A Comprehensive Workplace Exercise Intervention to Reduce Musculoskeletal Pain and Improve Functional Capacity in Office Workers: A Randomized Controlled Study

The high levels of musculoskeletal pain, in conjunction with the low levels of functional capacity, may negatively affect workers' health, efficiency, and productivity. This randomized controlled study investigated the efficacy of a 6-month comprehensive workplace exercise program on musculoskeletal pain and functional capacity in office workers. Seventy male and female office workers with musculoskeletal pain in any body area were randomly assigned to either an intervention (IG; n = 35) or a control group (CG; n = 35). The IG participated every working day (during working hours) in a 6-month supervised combined (flexibility, strength, and balance) exercise program (120 training sessions; five times/week) for the total body. The CG did not participate in any intervention. Musculoskeletal pains in nine body areas and functional capacity (flexibility, balance, and strength) of the lower and upper body were measured before and following the intervention. The IG significantly reduced duration and intensity of pain (43.1-70%; p = 0.000) as well as days of work absenteeism (84.6%; p = 0.000), while improving work capacity (87.1%; p = 0.000). Furthermore, the IG significantly increased cervical, handgrip, back, and leg maximal strength (10.3-27.1%; p = 0.000) and flexibility and balance (12.3-73.7%; p = 0.000). In CG, all musculoskeletal pain and functional capacity indices remained unchanged. In conclusion, this program may be effectively used to reduce musculoskeletal pain and improve functional capacity.

An Effective and Playful Way of Practicing Online Motor Proficiency in Preschool Children

The children's fairytale is a playful educational tool that can be modified in such a way to enhance motor proficiency. This study investigated the effect of an online exercise program with modified fairytales on children's motor proficiency during the kindergarten curriculum. Forty preschool children (20 girls and 20 boys; 5.13 ± 0.24 years old) were divided into two equal groups: an intervention (IG) group and a control group (CG). The IG followed a 3-month (3 times/week) online exercise intervention program (supervised by the class's kindergarten teacher) with modified children's fairytales, during the COVID-19 pandemic, with an aim to improve their motor proficiency. The CG did not attend any exercise intervention program. The Democritos Movement Screening Tool for Preschool Children (DEMOST-PRE), consisting of ten tests, was used to assess the children's motor proficiency. Τhe IG, after the end of the intervention program, significantly improved in the DEMOST-PRE total score (p < 0.001; mean change: 40.7%), while the CG did not significantly improve in the total score (p > 0.05). Furthermore, in the IG, a significant negative correlation between the pre-training DEMOST-PRE total score and the percentage change following the intervention (r = -0.64; p = 0.002) was observed. A modified exercise program using children's fairytales may be incorporated into the kindergarten curriculum as an effective educational tool for the improvement of motor proficiency.

The Reliability of Linear Speed with and without Ball Possession of Pubertal Soccer Players

Reliable fitness tests with low day-to-day and trial-to-trial variation are a prerequisite for tracking a player's performance or for identifying meaningful changes in training interventions. The present study examined the inter- and intra-session reliability of 30 m linear speed with and without ball possession as well as the reliability of a specific performance index of pubertal soccer players. A total of 40 pubertal (14.87 ± 1.23 years old) male soccer players performed two testing sessions (test-retest) separated by 72 h. Both testing sessions included a protocol consisting of two maximal trials of 30 m linear speed with and without ball possession. A performance index, indicating the difference between the two speed tests, was also calculated using two different equations (delta value and percentage value). The relative and absolute inter-session reliabilities were good/high for all testing variables (ICC = 0.957-0.995; SEM% = 0.62-8.83). There were also good/high relative and absolute intra-session reliabilities observed for all testing variables (ICC = 0.974-0.987; SEM% = 1.26-6.70%). According to the Bland-Altman plots, the differences between test-retest and trials for all observations were within the defined 95% limits of agreement. The reliable testing protocols and performance index for the evaluation of linear speed with and without ball possession, observed in this study, may be used in speed monitoring and training planning of pubertal soccer players.

A Chair-Based Music-Kinetic Combined Exercise Program as an Alternative Approach for Increasing Health, Functional Capacity, and Physical Fitness Indices in Middle-Aged Pre-Menopausal Women

Lately, chairs have been widely used as a cheap, easily accessible, safe, and effective training means in different settings (e.g., in gyms, the house, workplaces, and in rehabilitation). This study investigated the effectiveness of a 10-week chair-based music-kinetic integrated combined exercise program on health, functional capacity, and physical fitness indicators of middle-aged pre-menopausal women. A total of 40 healthy women (40-53 years) were assigned to two groups: exercise (EG) and control (CG). The EG followed a 10-week (3 times/weekly; 30 training sessions) chair-based exercise program including aerobic dance, flexibility, coordination, and strength exercises with body weight or auxiliary means. Selected indicators of health, functional capacity, and physical fitness were evaluated before and after the 10 weeks. Following the program, the EG significantly reduced their body fat (-2.5%), blood pressure (by -4.5 to -5.5%), the time during the timed up-and-go (TUG) test (by -10.27%), heart rate (by -6.35 to -13.78%), and the rate of perceived exertion (by -24.45 to -25.88%), while increasing respiratory function (3.5-4%), flexibility (12.17%), balance (50.38-51.07%), maximal handgrip strength (10-12.17%), and endurance strength (43.87-55.91%). The chair-based combined music-kinetic exercise program was effective and could be safely used in different settings to improve health, functional capacity, and physical fitness in middle-aged women.

Sport-Related Effect on Knee Strength Profile during Puberty: Basketball vs. Soccer

The present study examined and compared the isokinetic peak torque and the reciprocal ratios of the knee joint between young basketball and soccer players. An amount of 100 soccer and 100 basketball players took part in this study and were separated into five equal groups (n = 20), according to their chronological age (12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 years old). The absolute concentric (CON) and eccentric (ECC) peak torque of the knee flexor and extensor muscles (at 60°/s, 180°/s) were assessed using a Cybex Norm dynamometer, and the relative peak torque (per unit of body mass), as well as the conventional (CON/CON; ECC/ECC) and functional (CON/ECC; ECC/CON) ratios, were calculated. Data analysis indicated that the basketball players had higher absolute peak torque values than the soccer players throughout their developmental ages (p < 0.05). When the isokinetic peak torque values were normalized relative to body mass, no differences were observed between basketball and soccer players in any age group (p > 0.05). Additionally, no differences were observed in conventional and functional ratios between soccer and basketball players (p > 0.05). In conclusion, it appears that, during developmental ages (12-16 years old), the isokinetic strength profile (independent of body mass affecting absolute values) of knee extensor and flexor muscles develops similarly in basketball and soccer players.

An Enjoyable Workplace Combined Exercise Program for Health Promotion in Trained Employees: Yoga, Pilates, and Circuit Strength Training

Corporate wellness has become an important public health priority through the designing and implementation of different workplace exercise interventions. The objectives of this study were to investigate: (a) the effectiveness of a 4-month workplace combined yoga, Pilates, and circuit strength training program (outside work shift) on health indices, functional capacity, and physical fitness in office employees; and (b) the employees' enjoyment following the program. Fifty physically active office employees (26-55 years old) were equally divided into training (TG) and control groups (CG). The TG followed a 4-month (3 times/week, 50-60 min/training) combined yoga, Pilates, and circuit strength training program. Health indices (body composition, body mass, circumferences, musculoskeletal pains), functional capacity (flexibility, balance), and physical fitness (strength, aerobic capacity) were measured before and after the 4-month time period. After the completion of the program, the TG participants' enjoyment was assessed. The TG significantly improved (p < 0.001) all health, functional capacity (11.3-82.0%), and physical fitness indices (33.9%), except for aerobic capacity, which did not change (p > 0.05). Furthermore, a great percentage of employees (84%) reported high levels of enjoyment. This program could be effectively and safely used in workplace settings as an enjoyable intervention to improve specific health, functional capacity, and physical fitness indices in office employees.

Does Obesity Affect Neuromuscular and Cardiovascular Adaptations after a 3-Month Combined Exercise Program in Untrained Premenopausal Middle-Aged Women?

Previous studies indicated different acute adaptations between obese and lean individuals, while there is limited information with conflicting results regarding long-term adaptations. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of a 3-month integrated combined training between obese and lean middle-aged untrained premenopausal women. In total, 72 women (36 obese/36 lean) were divided into four groups: (a) obese exercise (OB-EG), (b) obese control (OB-CG), (c) lean exercise (L-EG), and (d) lean control (L-CG). The exercise groups followed a 3-month (3 times/week) integrated combined aerobic and strength training program. Health indices (body composition, body circumferences, blood pressure, respiratory function), functional capacity (flexibility, balance), and physical fitness (strength, aerobic capacity) were measured before and after the 3-month time period. Participants' enjoyment was also assessed following the program. OB-EG and L-EG significantly improved (p < 0.05) similarly across all functional capacity and physical fitness indices (10-76%; depending on the evaluation index), except balance and strength indices of the non-preferred limb where OB-EG showed greater improvement (reducing the existing pre-training strength/balance asymmetries) than L-EG. Furthermore, both obese and lean individuals showed similarly high levels of enjoyment. This program could be effectively used in fitness settings causing similar neuromuscular and cardiovascular adaptations in obese and lean women.

The Effect of Wet Conditions and Surface Combat Swimming on Shooting

INTRODUCTION

Shooting ability is an important aspect of performance in some sports and is vital during a military operation. Load carriage, clothing, and equipment normally associated with fatigue and reduced field of vision or lack of stability at a specific point are important factors that affect the ability to aim when shooting. Additionally, gun support and equipment appear to differentially affect shooting ability with varying shooting positions. All of the studies examining these factors have taken place on dry land and not in water. However, up to date, no study has examined the effect of wet conditions, especially after surface combat swimming (sCS), on shooting ability in different shooting positions. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of fatigue, produced by prolonged sCS, on a fighter's shooting ability. In addition, we investigated whether the effect of fatigue and wet conditions differed between the shooting positions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-five participants performed 10 shots in a shooting simulator while standing (ST) and 10 shots while kneeling (KN). This was performed twice and in three conditions: dry, wet, and after 1,000 m of sCS.

RESULTS

Wet conditions did not significantly affect shooting abilities. Surface combat swimming negatively affected shooting ability when both ST and KN. The reduction in the center of gravity (COG) of the shots after sCS was 3.7 ± 2.5% for ST and 3.5 ± 0.8% for KN (P < .01). This was accompanied by the increase in horizontal and vertical movement of the gun after the sCS (P < .01). Kneeling was more stable, as shown by a higher percentage of COG of the shots by 3.3 ± 0.1% (P < .01) and by fewer gun movements in both axes (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, combat swimming affects shooting ability, both in ST and in KN positions. The KN position provides better stability and improved shooting ability.

A comprehensive wellness profile in sedentary office employees: Health, musculoskeletal pains, functional capacity, and physical fitness indices

BACKGROUND

One of the most important steps for the successful designing, execution, and sustainability of a workplace wellness program is the evaluation stage.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this research was to create a comprehensive wellness profile through selected and reliable testing protocols used for the evaluation of health, functional capacity, and physical fitness in office employees.

METHODS

One hundred office employees (32-55year-old) were evaluated to create a comprehensive wellness profile. Health indices (body composition, blood pressure, respiratory function, lipidemic profile), musculoskeletal pains, functional capacity, physical fitness (cervical, handgrip, back, leg strength, cardiorespiratory fitness), and lifestyle behaviors (physical activity levels, viewing habits, smoking, alcohol consumption) were measured.Thirty of the participants performed two assessment sessions to examine the reliability of functional capacity and physical fitness indices.

RESULTS

A significant proportion of employees were overweight (40.7%) and obese (18.5%). The largest percentage of employees (78%) presented musculoskeletal problems in various areas of the body (higher rates in lower back, neck, and/or hip). A large percentage of the employees (40-65%) showed low-moderate levels in selected indices of health, physical activity (<6000 steps/day), functional capacity and physical fitness, and high levels of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. The test-retest reliability for the assessment of functional capacity and physical fitness profile was high for all testing variables (ICC = 0.92-0.99;SEM%  = 2.5-4.5).

CONCLUSION

The testing protocols are reliable and can be used in conjunction with the reference values created to evaluate selected health and wellness indicators in office-employees.

Workplace exercise program in a hospital environment: an effective strategy for the promotion of employees physical and mental health. A randomized controlled study

PURPOSE

The demanding and exhausting working hours, as well as the bad and unsuitable working conditions that prevail in several hospitals, affect employees' physical and mental health. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a daily 6-week supervised workplace exercise program on health indices, functional capacity, overall fitness, subjective vitality, and life satisfaction in health professionals.

METHODS

A randomized controlled study was used. 50 health professionals (40-55 years), working in a hospital environment, were divided into two groups: exercise (EG) and control group (CG). EG performed a 6-week supervised concurrent chair-based exercise program (stretching, strength, balance exercises, aerobic dance; 5 days/week, 30-40 min/day, 2 workouts/day lasted 15-20 min) in the hospital. Health indices (body composition, blood pressure, respiratory function), functional capacity (flexibility, balance), physical fitness (strength, cardiorespiratory fitness), subjective vitality, and life satisfaction were measured before and after the completion of the program. Additionally, after the completion of the program, EG participants' enjoyment was assessed.

RESULTS

EG significantly increased (p < 0.001) lean body mass and respiratory function (range of mean increase 3.5-4.5%, depending on the variable), functional capacity (range of mean increase 18-40%, depending on the variable), lower and upper libs maximal strength (range of mean increase 10-25%, depending on the variable), subjective vitality (41.3%) and life satisfaction (21.5%); while significantly decreased (p < 0.001) heart rate during submaximal test (- 14%), body fat and blood pressure (range of mean decrease - 3.5% to - 5.5%, depending on the variable). In CG, all the above variables did not change. Furthermore, a great percentage of employees (95%) reported high levels of enjoyment.

CONCLUSION

A workplace exercise program may be safely used for the promotion of employees' physical and mental health.

The Effect of a Surface Combat Swimming Training Program on Swimming Performance

In this study the effect of a surface combat swimming (sCS) training program on performance in freestyle swimming and sCS was examined. Forty-five officer cadets were divided into three equivalent groups: a control group (CG), a group that was trained only with a swimsuit and fins (SF), and a group that was trained with combat uniform and equipment (UE). Groups SF and UE followed a 60-min training program with sCS for 4 weeks, 4 times per week. Before and after the training program all groups performed 4×50 and 400-m freestyle swimming, 250-m sCS with a uniform and equipment, 350-m with a swimsuit and fins, and 300-m with a swimsuit. The UE group showed improved performance in 4×50-m (mean±SD 14±9 s) and in 250-m sCS (24±14 s) (p<0.01). Both the SF group and the UE group improved in 300-m sCS, in 350-m sCS and in 400-m freestyle (p<0.05). We conclude that the training adaptations seemed to be specific, not only with regard to the activity performed, but also in terms of the actual conditions of an operation, which also include equipment.

Can maximal handgrip strength and endurance be improved by an 8-week specialized strength training program in older women? A randomized controlled study

Maximal handgrip strength and endurance are important indicators of upper limb function in older adults. Up to now, there is insufficient information regarding the efficacy of specialized strength training programs for improving handgrip strength. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of an 8-week specialized handgrip strength training program on maximal handgrip strength and endurance in healthy older women. A randomized controlled trial was performed. Thirty-six healthy older women (>65 years) were randomly divided into a training group (TG) (n = 18) and a control group (CG) (n = 18). The TG participated in an 8-week specialized handgrip strength training program using rubber balls and hand grippers (2 training sessions/week, 10-15 min, 8-15 repetitions/set, 4-6 total sets/session). Prior to and after the completion of the program, maximal handgrip strength and dynamic endurance (indices: repeated maximal repetitions and percentage change in handgrip strength between first and last 6 repetitions) were assessed in both hands. Repeated measures MANOVA results indicated that maximal handgrip strength (+9.3%-10.4%) and strength values during repeated maximal repetitions (+14% to 27%) significantly increased in TG (p < 0.001), while the percentage change in handgrip strength between the first and last 6 repetitions decreased significantly (-6%) (p < 0.05), irrespective of the tested hand. The results of this study showed that an 8-week specialized handgrip strength training program can be used effectively by athletic trainers, physical and hand therapists to counteract the detrimental effects of the aging process on maximal handgrip strength and endurance in older adults.

Dynamic Handgrip Strength Endurance: A Reliable Measurement in Older Women

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Dynamic handgrip strength endurance is essential for daily activities that require repetitive gripping movements for a sustained period. At this time, there is no information about the reliability of measurement of dynamic handgrip strength endurance in older individuals. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate the test-retest reliability of dynamic handgrip strength endurance in older women.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was performed. Thirty older women aged 70.5 (3.6) years performed 2 assessment sessions (test and retest), separated by 3 days. During these sessions, the dynamic handgrip strength endurance was evaluated using a testing protocol consisted of 12 repeated maximal isometric contractions for 3 seconds, with a 5-second rest between contractions (repetitions). The maximal handgrip strength at each repetition (repeated maximal repetitions) was evaluated in both hands (preferred and nonpreferred hand) using an hydraulic dynamometer Jamar; while the percentage change (using the mean of the first and the last 3 repetitions as well as the mean of the first and the last 6 repetitions) and the fatigue index were calculated.

RESULTS

The test-retest reliability for the assessment of repeated maximal repetitions (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.82-0.95, standard error of measurement [SEM] = 0.76-1.22 kg, SEM 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.53-1.69 kg, SEM% = 3.6-8.6) and of percentage change (ICC = 0.81-0.87, SEM = 3.26%-4.40%, SEM 95% CI = 2.23-6.33%, SEM% = 3.4-4.7) was found to be high, whereas fatigue index exhibited lower reliability (ICC = 0.69-0.84, SEM% = 10.9-11.8).

CONCLUSION

A dynamic protocol of 12 repeated maximal repetitions may be used for the evaluation of dynamic handgrip strength endurance, using the repeated maximal repetitions and the percentage change as the most reliable indicators for the determination of muscle endurance. However, the assessment of fatigue index should be interpreted with more caution.

Strength Training Induces Greater Increase in Handgrip Strength than Wrestling Training per se

This study investigated the effectiveness of a specialized strength training program on maximal handgrip strength in young wrestlers. 72 young wrestlers (36 children: 8-10 years-old and 36 adolescents:13-15 years-old) participated in the present study. Both age-categories were assigned into a training group (18 children and 18 adolescents) and a control group (18 children and 18 adolescents). The training groups, in conjunction with the wrestling training performed a 4-month (2 sessions/week) specialized handgrip training program. Maximal handgrip strength was evaluated pre, at the intermediate (2 months) and at the completion of the program (4 months). Maximal handgrip strength values increased during the intermediate and post-training measurements compared to pre-training measurement in training and control groups (p<0.001). No significant differences were observed on pre-training and intermediate measurements between groups, while significant differences were observed during the post-training measurement. Training group exhibited significantly (p<0.01) greater maximal handgrip strength values than the control group irrespective of age-category and hand-preference. A 4-month handgrip strength training program, incorporated into the conventional wrestling training, provokes greater adaptations in maximal handgrip strength than the wrestling training per se. For greater handgrip training adaptations are required more than 14 specialized handgrip training-sessions.

Does the number of trials affect the reliability of handgrip strength measurement in individuals with intellectual disabilities?

The main objectives of this study were to examine which testing protocol (one/two/three trials) and method (best/average value) used for determining maximal handgrip strength is more reliable for individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) and to compare the reliability and variability of maximal handgrip strength measurement between individuals with ID and healthy individuals. Twenty individuals with ID (18.7±3.3 years) and 20 healthy individuals (18.5±3.4 years) performed six separate sessions. During these sessions, the participants' maximal handgrip strength was evaluated using three protocols with different number of trials (one/two/three). In individuals with ID, the protocols with one and two trials were less reliable (ICC=0.78-0.95; SEM%=9-21) than the protocol with three trials (ICC=0.94-0.96; SEM%=8-10) whereas in healthy individuals all protocols were equally reliable (ICC=0.95-0.99; SEM%=1.9-4.9). In individuals with ID, the mean of three trials (ICC=0.96, SEM=1.19-1.35kg, SEM%=8.2-8.7) had slightly higher reliability than the best of three trials (ICC=0.94, SEM=1.47-1.75kg, SEM%=9.2-10.1). Furthermore, the variability of maximal handgrip strength measurement was about twofold higher in individuals with ID (CV=37-45%) vs. healthy individuals (CV=21-23%). Maximal handgrip strength can be measured reliably in young individuals with ID using the mean of three trials as the most reliable approach for the determination of maximal handgrip strength.

Health-Promoting Effects of a Concurrent Workplace Training Program in Inactive Office Workers (HealPWorkers): A Randomized Controlled Study

PURPOSE

To the best of our knowledge, no previous study has examined the health-promoting effects of a daily supervised concurrent workplace training program in inactive office workers. The main objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a 6-month workplace training program on health indices, musculoskeletal pains, functional capacity, and physical fitness in office workers.

DESIGN

Randomized controlled study.

SETTING

Four workplaces in the Region of Thessaly, Greece.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 36 office workers (≥6 hours/d, 5 days/wk) were randomly assigned to either a training group (TG; n = 18) or a control group (CG; n = 18).

INTERVENTION

The TG participated, every working day, in a 6-month supervised concurrent (flexibility, strength, balance, aerobic) training program (120 training sessions, 2 workouts/d of 15-20 minutes) that was implemented, in small groups, at the workplace during the work shift. The CG did not participate in any training.

MEASURES

Health indices (body composition, blood pressure, respiratory function), musculoskeletal pains, functional capacity (flexibility, balance), and physical fitness (maximal strength, cardiorespiratory fitness) were measured before and after the completion of the program. After the completion of the program, participants' enjoyment was assessed.

ANALYSIS

Two-way analysis of variance (group × time) with repeated measures on the "time" factor.

RESULTS

The statistical power, for all parameters, ranged from 0.85 to 0.94. Training group significantly increased lean body mass (3.81%); respiratory function (4.20%-4.53%); cervical, handgrip, back, and leg maximal strength (8.75%-26.55%); and functional capacity (19.71%-188.20%; P < .001-.01; Cohen's effect size: 0.80-7.21), while significant reductions were observed on body fat (7.58%), blood pressure (4.99%-8.05%), heart rate (12.80%), and musculoskeletal pains (33.33%-100%; P < .001; Cohen's effect size: 0.81-6.21). In CG, all the above variables did not change. Furthermore, a great percentage of workers (94.4%) reported high levels of enjoyment.

CONCLUSION

The program "HealPWorkers" is an enjoyable exercise modality that may be safely and effectively used, to work settings, for the improvement of worker's health, overall fitness, and functional capacity.

An enjoyable school-based swimming training programme improves students' aquaticity

AIM

The main objectives of this research were to a) examine the test-retest reliability of aquaticity test (study 1), b) investigate the efficacy of 'swimming lesson', during the physical education course, in the aquaticity (study 2) and c) examine enjoyment from the 'swimming lesson' (study 3) in primary school students of the 3rd grade.

METHODS

In the first study, 23 students performed 2 assessment sessions for the evaluation of aquaticity, separated by 1 week. In the second study, 30 students followed a short-term swimming training programme (9 sessions). Before and after the programme, students' aquaticity was assessed. In the third study, enjoyment was examined in 273 students who followed the short-term swimming programme.

RESULTS

The test-retest reliability for the assessment of students' aquaticity was high (ICC = 0.87-0.99). Paired t tests, also, revealed significant improvement (28-62.7%) in the aquaticity of the children following the swimming programme. A great percentage of students reported high levels of enjoyment (92.2%).

CONCLUSION

A short-term swimming programme, incorporated into the physical education course, is an enjoyable exercise modality that may be used for the improvement of children's aquaticity. We, also, found that the testing protocol may be reliably used for the evaluation of aquaticity in the paediatric population.

Effects of whole-body vibration training frequency on neuromuscular performance: a randomized controlled study

This study compared the efficacy of two whole-body vibration (WBV) protocols with equal training volume and different frequency of training sessions/week on body composition and physical fitness. Sixty male air force cadets (age: 20.5±1.4 years) were randomly assigned to a lower frequency (Lf-WBV), a higher frequency (Hf-WBV) or a control group (CG). The training volume was equated (20 training sessions) between the two WBV groups, but the number of weekly training sessions was different. The Lf-WBV group trained three times per week, the Hf-WBV group trained five times per week, while the CG did not perform any training. Each training session, for both groups, included 10 sets x 1 min with 1 min rest of WBV on a synchronous vibration platform (25-35 Hz, 4-6 mm). Body composition, flexibility, maximal strength, 30 m sprint time, squat jump (SJ) and countermovement jump (CMJ) performance, Wingate test performance, and 20 m shuttle run performance were evaluated before and after training. Only the Hf-WBV group demonstrated an increase in flexibility (+7%; p<0.01; d=0.33) and maximal strength (+10%; p=0.016; d= 0.59), and a significant reduction in fat mass (-6.2%; p<0.01; d=0.21). SJ performance improved to a similar extent in both Hf-WBV and Lf-WBV groups (+7%; p<0.01; d=0.32). There were no changes in any parameter in the CG. In conclusion, only the condensed weekly WBV protocol was effective in improving body composition, flexibility, lower limb strength and power in young active individuals. The WBV protocol with the higher dispersion of training sessions per week (lower training frequency/week) improved SJ performance but did not have any effect on body composition, flexibility, or maximal strength.

Strength Profile of Hip Abductor and Adductor Muscles in Youth Elite Soccer Players

The main objective of this study was to provide an extensive isokinetic profile of the hip joint in youth soccer players, where the literature is limited. Additionally, this study investigated the effect of age on isokinetic peak torque values of hip abductor and adductor muscles and on reciprocal muscle group torque ratios in youth soccer players at different angular velocities (30 vs. 90o/s) and muscle actions (concentric vs. eccentric). Sixty young elite male soccer players were assigned into three equal groups (n = 20): children, young adolescents and older adolescents, and performed five maximal concentric and eccentric hip-abductions and adductions at 30o/s and 90o/s. The results showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in peak torque values from childhood to adolescence, with the exception of young adolescents vs. older adolescents where no differences were observed. The reciprocal ratios were not affected by age, but improved with an increase in angular velocity with the exception of the CON/ECC ratio that was higher at 30o/s. The data presented in this study provide an extensive isokinetic profile of hip abductor and adductor muscle strength in youth soccer players to assist both coaches and sports medicine professionals in strength monitoring and training.

Static and Dynamic Handgrip Strength Endurance: Test-Retest Reproducibility

PURPOSE

This study investigated the reliability of static and dynamic handgrip strength endurance using different protocols and indicators for the assessment of strength endurance.

METHODS

Forty young, healthy men and women (age, 18-22 years) performed 2 handgrip strength endurance protocols: a static protocol (sustained submaximal contraction at 50% of maximal voluntary contraction) and a dynamic one (8, 10, and 12 maximal repetitions). The participants executed each protocol twice to assess the test-retest reproducibility. Total work and total time were used as indicators of strength endurance in the static protocol; the strength recorded at each maximal repetition, the percentage change, and fatigue index were used as indicators of strength endurance in the dynamic protocol.

RESULTS

The static protocol showed high reliability irrespective of sex and hand for total time and work. The 12-repetition dynamic protocol exhibited moderate-high reliability for repeated maximal repetitions and percentage change; the 8- and 10-repetition protocols demonstrated lower reliability irrespective of sex and hand. The fatigue index was not a reliable indicator for the assessment of dynamic handgrip endurance.

CONCLUSIONS

Static handgrip endurance can be measured reliably using the total time and total work as indicators of strength endurance. For the evaluation of dynamic handgrip endurance, the 12-repetition protocol is recommended, using the repeated maximal repetitions and percentage change as indicators of strength endurance.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Practitioners should consider the static (50% maximal voluntary contraction) and dynamic (12 repeated maximal repetitions) protocols as reliable for the assessment of handgrip strength endurance. The evaluation of static endurance in conjunction with dynamic endurance would provide more complete information about hand function.

Health-Promoting Effects of Serial vs. Integrated Combined Strength and Aerobic Training

Combined strength and aerobic training programs are widely used for improving markers of physical fitness and health. We compared the efficiency of a serial and an integrated combined training program on health and overall fitness in middle-aged females. 54 females (46.7±4.5yrs) were assigned to a serial (SCG) or an integrated (ICG) combined training group or to a control group (CG). The SCG and ICG performed a 3-month training combining aerobic dance and calisthenics. The 2 training programs differ in the sequence of aerobic and strength exercises. SCG performed the strength exercises prior to aerobic; in ICG, the aerobic and strength exercises were altered in a predetermined order. Body composition/circumferences, blood pressure, respiratory function, flexibility, balance, muscle strength/endurance, power and aerobic capacity were measured before and after training. SCG and ICG significantly increased muscle strength and endurance, power, aerobic capacity, flexibility, balance, fat-free mass and respiratory function (p<0.001-0.05), while significant reductions were observed for blood pressure, heart rate and body fat/circumferences (p<0.001-0.05). However, there were no significant differences between SCG and ICG after training. Serial and integrated combined training programs confer analogous adaptations and can be used interchangeably for counteracting the detrimental effects of sedentary lifestyle on indices of physical fitness and health.

Reliability of concentric and eccentric strength of hip abductor and adductor muscles in young soccer players

The concentric and eccentric strength profile and muscular balance of the hip joint are important parameters for success in soccer. This study evaluated the reliability for the assessment of hip abduction and adduction isokinetic strength over a range of angular velocities (30 and 90°/s) and types of muscular actions (concentric and eccentric) in young soccer players. The reliability for the assessment of reciprocal (conventional and functional) and bilateral torque ratios was also examined. Fifteen male soccer players (15±1 years) performed two sessions, separated by three days. The testing protocol consisted of five maximal concentric and eccentric hip abductions and adductions of both legs at angular velocities of 30°/s and 90°/s. The peak torque was evaluated in young soccer players using an isokinetic dynamometer (Cybex Norm), and the reciprocal strength ratios (conventional and functional) and bilateral ratios (non-preferred to preferred leg ratios) were calculated. The test-retest reliability for the assessment of peak torque (ICC = 0.71-0.92) and of reciprocal muscle group ratios (ICC = 0.44-0.87) was found to be moderate to high. Bilateral torque ratios exhibited low to moderate reliability (ICC = 0.11-0.64). In conclusion, isokinetic strength of hip abductor and adductor muscles and the conventional and functional strength ratios can be reliably assessed in young soccer players, especially at low angular velocities. The assessment, however, of bilateral strength ratios for hip abductor/adductor muscles should be interpreted with more caution.

Acute and Chronic Whole-Body Vibration Exercise does not Induce Health-Promoting Effects on The Blood Profile

Whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise is an alternative, popular and easy exercise that can be followed by general public. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of acute and chronic WBV exercise on health-related parameters. Twenty-eight women were allocated into a control group (n=11, mean ±SEM: age, 43.5 ±1.5 yr; body mass, 66.1 ±3.1 kg; height, 160.6 ±1.5 cm) and a vibration group (n=17, mean ±SEM: age, 44.0 ±1.0 yr; body mass, 67.1 ±2.2 kg; height, 162.5 ±1.5 cm). After baseline assessments, participants of the experimental group performed WBV training 3 times/week for 8 weeks. Before and after the chronic WBV exercise, the participants of the vibration group performed one session of acute WBV exercise. Blood chemistry measurements (hematology, creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, C-reactive protein, glucose, insulin, triacylglycerols, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein A1, apolipoprotein B and lipoprotein, thiobarbituric-acid reactive substances, protein carbonyls, total antioxidant capacity, uric acid, albumin and bilirubin) were assessed pre-exercise and post-exercise at the first and eighth week of WBV exercise in both control and vibration groups. The results failed to support any effect of both acute and chronic WBV exercise on biochemical health-related parameters. However, it seems that WBV exercise is a safe way of training without a negative impact on muscle and liver functionality.

Whole-body vibration and rehabilitation of chronic diseases: a review of the literature

The objectives of the study were to review the current literature and findings on the effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) as a training method on performance and its ability to aid in the rehabilitation of chronic diseases (neurological, musculoskeletal or metabolic conditions). Six electronic databases were searched. The combination of the search terminology used included WBV and several neurological, musculoskeletal and metabolic conditions. Twenty six papers were found to be relevant for this review and were included for critical evaluation with regards to sample characteristics, research intervention and methodology. Most studies were conducted on patients diagnosed with neurological conditions (n = 15) while less were performed on patients suffering from musculoskeletal (n = 7) or metabolic (n = 4) disorders. Comparisons were difficult to draw on because of the different pathologies and the differences in the methodology of each study. Some of the observed methodological flaws included limitations in relation to insufficient randomisation, lack of sample homogeneity (size, age variability) and poor blinding in most studies. No consensus could be reached as to whether WBV is more effective than other interventions or no intervention at all, while the additional effects that WBV may have in relation to other interventions could not be assumed. Nevertheless, chronic WBV training seems to only improve strength in neurological patients while balance and mobility improves only in patients suffering from musculoskeletal or metabolic but not from neurological conditions. Although WBV did not prove to be more effective compared to other training methods, it can be used, in some cases, as a less fatiguing and less time-consuming method to enhance physical capabilities. Future research should focus on the effectiveness of WBV in relation to no treatment at all, and to age. Key pointsChronic WBV training seems to only improve strength in neurological patients while balance and mobility improves only in patients suffering from musculoskeletal or metabolic conditions.WBV did not prove to be more effective than other interventions, while the positive effects of WBV in relation to no intervention at all could not be established.No consensus could be reached as to which vibration type is more effective.WBV training could be used as a safe, less fatiguing and less time-consuming type of exercise for patients with neurologic conditions instead of other more demanding interventions.