3/week, of either lower body power training (PT) or lower body power training followed by 30 min of low-intensity running (PET) eliciting 60-70 % of maximal heart rate. The following were measured before and after the training period: counter-movement jump, isometric leg press force and rate of force development (RFD), half squat 1-RM, vastus lateralis fiber type composition and cross sectional area, resting intramuscular fiber conduction velocity (MFCV), and heart rate during the modified Bruce treadmill test.

RESULTS

Counter-movement jump height and peak power increased after PT (10.7 ± 6.2 and 12.9 ± 18.7 %, p < 0.05) but not after PET (3.4 ± 7.6 and 5.11 ± 10.94 %, p > 0.05). Maximum isometric force, RFD, and half squat 1-RM increased similarly in both groups. Muscle fiber type composition was not altered in either group. Muscle fiber cross sectional area increased only after PT (17.5 ± 17.4, 14.5 ± 10.4, 20.36 ± 11.3 %, in type I, IIA, and IIX fibers, respectively, p < 0.05). Likewise, mean MFCV increased with PT only (before: 4.53 ± 0.38 m s(-1), after: 5.09 ± 0.39 m s(-1), p = 0.027). Submaximal heart rate during the Bruce treadmill test remained unchanged after PT but decreased after PET.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that low-intensity running performed after lower-body power training impairs the exercise-induced adaptation in stretch-shortening cycle jumping performance (vertical jump height, peak power), during the first 6 weeks of training, which may be partially linked to inhibited muscle fiber hypertrophy and muscle fiber conduction velocity.

Strength training improves cycling performance, fractional utilization of VO2max and cycling economy in female cyclists

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of adding heavy strength training to well-trained female cyclists' normal endurance training on cycling performance. Nineteen female cyclists were randomly assigned to 11 weeks of either normal endurance training combined with heavy strength training (E+S, n = 11) or to normal endurance training only (E, n = 8). E+S increased one repetition maximum in one-legged leg press and quadriceps muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) more than E (P < 0.05), and improved mean power output in a 40-min all-out trial, fractional utilization of VO2 max and cycling economy (P < 0.05). The proportion of type IIAX-IIX muscle fibers in m. vastus lateralis was reduced in E+S with a concomitant increase in type IIA fibers (P < 0.05). No changes occurred in E. The individual changes in performance during the 40-min all-out trial was correlated with both change in IIAX-IIX fiber proportion (r = -0.63) and change in muscle CSA (r = 0.73). In conclusion, adding heavy strength training improved cycling performance, increased fractional utilization of VO2 max , and improved cycling economy. The main mechanisms behind these improvements seemed to be increased quadriceps muscle CSA and fiber type shifts from type IIAX-IIX toward type IIA.

Nutritional strategies to support concurrent training

Concurrent training (the combination of endurance exercise to resistance training) is a common practice for athletes looking to maximise strength and endurance. Over 20 years ago, it was first observed that performing endurance exercise after resistance exercise could have detrimental effects on strength gains. At the cellular level, specific protein candidates have been suggested to mediate this training interference; however, at present, the physiological reason(s) behind the concurrent training effect remain largely unknown. Even less is known regarding the optimal nutritional strategies to support concurrent training and whether unique nutritional approaches are needed to support endurance and resistance exercise during concurrent training approaches. In this review, we will discuss the importance of protein supplementation for both endurance and resistance training adaptation and highlight additional nutritional strategies that may support concurrent training. Finally, we will attempt to synergise current understanding of the interaction between physiological responses and nutritional approaches into practical recommendations for concurrent training.

Energy expenditure combining strength and aerobic training

The combination of Strength Training (ST) with Aerobic Training (AT) exercises in the same training session, which commonly appears in literature as the concurrent training, is widely used in fitness and physical condition programs, especially when the aim is to increase the energy expenditure during and after training session. The aim of this study was to identify, through literature, whether the combination of exercises of the ST with exercises of the AT allows changes in body composition and energy expenditure during and after the training session. Chronic studies have showed a positive effect on body composition (decreased in relative body fat) when the ST are combined with AT. Similarly, the acute effects of the order of combining these two types of exercise does not seem to affect energy expenditure, measured by oxygen consumption (VO₂), during the training session and only change this expenditure in the first 15 minutes after the training session. In conclusion, we can say that the studies indicate that the combination of exercises of the ST with exercises of the AT has a positive effect on changes in body composition, and energy expenditure during and after training sessions.