The effect of physical exercise during competitions and in simulated conditions on hormonal-neurophysiological relationships in kickboxers.

K1-format kickboxing is a widely followed combat sport that requires intense physical exercise. However, research into the body's response to this type of combat is sparse. This study aims to assess the alterations in hormone levels and brain activity in elite kickboxers following an actual K1 bout and compare these changes with those observed in a control group engaged in a simulated fight exercise with a punchbag. The study included 100 male professional kickboxers, randomly divided into two groups: an experimental group (K1 fight) and a control group (simulated fight with a punchbag). Blood samples were obtained before and after exercise to evaluate testosterone (T) and cortisol concentrations (C). Concurrently, brain activity was recorded using quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG). After the activity in the experimental group mean testosterone level slightly, non-significantly decreased from 13.7 nmol/l to 12.4 nmol/l, while mean cortisol significantly (p < 0.001) increased from 313 to 570 nmol/l. In the control group after the exertion against a punchbag mean cortisol significantly (p < 0.001) increased from 334 to 452 nmol/l and testosterone increased non-significantly, from 15.1 to 16.3 nmol/l. In both groups, the testosterone/cortisol ratio (T/C ratio) showed significantly lower levels after the intervention (p < 0.001 and p < 0.032) in the experimental and control group respectively. The comparison of groups after exercise revealed significantly higher cortisol levels (experimental group x = 570 nmol/l; control group x = 452 nmol/l) and a significantly lower T/C ratio (experimental group x = 2.7; control group x = 3.9), (p = 0.001) in the experimental group. Significantly higher brain activity was found in selected leads after a bout (experimental group). Furthermore, in the experimental group, significant associations of weak to moderate strength were found between hormone fluctuations and selected areas of brain activity (p < 0.05). K1-format kickboxing induces a stress response, evident in the sharp changes in cortisol and testosterone levels. A notable observation was the inverse direction of changes in both hormones. Brain activity analysis indicated the potential influence of raised cortisol concentrations on specific brain areas. This study augments our understanding of the physiological responses during K1 kickboxing bouts and may inform the future evolution of this sport.

The effects of a single and a series of Finnish sauna sessions on the immune response and HSP-70 levels in trained and untrained men.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of a Finnish sauna on the immune status parameters. The hypothesis was that hyperthermia would improve immune system's functioning by changing the proportion of lymphocyte subpopulations and would activate heat shock proteins. We assumed that the responses of trained and untrained subjects would be different. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Healthy men (20-25 years old) were divided into groups: the trained (T; n = 10), and the untrained group (U; n = 10). All participants were subjected to 10 baths (each one consisted of: 3 × 15-minute exposure with cooled down for 2 min. Body composition, anthropometric measurements, VO2 peak were measured before 1st sauna bath. Blood was collected before the 1st and 10th sauna bath, and 10 min after their completion to asses an acute and a chronic effect. Body mass, rectal temperature and heart rate (HR) were assessed in the same time points. The serum levels of cortisol, Il-6, HSP70 were measured with use of ELISA method, IgA, IgG and IgM by turbidimetry. White blood cells (WBC), leukocyte populations counts: neutrophils, lymphocytes, eosinophils, monocytes, and basophils were determined with use of flow cytometry as well as T-cell subpopulations. RESULTS: No differences were found in the increase in rectal temperature, cortisol and immunoglobulins between groups. In response to the 1st sauna bath, a greater increase in HR was observed in the U group. After the last one, the HR value was lower in the T group. The impact of sauna baths on WBC, CD56+, CD3+, CD8+, IgA, IgG and IgM was different in trained and untrained subjects' responses. A positive correlation between the increase in cortisol concentrations and increase in internal temperatures after the 1st sauna was found in the T (r = 0.72) and U group (r = 0.77), between the increase in IL-6 and cortisol concentrations in the T group after the 1st treatment (r = 0.64), between the increase in IL-10 concentration and internal temperature (r = 0.75) and between the increase in IL-6 and IL-10 (r = 0.69) concentrations, also. CONCLUSIONS: Sauna bathing can be a way to improve the immune response, but only when it is undertaken as a series of treatments.

Comparison of selected prooxidant-antioxidant balance and bone metabolism indicators and BDNF levels between older women with different levels of physical activity.

BACKGROUND: Given a lack of studies precisely indicating how many steps elderly people should take daily for their antioxidant defence, bone metabolism, and cognitive abilities to improve, our study set out to compare the selected antioxidant, prooxidant, bone turnover, and BDNF indicators between elderly women differing in physical activity (PA) measured by the daily number of steps. METHODS: The PA levels of 62 women aged 72.1 ± 5.4 years were assessed based on their daily number of steps and then were used to allocate the participants to three groups: group I (n = 18; <5,000 steps a day); group II (n = 22; from 5,000 to 9,999 steps a day); and group III (n = 22; ≥10,000 steps a day). Blood samples were collected from the participants in early morning hours and subjected to biochemical analysis for prooxidant-antioxidant balance indicators (SOD, CAT, GPx, GR, GSH, UA, MDA and TOS/TOC), bone metabolism indicators (Ca, 25-OH vitamin D, osteocalcin, CTX-I, and PTH), and BDNF levels. RESULTS: The groups were not statistically significantly different in the activity of SOD, CAT, GPx, and GR, but their concentrations of GSH (H = 22.10, p < 0.001) and UA (H = 12.20, p = 0.002) proved to be significantly associated with the groups' daily PA. The between-group differences in the concentrations of MDA and TOS/TOC were not significant, with both these indicators tending to take higher values in group I than in groups II and III. Significant differences between the groups were established for the concentrations of 25-OH vitamin D (H = 24.21, p < 0.001), osteocalcin (H = 7.88, p = 0.019), CTX-I (H = 12.91, p = 0.002), and BDNF (H = 14.47, p = 0.001), but not for Ca and PTH. CONCLUSIONS: Significantly higher concentrations of GSH, slightly lower oxidative stress indicators, significantly higher BDNF levels, and moderately better bone turnover indicators and resorption markers in the group taking more than 5,000 steps a day suggest that this level of PA can promote successful aging. More research is, however, needed to confirm this finding.

An Attempt to Develop a Model of Brain Waves Using Quantitative Electroencephalography with Closed Eyes in K1 Kickboxing Athletes-Initial Concept.

BACKGROUND: Brain injuries are a common problem in combat sports, especially in disciplines such as kickboxing. Kickboxing is a combat sport that has several variations of competition, with the most contact-oriented fights being carried out under the format of K-1 rules. While these sports require a high level of skill and physical endurance, frequent micro-traumas to the brain can have serious consequences for the health and well-being of athletes. According to studies, combat sports are one of the riskiest sports in terms of brain injuries. Among the sports disciplines with the highest number of brain injuries, boxing, mixed martial arts (MMA), and kickboxing are mentioned. METHODS: The study was conducted on a group of 18 K-1 kickboxing athletes who demonstrate a high level of sports performance. The subjects were between the ages 18 and 28. QEEG (quantitative electroencephalogram) is a numeric spectral analysis of the EEG record, where the data is digitally coded and statistically analysed using the Fourier transform algorithm. Each examination of one person lasts about 10 min with closed eyes. The wave amplitude and power for specific frequencies (Delta, Theta, Alpha, Sensorimotor Rhythm (SMR), Beta 1, and Beta2) were analysed using 9 leads. RESULTS: High values were shown in the Alpha frequency for central leads, SMR in the Frontal 4 (F4 lead), Beta 1 in leads F4 and Parietal 3 (P3), and Beta2 in all leads. CONCLUSIONS: The high activity of brainwaves such as SMR, Beta and Alpha can have a negative effect on the athletic performance of kickboxing athletes by affecting focus, stress, anxiety, and concentration. Therefore, it is important for athletes to monitor their brainwave activity and use appropriate training strategies to achieve optimal results.

Preliminary Development of a Brainwave Model for K1 Kickboxers Using Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG) with Open Eyes.

K1 kickboxing fighting is characterised by high injury rates due to the low restrictions of fighting rules. In recent years, much attention has been paid to research on changes in brain function among athletes, including those in combat sports. One of the tools that are likely to help diagnose and assess brain function is quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG). Therefore, the aim of the present study was an attempt to develop a brainwave model using quantitative electroencephalography in competitive K1 kickboxers. A total of thirty-six male individuals were purposefully selected and then comparatively divided into two groups. The first group consisted of specialised K1 kickboxing athletes exhibiting a high level of sports performance (experimental group, n = 18, mean age: 29.83 ± 3.43), while the second group comprised healthy individuals not training competitively (control group, n = 18, mean age: 26.72 ± 1.77). Body composition assessment was performed in all participants before the main measurement process. Measurements were taken for kickboxers during the de-training period, after the sports competition phase. Quantitative electroencephalography of Delta, Theta, Alpha, sensimotor rhytm (SMR), Beta1 and Beta2 waves was performed using electrodes placed on nine measurement points (frontal: FzF3F4, central: CzC3C4, and parietal: PzP3P4) with open eyes. In the course of the analyses, it was found that the level of brain activity among the study population significantly differentiated the K1 formula competitors compared with the reference standards and the control group in selected measurement areas. For kickboxers, all results of the Delta amplitude activity in the area of the frontal lobe were significantly above the normative values for this wave. The highest value was recorded for the average value of the F3 electrode (left frontal lobe), exceeding the norm by 95.65%, for F4 by 74.45% and Fz by 50.6%, respectively. In addition, the Alpha wave standard value for the F4 electrode was exceeded by 14.6%. Normative values were found for the remaining wave amplitudes. Statistically significant differentiation of results, with a strong effect (d = 1.52-8.41), was shown for the activity of Delta waves of the frontal area and the central part of the parietal area (Fz,F3,F4,Cz-p < 0.001), Theta for the frontal area as well as the central and left parietal lobes (Fz,F3,F4-p < 0.001, Cz-p = 0.001, C3-p = 0.018; d = 1.05-3.18), Alpha for the frontal, parietal and occipital areas (for: Fz,F3-p < 0.001, F4-p = 0.036, Cz-p < 0.001, C3-p = 0.001, C4-p = 0.025, Pz-p = 0.010, P3-p < 0.001, P4-p = 0.038; d = 0.90-1.66), SMR for the central parietal and left occipital lobes (Cz-p = 0.043; d = 0.69, P3-p < 0.001; d = 1.62), Beta for the frontal area, occipital and central lobes and left parietal segment (Fz,F3-p < 0.001, F4-p = 0.008, Cz, C3, Pz, P3,P4-p < 0.001; d = 1.27-2.85) and Beta 2 for all measurement areas (Fz, F3, F4, Cz, C3, C4, Pz, P3, P4-p < 0.001; d = 1.90-3.35) among the study groups. Significantly higher results were shown in the kickboxer group compared to the control. In addition to problems with concentration or over-stimulation of neural structures, high Delta waves, with elevated Alpha, Theta and Beta 2 waves, can cause disorders in the limbic system and problems in the cerebral cortex.

The Effect of Acute Caffeine Intake on Resistance Training Volume, Prooxidant-Antioxidant Balance and Muscle Damage Markers Following a Session of Full-Body Resistance Exercise in Resistance-Trained Men Habituated to Caffeine.

No previous study has analyzed the impact of caffeine intake on prooxidant-antioxidant balance and muscle damage following resistance exercise. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of 3 mg/kg of caffeine on the number of repetitions and the prooxidant-antioxidant balance and muscle damage after a session of full-body resistance exercise. Ten resistance-trained men habituated to caffeine participated in a randomized, crossover and double-blind experiment. Each participant performed two identical resistance training sessions after the intake of 3 mg/kg of caffeine or a placebo. Blood was collected before and 60 min after substance intake, just after exercise, 60 minutes after exercise, and 24 hours after testing to evaluate the activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase), non-enzymatic antioxidants (reduced glutathione, uric acid) levels of oxidative stress markers (plasma malondialdehyde) and muscle damage markers (creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase). There were no significant differences between placebo and caffeine conditions in the total number of repetitions (180 ± 15 vs 185 ± 14 repetitions, respectively; p = 0.276; Effect size [ES] = 0.34), the total time under tension (757 ± 71 vs 766 ± 56 s, respectively; p = 0.709; ES = 0.14) or the rating of perceived exertion (13.8 ± 2.7 vs 14.7 ± 2.7 a.u., respectively; p = 0.212; ES = 0.32). Reduced glutathione concentration obtained 1 hour after exercise was higher with caffeine than with placebo (p = 0.047), without significant difference between conditions for any other prooxidant-oxidant or muscle damage marker at any time point (p > 0.050 for all). The oral intake of 3 mg/kg of caffeine by resistance-trained men habituated to caffeine did not enhance the number of repetitions during a medium load full-body resistance training session to failure and had a minimal impact on the prooxidant-antioxidant balance and muscle damage. The study was registered prospectively at ClinicalTrials.gov with the following ID: NCT05230303.

Impact of oscillatory-cycloid vibration interventions on body composition, waist and hip circumference, and blood lipid profile in women aged over 65 years with hypercholesterolaemia.

INTRODUCTION: Vibration therapy interventions are an attractive alternative for people with contraindications to physical activity or manifesting kinesiophobia; they constitute an equivalent to physical activity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A group of female volunteers with hypercholesterolemia (LDL over 3 mmol/l) aged over 65 years were randomized into 2 subgroups: the study group (taking part in interventions on mattresses generating oscillatory-cycloid vibrations) and the control group (receiving interventions on placebo mattresses). All the subjects underwent two 30-minute interventions 5 times a week for the period of 21 days, in the prone position. Before the intervention and after completing the series of sessions, body composition and waist and hip circumferences were assessed. Venous blood for biochemical studies was collected before the intervention, one day after its completion, and one week after completing the series of vibration sessions. On the basis of the lipid profile results, atherogenicity indices were calculated. RESULTS: After 21 days, a statistically significant decrease in the level of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol was observed in subjects who received oscillatory-cycloid vibration therapy. No statistically significant changes were noted in the concentrations of HDL cholesterol or triglycerides. The 21-day therapeutic intervention also resulted in lowering the AIP in the study group, as well as a decrease of hip circumference. CONCLUSIONS: Oscillatory-cycloid vibration applied regularly for a longer time can beneficially impact on lowering the level of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in people with hypercholesterolemia, although it does not influence body composition in women aged 65 years or more.

The influence of a 12-week program of physical activity on changes in body composition and lipid and carbohydrate status in postmenopausal women.

INTRODUCTION: For years there have been studies on what kind of physical activity is optimal for maintaining proper health condition. Besides well known and approved endurance training of moderate intensity, an importance of interval exercise where short term, sudden intensification of work is performed at low endurance load is emphasized. The aim of the work was to assess the effects of a program of physical activity applied to postmenopausal women regarding improvement of their body composition and biochemical indices of lipid and carbohydrate status. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The program of physical activity contained 12-week trainings of Nordic walking (NW) and gymnastic-dance classes (G-D). The intensity of effort during the NW training was at the level of 60% HRmax, whereas intensity of G-D exercises was selected based on a subjective assessment of effort according to the scale of American College of Sports Medicine. RESULTS: The 12-week program of physical activity resulted in statistically significant lowering of total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (LDL) fraction levels. An increase in high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol level was observed, whereas the values of triacylglycerols (TG) did not change. The average fasting blood glucose level decreased significantly. Similar changes were noted for the insulin level. The analysed body biometrical-structural indices did not change significantly. CONCLUSIONS: The applied 12-week program of physical activity without changes of dietary habits contributed to an improvement in plasma lipid profile and an increased insulin sensitivity, but it did not affect significantly body composition.

The influence of vibratory massage after physical exertion on selected psychological processes.

Good mental preparation of an athlete plays an important role in achieving optimal sports results. An athlete who enters a competition should not feel fatigue resulting from intense physical exercise. Therefore, new and effective methods are being sought that could help accelerate the process of both physical and mental regeneration. Vibrotherapy is one of them. The aim of the study was to determine the optimal frequency of vibration, its duration and the position in which the subjects were placed during the treatments, in relation to the reduction of subjectively perceived exertion muscle pain, mental discomfort, emotional states and the level of cognitive processes that were disturbed by intense physical activity. Sixteen healthy male volunteers were involved in this study. The participants were assessed for their aerobic and anaerobic capacity. Each of the subjects performed a set of intensive physical exercises and then underwent vibrotherapy treatment. In random order, each of the men tested the effectiveness of eight combinations of frequency, duration, and body position. Psychological tests were conducted for each combination: frequency, duration of treatment, and position during treatment, in four stages: (1) before the start of the experiment (baseline POMS measurements), (2) immediately after the exercise (VAS scale, scale examining psychological discomfort and STROOP test), (3) immediately after the vibration treatment (POMS measurements, VAS scale, scale examining psychological discomfort and STROOP test), (4) 24 h after the vibration treatment (VAS scale examining subjective assessment of perceived pain and psychological discomfort). Based on the results, it was concluded that all the studied variables improved significantly over time (after the vibration treatment and 24 h after training). In addition, a statistically significant interaction measurement × frequency was noted for vigor scale (52HZ favored greater improvement in this state), and a statistically significant interaction was found for measurement × time for the VAS scale (p < 0.05) - the lower pain value was indicated 24 h after the 10-min vibration treatment. The type of frequency used, position, and duration of the treatment did not play a statistically significant role in changing STROOP test results and severity of psychological discomfort (p > 0.05).

Changes in the concentration of bone turnover markers in men after maximum intensity exercise.

Background: Physical activity is an important factor in modelling the remodelling and metabolism of bone tissue. The aim of the study was to evaluate the changes in indices demonstrating bone turnover in men under the influence of maximum-intensity exercise. Methods: The study involved 33 men aged 20-25, divided into two groups: experimental (n = 15) and control (n = 18). People training medium- and long-distance running were assigned to the experimental group, and non-training individuals to the control. Selected somatic, physiological and biochemical indices were measured. The level of aerobic fitness was determined using a progressively increasing graded test (treadmill test for subjective fatigue). Blood samples for determinations were taken before the test and 60 minutes after its completion. The concentration of selected bone turnover markers was assessed: bone fraction of alkaline phosphatase (b-ALP), osteoclacin (OC), N-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of the alpha chain of type I collagen (NTx1), N-terminal propeptide of type I progolagen (PINP), osteoprotegerin (OPG). In addition, the concentration of 25(OH)D3 prior to the stress test was determined. Additionally, pre and post exercise, the concentration of lactates in the capillary blood was determined. Results: When comparing the two groups, significant statistical differences were found for the mean level of: 25(OH)D3 (p = 0.025), b-ALP (p < 0.001), OC (p = 0.004) and PINP (p = 0.029) prior to the test. On the other hand, within individual groups, between the values pre and post the stress test, there were statistically significant differences for the average level of: b-ALP (p < 0.001), NTx1 (p < 0.001), OPG (p = 0.001) and PINP (p = 0.002). Conclusion: A single-session maximum physical effort can become an effective tool to initiate positive changes in bone turnover markers.

Acute effects of multi-ingredient pre-workout dietary supplement on anaerobic performance in untrained men: a randomized, crossover, single blind study.

BACKGROUND: Multi-ingredient pre-workout dietary supplements (MIPS), which are combinations of different ingredients acting on different physiological mechanisms, can have a synergistic effect and improve performance. The aim of the study was to determine the acute effects of a multi-ingredient pre-workout supplement containing: beta-alanine, taurine, caffeine, L-tyrosine, and cayenne pepper (capsaicin) on anaerobic performance. METHODS: A randomized, crossover, single-blind study was designed. Twelve young, healthy, untrained men aged 22.4 ± 1.44 years participated in the study. The participants performed a supramaximal all-out test (20 s Wingate test) twice, day by day, in random order: test after placebo or MIPS consumption. In both trials, the following variables were measured in the exercise test: total work performed, peak power, mean power, time to reach peak power, and power decrease. RESULTS: MIPS was found to be effective in improving peak power (p = 0.009, ES = 0.77) and mean power (p = 0.04, ES = 0.62) in the Wingate test. However, the supplement consumption did not affect the amount of total work done (p = 0.10, ES = 0.48) in the test or power decrease (p = 0.07, ES = 0.53). The data indicate, that the improvement in anaerobic power was due to a significant improvement in pedaling speed, which was manifested in a significant improvement (i.e. shortening) in time to peak power (p = 0.003, ES = 0.88). CONCLUSION: A multi-ingredient pre-workout dietary supplement was found to be effective in improving Wingate (anaerobic) performance. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT06363669, retrospectively registered on 11.04.2024 (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Intermittent hypoxia training does not change erythrocyte aggregation indicators in young, healthy men.

Background: The increasing popularity of hypoxic training as a training method to improve physical performance indicates the need to study the effects of this type of intervention on blood morphological and rheological indices, since the adaptive changes that follow such training mainly affect blood indices. In this study, the effects of a 4 weeks of intermittent hypoxic training on blood morphological and rheological indicators in physically active men were assessed. Methods: Forty-eight young, physically active men, participated in the study. Participants were randomly divided into three groups: two training groups and a control group without intervention (CTRL). Each group consisted of 16 participants. Training groups performed interval training (three times per week, 4 weeks, 12 workouts) under different conditions: in hypoxia (IHT; fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) = 14.4%) or in normoxia (NT; FiO2 = 20.9%). The control group performed only two workouts 4 weeks apart. Blood was taken during the first and last training session at rest, and 3 minutes after training. Results: After the last training session, there was a significant increase in mean corpuscular volume and a decrease in mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration measured at rest only in the IHT group. There was also a significant decrease in resting aggregation amplitude for the IHT and CTRL groups. There was no difference in change of post-exercise plasma volume between first and last training session. Conclusion: The applied intermittent interval training in conditions of normoxia and hypoxia had no significant impact on resting aggregation parameters. This suggest that training under hypoxic conditions does not cause adverse rheological changes.

Acute Effects of Kickboxing K1 Matches on Hematological Parameters of Kickboxers.

While there is clear evidence in the literature that the hematological parameters in athletes of different sports are affected by exercise and varying loads, to our knowledge, there are limited studies on the real impact of kickboxing matches on kickboxers' hematological parameters. In this context, this cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the acute changes in the hematological parameters of kickboxers following K1 matches. With the participation of 10 kickboxing K1 athletes, the hematological parameters, including the WBC, Plt, Neut, Lymph, Mono, RBC, Hgb, Hct, CK, La, and glucose levels, were examined before and after matches. Paired sample t-tests were used to compare the pre-test and post-test hematological parameters of the participants. The findings indicated statistically significant differences in the post-match WBC, Plt, Neut, Lymph, CK, La, and glucose levels, while no statistically significant differences were observed in the RBC, Hct, Hgb, and CK levels (p < 0.05). These results not only emphasize the complexity of physiological changes in athletes, but also show consistency with various findings in the literature, while contradicting some. Therefore, it is highlighted that further research is needed to understand the effects of K1 matches on hematological parameters.

Effect of Various Hydration Strategies on Work Intensity and Selected Physiological Indices in Young Male Athletes during Prolonged Physical Exercise at High Ambient Temperatures.

Background: In high temperatures, adequate hydration is vital for sustained physical exercise. This study explores the effect of three hydration strategies on physiological indices and work intensity. Methods: The research involved 12 healthy males who engaged in three test series, each separated by a one-week interval. During the trials, participants underwent a 120 min cycling session in a thermal climate chamber (temperature: 31 ± 2 °C, humidity: 60 ± 3%, air movement: <1 m/s). Measurements of rectal temperature (Tre) and heart rate (HR), and assessment of subjective workload perception, and thermal comfort were made both before and during the exercise. The computation of the physical strain index (PSI) relied on Tre and HR values. Three hydration strategies (isotonic drink, water, and no hydration) were administered before, during, and after the exercise. Results: Regardless of the hydration strategy, the participants' mean body mass decreased as a result of the exercise. Statistically significant differences in HR were observed between the no-hydration and water groups (p < 0.036). The mean PSI values significantly varied between hydration strategies, with the no hydration group exhibiting a higher PSI compared to the isotonic drink or water groups (p < 0.001). Conclusions: All hydration strategies contribute to thermoregulatory processes and mitigate the rise in internal body temperature during sustained physical exercise in elevated ambient temperatures.

The Impact of a 6-Week Nordic Walking Training Cycle and a 14-Hour Intermittent Fasting on Disease Activity Markers and Serum Levels of Wnt Pathway-Associated Proteins in Patients with Multiple Myeloma.

Background: Multiple myeloma (MM) accounts for about 10-15% of all diagnosed hematologic malignancies and about 1-2% of all cancer cases. Approximately 80-90% of MM patients develop bone disease and the changes rarely regress. It is only possible to stop or slow their progression. A major role in bone destruction in MM is attributed to the Wnt signaling pathway, and its action can be modified by various types of interventions including training and diet. Therefore, the aim of this project was to evaluate the effects of a Nordic Walking (NW) training cycle and intermittent fasting (IF) on the levels of selected bone turnover markers associated with the Wnt pathway in patients with MM. Materials and methods: Results from 35 patients divided into training (NW and IF NW) and non-training (IF and control) groups were included in the analysis. A 6-week training cycle involving 60 min workouts 3 times a week was conducted. Body mass and composition as well as the levels of vitamin D, calcium and phosphorus, beta2-microglobulin, and albumin were examined before and after the completion of the training cycle. Markers of bone turnover were also determined: sclerostin (SOST), Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK-1), osteoprotegrin (OPG), osteopontin (OPN), and Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP 5b). Results: There was no negative effect of IF or combined training and fasting on the nutritional status of the patients (the level of albumins was unchanged). Both training groups showed an increase in serum concentrations of the active metabolite of vitamin D (IF NW and NW: p = 0.001 and p = 0.022, respectively). The change in the concentration of this vitamin negatively correlated with the concentration of TRACP 5b (r = -0.413, p = 0.014). Evaluating the concentrations of markers related to bone turnover, a reduction in the concentrations of SOST (time: p = 0.026, time vs. group: p = 0.033) and TRACP 5b (time: p < 0.001, time vs. group p < 0.001) was indicated. Conclusions: The obtained results allow one to indicate the training with the poles as a safe and beneficial form of physical activity that should be recommended to patients suffering from MM. However, the results obtained in the present study are not sufficient to show the beneficial effect of IF applied without trainings.

The Impact of Intermittent Hypoxic Training on Aerobic Capacity and Biometric-Structural Indicators among Obese Women-A Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND: Obesity, a common lifestyle-related condition, is correlated with factors like inadequate physical activity. Its connection to diverse health issues presents a significant challenge to healthcare. This pilot study investigated the effects of hypoxic training on aerobic capacity and biometric-structural indicators in obese women. The secondary objective was to determine the feasibility, effectiveness, and safety of the planned research procedures and their potential for larger-scale implementation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty-one non-trained women with first-degree obesity were randomly assigned to even normobaric hypoxic training (H + E), normoxic training (E), passive exposure to hypoxia (H), and a control group (C). Training sessions were conducted three times a week for four weeks (12 training sessions). Body composition parameters were assessed, metabolic thresholds were determined, and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) was measured before and after interventions. RESULTS: The results demonstrated that training in hypoxic conditions significantly affected somatic parameters, with the H + E group achieving the best outcomes in terms of weight reduction and improvements in body composition indicators (p < 0.001). Normoxic training also induced a positive impact on body weight and body composition, although the results were less significant compared to the H + E group (p < 0.001). Additionally, training in hypoxic conditions significantly improved the aerobic capacity among the participants (p < 0.001). The H + E group achieved the best results in enhancing respiratory endurance and oxygen consumption (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The results of this pilot study suggest, that hypoxic training can be effective for weight reduction and improving the aerobic capacity in obese women. Despite study limitations, these findings indicate that hypoxic training could be an innovative approach to address obesity and related conditions. Caution is advised in interpreting the results, considering both the strengths and limitations of the pilot study. Before proceeding to a larger-scale study, the main study should be expanded, including aspects such as dietary control, monitoring physical activity, and biochemical blood analysis.

Brain Punch: K-1 Fights Affect Brain Wave Activity in Professional Kickboxers.

BACKGROUND: Kickboxing is a popular striking combat sport, and K-1 is a type of kickboxing. Direct head blows can cause significant long-term injury and affect brain wave activity. OBJECTIVES: We aim to compare the changes in brain wave activities of fighters during a K-1 kickboxing contest to those in a control group, who were striking a punching bag and were not hit by another K-1 athlete. METHODS: A total of 100 professional Polish K-1 kickboxers were split evenly into experimental (n = 50, age 25.5 ± 4.63 years) and control (n = 50, age 26.6 ± 5.22 years) groups. We used quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) to assess the spectrum of brain wave activity (delta, theta, alpha, sensorimotor rhythm (SMR), beta-1 and beta-2) before and after an intervention (experimental: K-1 contest, control: simulated contest), with eyes open and then closed. The number of direct blows to the head was also recorded for all bouts. Comparative and statistical analyses between selected variables were performed. RESULTS: K-1 fighters showed elevated baseline brain activity for the entire delta band (p < 0.001). There was significant variation in brain activity among the experimental group following the intervention and compared with the control group for all wave types (p < 0.001). No significant variation in activity was found in the control group. The number of direct head blows was positively correlated with brain activity, at delta and beta-2 wave frequencies. CONCLUSIONS: K-1 kickboxing is associated with detectable changes in brain wave activity. It is presently unclear what the long-term effects of these changes in brain wave activities are, and longitudinal studies are necessary to study the brain health of kickboxers.

The Beneficial Effects of Nordic Walking Training Combined with Time-Restricted Eating 14/24 in Women with Abnormal Body Composition Depend on the Application Period.

The aim of the study was to assess the impact of two lengths of Nordic walking (NW) training interventions combined with time-restricted eating (TRE) on improving body-composition parameters, lipid profiles, and levels of selected adipokines in women with elevated body mass. Overweight and obese women (n = 55, age: 21-85) were recruited. Four groups were selected: 6 weeks (SG6, n = 13) and 12 weeks intervention (SG12, n = 13); and two control groups: CON6 (n = 13) and CON12 (n = 13). The training sessions took place three times a week (60 min each) and were conducted outdoors under the supervision of a professional coach. The training intensity was determined individually. The extended NW program combined with TRE induced a significant weight reduction in SG12 by 1.96 kg (p = 0.010) and fat tissue by 1.64 kg (p = 0.05). The proposed interventions did not affect LBM, TBW [kg], VFA, and lipid profile. The LDL/HDL ratio changed with a small size effect. The leptin concentration differed between groups (p = 0.006), but not over time. For resistin, the differentiating factor was time (p = 0.019), with lower results observed after the intervention. The change in leptin concentration was negatively correlated with its baseline concentration (p = 0.025). Extended to 12 weeks, this intervention allows for an improvement in body composition. Neither 6 nor 12 weeks of training and fasting affected the lipoprotein profile. It is, therefore, indicated to recommend prolonged training protocols and to inform patients that beneficial effects will be seen only after prolonged use of training and time-restricted eating.

Assessment of selected muscle damage markers and zonulin concentration after maximum-intensity exercise in men with type 1 diabetes treated with a personal insulin pump.

AIM: Exercise-induced muscle damage depends on exercise intensity and duration and on individual susceptibility. Mechanical and metabolic stress may disturb the intestinal microflora. The study evaluated selected muscle damage markers and zonulin concentration after maximum-intensity exercise in type 1 diabetes (T1D) men compared with healthy controls. METHODS: The study involved 16 T1D participants and 28 controls matched by age (22.7 [21.3-25.1] vs. 22.6 [20.9-26.3] years), body mass index (24.2 ± 1.6 vs. 24.2 ± 1.9 kg/m2), and body fat percentage (16.1 ± 5.2 vs. 14.9 ± 4.6%). The T1D group had 11.3 ± 5.1 years of diabetes duration and a suboptimal mean glycated haemoglobin level of 7.2 ± 1.1%. The subjects underwent a graded running treadmill test until exhaustion. Lactate concentration was assessed in arterialized blood at baseline and 3 and 20 min after the test. Cortisol, testosterone, tumour necrosis factor α, myoglobin, lactate dehydrogenase, zonulin, and vitamin D levels were evaluated in cubital fossa vein blood before and 60 min after the test. RESULTS: T1D patients presented higher baseline zonulin, myoglobin concentration, testosterone/cortisol ratio, and lower maximal oxygen uptake. On adjusting for the baseline values, the groups differed in zonulin, lactate dehydrogenase, and myoglobin levels, testosterone/cortisol ratio, and lactate concentration determined 20 min after exercise (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Maximum-intensity exercise increased muscle and intestinal damage in T1D participants. In patients with lower physical activity, very-high-intensity exercise should be recommended with caution. Observing the anabolic-catabolic index may help individualize effort intensity in T1D individuals.

Comparison of Head Strike Incidence under K1 Rules of Kickboxing with and without Helmet Protection-A Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND: Kickboxing is a combat sport that encompasses various forms of competition. K1 kickboxing is conducted without any restrictions on the force of strikes, and the bout can end prematurely through a knockout. Headgear has been introduced in amateur kickboxing to safeguard the head. However, scientific studies have shown that despite their use, serious head injuries can still occur. The aim of this study was to evaluate the temporal structure of the bout by calculating the number of head strikes in K1 kickboxing bouts with and without headgear. METHODS: Thirty K1 kickboxing bouts were analyzed, with 30 participants included in the study. The fights were conducted according to the World Association Kickboxing Organization (WAKO) rules. The bouts consisted of three rounds of 2 min each, with a 1 min break between rounds. Sparring pairs were arranged according to weight categories. The first bouts were conducted without headgear, and two weeks later, the fights were repeated with WAKO-approved headgear. The number of head strikes was assessed retrospectively by analyzing video recordings of the bouts, categorizing strikes as hand or foot strikes, and differentiating between strikes that hit the head directly or indirectly. RESULTS: The results showed statistically significant differences between bouts with and without headgear in terms of the number of strikes to the head (p = 0.002), strikes directly to the head (p < 0.001), all hand strikes to the head (p = 0.001), hand strikes directly to the head (p = 0.003), and foot strikes directly to the head (p = 0.03). Higher values were observed in bouts with headgear. CONCLUSIONS: Headgear increases the probability of direct strikes to the head. Therefore, it is important to familiarize kickboxers with the use of headgear in their sport to minimize head injuries.