Consensus on a social return on investment model of physical activity and sport: a Delphi study protocol

Background

Physical activity and sport (PAS) have been related to many health outcomes and social benefits. The main aim of this research is to build a Social Return on Investment (SROI) model of PAS based on experts' opinion to clarify the domains of impact and how to measure and value them.

Methods and analysis

A Delphi method will be employed with a systematic review on the SROI framework applied to PAS and initial interviews with experts informing the design of the Delphi survey statements. Three iterative rounds of communication with the expert panel will be carried out. Participants will indicate their level of agreement with each statement on a five-point Likert scale. During the second and third iterative rounds, experts will reappraise the statements and will be provided with a summary of the group responses from the panel. A statement will have reached consensus if ≥70% of the panel agree/strongly agree or disagree/strongly disagree after round 3. Finally, group meetings (3-4 experts) will be conducted to ask about the measurement and valuation methods for each domain.

Discussion

The final goal of this project will result in the design of a toolkit for organizations, professionals, and policymakers on how to measure the social benefits of PAS.

Physical Inactivity Levels of European Adolescents in 2002, 2005, 2013, and 2017

Sport and Physical Activity (PA) Special Eurobarometer surveys may inform of the physical inactivity (PIA) levels in the European Union (EU). This study aimed to analyse the PIA levels of EU adolescents (15-17 years) in four time points, according to gender. The data were from 2002, 2005, 20013, and 2017 Special Eurobarometers. Adolescents were categorised as "Inactive" when performing less than 60 min/day of moderate to vigorous PA on average. A χ2 test was used to compare the levels of PIA between survey years. PIA levels between gender were analysed using a Z-score test for two population proportions. PIA levels ranged from 67.2% for boys (59.4% to 71.5%;) to 76.8% for girls (76.0% to 83.4) across the time points. Adjusted standardised residuals revealed a decrease in the observed levels versus the expected for 2005 (whole sample: -4.2; boys: -3.3) and an increase for 2013 (whole sample: +2.9; boys: +2.5). Boys presented lower PIA levels than girls in all years (p ≤ 0.003), but descriptively, the difference progressively decreased (from 18.4% to 11.8%). No significant reductions in PIA levels were observed between 2002 and 2017, and girls reported consistently higher levels of PIA than boys.

No impact of combining multi-ingredient supplementation with exercise on body composition and physical performance, in healthy middle-aged and older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Protein-based multi-ingredient (MTN) supplements have been suggested as a safe and effective way of enhancing exercise outcomes. However, their effectiveness remains controversial when compared to isocaloric and single-nutrient supplements. This review aims to systematically summarise the current knowledge of multi-ingredient supplementation to optimise body composition and physical performance in middle-aged and older adults.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A systematic review with meta-analysis was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The search of the literature was conducted using PubMed, EBSCOhost, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus from June to October 2021. Every publication identified from the outset to October 2021 was considered. The main inclusion criteria comprised randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies conducted in adults (≥45 years old), following resistance- or endurance-based training programmes for a period of 6 weeks or longer, combined with MTN supplementation and a calorie equivalent comparator (COMP) supplement (e.g., carbohydrates). Continuous data on body composition [fat-free mass (FFM) or lean body mass], strength, and functional capacity as markers of physical performance were pooled using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Initially, 3329 publications were identified. Data from nine RCTs were ultimately included, involving 476 participants. The overall quality of the included studies was high, demonstrating a low risk of bias. Compared to COMP, no significant further benefits of ingesting MTN were identified for FFM (kg) (g = 0.044, 95 % CI -0.14 to 0.22), upper-body strength (kg) (g = 0.046, 95 % CI -0.24 to 0.33), lower-body strength, leg press exercise (kg) (g = 0.025, 95 % CI -0.26 to 0.31), leg extension exercise (kg) (g = 0.106, 95 % CI -0.15 to 0.36) and functional capacity (time in seconds) (g = 0.079, 95 % CI -0.12 to 0.27).

CONCLUSIONS

No additional benefits of ingesting MTN vs. COMP to maximise exercise-induced outcomes on body composition and physical performance in healthy physically active middle-aged and older adults have been identified.

A modifiable factors-based model for detecting inactive individuals: are the European assessment tools fit for purpose?

BACKGROUND

The lack of systematic factors affecting physical inactivity (PIA) challenges policymakers to implement evidence-based solutions at a population level. The study utilizes the Eurobarometer to analyse PIA-modifiable variables.

METHODS

Special Eurobarometer 412 physical activity (PA) data were analysed (n = 18 336), including 40 variables along with the International PA Questionnaire. PIA was used as the dependent variable. Variables considered were alternatives to car, places, reasons and barriers to engaging in PA, memberships to clubs and categorical responses about the agreement extent with the area, provision of activities and local governance statements. Logistic regression was used to identify variables contributing to PIA. Beta values (β), standard errors, 95% confidence intervals, the exponentiation for odds ratio and Cox & Snell and Nagelkerke R2 were indicated.

RESULTS

The resulting model correctly identified 10.7% inactives and 96.9% of actives (R2 of Nagelkerke: 0.153). Variables contributing to the detection of PIA were (P ≤ 0.01): having a disability or an illness, not having friends to do sport with, lacking motivation or interest in and being afraid of injury risk. Additionally, totally agreeing, tend to agree and tend to disagree regarding the extent of local providers offering enough opportunities to be more active also contributed to the model.

CONCLUSIONS

The model reported a limited ability to detect modifiable factors affecting PIA, identifying a small percentage of inactive individuals correctly. New questions focused on understanding inactive behaviour are needed to support the European PA public health agenda.

Hemodynamic response to different set configurations of a moderate-load resistance exercise

We aimed to determine the cardiovascular responses to two different set configuration resistance-exercise protocols during a knee extension composed of 40 repetitions with a 15RM load and a total resting time of 360 seconds. Twenty-four healthy sport science students randomly performed two sessions: (a) a long set configuration session (LSC: 4 sets of 10 repetitions with 2 min rest between sets) and (b) a short set configuration session (SSC: 8 sets of 5 repetitions with 51 s rest between sets). Before and during exercise, peak and mean values of heart rate, blood pressure, rate pressure product, and pulse pressure were obtained. Results showed that both protocols increased the overall peak and mean blood pressure values (p < 0.001). However, LSC entailed a higher peak blood pressure response at the last set (p = 0.041) and an increase throughout the first 30 repetitions (p ≤ 0.007), while SSC kept steady after the first 20 repetitions. Additionally, LSC caused higher overall peak and mean heart rate and rate pressure product values (p ≤ 0.003). Summarily, although both protocols raised blood pressure, SSC reduced the extent of the pressure and chronotropic response during resistance exercise.

Set Configuration in Strength Training Programs Modulates the Cross Education Phenomenon

ABSTRACT

Fariñas, J, Mayo, X, Giraldez-García, MA, Carballeira, E, Fernandez-Del-Olmo, M, Rial-Vazquez, J, Kingsley, JD, and Iglesias-Soler, E. Set configuration in strength training programs modulates the cross education phenomenon. J Strength Cond Res 35(9): 2414-2420, 2021-This study aimed to compare the strength gains in the nontrained arm after 2 independent unilateral training programs differing in the set configuration. Thirty-five subjects were randomly assigned to 3 groups: traditional training (TT; n = 12), cluster training (CT; n = 11), or control (CON; n = 12). The experimental groups performed a 5-week training program of a unilateral biceps curl exercise with the dominant limb using the 10 repetition maximum (10RM) load. Traditional training performed 5 sets of 6 repetitions and 135 seconds of rest between sets. Cluster training completed 30 repetitions with 18.5 seconds of rest between each repetition. Anthropometry (ANT), muscle thickness (MT), 1RM, the number of repetitions with 10RM (n10RM), and isometric maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) were measured before and after the intervention. Regarding the nontrained arm, TT improved 1RM (7.3%, p < 0.001). No changes were observed in CT. Regarding the trained arm, TT improved 1RM (9.1%, p < 0.001), n10RM (p = 0.005), and MVC (p = 0.011), whereas CT only showed a trend for improvement of 1RM (3.4%, p = 0.052). These results suggest that when total volume and repetition-to-rest ratio are equated, a more fatiguing set configuration causes a higher effect on the non-trained limb.

No changes in adolescent's sedentary behaviour across Europe between 2002 and 2017

BACKGROUND

Public health organizations have been alerted to the high levels of sedentary behaviour (SB) among adolescents as well as to the health and social consequences of excess sedentary time. However, SB changes of the European Union (EU) adolescents over time have not been reported yet. This study aimed to identify SB of the EU adolescents (15-17 years) in four-time points (2002, 2005, 2013 and 2017) and to analyse the prevalence of SB according to the sex.

METHODS

SB of 2542 adolescents (1335 boys and 1207 girls) as a whole sample and country-by-country was analysed in 2002, 2005, 2013, and 2017 using the Sport and Physical Activity EU Special Eurobarometers' data. SB was measured using the sitting time question from the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), such that 4h30min of daily sitting time was the delineating point to determine excess SB behaviour (≥4h30min of sitting time) or not (≤4h30min of sitting time). A χ2 test was used to compare the prevalence of SB between survey years. Furthermore, SB prevalence between sexes was analysed using a Z-Score test for two population proportions.

RESULTS

The prevalence of SB among EU adolescents across each of the four survey years ranged from 74.2 and 76.8%, rates that are considered high. High levels of SB were also displayed by both sexes (girls: 76.8 to 81.2%; boys: 71.7 to 76.7%). No significant differences in the prevalence of SB among years (p > 0.05) were found for the whole sample, and for either girls or boys. Also, no significant differences in the prevalence of SB between girls and boys were found.

CONCLUSION

The SB prevalence in European adolescents is extremely high (76.8% in 2017) with no differences between girls and boys. No significant improvements have been seen between 2002 and 2017. Eurobarometer should increase the adolescents' sample to make possible benchmarking comparisons among the EU countries and extend the survey to the younger children population.

Load-velocity Profiles Change after Training Programs with Different Set Configurations

This study explored the changes in load-velocity relationship of bench press and parallel squat exercises following two programs differing in the set configuration. A randomized controlled trial was carried out in a sample of 39 physically active individuals. Participants were assigned to rest redistribution set configuration, traditional set configuration, or control groups. Over 5 weeks, the experimental groups completed 10 sessions with the 10 repetitions maximum load of both exercises. Rest redistribution sets consisted in 16 sets of 2 repetitions with 60 s of rest between sets, and 5 min between exercises, whereas traditional sets entailed 4 sets of 8 repetitions with 5 min of rest between sets and exercises. The load-velocity relationships of both exercises were obtained before and after the training period. For bench press, an increase of the velocity axis intercept, and a decrease of the slope at post-test were observed in both rest redistribution (p<0.001, G=1.264; p<0.001; G=0.997) and traditional set (p=0.01, G=0.654; p=0.001; G=0.593) groups. For squat, the slope decreased (p<0.001; G=0.588) and the velocity axis intercept increased (p<0.001; G=0.727) only in the rest redistribution group. These results show that rest redistribution sets were particularly efficient for inducing changes in the load-velocity relationship.

Effects of Multi-Ingredient Preworkout Supplementation across a Five-Day Resistance and Endurance Training Microcycle in Middle-Aged Adults

Preworkout multi-ingredient admixtures are used to maximise exercise performance. The present double-blind, cross-over study compared the acute effects of ingesting a preworkout multi-ingredient (PREW) admixture vs. carbohydrate (CHO) over a week (microcycle) comprising three resistance training (RT) workouts alternated with two 30-min low-intensity endurance sessions (END) on RT volume (kg lifted) and END substrate oxidation. Additionally, postworkout decreases of muscle function and subjective responses were analysed. Following a baseline assessment, fourteen recreationally trained, middle-aged adults (seven females, 48.8 ± 4.7 years old) completed two identical microcycles separated by a two-week washout period while receiving either PREW or CHO (15 min prior to workout). The RT volume, per session (SVOL) and for the entire week (WVOL), was calculated. Fatty acid oxidation (FAO) during 30-min cycling corresponding to their individually determined maximal fat oxidation was measured using expired gasses and indirect calorimetry. Assessments of performance and tensiomyography were conducted within 20 min after each RT. Higher (p = 0.001) SVOL and WVOL along with a larger proportion of FAO (p = 0.05) during the second END workout were determined under the PREW treatment. No other statistically significant differences were observed between conditions. Compared to CHO, a preworkout multi-ingredient appears to increase resistance volume and favour fat oxidation during low-intensity endurance exercises.

High intensity interval training exercise-induced physiological changes and their potential influence on metabolic syndrome clinical biomarkers: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Despite the current debate about the effects of high intensity interval training (HIIT), HIIT elicits big morpho-physiological benefit on Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) treatment. However, no review or meta-analysis has compared the effects of HIIT to non-exercising controls in MetS variables. The aim of this study was to determine through a systematic review, the effectiveness of HIIT on MetS clinical variables in adults.

METHODS

Studies had to be randomised controlled trials, lasting at least 3 weeks, and compare the effects of HIIT on at least one of the MetS clinical variables [fasting blood glucose (BG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) triglyceride (TG), systolic (SBP) or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and waist circumference (WC)] compared to a control group. The methodological quality of the studies selected was evaluated using the PEDro scale.

RESULTS

Ten articles fulfilled the selection criteria, with a mean quality score on the PEDro scale of 6.7. Compared with controls, HIIT groups showed significant and relevant reductions in BG (- 0.11 mmol/L), SBP (- 4.44 mmHg), DBP (- 3.60 mmHg), and WC (- 2.26 cm). Otherwise, a slight increase was observed in HDL-C (+ 0.02 mmol/L). HIIT did not produce any significant changes in TG (- 1.29 mmol/L).

CONCLUSIONS

HIIT improves certain clinical aspects in people with MetS (BG, SBP, DBP and WC) compared to people with MetS who do not perform physical exercise. Plausible physiological changes of HIIT interventions might be related with large skeletal muscle mass implication, improvements in the vasomotor control, better baroreflex control, reduction of the total peripheral resistance, increases in excess post-exercise oxygen consumption, and changes in appetite and satiety mechanisms.

Changes in sedentary behaviour in European Union adults between 2002 and 2017

BACKGROUND

Sedentary behaviour (SB) has been identified as an important mortality risk factor. Health organizations have recognised SB as a public health challenge with major health, social, and economic consequences. Researchers have alerted the need to develop specific strategies, to monitor, prevent, and reduce SB. However, there is no systematic analysis of the SB changes in European Union adults. We aimed to examine SB changes between 2002 and 2017 in the European Union (EU) adult population.

METHODS

SB prevalence (>4h30mins of sitting time/day) of 96,004 adults as a whole sample and country-by-country was analysed in 2002, 2005, 2013, and 2017 of the Sport and Physical Activity EU Special Eurobarometers' data. The SB question of a modified version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire was considered. SB prevalence between countries and within years was analysed with a χ2 test, and SB between genders was analysed with the Z-Score test for two population proportions.

RESULTS

An association between the SB prevalence and the years was found (p <  0.001), with increases for the whole sample (2002: 49.3%, 48.5-50.0 95% confidence interval (CI); 2017: 54.5%, 53.9-55.0 95% CI) and men (2002: 51.2%, 50.0-52.4 95% CI; 2017: 55.8%, 55.0-56.7 95% CI) and women (2002: 47.6%, 46.6-48.7 95% CI; 2017: 53.4%, 52.6-54.1 95% CI) separately. The adjusted standardised residuals showed an increase in the observed prevalence versus the expected during 2013 and 2017 for the whole sample and women and during 2017 for men. For all years, differences were observed in the SB prevalence between countries for the whole sample, and men and women separately (p <  0.001). Besides, the SB prevalence was always higher in men versus women in the overall EU sample (p <  0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

SB prevalence increased between 2002 and 2017 for the EU as a whole and for both sexes separately. Additionally, differences in SB prevalence were observed for all years between EU countries in the whole sample and both sexes separately. Lastly, SB was consistently higher in men than women. These findings reveal a limited impact of current policies and interventions to tackle SB at the EU population level.

Cluster vs. traditional training programmes: changes in the force-velocity relationship

This randomised controlled study examined the force-velocity relationship changes (force and velocity axis intercepts, slope and estimated maximum power) in response to 5-week training programmes differing in the set configuration. For each session, the traditional group performed 4 sets of 8 repetitions with 5 min of rest between sets and exercises, while the cluster group completed 16 sets of 2 repetitions with 1 min of rest between sets and 5 min between exercises. Both programmes were performed with the 10-repetition maximum load, including bench press, parallel squat, lat pull-down and leg curl exercises. Individual force-velocity profiles were obtained for bench press and squat using a linear velocity transducer before and after the intervention, along with lactate and mechanical performance during the intervention. Results showed in bench press similar changes of the force-velocity profile after both protocols (no shift of the slope and higher force and velocity axis intercept values). For the squat, significant changes in the slope (P = 0.001) and the velocity intercept (P = 0.002) towards a velocity profile were observed after cluster but not after traditional training. These results suggest that set configuration may modulate changes of force-velocity relationship, especially for squat.

The active living gender's gap challenge: 2013-2017 Eurobarometers physical inactivity data show constant higher prevalence in women with no progress towards global reduction goals

BACKGROUND

The World Health Organization (WHO) considers physical inactivity (PIA) as a critical noncommunicable factor for disease and mortality, affecting more women than men. In 2013, the WHO set a 10% reduction of the PIA prevalence, with the goal to be reached by 2025. Changes in the 2013-2017 period of physical inactivity prevalence in the 28 European Union (EU) countries were evaluated to track the progress in achieving WHO 2025 target.

METHODS

In 2013 and 2017 EU Special Eurobarometers, the physical activity levels reported by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire of 53,607 adults were analyzed. Data were considered as a whole sample and country-by-country. A χ2 test was used to analyze the physical inactivity prevalence (%) between countries, analyzing women and men together and separately. Additionally, PIA prevalence was analyzed between years (2013-2017) for the overall EU sample and within-country using a Z-Score for two population proportions.

RESULTS

The PIA prevalence increased between 2013 and 2017 for the overall EU sample (p <  0.001), and for women (p = 0.04) and men (p < 0.001) separately. Data showed a higher PIA prevalence in women versus men during both years (p <  0.001). When separately considering changes in PIA by gender, only Belgium's women and Luxembourg's men showed a reduction in PIA prevalence. Increases in PIA prevalence over time were observed in women from Austria, Croatia, Germany, Lithuania, Malta, Portugal, Romania, and Slovakia and in men from Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, and Spain.

CONCLUSIONS

PIA prevalence showed an overall increase across the EU and for both women and men between 2013 and 2017, with higher rates of PIA reported for women versus men during both years. PIA prevalence was reduced in only Belgium's women and Luxembourg's men. Our data indicate a limited gender-sensible approach while tacking PIA prevalence with no progress reaching global voluntary reductions of PIA for 2025.

Reliability of force-velocity parameters obtained from linear and curvilinear regressions for the bench press and squat exercises

This study aimed to compare the goodness of fit and the reliability of different regression models for fitting the force-velocity relationship (FV) of bench press (BP) and squat (SQ). Additionally, the reliability of the position on FV of the velocity (V_1RM) and the force performed with the 1RM (F_1RM) was explored. Nine rugby players and 12 judokas participated in this study. The FV of BP and SQ were obtained twice by a protocol performed until the 1RM. Individual FV were fitted by linear (LM), quadratic polynomial (PM), and exponential models (EM). Adjusted coefficients of determination of LM and PM (medians higher than 0.919) were higher than for EM. The reliability was higher for LM in comparison with PM. The reliability of V_1RM was not acceptable (CV% = 19 and 18% for BP and SQ). High reliability was observed for F_1RM (CV% = 3 and 2% for BP and SQ) and for the ratio between F_1RM and the force-axis intercept of FV (CV% = 2 and 4% for BP and SQ). The reliability of the relative values of F_1RM around 92 and 87% of F₀ for BP and SQ suggests the use of these values for monitoring resistance training programmes.

Both Unopposed and Opposed Judo Tasks are Suitable for Analyzing Changes in Lateral Preference

Judo coaches aim to develop left-handed techniques in right-handed judoka due to a potential frequency-dependent strategic advantage during competition. Thus, easily completed tasks are needed to track the progression of the lateral preference index (percentage as right-handed actions). Thirty naïve volunteers performed two tasks, an unopposed repetition-based dynamic task (yakusoku geiko) and an opposed-bouts task (randori), before and after eight-week training protocols differing in the executing side. Training protocols consisted of a control group (without any instruction regarding the practice side), a bilateral group (practicing with both dominant and nondominant sides), and a nondominant group (practicing exclusively on the nondominant side). ANOVA-type tests were used for analyzing the suitability of the unopposed repetition-based dynamic task for detecting changes in the lateral preference index and for analyzing the concordance between tasks. Additionally, concordance was tested with Spearman's rank correlations and Bland-Altman plots. Lower lateral preference indices (i.e., reductions of executions as right-hander) were observed after training in the nondominant group and in comparison with the control group and bilateral group on the posttest (p < 0.05). ANOVA-test for concordance analysis revealed no differences between tasks (p > 0.05) with significant correlations (p < .05) and low bias during the pretest (ρ = 0.563; bias: 4.29, 95% LoA: -36.32-27.74%) and the posttest (ρ = 0.718, bias: 0.69, 95% LoA: -39.37-40.77%). In conclusion, an unopposed repetition-based dynamic task detected reductions in lateral preference index after an eight-week nondominant training period. These results agreed with those observed with the opposed-bouts task. This indicates the eligibility of yakusoku geiko for coaching delivery due to general suitability of the unopposed repetition-based dynamic task to track the maintenance or progression of left-handedness in judo trainees.

Inter-individual variability in the load-velocity relationship is detected by multilevel mixed regression models

The main aim of this study was to explore the variability in the load-velocity relationship through the use of multilevel mixed regression models. The relationship between relative load (% of one repetition maximum: %1RM) and velocity was obtained in a sample of high-level judokas and rugby players (8 women and 13 men) for the bench press (BP) and parallel squat (SQ). The load-velocity relationship for the squat was obtained for the external load (barbell load) and for the system mass (barbell plus body mass). The data were fitted by different multilevel mixed regression models. Including the sex factor in the models improved the goodness of fit for the BP but not for the squat exercises. All the models detected significant inter-individual variability in both intercepts and slopes (p < 0.05 in all the cases). A decrease of 0.15, 0.10 and 0.16 m/s of velocity for each 10% of increment in the relative load were estimated for BP and squat considering the external load and the system mass, respectively. The multilevel mixed regression models detected significant inter-individual variability in the slope and intercept of the load-velocity relationship what entails differences in the velocity associated with a fixed percentage (%) of the one-repetition maximum load.

A retrospective analysis of policy development on compliance with World Health Organization's physical activity recommendations between 2002 and 2005 in European Union adults: closing the gap between research and policy

Background

Physical inactivity (PIA) is a mortality risk factor defined as performing lower levels of physical activity than recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). After 2002, the WHO released the WHA55.23 Resolution and the Global Strategy which produced several changes in policymaking, but with no subsequent analyses of the impact of these changes in European Union (EU) policymaking while examining PIA prevalence.

Methods

PIA of 31,946 adults as a whole sample and country-by-country were analyzed in the 2002 and 2005 EU Special Eurobarometers. PIA prevalence between countries was performed with the χ2 test and PIA between both years and between genders was analyzed with the Z-Score test for two population proportions. A retrospective analysis of national plans was performed to interpret the suitability of such policy documents, considering changes in PIA prevalence.

Results

Differences in PIA prevalence were observed between countries (p <  0.001) and years (p <  0.001) for the whole sample and men and women separately. Within-country samples showed no differences for Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Italy, Luxemburg, Portugal, and Spain (p > 0.05). When considering gender, there were no gender reductions in subsamples for Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Portugal, Spain, and United Kingdom, neither in Luxemburg for men, nor in France and Italy for women. When analyzing gender differences across the entire sample, PIA was higher in women than men for both years (p <  0.001). Greece and Luxemburg did not release national plans for promoting physical activity.

Conclusions

While large differences in PIA prevalence between EU countries prevailed, the overall PIA descended between both years for the whole sample, men, and women. While this points out a general suitability of policymaking for reducing PIA, not all countries reported reductions in PIA for men, women, or both genders. Also, PIA levels were higher for women in both years, suggesting a less than optimal policy implementation, or lack of women-specific focus across the EU. This analysis helps to identify the strengths and weaknesses of PIA policymaking in the EU and provides researchers with targeted intervention areas for future development.

Autonomic modulation and baroreflex sensitivity after acute resistance exercise: responses between sexes

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate autonomic modulation, blood pressure variability and baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) responses to an acute bout of free-weight resistance exercise in resistance-trained men (N.=14) and women (N.=13).

METHODS

Participants underwent both an acute bout of resistance exercise (RE) consisting of 3 sets of 10 repetitions at 75% 1-repetition maximum on the squat, bench press, and deadlift, and a quiet control. Autonomic modulation, blood pressure variability (LFSAP), and cardiovagal BRS were assessed at rest, 15-20 minutes (Rec1) and 25-30 minutes (Rec2) postexercise. Log transformed measures of autonomic modulation included root square of the mean ssquared differences of successive RR intervals (LnRMSSD), high-frequency power (LnHFRR) and low-frequency power (LnLFRR) and sympathovagal balance (LnLFRR/HFRR). LFSAP was used as a measurement of vasomotor tone. Cardiovagal BRS was assessed using the sequence method.

RESULTS

There were no significant sex differences at rest and no significant sex by time by condition interactions for any variable. Compared with rest there were augmentations in LnLFRR/HFRR (P=0.002) and LFSAP (P=0.001) at Rec1 and Rec2. RMSSD and cardiovagal BRS were significantly (P=0.0001) decreased at Rec1 and Rec2 compared to rest after the acute RE.

CONCLUSIONS

Both sexes demonstrated that acute resistance exercise using free weights has a profound impact on autonomic modulation, blood pressure variability and cardiovagal BRS.

Interrepetition Rest Set Lacks the V-Shape Systolic Pressure Response Advantage during Resistance Exercise

Resistance exercise may lead to an aneurysm due to dangerous levels of systemic hypertension. Thus, a minimized pressure response during exercise may guarantee safer training. For that, we analyzed an interrepetition rest design (IRD) hypothesizing that it would produce a lower systolic blood pressure (SBP) response in comparison with a continuous design (CD). Additionally, we studied the effect of accumulated repetitions on the increasing SBP rate during the first continuous set. Fifteen healthy participants (age: 24 ± 2 years; SBP: 113 ± 8 mmHg) performed leg presses, with 40 repetitions and 720 s of total rest, structured in an IRD of individual repetitions (resting time: 18.5 s), and in a CD of five sets of eight repetitions (resting time: 180 s). Analyses reported an increase (p = 0.013) in the mean peaks of SBP in the IRD (162 ± 21 mmHg), versus the CD (148 ± 19 mmHg), while both augmented versus baselines (p < 0.001). Additionally, the linear model estimated a progressive increase of SBP of around 7 mmHg per repetition. Summarily, the IRD produced a higher mean of the SBP peaks during the 40 repetitions due to lacking the v-shape advantage in comparison with the CD.

Free-weight resistance exercise on pulse wave reflection and arterial stiffness between sexes in young, resistance-trained adults

We sought to determine the sex-specific effects of an acute bout of free-weight resistance exercise (RE) on pulse wave reflection (aortic blood pressures, augmentation index (AIx), AIx at 75 bpm (AIx@75), augmentation pressure (AP), time of the reflected wave (Tr), subendocardial viability ratio (SEVR)), and aortic arterial stiffness in resistance-trained individuals. Resistance-trained men (n = 14) and women (n = 12) volunteered to participate in the study. Measurements were taken in the supine position at rest, and 10 minutes after 3 sets of 10 repetitions at 75% 1-repetition maximum on the squat, bench press, and deadlift. A 2 × 2 × 2 ANOVA was used to analyse the effects of sex (men, women) across condition (RE, control) and time (rest, recovery). There were no differences between sexes across conditions and time. There was no effect of the RE on brachial or aortic blood pressures. There were significant condition × time interactions for AIx (rest: 12.1 ± 7.9%; recovery: 19.9 ± 10.5%, p = .003), AIx@75 (rest: 5.3 ± 7.9%; recovery: 24.5 ± 14.3%, p = .0001), AP (rest: 4.9 ± 2.8 mmHg; recovery: 8.3 ± 6.0 mmHg, p = .004), and aortic arterial stiffness (rest: 5.3 ± 0.6 ms; recovery: 5.9 ± 0.7 ms, p = .02) with significant increases during recovery from the acute RE. There was also a significant condition × time for time of the reflected wave (rest: 150 ± 7 ms; recovery: 147 ± 9 ms, p = .02) and SEVR (rest: 147 ± 17%; recovery: 83 ± 24%, p = .0001) such that they were reduced during recovery from the acute RE compared to the control. These data suggest that an acute bout of RE increases AIx, AIx@75, and aortic arterial stiffness similarly between men and women without significantly altering aortic blood pressures.

Perceived Exertion Is Affected by the Submaximal Set Configuration Used in Resistance Exercise

Mayo, X, Iglesias-Soler, E, and Kingsley, JD. Perceived exertion is affected by the submaximal set configuration used in resistance exercise. J Strength Cond Res 33(2): 426-432, 2019-Previously, perceived exertion in submaximal resistance exercise protocols was reported to be affected by the intensity of load followed by work-to-rest ratio. Nevertheless, the effect of set configuration, which entails the metabolic, hormonal, and neuromuscular implication of the session, is currently unknown, despite the fact that perceived exertion discriminates these differences. We aimed to analyze the effect of 3 submaximal set configurations on perceived exertion and their relationship with velocity as a mechanical measure of fatigue. Seventeen healthy subjects (23 ± 2 years) performed with the 10-repetition maximum load on the leg press (211 ± 45 kg) a total of 40 repetitions with 720 seconds of rest in 3 randomized experimental sessions with the same work-to-rest ratio. The sessions consisted of an interrepetition rest design performing individual repetitions, a cluster design performing groups of 4 repetitions, and a traditional design performing groups of 8 repetitions. At the end of the session, the nonparametric analysis of variance-type test revealed differences between protocols (p < 0.001), with lower values of perceived exertion in the interrepetition rest design in comparison with the cluster design (p = 0.003) and traditional design (p < 0.001). In addition, Spearman's rank correlations (p < 0.001) were observed for the interrepetition rest design (rho = -0.72) and traditional design (rho = -0.8) between perceived exertion and velocity. Our findings suggest that the submaximal set configuration is a determinant of perceived exertion by itself, and that perceived exertion represents similar mechanisms as velocity, such as fatigue and certain characteristics of the session and the individual.

Effects of bilateral and non-dominant practices on the lateral preference in judo matches

This study analysed the effects of bilateral and non-dominant practice on novice practitioners' lateral preference for judo skills in a combat context (i.e., randori). Thirty sports sciences students (22 men and 8 women; mean age 19 ± 1 years) with right hand, foot, and counterclockwise rotation preferences were divided into 3 groups: bilateral (BG; n = 8), non-dominant (NDG; n = 11), and control (CG; n = 11). Participants received 8 weeks of training at a rate of 3 days per week. The NDG was trained to perform judo skills exclusive with their non-dominant side, while the BG performed every task symmetrically. Before and after training, participants were recorded during two 3-min randoris to obtain the percentage of their engagement in dominant side actions. Pretest percentages were 73.1 ± 19.9%, 77.8 ± 18.8%, and 68.9 ± 27.2% for BG, NDG, and CG, respectively. Post-test values were 75.0 ± 15.6%, 23.3 ± 27.9%, and 72.2.9 ± 20.4%, respectively. Significant differences were observed between NDG and each of the other groups after the training. Changes from pretest were only significant for NDG (P = 0.003). These results suggest that lateral preference among novice judo practitioners during randori can be modulated by the type of practice.

Acute effects of distribution of rest between repetitions

The purpose of this study was to compare acute mechanical and metabolic effects of 2 sessions of resistance training equated by volume and total resting time but with different set configuration: sets to failure (FS) vs. distribution of rest between each repetition (NFS). 10 male judoists completed a session consisting of 3 sets to failure of parallel back squat with 4 repetitions at maximum load, and a rest of 3 min between the sets. At least 72 h later subjects developed the same volume, but total resting time was distributed among individual repetitions. Before and after sessions isometric force and mean propulsive velocity with load corresponding to maximum propulsive power were assessed. Results showed that in respect to FS, NFS showed an 18.94% (± 17.98) higher average mean propulsive velocity during session (0.42 ± 0.04 vs. 0.35 ± 0.08 m.s - 1; p=0.009), lower blood lactate concentration after session (maximum average value 1.52 ± 0.77 vs. 3.95 ± 1.82; session effect: p=0.001) and higher mean propulsive velocity with load corresponding to maximum propulsive power (mean propulsive velocity immediately after session 0.64 ± 0.09 vs. 0.59 ± 0.12 m.s - 1; session effect: p=0.019). These data show that distribution of rest in sessions equated for volume and total resting time determines differences in performance during sessions and mechanical or metabolic acute effects.