Creatine supplementation and resistance training to preserve muscle mass and attenuate cancer progression (CREATINE-52): a protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Muscle mass is important for metastatic prostate cancer survival and quality of life (QoL). The backbone of treatment for men with metastatic castration sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) is androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) with an androgen signaling inhibitor. ADT is an effective cancer treatment, but it facilitates significant declines in muscle mass and adverse health outcomes important to mCSPC survivors, such as fatigue, and reductions in physical function, independence, insulin sensitivity, and QoL. In non-metastatic CSPC survivors, resistance training (RT) preserves muscle mass and improves these related health outcomes, but the biggest barrier to RT in CSPC survivors of all stages is fatigue. Creatine monohydrate supplementation coupled with RT (Cr + RT) may address this barrier since creatine plays a critical role in energy metabolism. Cr + RT in cancer-free older adults and other clinical populations improves muscle mass and related health outcomes. Evidence also suggests that creatine supplementation can complement cancer treatment. Thus, Cr + RT is a strategy that addresses gaps in survivorship needs of people with mCSPC. The purpose of this parallel, double-blind randomized controlled trial is to test the effects of 52-weeks of Cr + RT compared with placebo (PLA) and RT (PLA + RT) on muscle mass, other related health outcomes, and markers of cancer progression. METHODS: We will carry out this trial with our team's established, effective, home-based, telehealth RT program in 200 mCSPC survivors receiving ADT, and evaluate outcomes at baseline, 24-, and 52-weeks. RT will occur twice weekly with elastic resistance bands, and an established creatine supplementation protocol will be used for supplementation delivery. Our approach addresses a major facilitator to RT in mCSPC survivors, a home-based RT program, while utilizing a supervised model for safety. DISCUSSION: Findings will improve delivery of comprehensive survivorship care by providing a multicomponent, patient-centered lifestyle strategy to preserve muscle mass, improve health outcomes, and complement cancer treatment (NCT06112990).

Comparative Efficacy of Different Protein Supplements on Muscle Mass, Strength, and Physical Indices of Sarcopenia among Community-Dwelling, Hospitalized or Institutionalized Older Adults Undergoing Resistance Training: A Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Aging-related sarcopenia exerts harmful impacts on muscle mass, strength, and physical mobility. Protein supplementation has been demonstrated to augment efficacy of resistance training (RT) in elderly. This study compared the relative effects of different protein supplements on muscle mass, strength, and mobility outcomes in middle-aged and older individuals undergoing RT. A comprehensive search of online databases was performed to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the efficacy of protein supplement plus RT in untrained community-dwelling adults, hospitalized, or institutionalized residents who suffered acute or chronic health conditions. Network meta-analysis (NMA) was performed using a frequentist method for all analyses. Treatment effects for main outcomes were expressed as standard mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI). We used the surface-under-the cumulative-ranking (SUCRA) scores to rank probabilities of effect estimation among all identified treatments. Meta-regression analyses were performed to identify any relevant moderator of the treatment efficacy and results were expressed as ß with 95% credible interval (CrI). We finally included 78 RCTs (5272 participants) for analyses. Among the six protein sources identified in this NMA, namely whey, milk, casein, meat, soy, and peanut, whey supplement yielded the most effective treatments augmenting efficacy of RT on muscle mass (SMD = 1.29, 95% CI: 0.96, 1.62; SUCRA = 0.86), handgrip strength (SMD = 1.46, 95% CI: 0.92, 2.00; SUCRA = 0.85), and walking speed (SMD = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.39, 1.07; SUCRA = 0.84). Participant's health condition, sex, and supplementation dose were significant factors moderating the treatment efficacy on muscle mass (ß = 0.74; 95% CrI: 0.22, 1.25), handgrip strength (ß = -1.72; 95% CrI: -2.68, -0.77), and leg strength (ß = 0.76; 95% CrI: 0.06, 1.47), respectively. Our findings suggest whey protein yields the optimal supplements to counter sarcopenia in older individuals undergoing RT.

Effect of resistance training plus enriched probiotic supplement on sestrin2, oxidative stress, and mitophagy markers in elderly male Wistar rats.

This study aimed to determine the effects of resistance training combined with a probiotic supplement enriched with vitamin D and leucine on sestrin2, oxidative stress, antioxidant defense, and mitophagy markers in aged Wistar rats. Thirty-five male rats were randomly assigned to two age groups (old with 18-24 months of age and young with 8-12 weeks of age) and then divided into five groups, including (1) old control (OC: n = 5 + 2 for reserve in all groups), (2) young control (YC: n = 5), (3) old resistance training (OR: n = 5), (4) old resistance training plus supplement (ORS: n = 5), and old supplement group (OS: n = 5). Training groups performed ladder climbing resistance training 3 times per week for 8 weeks. Training intensity was inserted progressively, with values equal to 65, 75, and 85, determining rats' maximal carrying load capacity. Each animal made 5 to 8 climbs in each training session, and the time of each climb was between 12 and 15 s, although the time was not the subject of the evaluation, and the climbing pattern was different in the animals. Old resistance plus supplement and old supplement groups received 1 ml of supplement 5 times per week by oral gavage in addition to standard feeding, 1 to 2 h post training sessions. Forty-eight hours after the end of the training program, 3 ml of blood samples were taken, and all rats were then sacrificed to achieve muscle samples. After 8 weeks of training, total antioxidant capacity and superoxide dismutase activity levels increased in both interventions. A synergistic effect of supplement with resistance training was observed for total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, and PTEN-induced kinase 1. Sestrin 2 decreased in intervention groups. These results suggest that resistance training plus supplement can boost antioxidant defense and mitophagy while potentially decreasing muscle strength loss.

Fueling for and recovering from resistance training: The periworkout nutrition practices of competitive powerlifters.

PURPOSE: Nutrient timing is a concept that emphasizes the intentional ingestion of whole or fortified foods, and dietary supplements, to adequately fuel for, and recover from, acute and chronic exercise. The nutrition strategies used by powerlifters around training sessions have not, to our knowledge, been previously investigated. This study explored the self-reported periworkout (before, during, and after) nutrition practices of competitive powerlifters, including what, why, and information source that informed practice, with comparison to current sport nutrition guidelines. METHODS: Actively competing male (n = 240) and female (n = 65) powerlifters completed a cross-sectional online survey of self-reported periworkout nutrition practices in the pre-, intra-, and postexercise periods, fasted training, and supplementation. Data are presented as the number (n) and percentage (%) of all powerlifters practicing a given strategy followed by a % of responses reporting various practices or beliefs within this strategy. Categorical subgroups (sex, age, and weight class; and competitive caliber) were analyzed with a chi-square test or Fisher's exact test and denoted where significant (P ≤ 0.05). RESULTS: Most powerlifters reported paying specific attention to nutrition practices in the pre-exercise period (n = 261; 85.6%) by ingesting more carbohydrate (CHO) rich foods (n = 234; 89.6%) for the purpose of assisting in training performance (n = 222; 85.1%). Most powerlifters reported intraexercise nutrition strategies (n = 211; 69.2%), of which most included ingesting more CHO rich foods (n = 159; 74.5%) for the purpose of feeling less hungry and/or boosting energy levels during training (n = 129; 61.1%). Most powerlifters reported paying attention to postexercise nutrition (n = 244; 80%), by ingesting more protein rich foods (n = 182; 74.6%) for the purpose of recovering better for the whole day (n = 152; 62.3%) and enhancing the benefits of training (n = 149; 61.1%). Most powerlifters did not complete training sessions in the fasted state (n = 262; 85.9%). Most powerlifters reported paying attention to supplementation before training (n = 237; 77.7%), of which preworkout formulas (n = 137; 57.8%), energy drinks (n = 101; 42.6%), creatine (n = 88; 37.1%), and caffeine pills (n = 70; 29.5%) were most reported. Supplementation was used to assist in training performance (n = 197; 83.1%) and increase wakefulness/alertness (n = 183; 77.2%). Males reported more often than females that they informed multiple elements of their nutrition practices with the information they read or watched somewhere (P = 0.002-0.012). CONCLUSION: The periworkout nutrition practices used by competitive powerlifters followed current sport nutrition guidelines, by using CHO sources to fuel for training and ensuring the provision of protein postexercise. Competitive powerlifters may wish to exert caution with supplementation, as there is a risk of harm or inadvertent doping.

Resistance training maintains physical function but does not prevent changes in body composition and biochemical markers after detraining in aging adults.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the present study was to analyze the effects of 10 weeks of resistance training (RT) and subsequent 4 weeks of detraining on physical function, body composition, and biochemical markers in aging adults. METHODS: The study sample was selected by convenience and consisted of 12 women with a mean age of 58 ± 7 years. Physical function [Latin-American Group of Development for Maturity (GDLAM) general index], body composition, total and fractional cholesterol, triglycerides, and glycemia were assessed before and after RT (10 weeks) and detraining (4 weeks). RESULTS: After 10 weeks of RT, there were improvements in fat-free mass (39.1 ± 4.2 vs. 39.9 ± 4.4 kg; p < 0.05 and d = 0.2), fat mass (39.9 ± 6.3% vs. 38.7 ± 6.4%; p < 0.05 and d = -0.2), conicity index (1.47 ± 0.07 vs. 1.43 ± 0.06; p = 0.001 and d = -0.6), and physical function (GDLAM index [27.2 ± 5.5 vs. 25.0 ± 4.7; p = 0.001 and d = -0.4]). Significant improvements were also found in total cholesterol (271.8 ± 75.7 vs. 217.2 ± 52.2 mg/dL; p < 0.01 and d = -0.8), LDL-cholesterol (196.5 ± 61.6 vs. 159.3 ± 38.5 mg/dL; p < 0.01 and d = -0.7), HDL-cholesterol (53.1 ± 7.3 vs. 64.3 ± 23.7 mg/dL; p < 0.05 and d = 0.7), and triglycerides (165.8 ± 32.6 vs. 139.9 ± 46.6 mg/dL; p = 0.001 and d = -0.6). After the detraining period, all benefits in physical function were successfully maintained. CONCLUSION: RT provided benefits in physical function, body composition, and biochemical markers in aging adults. However, 4-week detraining impaired body composition and biochemical markers in the investigated sample.

Effect of foam rolling recovery on pain and physical capacity after resistance exercises: A randomized crossover trial.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the effects of passive recovery (PR), active recovery (AR), and recovery through self-massage with the aid of foam rolling (FRR) on pain and physical capacity in healthy volunteers after a resistance exercise (RE) session. METHODS: The sample of this randomized crossover trial comprised 37 physically healthy men who underwent three sessions of RE (squat, leg press, and leg extension), involving four sets of 10 repetitions with 80% of 10MR, with an interval of seven days between sessions. PR consisted of sitting for 20min, AR included a cycle ergometer for 20min at 50% maximum heart rate, and FRR involved 10 repetitions per target body area, followed by 1min rest. Variables of physical capacity (strength, power, agility, joint range of motion, flexibility, speed, and fatigue resistance) were assessed 1h after RE, whereas pain was assessed 24h, 48h, and 72h after RE. RESULTS: In the dominant lower limb, the percentage of strength decreased (p < 0.001) by 16.3% after RE but improved (p < 0.001) by 5.2% after AR and FRR in relation to PR. Similar results were observed in the non-dominant lower limb. Agility was enhanced (p < 0.001) by 3.6% in AR and 4.3% in FRR compared with the baseline assessment. The recoveries for the other physical variables were similar. Only FRR reduced (p < 0.001) pain at 24h (22.8%), 48h (39.2%), and 72h (59.7%) compared to PR. CONCLUSIONS: Self-massage using a foam roll reduced pain and improved agility and muscle strength during recovery after exercise. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT04201977.

Strength and Conditioning (S&C) Practices of Judo Athletes and S&C Coaches: A Survey-Based Investigation.

ABSTRACT: Weldon, A, Cloak, R, Kirk, C, Ruddock, A, Langan-Evans, C, Detanico, D, Loturco, I, and Kons, R. Strength and conditioning (S&C) practices of judo athletes and S&C coaches: A survey-based investigation. J Strength Cond Res 38(4): e160-e173, 2024-The benefits of strength and conditioning (S&C) for improving judo performance and reducing injuries have been widely studied. However, the S&C practices used and perspectives held by those delivering S&C have yet to be elucidated. Therefore, this study investigated the S&C practices and perspectives of judokas and S&C coaches working within judo. Forty-two judokas and 9 S&C coaches completed an online survey comprising 6 sections: (a) written informed consent; (b) background information; (c) education, qualifications, and prescription; (d) views on S&C; (e) exercise selection; and (f) issues and improvements. Frequency analysis was used to report responses to fixed-response questions and thematic analysis for open-ended questions. Results indicated that S&C coaches were primarily responsible for delivering S&C programs (60%), and S&C information was predominantly sourced from S&C coaches (43%). Strength and conditioning was deemed very important for randori (78-88%), overall judo performance (67-79%), and judo fitness (62-78%). Similarly, S&C was considered very important for the development of speed and power (76-89%), strength (71-89%), and injury reduction (69-78%). Novel findings were also observed, such as integrating judo-specific training within S&C practice, which may be partly explained by more S&C coaches holding judo belts (67%) than S&C qualifications (11%). This study supports practitioners delivering S&C in judo by offering a base of information to critique or align with their existing S&C practices and perspectives. Furthermore, our results may help identify potential gaps between methods used, proposed guidelines, and actual practice, facilitating the development of research and education resources tailored to the current climate.

Effects of a home-based exercise combined yoga and resistance training in enthesitis-related arthritis in China: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Enthesitis-related arthritis (ERA) is a category of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). The complications of JIA include pain, muscle weakness, limited movement and worsening quality of life. Yoga is an effective exercise therapy for rheumatoid arthritis and may have similar benefits for JIA. Considering the limitation of yoga for strengthening muscles, combined yoga and resistance training (CYRT) may compensate for the shortcomings and provide more benefits for JIA patients. Despite this, there is currently a lack of studies investigating the effectiveness of CYRT for JIA patients. Due to the inaccessibility of traditional exercise therapy, home-based exercise is needed. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of home-based CYRT on JIA. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This is a 12-week randomised single-blind controlled trial study. 60 patients with ERA will be randomised into two groups: the home-based exercise group (HBE) and the health education (HE) group. The HBE group (n=30) will perform the CYRT programme 3 times a week at home for 12 weeks and receive HE. The HE group (n=30) will only receive HE. The outcomes include primary outcome (pain levels) and secondary outcomes (lower limb muscle strength, motion range of joint, aerobic fitness, function ability, fatigue levels, mental health, quality of life and blood biomarkers). The assessments will be conducted at baseline, postintervention (12 weeks) and follow-up (24 weeks). Data will be analysed by intention to treat. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study has been approved by the Ethics Committee of Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine in December 2023 (approval no. XHEC-C-2023-059-3). This study will require informed consent from all subjects and guardians of children under 18 years of age. The findings will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and international conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ChiCTR2300073446.

Multimodal and conventional resistance training interventions improve muscle function in older adults: Findings from the Training IMCT study.

Age-associated remodeling processes affect the intramuscular connective tissue (IMCT) network, which may significantly impair muscle function. Thus, we aimed to test whether including exercises shown to efficiently target the IMCT to a conventional resistance exercise intervention (CONV) would result in greater functional gains as compared to CONV alone. Fifty-three men and women (66.2 ± 3.3 years) were assigned to either CONV (n = 15), multimodal training (MULTI; n = 17) or a control (CTRL; n = 21) group. All subjects were tested at baseline, and those assigned to CONV or MULTI underwent a 16-week training intervention. The CONV group followed a progressive resistance training program, in which the number of weekly training sessions gradually increased from 1 to 3. In the MULTI group, one of these sessions was replaced with plyometric training, followed by self-myofascial release. Testing included maximal strength and power, imaging-based muscle volume, architecture, and functional performance. The intervention effects were analyzed using two- or three-way repeated measures ANOVA models (α = 0.05). Briefly, the maximal knee extension isometric contraction, one-repetition maximum, and isokinetic peak torque increased in all groups (p < 0.05), albeit to a lesser extent in CTRL. On the other hand, quadriceps femoris muscle volume (p = 0.019) and vastus lateralis pennation angle (p < 0.001) increased only in the MULTI group. Handgrip strength did not change in response to the intervention (p = 0.312), whereas Sit-to-Stand performance improved in all groups after the first 8-wks, but only in MULTI and CONV after 16-wks (all p < 0.001). In conclusion, we found that a resistance training intervention in which one weekly training session is replaced by plyometric training is feasible and as effective as a program consisting solely of conventional strength training sessions for inducing gains in muscle strength and function in older adults. Muscle size and architecture improved only in the MULTI group. German Clinical Trials: DRKS00015750.

The Training and Tapering Practices of Highland Games Heavy Event Athletes.

ABSTRACT: Winwood, PW, Keogh, JW, Travis, SK, Grieve, I, and Pritchard, HJ. The training and tapering practices of Highland Games heavy event athletes. J Strength Cond Res 38(3): e116-e124, 2024-This study provides the first empirical evidence of how Highland Games heavy event athletes train and taper for Highland Games competitions. Athletes (n = 169) (mean ± SD: age 40.8 ± 10.7 years, height 181.2 ± 9.5 cm, weight 107.2 ± 23.0 kg, 18.8 ± 10.3 years of general resistance training, and 8.1 ± 6.9 years of competitive Highland Games experience) completed a self-reported 4-page online survey on training and tapering practices. Analysis by sex (male and female) and competitive standard (local or regional, national, and international) was conducted. Seventy-eight percent (n = 132) of athletes reported that they used a taper. Athletes stated that their taper length was 5.2 ± 3.5 days, with the step (36%) and linear tapers (33%) being the most performed. Athletes reported that their highest training volume and intensity were 5.5 and 3.8 weeks out (respectively) from competition, and all training ceased 2.4 ± 1.4 days before competition. Training volume decreased during the taper by 34%. Athletes typically stated that, tapering was performed to achieve recovery, peak performance, and injury prevention; training intensity, frequency, and duration stayed the same or decreased; game-specific training increased with reductions in traditional exercises; the caber toss, weight for height, and heavy weight throw were performed further out from competition than other events; muscular power and strength were the most common types of training performed; static stretching, foam rolling, and massage were strategies used in the taper; and poor tapering occurred because of life/work circumstances, lack of sleep/rest, or training too heavy/hard. These results may aid Highland Games athletes to optimize training and tapering variables leading to improved performances.

Shatavari supplementation in postmenopausal women alters the skeletal muscle proteome and pathways involved in training adaptation.

PURPOSE: Shatavari is an understudied, widely available herbal supplement. It contains steroidal saponins and phytoestrogens. We previously showed that six weeks of shatavari supplementation improved handgrip strength and increased markers of myosin contractile function. Mechanistic insights into shatavari's actions are limited. Therefore, we performed proteomics on vastus lateralis (VL) samples that remained from our original study. METHODS: In a randomised double-blind trial, women (68.5 ± 6 years) ingested either placebo or shatavari (equivalent to 26,500 mg/d fresh weight) for six weeks. Tandem mass tag global proteomic analysis of VL samples was conducted (N = 7 shatavari, N = 5 placebo). Data were normalized to total peptides and scaled using a reference sample. Data were filtered using a 5% FDR. For each protein, the pre to post supplementation difference was expressed as log2 fold change. Welch's t tests with Benjamini-Hochberg corrections were performed for each protein. Pathway enrichment (PADOG, CAMERA) was interrogated in Reactome (v85). RESULTS: No individual protein was significantly different between supplementation conditions. Both PADOG and CAMERA indicated that pathways related to (1) Integrin/MAPK signalling, (2) metabolism/insulin secretion; (3) cell proliferation/senescence/DNA repair/cell death; (4) haemostasis/platelets/fibrin; (5) signal transduction; (6) neutrophil degranulation and (7) chemical synapse function were significantly upregulated. CAMERA indicated pathways related to translation/amino acid metabolism, viral infection, and muscle contraction were downregulated. CONCLUSION: Our analyses indicate that shatavari may support muscle adaptation responses to exercise. These data provide useful signposts for future investigation of shatavari's utility in conserving and enhancing musculoskeletal function in older age. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT05025917 30/08/21, retrospectively registered.

Effects of resistance training and nutritional support on osteosarcopenia in older, community-dwelling postmenopausal Korean females (ERTO-K study): a study protocol.

BACKGROUND: Osteosarcopenia is geriatric syndrome defined as the concomitant occurrence of osteopenia/osteoporosis, and sarcopenia. Osteosarcopenia is a relatively new concept in geriatric medicine; however, it may increase the risk of fragility fractures, several morbidities and mortalities, and socioeconomic costs. Although resistance exercises and nutritional support-including protein, calcium, and vitamin D-are potential non-pharmacological management procedures, evidence is still lacking. The objective of this study was therefore to evaluate the effect of combined resistance exercise and nutritional support on the quality and quantity of bone and muscle in postmenopausal females with osteosarcopenia. METHODS: This research proposal presents the protocol for a prospective, single-center, single-blinded, two-armed randomized controlled trial. Thirty-four participants with osteosarcopenia will be recruited and randomly divided into intervention and control groups; both groups will receive nutritional supplements (protein, 40 g; vitamin D, 1600 IU; calcium, 600 mg) daily. The intervention group will undergo 24 weeks of resistance exercise of increasing intensity, achieved through a three-phase step-up process. The primary outcomes will be the changes in skeletal muscle index and bone marrow density of the lumbar spine and femoral neck between the baseline and end of intervention (24 weeks). The secondary outcomes will be the body composition, whole body phase angle, physical function assessment, quality of life, psychological assessment, and bone turnover markers of participants, surveyed at multiple time points. DISCUSSION: This randomized controlled trial may reveal the effect of resistance exercise and nutritional support on older postmenopausal women with osteosarcopenia. The results will provide evidence for developing proper non-pharmacological management guidelines for postmenopausal women. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Research Information Service of Republic of Korea, KCT0008291, Registered on 16 March 2023, https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/search/detailSearch.do/25262 .

Exploring the Impact of Protein Supplement Source on Body Composition in Women Practicing Anaerobic Resistance Exercise: A Pilot Study.

Supplements based on protein hydrolysates have been used as an effective source to access amino acids with greater bioavailability, promoting absorption to improve body composition. Five groups of young women were randomly selected. They followed a personalized eating plan that included different protein supplements (meat, vegan, branched-chain amino acids [BCAAs], whey, and control group), combined with an exercise plan, for eight weeks, aiming to assess their consumption effects combined with resistance exercise on body composition. Bioelectrical impedance before and after the treatment was conducted. The results showed that the supplementation with BCAAs presented a significant decrease (p < 0.05) on the BMI in this group (initial BMI = 19.7 kg/m2; final BMI = 19.4 kg/m2). When comparing the final measures among the groups, the BCAAs and vegan supplements caused a significant decrease in body weight (50.24 kg and 51.34 kg, respectively). The BMI of the group supplemented with meat proteins was statistically higher (22.06 kg/m2) than that the group supplemented with BCAAs (19.4 kg/m2) (p < 0.05). No significant changes were observed in the type of protein consumed to produce muscle mass in the participants after eight weeks of study under a controlled diet and anaerobic resistance exercise. Participants exhibited energy deficiencies, but their macronutrient distribution appeared normal. Following an 8-week intervention, meat and BCAAs reduced weight and BMI, although no statistical differences were observed. It is recommended to extend the treatment for a more comprehensive understanding.

Supplementation with ß-hydroxy-ß-methylbutyrate after resistance training in post-acute care patients with sarcopenia: A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of adding ß-hydroxy-ß- methylbutyrate (HMB) supplementation to a 12-week exercise-based rehabilitation program in older adults with sarcopenia after discharge from a post-acute geriatric rehabilitation unit. STUDY DESIGN: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with two parallel groups. The intervention group received 3 g/day of Ca-HMB and participated in a 12- week resistance training program (3 sessions/week). The control group received a placebo and followed the same training program. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcomes were the improvements of handgrip strength and physical performance assessed through the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and 4-meter gait speed; and handgrip strength. All variables were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and 1-year follow-up. RESULTS: After completing the 12-week exercise program, the intervention group showed significant improvements in SPPB-Balance (1.3, 95 %CI 0.3 to 2.4) and total SPPB score (2.2, 95 %CI 0.4 to 4.0). Intra-group analysis demonstrated gains in the SPPB-Chair Stand (0.7 points, 95 %CI 0.0 to 1.4) and total SPPB score (2.1 points, 95 %CI 0.3 to 3.9) in the intervention group. Improvements in handgrip strength were observed in women (3.7 kg, 95 %CI: 0.2 to 7.3) at the end of the intervention, and persisted at the 1-year follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that the supplementation of 3 g/day of Ca-HMB with resistance exercise may significantly enhance muscle strength and physical performance among older women with sarcopenia after recent hospitalization. Given this study's limitations, the intervention's effectiveness cannot be drawn, and further studies are needed.

Effects of L-Leucine Supplementation and Resistance Training on Adipokine Markers in Untrained Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Women.

ABSTRACT: Chapman-Lopez, TJ, Funderburk, LK, Heileson, JL, Wilburn, DT, Koutakis, P, Gallucci, AR, and Forsse, JS. Effects of L-leucine supplementation and resistance training on adipokine markers in untrained perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. J Strength Cond Res 38(3): 526-532, 2024-This study examined the effects of supplementing 5 g of leucine compared with a placebo during a 10-week resistance training program on body composition parameters and adipokine concentrations in untrained, perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. Thirty-five women were randomly assigned to 2 groups-leucine (LEU, n = 17) and placebo (PLC, n = 18)-in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Each group consumed the supplement or placebo every day and completed a resistance training program for 10 weeks. Using 3-day food records, a diet was assessed before the intervention and after its cessation. Body composition was assessed preintervention and postintervention using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Moreover, the concentrations of adipokines, such as adiponectin, visfatin, leptin, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), were assessed preintervention and postintervention. Both groups showed an increase in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) area ( p = 0.030) and fat-free mass (FFM; p = 0.023). There were significant group differences in concentrations of visfatin ( p = 0.020) and leptin ( p = 0.038) between the PLC and LEU groups. Visfatin displayed higher concentrations in the PLC group and leptin displayed higher concentrations in the LEU group. In addition, there were significant decreases in adiponectin concentrations for both groups (LEU: 652 ± 513 to 292 ± 447 pg·ml -1 ; PLC: 584 ± 572 to 245 ± 356 pg·ml -1 , p = 0.002) and MCP-1 only decreased in the PLC group (253 ± 119 to 206 ± 106 pg·ml -1 , p = 0.004). There were significant decreases in adiponectin concentrations in both groups and a decrease in MCP-1 concentrations in the PLC group. These decreases may be due to both adipokines possible relationship with VAT area. However, it is not known whether leucine has underlying properties that hinder changes in MCP-1 concentrations.

Partly Substituting Whey for Collagen Peptide Supplementation Improves Neither Indices of Muscle Damage Nor Recovery of Functional Capacity During Eccentric Exercise Training in Fit Males.

Previous studies showed that collagen peptide supplementation along with resistance exercise enhance muscular recovery and function. Yet, the efficacy of collagen peptide supplementation in addition to standard nutritional practices in athletes remains unclear. Therefore, the objective of the study was to compare the effects of combined collagen peptide (20 g) and whey protein (25 g) supplementation with a similar daily protein dose (45 g) of whey protein alone on indices of muscle damage and recovery of muscular performance during eccentric exercise training. Young fit males participated in a 3-week training period involving unilateral eccentric exercises for the knee extensors. According to a double-blind, randomized, parallel-group design, before and after training, they received either whey protein (n = 11) or whey protein + collagen peptides (n = 11). Forty-eight hours after the first training session, maximal voluntary isometric and dynamic contraction of the knee extensors were transiently impaired by ∼10% (Ptime < .001) in whey protein and whey protein + collagen peptides, while creatine kinase levels were doubled in both groups (Ptime < .01). Furthermore, the training intervention improved countermovement jump performance and maximal voluntary dynamic contraction by respectively 8% and 10% (Ptime < .01) and increased serum procollagen type 1N-terminal peptide concentration by 10% (Ptime < .01). However, no differences were found for any of the outcomes between whey and whey protein + collagen peptides. In conclusion, substituting a portion of whey protein for collagen peptide, within a similar total protein dose, improved neither indices of eccentric muscle damage nor functional outcomes during eccentric training.

Effects of Timing and Types of Protein Supplementation on Improving Muscle Mass, Strength, and Physical Performance in Adults Undergoing Resistance Training: A Network Meta-Analysis.

Precise protein supplementation strategies for muscle improvement are still lacking. The timing or type of protein supplementation has been debated as a window of opportunity to improve muscle mass, strength, and physical performance. We conducted a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with protein supplements and resistance training. PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and SPORTDiscus databases were searched until May 1, 2023. We included 116 eligible trials with 4,711 participants that reported on 11 timing and 14 types of protein supplementation. Compared with placebo, protein supplementation after exercise (mean difference [MD]: 0.54 kg [95% confidence intervals 0.10, 0.99] for fat-free mass, MD: 0.34 kg [95% confidence intervals 0.10, 0.58] for skeletal muscle mass) and at night (MD: 2.85 kg [0.49, 5.22] for handgrip strength, MD: 12.12 kg [3.26, 20.99] for leg press strength) was most effective in improving muscle mass and strength, respectively (moderate certainty). Milk proteins (milk, whey protein, yogurt, casein, and bovine colostrum), red meat, and mixed protein were effective for gains in both muscle mass and strength (moderate certainty). No timing or type of protein showed a significant enhancement in physical performance (timed up-to-go test, 6-min walk test, and gait speed). Pre/postexercise and Night are key recommended times of protein intake to increase muscle mass and strength, respectively. Milk proteins are the preferred types of protein supplements for improving muscle mass and strength. Future randomized controlled trials that directly compare the effects of protein timing or types are needed. This trial was registered at International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews as CRD42022358766.

The effects of 12 weeks resistance training and vitamin D administration on neuromuscular joint, muscle strength and power in postmenopausal women.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to examine the effects of 12 weeks of resistance training (RT) and vitamin D (VitD) supplementation on muscle strength and C-terminal agrin fragment (CAF) and Neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) concentrations as potential biomarkers in postmenopausal women. METHODS: This was a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study. Forty-four healthy postmenopausal women (55.84 ± 4.70 years and 29.61 ± 4.26 kg/m2) were randomly assigned into four groups: (1) Resistance training + placebo (RT + PLA), (2) Vitamin D supplementation (VitD), (3) Resistance training + vitamin D (RT + VitD), and (4) Placebo (PLA). VitD was supplemented as an oral capsule containing 50000 IU of cholecalciferol every two weeks. RT involved leg press, chest press, leg extension, leg curl, and shoulder press exercises, performed with 3-4 sets at 70-85 % of 1RM, three times a week. RESULTS: Circulating levels of CAF and NT-3 did not significantly change following the intervention period in the study groups (p > 0.05). There were significant increases in upper and lower body muscle strength and power for RT + VitD and RT + PLA ( < 0.05), but not for VitD or PLA (p > 0.05). The muscle function gains for RT + VitD and RT + PLA were higher than those for VitD and PLA but did not differ between them. CONCLUSION: 12-week of RT interventions resulted in significant increases in muscle strength and power in postmenopausal women. However, VitD supplementation did not result in any additional benefits. The positive changes in muscle function promoted by RT do not seem to be associated with changes in the neuromuscular joint via the CAF or NT-3 as potential biomarkers.

Ten weeks of Capsicum annuum L. extract supplementation did not change adipose tissue-derived hormones, appetite, body composition, and muscle strength when combined with resistance training in healthy untrained men: A clinical trial study.

Capsiate (CAP) is a nonpungent capsaicin analog (Capsicum annuum L. extract) that has been studied as a potential antiobesity agent. However, the interaction between chronic CAP supplementation and resistance training is not clear. The purpose of this study was to examine the changes in adipose tissue-derived hormones, body composition, appetite, and muscle strength after 10 weeks of resistance training, combined with chronic CAP supplementation in healthy untrained men. We hypothesized that CAP could induce higher benefits when combined with resistance training after 10 weeks of intervention compared to resistance training alone. Twenty-four young men (age, 22.0 ± 2.9) were randomized to either capsiate supplementation (CAP = 12 mg/day) or placebo (PL), and both groups were assigned to resistance training. Body composition, leptin and adiponectin concentrations, subjective ratings of appetite, energy intake, and exercise performance were assessed at before and after 10 weeks of progressive resistance training. There was a significant increase in body mass (P < .001), fat-free mass (CAP: 58.0 ± 7.1 vs. post, 59.7 ± 7.1 kg; PL: pre, 58.4 ± 7.3 vs. post, 59.8 ± 7.1 kg; P < .001), resting metabolic rate (CAP: pre, 1782.9 ± 160.6 vs. post, 1796.3 ± 162.0 kcal; PL: pre, 1733.0 ± 148.9 vs. post, 1750.5 ± 149.8 kcal; P < .001), maximal strength at 45 leg press (P < .001) and bench press (P < .001) in both groups, but no significant (P > .05) supplementation by training period interaction nor fat mass was observed. For subjective ratings of appetite, energy intake, leptin, and adiponectin, no significant effect of supplementation by training period interaction was observed (P > .05). In conclusion, 10 weeks of resistance training increased total body weight, muscle mass, and maximum strength in healthy untrained men; however, CAP supplementation (12 mg, 7 days per week) failed to change adipose tissue-derived hormones, appetite, body composition and muscle strength in this population. Registered under Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (RBR-8cz9kfq).