Low baseline ribosome-related gene expression and resistance training-induced declines in ribosome-related gene expression are associated with skeletal muscle hypertrophy in young men and women.

Ribosomes are essential cellular machinery for protein synthesis. It is hypothesised that ribosome content supports muscle growth and that individuals with more ribosomes have greater increases in muscle size following resistance training (RT). Aerobic conditioning (AC) also elicits distinct physiological adaptations; however, no measures of ribosome content following AC have been conducted. We used ribosome-related gene expression as a proxy measure for ribosome content and hypothesised that AC and RT would increase ribosome-related gene expression. Fourteen young men and women performed 6 weeks of single-legged AC followed by 10 weeks of double-legged RT. Muscle biopsies were taken following AC and following RT in the aerobically conditioned (AC+RT) and unconditioned (RT) legs. No differences in regulatory genes (Ubf, Cyclin D1, Tif-1a and Polr-1b) involved in ribosomal biogenesis or ribosomal RNA (45S, 5.8S, 18S and 28S rRNAs) expression were observed following AC and RT, except for c-Myc (RT > AC+RT) and 5S rRNA (RT < AC+RT at pre-RT) with 18S external transcribed spacer and 5.8S internal transcribed spacer expression decreasing from pre-RT to post-RT in the RT leg only. When divided for change in leg-lean soft tissue mass (ΔLLSTM) following RT, legs with the greatest ΔLLSTM had lower expression in 11/13 measured ribosome-related genes before RT and decreased expression in 9/13 genes following RT. These results indicate that AC and RT did not increase ribosome-related gene expression. Contrary to previous research, the greatest increase in muscle mass was associated with lower changes in ribosome-related gene expression over the course of the 10-week training programme. This may point to the importance of translational efficiency rather than translational capacity (i.e. ribosome content) in mediating long-term exercise-induced adaptations in skeletal muscle.

Short-term aerobic conditioning prior to resistance training augments muscle hypertrophy and satellite cell content in healthy young men and women.

Factors influencing inter-individual variability of responses to resistance training (RT) remain to be fully elucidated. We have proposed the importance of capillarization in skeletal muscle for the satellite cell (SC) response to RT-induced muscle hypertrophy, and hypothesized that aerobic conditioning (AC) would augment RT-induced adaptations. Fourteen healthy young (22 ± 2 years) men and women underwent AC via 6 weeks of unilateral cycling followed by 10 weeks of bilateral RT to investigate how AC alters SC content, activity, and muscle hypertrophy following RT. Muscle biopsies were taken at baseline (unilateral), post AC (bilateral), and post RT (bilateral) in the aerobically conditioned (AC + RT) and unconditioned (RT) legs. Immunofluorescence was used to determine muscle capillarization, fiber size, SC content, and activity. Type I and type II fiber cross-sectional area (CSA) increased following RT, and when legs were analyzed independently, AC + RT increased type I, type II, and mixed-fiber CSA, where the RT leg tended to increase type II (p = .05), but not type I or mixed-fiber CSA. SC content, activation, and differentiation increased with RT, where type I total and quiescent SC content was greater in AC + RT compared to the RT leg. Those with the greatest capillary-to-fiber perimeter exchange index before RT had the greatest change in CSA following RT and a significant relationship was observed between type II fiber capillarization and the change in type II-fiber CSA with RT (r = 0.35). This study demonstrates that AC prior to RT can augment RT-induced muscle adaptions and that these differences are associated with increases in capillarization.

Stroke and physiological relationships during the incremental front crawl test: outcomes for planning and pacing aerobic training.

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the physiological responses associated with the stroke length (SL) and stroke rate (SR) changes as swimming velocity increases during an incremental step-test. Moreover, this study also aimed to verify if SL and SR relationships toward maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max), gas respiratory compensation point (RCP), exchange threshold (GET), and swimming cost can be applied to the management of endurance training and control aerobic pace. Methods: A total of 19 swimmers performed the incremental test until volitional exhaustion, with each stage being designed by percentages of the 400 m (%v400) maximal front crawl velocity. V̇O2max, GET, RCP, and the respective swimming velocities (v) were examined. Also, the stroke parameters, SL, SR, the corresponding slopes (SLslope and SRslope), and the crossing point (Cp) between them were determined. Results: GET and RCP corresponded to 70.6% and 82.4% of V̇O2max (4185.3 ± 686.1 mL min-1), and V̇O2 at Cp, SLslope, and SRslope were observed at 129.7%, 75.3%, and 61.7% of V̇O2max, respectively. The swimming cost from the expected V̇O2 at vSLslope (0.85 ± 0.18 kJ m-1), vSRslope (0.77 ± 0.17 kJ m-1), and vCp (1.09 ± 0.19 kJ m-1) showed correlations with GET (r = 0.73, 0.57, and 0.59, respectively), but only the cost at vSLslope and vCp correlated to RCP (0.62 and 0.69) and V̇O2max (0.70 and 0.79). Conclusion: SL and SR exhibited a distinctive pattern for the V̇O2 response as swimming velocity increased. Furthermore, the influence of SL on GET, RCP, and V̇O2max suggests that SLslope serves as the metabolic reference of heavy exercise intensity, beyond which the stroke profile defines an exercise zone with high cost, which is recommended for an anaerobic threshold and aerobic power training. In turn, the observed difference between V̇O2 at SRslope and GET suggests that the range of velocities between SL and SR slopes ensures an economical pace, which might be recommended to develop long-term endurance. The results also highlighted that the swimming intensity paced at Cp would impose a high anaerobic demand, as it is located above the maximal aerobic velocity. Therefore, SLslope and SRslope are suitable indexes of submaximal to maximal aerobic paces, while Cp's meaning still requires further evidence.

The Training Characteristics of World-Class Distance Runners: An Integration of Scientific Literature and Results-Proven Practice.

In this review we integrate the scientific literature and results-proven practice and outline a novel framework for understanding the training and development of elite long-distance performance. Herein, we describe how fundamental training characteristics and well-known training principles are applied. World-leading track runners (i.e., 5000 and 10,000 m) and marathon specialists participate in 9 ± 3 and 6 ± 2 (mean ± SD) annual competitions, respectively. The weekly running distance in the mid-preparation period is in the range 160-220 km for marathoners and 130-190 km for track runners. These differences are mainly explained by more running kilometers on each session for marathon runners. Both groups perform 11-14 sessions per week, and ≥ 80% of the total running volume is performed at low intensity throughout the training year. The training intensity distribution vary across mesocycles and differ between marathon and track runners, but common for both groups is that volume of race-pace running increases as the main competition approaches. The tapering process starts 7-10 days prior to the main competition. While the African runners live and train at high altitude (2000-2500 m above sea level) most of the year, most lowland athletes apply relatively long altitude camps during the preparation period. Overall, this review offers unique insights into the training characteristics of world-class distance runners by integrating scientific literature and results-proven practice, providing a point of departure for future studies related to the training and development in the Olympic long-distance events.

Physical Performance of Brazilian Military Policemen: A Longitudinal Analysis by Occupational Specialties.

Maintenance of good levels of physical fitness is essential during occupational tasks for the general health of the military police. However, no studies have evaluated longitudinal changes in the physical fitness of Brazilian military police officers according to their specialties. Thus, the objective of the current study was to analyze the changes in the physical fitness of military police officers according to their specialty, over a period of five years. Retrospective data (2015-2019) from 290 police officers were analyzed, including age and physical fitness tests (12-min run test, sit-ups, push-ups, and pull-ups on the bar). The sample was divided into four groups (Specialized; Border; Urban; and Environmental). ANCOVA was used to describe differences in physical fitness components between groups of police officers after adjusting for age. Initial fitness was higher among police officers in the Specialized group (i.e., those with greater physical demands). During the five-year follow-up period, there was an age-related decrease in physical capacity for all groups, regardless of specialty. However, Urban police showed improvement in running and sit-up tests (p < 0.05) over time. Changes in physical capacity during follow-up differed depending on the physical component analyzed and the occupational specialty.

Metabolic Mechanisms of Vocal Fatigue.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify potential metabolic mechanisms including (1) neuromuscular inefficiency, (2) cardiovascular recovery deficits, or (3) both, in individuals with complaints of vocal fatigue. STUDY DESIGN: Within- and between-subjects group design was used in this study. METHODS: Three groups of women participated in the study, including (1) individuals with complaints of vocal fatigue; (2) vocally healthy sedentary individuals; and (3) vocally healthy, cardiovascularly conditioned individuals. Group assignment was based on results from the Vocal Fatigue Index, laryngeal examination, and self-report regarding exercise regimens. Metabolic profiles were obtained using gas exchange measures monitored during vocal task performance (reading) at two different loudness levels, and during recovery from reading. RESULTS: Statistical analyses did not reveal reliable group differences in metabolic cost for or recovery from vocal tasks. However, descriptive review of oxygen uptake and recovery kinetics revealed patterns indicating reliance on differential energy resources for the vocal task in individuals with vocal fatigue compared with cardiovascularly trained, vocally healthy individuals in particular. Slow oxygen uptake kinetics at task onset was a characteristic of the vocal fatigue group, indicating a general reliance on anaerobic resources to meet the demands of the vocal task, pointing to possible neuromuscular inefficiency. Individuals with vocal fatigue also demonstrated an increase in oxygen consumption following vocal task compared with cardiovascularly trained individuals, suggesting possible cardiovascular recovery deficits. CONCLUSION: This study provides initial data relevant to possible metabolic mechanisms of vocal fatigue and the potential relevance of aerobic conditioning in individuals with such fatigue.

Influência da Wiireabilitação sobre o desempenho funcional no teste de caminhada de 6 minutos em idosos sedentários: um estudo piloto / Influence of Wiireabilitation on functional performance in the 6-minute walk test in sedentary elderly: a pilot study

INTRODUÇÃO: A incorporação de videogames como ferramentas auxiliares na prática da reabilitação possibilitou uma nova perspectiva de intervenção em diversas áreas, um deles é a Wiireabilitação, que tem se mostrado ferramenta eficaz em diversas perspectivas clínicas, sendo também utilizada na prática de atividade física, e, por sua característica lúdica, pode ser um importante aliado na prática de exercício físico em populações com baixa adesão, em especial, os idosos. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a influência da Wiireabilitação sobre a melhora dodesempenho funcional no Teste de caminhada de seis minutos (TC6M) em idosos sedentários. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo piloto, onde foram incluídos idosos com 60 anos ou mais, de ambos os sexos e sedentários. Todos os idosos foram inicialmente avaliados pelo Teste de Caminhada de 6 minutos (TC6M). Posteriormente, procedeu-se com a intervenção aeróbica através da Wiireabilitação, tendo protocolo definido pelos pesquisadores. Foram programados três meses de intervenção, com frequência de três vezes por semana, e duração de 30 minutos por sessão. O TC6M foi realizado na metade do protocolo de intervenção e ao final dos três meses. Para análise e interpretação dos dados procedeu-se com a estatística descritiva. RESULTADOS: A amostra do estudo foi composta por 5 participantes, com predominância do sexo feminino (N=4) e média de idade de 66,2 anos ± 6,27. Na avaliação do TC6M todos os participantes obtiveram mais de 50 metros de ganho em relação ao pré-teste, evidenciando aumento no desempenho funcional. CONCLUSÃO: Para os pacientes aqui avaliados, a Wiireabilitação mostrou-se um recurso efetivo sobre o desempenho funcional no Teste de caminhada de 6 minutos.

INTRODUCTION: The incorporation of video games as additional tools in the practice of rehabilitation has enabled a new perspective of intervention in several areas; one is Wiireahabilitation, which has proven to be an effective tool in several clinical perspectives, it is also used in the practice of physical activity, and because of its playful characteristic, can be an important ally in the practice of physical exercise in populations with low adherence, especially the elderly. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of Wiireahabilitation on improving functional performance in the six-minute walk test (6MWT) in sedentary elderly. METHODS: This is a pilot study, which included elderly people aged 60 or over of both sexes and sedentary. All the elderly were initially evaluated by the 6-minute walk test (6MWT). Subsequently, an aerobic intervention was carried out through Wiireahabilitation, with a protocol defined by the researchers. Three months of intervention were programmed, with a frequency of three times a week and a duration of 30 minutes per session. The 6MWT was performed in the middle of the intervention protocol and at the end of the three months. For data analysis and interpretation, descriptive statistics were used. RESULTS: The study sample consisted of 5 participants, with a predominance of females (N = 4) and a mean age of 66.2 years ± 6.27. In the assessment of the 6MWT, all participants obtained more than 50 meters of gain in relation to the pre-test, showing an increase in functional performance. CONCLUSION: For the patients evaluated here, Wiireahabilitation proved to be an effective resource on functional performance in the 6-minute walk test.

A pilot study using the XBOX Kinect for exercise conditioning in sedentary female university students.

BACKGROUND: There is little research exploring training effects of engaging in active video gaming activities. OBJECTIVES: This study sought to determine the cardiovascular and metabolic responses, changes in flexibility and exercise adherence to an aerobic dance exercise programme using the XBOX Kinect over a 6 week training period. METHODS: Training was conducted using the Just Dance 4 disc on the XBOX Kinect 360. Participants attended five, 30 minute sessions per week for the first two weeks, four 45 minute sessions per week for the next two weeks and three 60 minute sessions per week for the last two weeks. Outcomes assessed included flexibility, body mass index (BMI), percentage body fat, maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), resting and post exercise blood pressure, heart rate and blood lactate levels. RESULTS: There were significant improvements in flexibility, maximal oxygen consumption and resting heart rate. There were no significant changes in BMI, percentage body fat or blood lactate levels. Nine (37.5%) participants continued to engage in this form of exercise at least 3-days per week over the 3-month post intervention follow-up period. CONCLUSION: Engaging in dancing using dance videogames can lead to improved cardiovascular conditioning and flexibility in sedentary female university students.

Capacidade aeróbica, força e resistência musculares de idosas praticantes de ginástica / Aerobic capacity, muscl estrength and resistance of the elderly women practitioners of gymnastics

O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar o efeito de 12 semanas de um programa de exercícios de ginástica sobre os níveis de condicionamento aeróbico, força de preensão manual e força e resistência musculares de membros inferiores de idosas praticantes de ginástica. Foram avaliadas 25 idosas, sendo 9 sedentárias (70 ± 7 anos) e 16 já praticantes de ginástica (70 ± 5 anos). As praticantes de ginástica foram submetidas a um programa de exercícios aeróbicos e de resistência muscular por um período de 12 semanas (2x/semana, 50 min/sessão). Antes do início do programa de exercícios, foram aplicados testes de caminhada de 6 minutos (avaliação da capacidade aeróbica), de dinamometria manual (avaliação da força de preensão manual) e levantar e sentar na cadeira em 30 segundos (avaliação da força e resistência musculares de membros inferiores). Ao final de 12 semanas, os testes foram reaplicados e os resultados demonstraram aumento significativo nos valores de metros caminhados em 6 minutos (514 ± 26 m vs. 457 ± 40 m), nos valores de quilograma-força (24,4 ± 4,3 kgf vs. 20,8 ± 4 kgf) e no número de repetições em 30 segundos (13 ± 2 vs. 9 ± 2 repetições) para o grupo praticante de ginástica. Em contrapartida, o grupo controle não mostrou alteração em nenhuma variável após 12 semanas. Conclui-se que um programa regular de exercícios de ginástica aeróbicos e de resistência muscular, com duração de 12 semanas, é capaz de proporcionar benefícios aos componentes da aptidão física relacionada à saúde de idosas. (AU)

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of 12 weeks of a gymnastic exercise program on the levels of aerobic conditioning, hand-grip strength and muscular strength and endurance in the lower limbs of elderly women practitioners of gymnastics. Twenty-five elderly women were evaluated, 9 sedentary (70 ± 7 years) and 16 practitioners of gymnastics (70 ± 5 years). The practitioners of gymnastics were submitted to aerobic and muscular endurance exercises for 12 weeks (2 times/week, 50 minutes/session). Before the beginning of the gymnastics exercise program, the 6-minute walk test (aerobic capacity assessment), the dynamometry manual (hand- -grip strength assessment) and the sit-up chair test in 30 seconds (muscular strength and endurance in the lower limbs assessment) were applied. At the end of the program, the tests were reapplied, and the results showed a significant increase in the values of meters walked in 6 minutes (514 ± 26 m vs. 457 ± 40 m), in the values of kilogram-force (24.4 ± 4.3 kgf vs. 20.8 ± 4 kgf) and in the number of repetitions in 30 seconds (13 ± 2 vs. 9 ± 2 repetitions) for the practitioners of gymnastics group. In contrast, the control group showed no change in any variable after 12 weeks. It can be concluded that a 12-week regular aerobic and muscular endurance exercise is able to provide benefits to the physical fitness components related to the health of the elderly. (AU)