Effects of aerobic, resistance, and combined exercise training on body fat and glucolipid metabolism in inactive middle-aged adults with overweight or obesity: a randomized trial.

METHOD: Twenty inactive males (BMI 27.67 ± 0.88 kg/m2, age 49.15 ± 2.58 years) participated in an eight-week were randomly assigned to one of three intervention groups (combined (CT), resistance (RT), and aerobic (AT)) exercise modalities to assess within-subject and between group changes in glycolipid profile. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANCOVA. RESULT: Pre-post mean values of body fat percentage (%BF), area under the curve (AUC), low density lipoprotein (LDL), high density lipoprotein (HDL) and total cholesterol (TC) decreased in all three groups. The main effect of exercise modality on the AUC (F (2, 26) = 10.577, P = 0.001, η2 = 0.569) was significant. Post-hoc analyses revealed that the RT group (-30.653 ± 6.766, p = 0.001) with 11.53% and the CT group (M = -0.896, SE = 3.347, P = 0.015) with 3.79% exhibited significantly greater reductions in AUC compared to the AT group. LDL levels showed significant different between groups (F (2, 26) = 6.33, p = 0.009, η2 = 0.442), specially significantly 3.7% lowered in AT (MD = 4.783, SE = 1.563, P = 0.002) and 3.79% lower in CT (MD = 4.57, SE = 1.284, P = 0.008) groups compared to the RT group. AT significantly reduced TC by 17.716 ± 5.705 mg/dL (p = 0.02) compared to RT, representing a 7.97% decrease. CONCLUSION: Exercise type significantly influences lipid profiles and glycemic control. Notably, both aerobic and combined training demonstrated a superior ability to modulate the lipid profile, and resistance training and combined training were more effective in reducing the AUC. TRIAL REGISTRATION: May, 31st 2024. REGISTRATION NO: PACTR202405463745521 "Retrospectively registered".

Short- and long-term effects of concurrent aerobic and resistance training on circulating irisin levels in overweight or obese individuals: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Background: Concurrent training (CT) is emerging as a practical and effective approach to enhance body composition, cardiovascular function, and muscle mass, thereby elevating overall individual health. This study aims to systematically investigate the effects of short- and long-term concurrent aerobic and resistance training on circulating irisin levels in overweight or obese individuals. Methodology: The electronic databases, including China National Knowledge Infrastructure, PubMed, Embase, Wan Fang Database, and Web of Science, were systematically searched for articles on "concurrent training" and "irisin" published from their inception to 30 November 2023. The pooled effect size was determined using standardized mean difference (SMD) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The study protocol received registration with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42023494163). Results: All nine studies, encompassing a total of 264 participants, were randomized controlled trials and met the eligibility criteria. Results indicate that short- and long-term concurrent training moderately increased circulating irisin levels compared to the control group (SMD = 0.56, 95% CI [0.33-0.80], p = 0.00; I 2 = 36.6%, heterogeneity p = 0.106). Subgroup analyses revealed that both equal to or less than 10 weeks (SMD = 0.78, 95% CI [0.18-1.37], p = 0.01; I 2 = 62.3%, heterogeneity p = 0.03) and more than 10 weeks (SMD = 0.45, 95% CI [0.14-0.76], p = 0.00; I 2 = 0%, heterogeneity p = 0.54) of concurrent training significantly increased circulating irisin levels in overweight or obese individuals. There were no significant between-group differences (I 2 = 0%, p = 0.34). Additionally, concurrent training significantly increased irisin levels in overweight or obese participants (SMD = 1.06, 95% CI [0.34-1.78], p = 0.00; I 2 = 50.6%, heterogeneity p = 0.13) and in type 2 diabetes patients (SMD = 0.70, 95% CI [0.30-1.10], p = 0.00; I 2 = 0%, heterogeneity p = 0.99). However, no significant effect was observed in patients with metabolic syndrome (SMD = 0.21, 95% CI [-0.25-0.68], p = 0.37; I 2 = 38.7%, heterogeneity p = 0.18). There were significant between-group differences (I 2 = 53.9%, p = 0.11). Lastly, concurrent training significantly increased circulating irisin levels in overweight or obese individuals aged 45-60 years (SMD = 0.56, 95% CI [0.25-0.86], p = 0.00; I 2 = 6.5%, heterogeneity p = 0.38), and a significant increase in irisin levels was observed 12 h post-intervention (SMD = 0.70, 95% CI [0.35-1.05], p = 0.00; I 2 = 0%, heterogeneity p = 0.74). However, none of the above categorical variables showed significant between-group differences. Conclusions: Short- and long-term concurrent training can effectively improve circulating irisin levels in overweight or obese individuals. However, the effects of short- and long-term concurrent training should consider the participants' health status, age, and the timing of post-exercise measurements to maximize health benefits.

[Training under normoxia and normobaric hypoxia in patients with type 1 diabetes]. / Wysilek fizyczny w warunkach normoksji i hipoksji normobarycznej u pacjentów z cukrzyca typu 1.

Apart from insulin, physical exercise is a crucial component of therapy in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). The benefits of physical activity in such patients include improved insulin sensitivity, lowered blood glucose, reduced body fat and improved cardiovascular function and physical performance. Hypoglycemia is a crucial issue in the peri-training period in insulin-treated patients. Proper preparation for exercise is the key to reducing the risk of hypoglycemia. The selection of the training type and the patient's knowledge of the effect of such training on glycemia are also significant. Physical exercise under normobaric hypoxia in the training rooms is also available commercially and is becoming increasingly popular. Under such conditions, the air consists of 15.4% oxygen and 84.5% nitrogen, which corresponds to the conditions at an altitude of approximately 2,500 meters above sea level. Hypoxia induces the production of the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF-1), which regulates the expression of over 100 genes. It modulates key metabolic pathways to optimize glucose utilization by increasing cell sensitivity to insulin, more efficient glucose uptake from the blood and activating effect on glycolytic enzymes. Additionally, HIF-1 shows beneficial effects on the lipid profile, vascular endothelium and performance as measured by the maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). The aim of this paper was to review and summarize the most recent studies on the effects of exercise on glycemic control and physical performance under normoxia and normobaric hypoxia in patients with T1DM.

Different intensities of aerobic training for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare different intensities of aerobic exercise for patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in terms of glycemic control, pain relief, and functional outcomes. Methods: A prospective randomized open-label parallel multicenter clinical trial conducted at two hospitals in Shanghai and Sichuan that included 228 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Enrollment occurred between January 2021 and February 2023, and follow-up was completed in September 2023. Participants were randomized to threshold training/high-intensive stationary cycling training (n=76), intensive endurance/moderate-intensive stationary cycling training (n=77), and regular rehabilitation programs (n=75). The primary outcome at the 6-month follow-up was the HbA1c level. Key secondary outcomes included the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) subscale of pain and quality of life. Results: Of 228 patients, 212 (93%) completed the trial. The mean adjusted (sex, baseline BMI, and baseline outcome measures) HbA1c level at the 6-month follow-up decreased significantly in the high-intensive training group compared with other groups (high-intensity group vs. control group; difference, 0.51%, 95% confidence interval, 0.05% to 1.15%). Mean KOOS subscales of pain and quality of life were statistically significantly different between the control group and moderate-intensity or high-intensity groups, but no statistical differences were noted between the different intensities of aerobic exercise. Patients in all groups achieved a greater reduction in BMI but no significant differences were observed between groups. Conclusion: In KOA and T2DM patients, high-intensity stationary cycling can significantly improve glycemic control compared with moderate-intensity and regular rehabilitation programs. However, high-intensity stationary cycling does not exert a superior effect on pain relief and functional improvement for KOA compared with moderate-intensity and regular rehabilitation programs.

Multicomponent versus aerobic exercise intervention: Effects on hemodynamic, physical fitness and quality of life in adult and elderly cardiovascular disease patients: A randomized controlled study.

Objective: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain a leading cause of mortality globally, emphasizing the need for effective preventive measures. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a multicomponent compared to an aerobic training program on the hemodynamic parameters, physical fitness, psychophysical health status and quality of life (QoL) of adults and elderly with stabilized CVDs. Methods: Thirty-three subjects (19M and 14F; age 69.5 ± 4.9 years; BMI 27.34 ± 4.95 kg/m2) suffering from CVDs voluntarily participated in this 10-week randomized controlled study and were allocated into three groups: multicomponent training group (MTG; 6M, 6F; cardiorespiratory, resistance, flexibility and breathing exercises; 60', 2d·wk-1), aerobic training group (ATG; 7M, 5F; aerobic-only training; 60', 2d·wk-1) or a wait-list control group (CG; 6M, 3F; no PA). Hemodynamic parameters were assessed through resting hearth rate (RHR) and peripheral-systolic and diastolic blood pressure (P-SBP/P-DBP). Physical fitness was assessed via a 30" chair stand test (30CST), timed up and go (TUG) test, handgrip strength (HGS) test, and 2' step test (TMST). The health status, QoL and enjoyment were evaluated with short form-12 (SF-12), world health organization quality of life-bref (WHOQoL-bref) and physical activity enjoyment scale (PACES), respectively. Results: After the intervention, MTG showed significant improvements in hemodynamic parameters (95 % CI, RHR: 2.76 to 9.07; P-SBP: 3.28 to 13.71; P-DBP: 3.56 to 8.94; p < 0.001), physical fitness (95 % CI, 30CST: 4.42 to -1.90; TUG: 0.56 to 1.58; TMST: 35.24 to -18.58; Dominant HGS: 4.00 to -1.65; Undominant HGS: 2.87 to -0.79, p < 0.001) and enjoyment (PACES: 15.18 to -5.48, p < 0.001) compared to CG; ATG showed significant improvement in hemodynamic parameters (95 % CI, RHR: 1.76 to 8.07; P-SBP: 3.19 to 13.63; P-DBP: 4.47 to 9.85, p < 0.001), physical fitness (95 % CI, 30CST: 2.59 to -0.07; TUG: 0.03 to 1.05; Dominant HGS: 2.42 to -0.07, p < 0.05; TMST: 36.08 to -19.41, p < 0.001) and enjoyment (PACES: 14.68 to -4.98, p < 0.001) compared to CG. No significant changes were observed in QoL and SF-12 (p > 0.05). Significant differences between MTG and ATG were only found in physical fitness variables (95 % CI, 30CST: 3.21 to -0.45, p < 0.01; Dominant HGS: 0.00 to 3.00, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Findings showed significant improvements in hemodynamic parameters and physical fitness suggesting the effectiveness of the multicomponent exercise program, similar to aerobic-only training, and greater efficacy for lower limb strength and dominant hand grip strength in adults and elderly with stabilized CVDs. Both exercise groups showed similar levels of enjoyment.

Identification of key genes and signaling pathways based on transcriptomic studies of aerobic and resistance training interventions in sarcopenia in SAMP8 mice.

We examined the effects of resistance and aerobic exercise on the gene expression and biometabolic processes of aging skeletal muscle in senescence-accelerated mouse/prone 8 mice, a model of sarcopenia, and compared them with senescence-accelerated mouse/resistant 1 mice acting as controls. We found that exercise improved muscle strength, endurance, fiber size, also modulated genes and pathways related to synaptic transmission, potassium transport, JAK-STAT signaling, and PI3K-Akt signaling. Our results suggested that BDNF, JAK2, RhoC, Myh6, Stat5a, Tnnc1, and other genes may mediate the beneficial effects of exercise on sarcopenia through these pathways.

Case report: A creatine kinase-borg scale values-based approach to tailor physical training in a central core myopathy patient.

Background: Patients with central core myopathy (CCM) can be at risk of exercise-induced rhabdomyolysis and myalgia. Despite its possible positive effects, physical training has been long avoided in these patients as no population-specific exercise adaption strategies have been developed. Here we present the case of a 17-year-old male CCM patient who underwent a 3-month training program tailored to a preliminary test aimed at assessing his physical exertion tolerance measured via changes in serum creatine kinase (CK). Methods: The preliminary tolerance test consisted of three 25-minute sessions (one session per week) of physical exercise (aerobic, resistance and mixed) at an intensity quantified as level 6 of the Borg Category Ratio (CR) 0-10 scale. A blood sample to assess CK was conducted 36 h following eachsession. The intervention consisted of a training program (three sessions per week) including both resistance and aerobic exercises concomitant with a personalized nutritional plan. Before and after intervention, a battery of metabolic (indirect calorimetry, bioimpedance) and cardiopulmonary (CPET) tests were performed. Results: After training, improvements of the anaerobic threshold (+6.9%), normalized VO2 max (+15%) and body composition (muscle mass, +1.1 kg; fat mass, -1.1 kg were observed without pain, rhabdomyolysis, and blood CK augmentation compared to pretraining values. Conclusion: Our results highlight that a mixed aerobic/resistance training, properly tailored and supported by a specific nutritional plan, may safely improve the physical fitness and body composition in a CCM patient. Dosing exercise-induced CK serum change following Borg CR-10 intensity assessment, may be useful to correctly tailor physical exercise in these patients.

Exploration of Alzheimer's disease-related gene expression following high-intensity and moderate-intensity exercise interventions.

OBJECTIVES: There are currently 29 genome regions that demonstrate associations with Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk. Regular physical exercise can promote systemic change in gene expression and may modify the risk of cognitive decline and AD. This study is a secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial and examines the effect of a six-month exercise intervention versus control on AD-related gene expression. DESIGN: Single-site parallel pilot randomised controlled trial. METHODS: 91 cognitively unimpaired older adults were enrolled in the Intense Physical Activity and Cognition (IPAC) study. Participants were randomised into one of three groups: high-intensity exercise, moderate-intensity exercise, or inactive control for six months. Blood samples were collected prior to, and within two weeks of intervention completion, for later expression analysis of 96 genes. To explore the relationship between changes in gene expression and the intervention groups, an interaction term ("time point × intervention group") was subsequently used. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in gene expression between the three intervention groups at baseline, nor after the intervention. Within groups, five genes were upregulated, seven were downregulated and the remainder remained unchanged. None of the examined genes showed significant change from pre- to post-intervention in the exercise groups compared to the control. CONCLUSIONS: Exercise does not change AD-related gene expression in cognitively unimpaired older adults. Several gene expression targets have been identified for further study.

The Association of Genetic Markers Involved in Muscle Performance Responding to Lactate Levels during Physical Exercise Therapy by Nordic Walking in Patients with Long COVID Syndrome: A Nonrandomized Controlled Pilot Study.

Several genetic markers have shown associations with muscle performance and physical abilities, but the response to exercise therapy is still unknown. The aim of this study was to test the response of patients with long COVID through an aerobic physical therapy strategy by the Nordic walking program and how several genetic polymorphisms involved in muscle performance influence physical capabilities. Using a nonrandomized controlled pilot study, 29 patients who previously suffered from COVID-19 (long COVID = 13, COVID-19 = 16) performed a Nordic walking exercise therapy program for 12 sessions. The influence of the ACE (rs4646994), ACTN3 (rs1815739), AMPD1 (rs17602729), CKM (rs8111989), and MLCK (rs2849757 and rs2700352) polymorphisms, genotyped by using single nucleotide primer extension (SNPE) in lactic acid concentration was established with a three-way ANOVA (group × genotype × sessions). For ACE polymorphism, the main effect was lactic acid (p = 0.019). In ACTN3 polymorphism, there were no main effects of lactic acid, group, or genotype. However, the posthoc analysis revealed that, in comparison with nonlong COVID, long COVID increased lactic acid concentrations in Nordic walking sessions in CT and TT genotypes (all p < 0.05). For AMPD1 polymorphism, there were main effects of lactic acid, group, or genotype and lactic acid × genotype or lactic acid × group × genotype interactions (all p < 0.05). The posthoc analysis revealed that, in comparison with nonlong COVID, long COVID increased lactic acid concentrations in Nordic walking sessions in CC and CT genotypes (all p < 0.05). Physical therapy strategy through Nordic walking enhanced physical capabilities during aerobic exercise in post-COVID19 patients with different genotypes in ACTN3 c.1729C>T and AMPD1 c.34C>T polymorphisms. These findings suggest that individuals who reported long COVID who presumably exercised less beforehand appeared to be less able to exercise, based on lactate levels, and the effect of aerobic physical exercise enhanced physical capabilities conditioned by several genetic markers in long COVID patients.

Hybrid Training System Consisting of Synchronized Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation for Voluntary Exercise Using an Articular Motion Sensor.

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is widely used for improving muscle strength, preventing muscle atrophy, and decreasing pain. Recently, NMES has become a substitute for exercise therapy for metabolism improvement and functional capacity improvement. However, NMES has several disadvantages. First, slow-twitch muscle contractions are insufficient because the recruitment pattern of NMES does not obey Henneman's size principle. Second, when using surface electrodes, it is difficult to contract deep skeletal muscles at the application site. Third, electrical stimulation causes discomfort. Therefore, we devised a simultaneous combination of NMES and voluntary muscle contractions to overcome the weak points of NMES. A hybrid training system (HTS) that resists the motion of a volitionally contracting agonist muscle with force generated by its electrically stimulated antagonist was developed as a technique to combine the application of NMES and volitional contractions. This motion sensor makes it possible to simultaneously combine voluntary movements with NMES. Our HTS synchronizes with voluntary movements, enhancing safety and reducing discomfort. This HTS enhances the exercise effect of even simple exercise. So far, our HTS has been reported to be effective for muscle strength enhancement, prevention of muscle atrophy, improvement of physical function, pain relief, enhancement of physical fitness, and improvement of metabolic function. HTS are expected to be useful methods in environments where sufficient exercise load is not available or for individuals with low exercise tolerance.

Systematic review on the impact of exercise on intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients.

Due to limited studies, we systematically reviewed evidence on the impact of physical exercise on intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma patients, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Using MEDLINE/Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus, we selected English, Portuguese, or Spanish studies excluding case reports and yoga-based interventions. From 1001 records, 15 studies were independently evaluated. Evaluated through the MMAT scoring system, two quantitative randomised controlled studies scored 100% while 13 non-randomised studies averaged 84.62%. Our findings indicated that both aerobic and resistance training led to an immediate IOP reduction post-exercise. However, these findings were largely from single-session experiments. In contrast, the effects of longer-term exercise programmes on IOP varied. Although our review underscores the potential utility of exercise in IOP management, the evidence remains inconclusive due to variations in study design, participant demographics, and exercise parameters. This lack of consistency in the research highlights the necessity for larger, standardised, and longer-term studies to robustly corroborate these preliminary findings.

Aerobic training increases renal antioxidant defence and reduces angiotensin II levels, mitigating the high mortality in SHR-STZ model.

OBJECTVE: The purpose of the research was to investigate the effects of aerobic training on renal function, oxidative stress, intrarenal renin-angiotensin system, and mortality of hypertensive and diabetic (SHR-STZ) rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Blood pressure, creatinine, urea levels, urinary glucose, urine volume, and protein excretion were reduced in trained SHR-STZ rats. RESULTS: Aerobic training not only attenuated oxidative stress but also elevated the activity of antioxidant enzymes in the kid'ney of SHR-STZ rats. Training increased intrarenal levels of angiotensin-converting enzymes (ACE and ACE2) as well as the neprilysin (NEP) activity, along with decreased intrarenal angiotensin II (Ang II) levels. Aerobic training significantly improved the survival of STZ-SHR rats. CONCLUSION: The protective role of aerobic training was associated with improvements in the renal antioxidative capacity, reduced urinary protein excretion along with reduced intrarenal Ang II and increased NEP activity. These findings might reflect a better survival under the combined pathological conditions, hypertension, and diabetes.

Evaluating the impact of a combined aerobic and strength training intervention on the physical performance of male Chinese People's Liberation Army air force pilots.

This study aimed to assess the impact of a 16-week combined training program on the physical performance of 20 male Air Force pilots, with an average age of 31.87 ± 2.75 years, body mass of 76.33 ± 0.79 kg, and height of 175.55 ± 3.65 cm. This intervention encompassed both aerobic and strength training, involving six weekly training sessions. The participants were categorized into two groups based on their initial physical performance levels to explore potential baseline influences on post-intervention adaptations. The study measured changes in estimated maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max), maximal strength, muscular endurance, and long jump performance before and after the training program. Repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant differences over time in the V ˙ O2 max (F = 86.898; p < 0.001; η p 2  = 0.821), handgrip strength right hand (F = 160.480; p < 0.001; η p 2  = 0.894), handgrip strength left hand (F = 102.196; p < 0.001; η p 2  = 0.843), squat maximal strength (F = 525.725; p < 0.001; η p 2  = 0.965), push-ups (F = 337.197; p < 0.001; η p 2  = 0.974), sit up (F = 252.500; p < 0.001; η p 2  = 0.930) and standing long jump (F = 521.714; p < 0.001; η p 2  = 0.965). In conclusion, the 16-week combined training regimen significantly enhanced the physical performance of Air Force pilots, regardless of their initial performance levels.

Aerobic training attenuates cardiac remodeling in mice post-myocardial infarction by inhibiting the p300/CBP-associated factor.

Aerobic training (AT), an effective form of cardiac rehabilitation, has been shown to be beneficial for cardiac repair and remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI). The p300/CBP-associated factor (PCAF) is one of the most important lysine acetyltransferases and is involved in various biological processes. However, the role of PCAF in AT and AT-mediated cardiac remodeling post-MI has not been determined. Here, we found that the PCAF protein level was significantly increased after MI, while AT blocked the increase in PCAF. AT markedly improved cardiac remodeling in mice after MI by reducing endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). In vivo, similar to AT, pharmacological inhibition of PCAF by Embelin improved cardiac recovery and attenuated ERS in MI mice. Furthermore, we observed that both IGF-1, a simulated exercise environment, and Embelin protected from H2O2-induced cardiomyocyte injury, while PCAF overexpression by viruses or the sirtuin inhibitor nicotinamide eliminated the protective effect of IGF-1 in H9C2 cells. Thus, our data indicate that maintaining low PCAF levels plays an essential role in AT-mediated cardiac protection, and PCAF inhibition represents a promising therapeutic target for attenuating cardiac remodeling after MI.

Effects of 9 Weeks of High- or Moderate-Intensity Training on Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Inhibitory Control, and Plasma Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Danish Adolescents-A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PURPOSE: The primary aims of this study were to examine the effects of 9 weeks of aerobic training, comprising three 30-min sessions per week, on V̇O2max, inhibitory control, and plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels among adolescents aged 16-19 years. METHODS: One hundred twenty-one untrained or recreationally active adolescents from a Danish high school were enrolled in the study, with 58 females (17.8 ± 0.8 years) and 27 males (18.0 ± 0.9 years) completing it. Participants were randomly divided into three groups performing aerobic training at either moderate-intensity (MIT: 60%-70% heart rate reserve [HRR]) or high-intensity (HIT: 80%-100% HRR) or a passive control group (CON) continuing their habitual lifestyle. Both the training groups exercised for 3×30 min per week for 9 weeks using a combination of cycling and running. Before and after the intervention period maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max) and the primary outcomes (inhibitory control measured by a modified flanker task, and resting plasma levels of BDNF) were evaluated. RESULTS: After the intervention period, the HIT group demonstrated a larger increase in V̇O2max compared to both the CON and MIT groups, while no significant effects were observed on inhibitory control or plasma BDNF levels in any training group. However, compared to the CON group, the HIT group exhibited a tendency for greater improvement in the flanker interference score (accuracy), attributable to enhanced accuracy on the incongruent stimuli from pre to post. CONCLUSION: Aerobic training in adolescents increased cardiorespiratory fitness in an intensity-dependent manner, but no clear effects were observed on neither inhibitory control nor resting plasma BDNF levels. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02075944.

A Comparative Analysis of Acute Physiological and Perceptual Responses in Whole-Body and Ergometer-Based High-Intensity Interval Training Protocols.

The primary aim of the present investigation was to compare the acute physiological and perceptual responses between two modes of interval training using a randomized crossover design. More specifically, eleven young adult participants (23 ± 4 years, 77 ± 13 kg, 178 ± 7 cm) performed two protocols: one composed of whole-body calisthenics exercises and another on a cycle ergometer. Both protocols encompassed eight 20 s bouts at intensities equivalent to all-out (HIIT-WB) and 170% of the maximal power output (HIIT-C), respectively, interspersed with 10 s of passive rest. The peak and average heart rate, the rating of perceived effort, and blood lactate, creatine kinase, and lactate dehydrogenase concentrations were measured. Aside from blood lactate (HIIT-WB = 9.4 ± 1.8 mmo/L; HIIT-C = 12.5 ± 2.5 mmol/L, p < 0.05) and the rating of perceived exertion (HIIT-WB = 8.8 ± 0.9; HIIT-C = 9.6 ± 0.5, p < 0.05), physiological responses did not significantly differ between protocols (all p > 0.05), with high average heart rate values (HIIT-WB = 86 ± 6% HRmax; HIIT-C = 87 ± 4% HRmax) and a low magnitude of muscle damage, as inferred by CK and LDH concentrations (HIIT-WB = 205.9 ± 56.3 and 203.5 ± 72.4 U/L; HIIT-C = 234.5 ± 77.1 and 155.1 ± 65.3 U/L), respectively. It can be concluded that both protocols elicit vigorous heart rate responses and a low magnitude of muscle damage and, therefore, appear as viable alternatives to improve aerobic fitness. The inclusion of a whole-body HIIT protocol may be an interesting alternative for training prescription in relation to more common interval training protocols.

The effect of 12 weeks of aerobic exercise training with or without saffron supplementation on diabetes-specific markers and inflammation in women with type 2 diabetes: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial.

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of 12 weeks of aerobic exercise (AT) and saffron supplementation on hemostasis, inflammatory markers, and insulin resistance in obese women diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (T2D). A total of 44 women with T2D (mean age: 54.12 ± 5.63 years, mean BMI: 31.15 ± 1.50 kg/m2, HbA1c: 85 ± 4.2 mmol/mol) were included in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. We were randomly assigned to one of four groups (n = 11 per group): saffron + training (ST), placebo + training (PT), saffron supplement (SS), and placebo (P). The ST and PT groups completed 12 weeks of AT (three sessions per week of mild to moderate intensity). The ST and SS groups were administered a daily dose of 200 mg of saffron powder for 12 weeks. Fasting blood samples were collected 48 h before the first AT session and/or nutritional supplementation and 48 h after the last AT session and/or nutritional supplementation. Post-evaluation, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance value (HOMA-IR, p < 0.001) and serum levels of glucose (p < 0.001), fibrinogen (FIB, p < 0.001), homocysteine (HCY, p < 0.001), interleukin-6 (IL-6, p < 0.001), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα, p < 0.001) showed significant reduction in the ST, PT, and SS groups compared to the P group (p < 0.05). In particular, the ST group showed a more significant reduction in all variables compared to the PT and SS groups (p < 0.05). Our results suggest that a 12-week intervention with AT and saffron supplementation can independently improve markers related to hemostasis, inflammation, and insulin resistance. However, their combination showed the greatest effectiveness on the above markers.

The Effect of Time-Equated Concurrent Training Programs in Resistance-Trained Men.

The purpose of this investigation was to compare the effects of three different concurrent training (CT) programs and a resistance training (RT) program. Twenty-three resistance trained men (age: 24 ± 3 years) were randomized into four groups: concurrent RT and high intensity interval cycling (CTH, n = 6), concurrent RT and moderate intensity continuous cycling (CTM, n = 5), RT and barbell circuit training (RTC, n = 6), or RT only (RT, n = 6). Back squat and bench press strength, quadriceps, and pectoralis muscle thickness, VO2peak, and maximum workload (Wmax, Watts) were assessed. Squat strength gains were meaningful in all groups and comparable among CTH (16.88 kg [95% CrI: 11.15, 22.63]), CTM (25.54 kg [95% CrI: 19.24, 31.96]), RTC (17.5 kg [95% CrI: 11.66, 23.39]), and RT (20.36 kg [95% CrI: 15.29, 25.33]) groups. Bench press strength gains were meaningful in all groups and comparable among CTH (11.86 kg [95% CrI: 8.28, 15.47]), CTM (10.3 kg [95% CrI: 6.49, 14.13]), RTC (4.84 kg [95% CrI: 1.31, 8.47]), and RT (10.16 kg [95% CrI: 7.02, 13.22]) groups. Quadriceps hypertrophy was meaningful in all groups and comparable among CTH (2.29 mm [95% CrI: 0.84, 3.76]), CTM (3.41 mm [95% CrI: 1.88, 4.91]), RTC (2.6 mm [95% CrI: 1.17, 4.05]), and RT (2.83 mm [95% CrI: 1.55, 4.12]) groups. Pectoralis hypertrophy was meaningful in CTH (2.29 mm [95% CrI: -0.52, 5.1]), CTM (5.14 mm [95% CrI: 2.1, 8.15]), and RTC (7.19 mm [95% CrI: 4.26, 10.02]) groups, but not in the RT group (1 mm [95% CrI: -1.59, 3.59]); further, between-group contrasts indicated less pectoralis growth in the RT compared to the RTC group. Regarding cardiovascular outcomes, only the RTH and RTM groups experienced meaningful improvements in either measure (VO2peak or Wmax). These data suggest that the interference effect on maximal strength and hypertrophy can be avoided when the aerobic training is moderate intensity cycling, high intensity cycling, or a novel barbell circuit for ~one hour per week and on non-RT days. However, the barbell circuit failed to elicit meaningful cardiovascular adaptations.

A systematic review on the physical, mental, and occupational effects of exercise on pregnant women.

Complications in pregnancy have been proven to be less frequent with exercise. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology suggests pregnant women should exercise an average of 20 to 30 min a day; however, only 13% of pregnant women exercise throughout their pregnancy. This amount could be improved if women are aware that exercise: 1. Can help avoid pregnancy complications or death and 2. Comes in various forms with different health outcomes associated with it. For this reason, this systematic literature review was conducted to review different types of exercise for pregnant women. Peer-reviewed articles were selected to discuss the benefits of the most researched exercises for pregnant women, which included yoga, resistance training, aquatic exercises, dance, and aerobic exercise such as running, walking, and cycling. Data from the review revealed that different types of exercises led to various benefits at different stages of pregnancy. Aquatic activities and yoga helped pregnant women toward the end of their pregnancies, whereas resistance training, dance, and aerobic exercises provided the most benefits during the first trimester. Other studies found that any form of exercise for 30 min a day or every other day for 60 min provided extensive beneficial results. Ultimately, this information could be used to create individualized exercise plans for pregnant women to adhere to throughout their pregnancy.

Food resources and kitchen skills plus aerobic training (FoRKS+) for black adults with hypertension: A pilot trial protocol.

BACKGROUND: Midlife hypertension is associated with cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease and related dementia (ADRD), suggesting that blood pressure control may be a therapeutic target for dementia prevention. Given excess hypertension in non-Hispanic Black (NHB) adults, blood pressure control may also reduce ADRD disparities. We describe a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a multicomponent lifestyle-based intervention versus enhanced usual care on cognition among middle-aged NHB adults. METHODS AND STUDY DESIGN: The Food Resources and Kitchen Skills plus Aerobic Training (FoRKS+) study is a 2-arm, single-blinded trial that compares those receiving the FoRKS+ program (target N = 64) versus those receiving enhanced usual care (target N = 64) in local federally-qualified health centers. Key eligibility criteria include self-identified NHB adults between ages 35-75 with a mean systolic blood pressure ≥ 130 mm/Hg obtained from 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. The FoRKS+ program includes 5 weeks of hypertension self-management courses, 11 weeks of nutrition courses, and 12 weeks of aerobic training in dietitian and health coach-led virtual groups. We will collect data on primary cognitive outcomes, feasibility, hypothesized intervention mediators and moderators, and demographic and health covariates at baseline, near intervention weeks 16-, and 28 (primary outcome assessment), and week 52 follow-up. We will use mixed-effects modeling to examine intervention effects on cognition. DISCUSSION: This pilot RCT will examine the feasibility and preliminary effects of a multicomponent lifestyle intervention on cognitive function in NHB adults, which may have implications for reducing health disparities in ADRD.