Control of center of mass during gait of stroke patients: Statistical parametric mapping analysis.

BACKGROUND: The control of the center of mass is essential for a stable and efficient gait. Post-stroke patients present several impairments, which may compromise the control of the center of mass during gait in the sagittal and frontal planes. This study aimed to identify changes in the vertical and mediolateral behavior of the center of mass during the single stance phase of post-stroke patients using the statistical parametric mapping analysis. It also aimed to identify alterations in the center of mass trajectories regarding the motor recovery stages. METHODS: Seventeen stroke patients and 11 neurologically intact individuals were analyzed. The statistical parametric mapping approach was used to identify changes in the center of mass trajectories between stroke and healthy groups. The trajectories of the center of mass of post-stroke individuals were compared according to their motor recovery status. FINDINGS: A near-flat vertical trajectory of the center of mass was indenfitifed in the stroke group compared to their healthy counterparts, especially on the paretic side. The center of mass trajectories in both directions (vertical and mediolateral) presented substantial alteration at the end of the single stance phase in the stroke group. The trajectory of the center of mass of the stroke group was symmetrical in the mediolateral direction between the sides. The trajectories of the center of mass presented similar pattern irrespective of the motor recovery status. INTERPRETATION: The statistical parametric mapping approach showed to be suitable for determining gait changes in post-stroke individuals, irrespective of their motor recovery stage.

Are the spatiotemporal gait parameters at different walking speeds capable of predicting variations in cognitive status by the mini-mental state examination?

BACKGROUND: Several studies have reported the association between cognition and gait; however, most are limited to investigating gait in just one speed, usually the self-selected one, and commonly, only the general score of cognitive tests is used. AIMS: Investigate the relationship between the spatiotemporal gait parameters at different speeds (self-selected and fast walking speeds) and cognitive status in older adults. METHODS: Cross-sectional study. Two hundred and ninety-five older adults (70.9 ± 7.2 years; 82.3% women) were evaluated according to cognitive status (Mini-Mental State Examination, MMSE) and spatiotemporal gait parameters. RESULTS: Data analysis indicates that the spatiotemporal gait parameters (stride length, step time, and single support time) were able to predict cognitive status, assessed by the MMSE general score and its subdomain (temporal and spatial orientation) at both walking speeds. CONCLUSIONS: The spatiotemporal gait parameters were associated with cognitive status, assessed by the MMSE (general score and temporal and spatial orientation), regardless of the walking conditions. The model's variance was significant and with a large effect size. Stride length and step time were identified as the variables with the best explanatory factors. Therefore, it is concluded that greater cognitive performance is associated with longer stride lengths and faster step times.

Complete recovery of quadriceps muscle peripheral fatigue after running in Olympic, but not Sprint, triathlon.

This study compared central and peripheral fatigue development between the Sprint and Olympic distance triathlon. Fifteen male triathletes performed Sprint and Olympic triathlon simulations in a randomized and counterbalanced order. Central and peripheral fatigue was evaluated from changes in voluntary activation level (VAL) and twitch responses of quadriceps muscle (Qtw,pot), respectively. Qtw,pot reduced from baseline to post-swimming similarly between triathlon simulations (Sprint,-17±11%; Olympic, -13±9%). In post-cycling, Qtw,pot further declined to a similar extent between triathlon distances (Sprint, -31±15%; Olympic, -28±11%). In post-running, Qtw,pot was fully recovered in the Olympic triathlon (-4±10%), whereas there was only a partial recovery of Qtw,pot in the Sprint triathlon (-20±11%). VAL was not reduced in post-swimming, but reduction was similar between triathlon distances in post-cycling (Sprint, -10±9%; Olympic, -8±8%) and post-running (Sprint, -15±14%; Olympic, -16±8%). In the Sprint triathlon, the swimming speed (1.07±0.13m.s-1) was above (p <.001) critical speed (1.01±0.14m.s-1), the cycling power (179.7±27.2W) was below the respiratory compensation point (216.3±27.8W, p <.001) and running speed (13.7±1.05km.h-1) similar to the respiratory compensation point (13.2±0.70km.h-1, p =.124). In the Olympic triathlon, swimming speed (1.03±0.13m.s-1) was similar to critical speed (p =.392), and cycling power (165.3±27.3W) and running speed (12.6±1.05km.h-1) were below the respiratory compensation point (p ≤.007). In conclusion, peripheral fatigue progressed until post-cycling regardless of triathlon distances. However, peripheral fatigue was fully recovered after running in Olympic but not in Sprint triathlon. The central fatigue started in post-cycling and progressed until post-running regardless of triathlon distances.HighlightsThe quadriceps muscle peripheral fatigue progresses similarly in Sprint and Olympic triathlons until post-cycling.The quadriceps muscle peripheral fatigue is completely recovered after running in the Olympic triathlon, whereas it is partially recovered in the Sprint triathlon.The central fatigue starts in post-cycling and progresses similarly until post-running in Sprint and Olympic triathlons, regardless of triathlon distances.

Smartphones dependency risk analysis using machine-learning predictive models.

Recent technological advances have changed how people interact, run businesses, learn, and use their free time. The advantages and facilities provided by electronic devices have played a major role. On the other hand, extensive use of such technology also has adverse effects on several aspects of human life (e.g., the development of societal sedentary lifestyles and new addictions). Smartphone dependency is new addiction that primarily affects the young population. The consequences may negatively impact mental and physical health (e.g., lack of attention or local pain). Health professionals rely on self-reported subjective information to assess the dependency level, requiring specialists' opinions to diagnose such a dependency. This study proposes a data-driven prediction model for smartphone dependency based on machine learning techniques using an analytical retrospective case-control approach. Different classification methods were applied, including classical and modern machine learning models. Students from a private university in Cali-Colombia (n = 1228) were tested for (i) smartphone dependency, (ii) musculoskeletal symptoms, and (iii) the Risk Factors Questionnaire. Random forest, logistic regression, and support vector machine-based classifiers exhibited the highest prediction accuracy, 76-77%, for smartphone dependency, estimated through the stratified-k-fold cross-validation technique. Results showed that self-reported information provides insight into predicting smartphone dependency correctly. Such an approach opens doors for future research aiming to include objective measures to increase accuracy and help to reduce the negative consequences of this new addiction form.

Clinical-Functional Vulnerability, Functional Capacity, and Falls in Octogenarians with Different Physical Activity Levels-A Cross-Sectional Study.

AIM: To compare differences between frailty, functional capacity, and fall prevalence among community-dwelling oldest-old adults regarding their physical activity levels. METHODS: Two hundred and thirty-nine octogenarians (80+ years) were allocated according to their physical activity as insufficiently active (<150 min week-1; n = 98; 84.4 ± 3.7 years), active (150 to 300 min week-1, n = 81, 83.9 ± 3.1 years), and very active (>300 min week-1, n = 60; 83.8 ± 3.4 years). Frailty (CFVI-20 questionnaire), functional capacity (Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test, Timed Up and Go, Balance, and handgrip strength), fall history, and physical activity were assessed. RESULTS: The insufficiently active group was the frailest and presented the worst functional performance compared to the other groups. The fall prevalence was higher in the insufficiently active (60.9%) compared to the active (26.4%) and very active (12.7%) groups. CONCLUSIONS: The group of insufficiently active octogenarians showed the greatest frailty, worst functional capacity, and higher fall prevalence than the active and very active groups. The engagement in physical activity of at least 300 min week-1 is essential to reverse or minimize the deleterious effects of aging on frailty, functional capacity, and falls in octogenarians.

Multifactorial Assessment of Older Adults Able and Unable to Recover Balance During a Laboratory-induced Trip.

BACKGROUND: Older adults are prone to falls, and identifying fallers and non-fallers from a set of fall-related variables is essential while establishing effective preventive programs. AIMS: This study aimed to analyze if a set of parameters (i.e., strength, functional status, dynamic balance, gait, and obesity-related anthropometric measures) differ between older adults able and unable to recover from an induced trip. OBJECTIVE: To analyze predictors among older adults able and unable to identify fallers and nonfallers. METHODS: Thirty healthy old adults were tripped once during the mid-swing phase of the gait. The trip outcome was used as a criterion to assign participants to a recovery (REC; n=21; 71.2±5.7 years; 70.9±12.8 kg; 1.60±0.09 m) or a non-recovery group (NREC; n=9; 69.4±6.8 years; 85.7±11.8 kg; 1.59±0.08 m). The spatiotemporal gait parameters, functional mobility, dynamic balance, and isokinetic muscular function were measured. RESULTS: The NREC presented larger BMI (33.6±2.7 vs. 27.5±3.4 kg.m-2; p<0.05); greater time for the initiation phase on the voluntary step execution test (197.0±27.9 vs. 171.7±31.3s; p<0.05); lower plantarflexor (0.41±0.15 vs. 0.59±0.18 N.m; p<0.05), dorsiflexor (0.18±0.05 vs. 0.24±0.07 N.m; p<0.05), knee extensor (1.03±0.28 vs. 1.33±0.24 N.m; p<0.05) and knee flexor peak torques (0.50±0.15 vs. 0.64±0.13 N.m; p<0.05); and greater time up and go (8.0±0.8 vs. 7.4±0.7 s). CONCLUSION: The results showed that it is possible to identify fall risk components based on several fall-related parameters using a laboratory-induced trip as the outcome variable.

A cross-sectional analysis of the muscle strength, spinal shrinkage, and recovery during a working day of military police officers.

OBJECTIVE: Military personnel has a large prevalence of back pain, especially those involved in patrolling routines, as they wear heavy protective equipment. Patrolling includes long periods of sustaining the protective equipment in a sitting or in a motor vehicle (motorcycle or car). Thus, understanding spinal loading of military police officers after patrolling by car (CAR; n = 14), motorcycle (MOT; n = 14), and administrative (ADM; n = 14) routines is relevant to establish preventive strategies. METHODS: The torque of the trunk and working and anthropometric characteristics were assessed to explain spinal loading using stature variation measures. Precise stature measures were performed before and after a 6 h journey (LOSS) and 20 min after a resting posture (RECOV). The trunk extensor (PTE BM-1 ) and flexor (PTF BM-1 ) muscles' isometric peak torque were measured before the working journey. RESULTS: The LOSS was similar between CAR and MOT (4.8 and 5.8 mm, respectively) after 6 h of patrolling. The ADM presented the lowest LOSS (2.8 mm; P < .05). No changes in RECOV between groups were observed (P > .05). Vibration may explain the greater spinal loading involved in patrolling in comparison to the ADM. A GLM analysis revealed that BMI was the only explanatory factor for stature loss. No independent variables explained RECOV. The ability of the trunk muscles to produce force did not influence LOSS or RECOV. CONCLUSIONS: Military police officers involved in patrolling may require greater post-work periods and strategies designed to reduce the weight of the protective apparatus to dissipate spinal loading. The external load used in patrolling is a relevant spinal loading factor.

Exergames Training Effects on Gait During Single and Dual Tasks in Sexagenarian Women.

Objective: This study was designed to analyze the effects of an exergames training program on gait parameters while holding a cellphone conversation at self-selected walking speed (SSWS) and fast walking speed (FWS). Materials and Methods: Twenty-one older women (66.3 ± 4.0 years) practiced exergames for 12 weeks and were assessed for spatiotemporal gait parameters at SSWS and FWS under single task and dual task. The strength of the lower limbs was measured by an isokinetic dynamometer (Byodex System 3). The cognitive function was assessed with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). The tests were assessed 4 weeks before the start of the exergames training (baseline, T0), immediately before (pretraining, T1), and at the end of 12 weeks of the exergame training (post-training, T2), except for the MoCA test that was assessed at T0 and T2. Results: The spatiotemporal gait parameters at SSWS and FWS showed extensive changes when a cellphone conversation was sustained (e.g., 6.5% and 5.8% reduction in walking speed, respectively). Exergames training was not effective in minimizing these changes or improving muscle strength after 12 weeks (<3.0%). Minor cognitive improvements (0.5 points) were observed in response to training. Conclusion: Holding a cellphone conversation while walking changed several gait parameters, irrespective of the walking speed. The spatiotemporal gait parameters and lower limb muscle strength in sexagenarian women remained unchanged after the exergames training program.

Immediate Effects of Acupuncture on Force and Delayed Onset of Muscle Soreness.

Background: The ability to produce force is critical to several daily activities. Strategies to reduce delayed onsent muscle soreness (DOMS) and restore force-generating properties that occur in response to training and impair physical performance have been proposed. Acupuncture has been proposed to accelerate recovery and optimize muscle functioning. It was to determine the effects of acupuncture on DOMS and on the muscle force production capacity. Methods: Thirty physically active volunteers (26.3 ± 3.1 years old, 1.70 ± 0.08 m, 66.5 ± 12.6 kg) were allocated in a control (CG; n = 10), placebo (PG; n = 10), and acupuncture (AG; n = 10) groups. The groups were subjected to an exercise protocol to induce DOMS and were assessed for muscle force, threshold, and rate of perceived pain and activation of the biceps brachialis muscle before (PRE) and 20 minutes after (POST) a single acupuncture session using a mixed model analysis. Results: The threshold and rate of perceived pain were reduced in the AG (P < 0.05) but remained unchanged in the other groups (P > 0.05). Muscle activation also showed larger changes in the AG in comparison with the other groups (P < 0.05). No changes in the ability to produce force were found after acupuncture in any groups (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Acupuncture may reduce discomfort and improve muscle activation but was not effective to promote force improvement and/or restore the force-generating properties. It may be speculated that muscle disruption may have played a role and did not allow participants to restore their muscular performance. Rebec Number; RBR-8bh5k7 (www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-8bh5k7); Clinical Trial Registry (UTN No.: U1111-1234-9553).

Can Age Influence Functional Tests Differently to Predict Falls in Nursing Home and Community-Dwelling Older Adults?

Aim: The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine which functional tests are able to predict falls in nursing home residents (NHR) and community-dwelling (CDW) older adults grouped by age. Methods: Two hundred and fifty-two older adults were assessed in the following tests, Mini-Mental State Examination, anthropometric characteristics, fall history and functional tests. The participants were assigned to one of the following groups: Young Older Adults (YOA; 60-69 years, n = 102; 27.5% NHR), Old Older Adults (OOA; 70-79 years; n = 100; 23.5% NHR) and Very Older Adults (VOA, ≥80 years; n = 50; 52% NHR). Results: The five times sit-to-stand showed 1.41 odds to experience a fall in the NHR of the VOA. In the CDW, the handgrip strength score decreased the odds to fall occurrence (0.92 odds) in the YOA, while the low score in timed up and go test of the OOA showed 1.21 odds to experience a fall. Conclusions: Therefore, the five times sit-to-stand test can predict falls in NHR of VOA groups, while handgrip strength and timed up and go tests can predict falls in CDW of YOA and OOA groups, respectively.

Is Handgrip Strength a Useful Measure to Evaluate Lower Limb Strength and Functional Performance in Older Women?

AIM: This study aimed to determine the association of handgrip strength with isometric and isokinetic strength (hip, knee and ankle extensor/flexor muscles), and functional capacity in older women. METHODS: The handgrip strength and lower limb strength of 199 older women (60-86 years) were measured using JAMAR and BIODEX dynamometers, respectively. Time Up and Go, Five-times-sit-to-stand and 6m-walk functional tests were evaluated. Pearson correlations were used to determine the relationship between variables. Regression analysis was applied to identify if HS was able to predict TUG performance. The effect of age was analyzed by splitting the participants in a group of older women (OLD; from 60 to 70 years old) and very old women (from 71 to 86 years old). RESULTS: The HS and isometric/isokinetic strength correlations were negligible/low and, in most cases, were non-significant. The correlation between handgrip strength and functional tests also ranged predominantly from negligible (r=0.0 to 0.3) to low (r=0.3 to 0.5), irrespective of the group age. The handgrip strength was not able to explain the variance of the TUG performance. CONCLUSION: Generalizing handgrip strength as a practical and straightforward measure to determine lower limbs and overall strength, and functional capacity in older women must be viewed with caution. Handgrip strength and standard strength measures of the lower limbs and functional tests present a negligible/low correlation.

The Effects of Different Exergame Intensity Training on Walking Speed in Older Women.

Objective: It is not known if the intensity in which exergames are performed can change gait parameters at different walking speeds. This study was designed to determine if a training program based on exergame exercises performed at different intensities (moderate vs. vigorous) influences walking speed and gait parameters in older adult women. Methods: After applying the inclusion criteria, 20 participants (69.5 ± 5.4 years) were randomized into two groups: moderate (11-13 perceived exertion) and vigorous (14-16 perceived exertion). Walking speed and gait parameters at self-selected walking speed (SSWS) and maximal walking speed (MWS) were evaluated before and after 3 months of exergame training. The walking speed and gait parameters were measured with an instrumented walkway. The walking speed reserve (WSR) was calculated as a difference and ratio. Results: There was pre-to-post effect of walking speed at self-selected walking pace (pre = 112.1 ± 16.4 cm.s-1; post = 124.8 ± 16.4 cm.s-1), in WSR calculated as ratio (pre = 1.35 ± 0.08; post = 1.28 ± 0.09), in a number of gait parameters at SSWS (step length, stride length, stride velocity, step time, stride time, swing time, stance time, single support, double support, gait cycle time, and cadence) and at MWS (step time, stride time, swing time, single support, double support, gait cycle time, and cadence). Conclusion: Irrespective of the exercise intensity, exergame training improved walking speed only at a self-selected walking pace and some gait parameters at self-selected and MWS in older women.

Sport and Exercise Psychology Studies in Brazil: Performance or Health?

The low professional insertion of psychologists in Brazilian sports teams, as well as the Sport Psychology course being seldom offered in undergraduate Psychology courses, may reflect in the current scenario of scientific research in Brazil. It is still not clear what Graduate Programs (GPs) have adopted directions regarding the development of studies in Sport and Exercise Psychology (SEP) research fields since an assessment or mapping of scientific knowledge production in this area has not yet been performed involving Exercise and Sport Science and Psychology GPs. This study aimed at investigating institutional research and their themes in SEP from these graduate programs. Studies were selected and retrieved from a national database (Sucupira Platform), that contains all registered researches from all Exercise and Sport Science (n = 31) and Psychology (n = 84) GPs in the country. Data were analyzed through R software using text mining techniques, latent semantic analysis and K-means clustering. Results revealed that research involving SEP is predominantly being developed at Exercise and Sport Science GPs (n = 171; p < 0.01) in comparison to psychology GPs (n = 39), mostly located in the south and southeast regions of Brazil. This research has focused on the effects of physical exercise and quality of life, while Psychology GPs have analyzed sport as associated with health and education, as a way to promote social support and to study sports' psychological aspects. It was concluded that Exercise and Sport Science GPs had the most significant contribution to SEP. Investigations were focused on the interface of exercise with quality of life, health and education, with gaps existing in programs advancing in the studies on sports and performance.

Multicomponent Training Program with High-Speed Movement Execution of Ankle Muscles Reduces Risk of Falls in Older Adults.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of multicomponent training program, designed to improve the torque around the ankle joint performing high-speed movement execution, on healthy older adults. Participants were balanced by torque around the ankle joint and randomly allocated to either exercise (n = 12, 69.7 ± 4.8 years, 74.6 ± 16.8 kg, 1.63 ± 0.10 m) or control group (CG) (n = 14, 70.86 ± 6.48 years; 73.5 ± 13.4 kg, 1.56 ± 0.05 m). The exercise group (EG) performed a multicomponent training of resistance, agility, and coordination exercises, focusing on the plantar flexor muscles during 12 weeks (3 days per week). Outcome measures were torque (plantar flexion and extension), reactive capacity (Step test), and functional mobility (gait and timed up and go [TUG] test). The training program was induced to increase peak torque of extensor muscles around the ankle joint to EG (Δ = 50%; d = 1.59) compared to the CG. Such improvement was converted to reactive capacity improvements considering the decrease in the execution time of the Swing phase and in the Total time of the Step test (Δ = 19%; d = 0.93, Δ = 14%; d = 1.02, respectively). Gains in functional mobility were verified by the increase of the walking speed (Δ = 15%; d = 1.37) and by the smaller time of execution of TUG test (Δ = 17%; d = 1.73) in the EG. Therefore, the multicomponent training was effective to reduce or to reverse muscular age-related declines, which are associated with functional capacity and reduction of fall risk in older adults.

The effect of Pilates practice on balance in elderly: a systematic review / Efeito da prática do Pilates sobre o equilíbrio de idosos: uma revisão sistemática

The aging is accompanied by a gradual decline in balance and increases risk of falls. Pilates has been used for balance training. The purpose of this research was to systematize studies regarding the ef-fects of Pilates exercise interventions on static and dynamic balance of elderly people. A survey was conducted in three indexed databases: Medline/Pubmed, Scopus and Science Direct, using the de-scriptors "balance" or "equilibrium" with the term "Pilates". Fifteen articles were selected and used in this systematic review. Based on the results, we observed that the practice of Pilates with a minimum frequency of two sessions per week for an hour lasting for a period of at least five weeks or three times per week for 12 sessions or more showed improvement on static and dynamic balance of elderly

O envelhecimento é acompanhado por um declínio gradual no equilíbrio e aumento do risco de quedas. Pi-lates tem sido utilizado para o treinamento do equilíbrio. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi sistematizar estudos que evidenciem os efeitos da intervenção com exercícios de Pilates sobre o equilíbrio estático e dinâmico de idosos. Uma pesquisa foi realizada em três bases de dados indexadas: Medline/Pubmed; Scopus e Science Direct, a partir da associação dos descritores "balance" ou "equilibrium" com o termo "Pilates". Quinze artigos selecionados e analisados foram utilizados para compor esta revisão sistemática. A partir dos resultados foi possível verificar que a prática de Pilates realizada com frequência mínima de duas sessões semanais, por uma hora por dia, em período igual ou superior a cinco semanas resultou em melhorias no equilíbrio estático e dinâmico de idosos

Does functional capacity, fall risk awareness and physical activity level predict falls in older adults in different age groups?

The aims of this study were to examine whether: i) functional capacity and physical activity level differ between fallers and non-fallers older adults, by controlling for fall risk awareness; ii) functional capacity, fall risk awareness and physical activity differ between fallers and non-fallers older adults, by controlling for age; iii) variables and which may predict falls in different age groups. 1826 older adults performed a series of functional tests and reported their fall episodes, fall risk awareness and physical activity level. The overall incidence of falls was high (40.2%), and falls risk awareness scores reduced with age. The older adults with greater falls risk awareness and non-fallers presented better scores in all functional tests and physical activity level (P < .05). Functional tests and falls risk awareness differed among age groups and differed between fallers and non-fallers, irrespective of age group (P < .05). Falls risk awareness predicted falls in all age groups (odds ranging: 1.05-1.09). Handgrip strength and balance scores predicted falls until 79 years (OR = 1.04, 95%CI = 1.01-1.06). The physical activity level predicted falls up to 70 years (OR = 1.09, 95%CI = 1.06-1.12). Functional mobility was able to predict falls up to 80 years (OR = 1.06, 95%CI = 1.01-1.08). Therefore, according to age, functional capacity, physical activity level and falls risk awareness can be a predictor of falls in older adults.

Effects of additional external load manipulation on perceptual and physiological responses during exergame

This study tested whether performing exergames with and without additional external load could induce to different internal load demand for young adults. Methods: Fifteen young women (24.4 ± 4.06 years) participated in the study. Electromyography (EMG) activity, heart rate (HR) and overall and local rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were determined in "Just Dance" and "Ski" exergames without additional external load and with additional external load of 5% of body mass attached bilaterally to the ankles in "Just Dance" and using a weight vest in "Ski". Results: EMG, HR and overall RPE presented similar responses between loads in both exergames (p>.05). However, local RPE differentiate internal load only in "Just Dance", with higher values with additional load (with additional load: 11.2 ± 2.1 RPE; without additional load: 10.3 ± 1.4 RPE; p = .037). Conclusion: Therefore, performing exergames with an additional external load of 5% of young women body mass did not induce different internal load demand in "Just Dance" and "Ski" exergames compared to performing such games without external load. However, the greater local RPE in "Just Dance" exergame after adding the external load suggests that a higher amount of load (i.e., > 5% of body mass) to this population may generate different internal load demand.(AU)

Variability and reliability of gait kinematic parameters after controlled tripping in older adults: a preliminary study / Variabilidade e confiabilidade dos parâmetros cinemáticos da marcha de idosos após um tropeço controlado: estudo preliminar

ABSTRACT Approximately 21% of the falls in older adults occur due to tripping, while walking. There is a paucity of information regarding the gait variability and reliability when a tripping is induced in different days mainly with elderly. It was aimed to analyze the variability and the reliability (intra- and inter-day) of spatiotemporal gait parameters and joint angles after controlled tripping in older adults. Eight healthy older women participated. The trip was induced during the early-mid swing phase on the transposing segment and the kinematic data was obtained from trials. The variability and reliability of spatiotemporal gait parameters and joint angles during the gait cycle were checked through the coefficient of variation (CV), the intraclass coefficient correlation (ICC) and the standard error of measurement (SEM). The variability of spatiotemporal and intra- and inter-day angular parameters was low for most variables, except for plantar flexion. The SEM was low for all parameters. Intra-day reliability was moderate to high for the spatiotemporal and angular parameters. Inter-day reliability was considered low to moderate for all parameters. The variables did not differ between instants and days. Experimental procedures demonstrate that the walking pattern did not change, but should be considered with caution in studies that include intervention, particularly for angular parameters during gait.

RESUMO Aproximadamente 21% das quedas em idosos ocorrem como consequência de tropeços ao caminhar. Há uma escassez de informações referentes à variabilidade e à confiabilidade dos parâmetros cinemáticos da marcha em diferentes dias de avaliação, sobretudo com idosos. Buscou-se analisar a variabilidade e a confiabilidade (intra e inter-dia) dos parâmetros espaço-temporais e angulares da marcha de idosos, após a indução de tropeço controlado. Oito idosas participaram do estudo. O tropeço foi induzido durante o início da fase de balanço da marcha. Foram analisados os dados cinemáticos das tentativas de marcha. A variabilidade e confiabilidade dos parâmetros espaço-temporais da marcha foram verificados através do coeficiente de variação (CV), do coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (ICC) e do erro padrão de medida (SEM). A variabilidade dos parâmetros espaço-temporais e angulares intra e inter-dia foi baixa para a maioria das variáveis, à exceção da flexão plantar. O SEM foi baixo para todos os parâmetros. A confiabilidade intra-dia foi moderada a alta para os parâmetros espaço-temporais e angulares; A confiabilidade inter-dia foi baixa a moderada para todos os parâmetros. As variáveis não diferiram entre instantes e dias. Apesar do padrão de marcha não ter alterado deve ser analisado com cautela em estudos que incluam intervenção, particularmente para os parâmetros angulares.

Effects of two programs of metabolic resistance training on strength and hypertrophy / Efeito de dois programas de treinamento resistido com sobrecarga metabólica na força e hipertrofia muscular

Abstract Introduction: The effects of low intensity resistance training combined with vascular occlusion have been investigated by several studies. Similar results on strength and hypertrophy have been observed when such method was compared to high intensity protocols. However, due to the specific apparatus needed to apply vascular occlusion (ex.: Kaatsu) on some exercises, alternative forms of metabolic training might be used. In the present study, an isometric contraction was performed within each concentric-eccentric transition phase, for every repetition, to elicit metabolic stress. Objective: The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of two resistance training protocols with metabolic characteristics on strength (1MR), circumference (CIRC) and muscle thickness (measured with ultrasonography [MT]). Subjective perception of discomfort was also recorded with an analogical-visual pain scale (AVP). Methods: Twelve young, healthy men were trained with two different methods during 10 weeks. The right limb was trained with an isometric contraction within each concentric-eccentric transition phases for every repetition (ISO) whereas the left limb was trained with a pneumatic cuff to apply vascular occlusion (OC) on the knee extensor muscles. Both methods were trained at 20% 1MR. Results: It was observed increases on medial tight CIRC, proximal MT, medial MT, distal MT and 1MR, with no difference between both methods. The perception of discomfort was greater for ISO at the end of the third set and lower than reported by OC, at the beginning and end of the training program. Conclusions: Both protocols produced similar gains on strength and hypertrophy. The advantages of training with low loads are important to elderly or rehabilitation training programs. Other studies that compare this method with conventional resistance training are warranted.

Resumo Introdução: Estudos têm avaliado os efeitos do treinamento resistido de baixa intensidade combinado com oclusão sanguínea. Este método vem sendo comparado a protocolos de alta intensidade, e resultados semelhantes de aumento de força e hipertrofia têm sido observados.Entretanto, na dificuldade em instrumentalizar a oclusão vascular com garrote (ex.: Kaatsu) em alguns exercícios resistidos, outras formas de execução são realizadas, como as que associam a utilização de intervalos em contração isométrica. Objetivo: O objetivo do estudo foi analisar os efeitos de dois protocolos de treinamento resistido de características metabólicas nos ganhos de força (1RM), circunferência (CIRC), espessura muscular (ultrassonografia [ESP]), e percepção subjetiva do desconforto (EVA). Métodos: Doze homens jovens e saudáveis foram treinados com dois métodos por 10semanas. No membro inferior direito foi realizado o treinamento resistido com intervalo isométrico (ISO) e no membro inferior esquerdo o treinamento com oclusão vascular (OCL) no exercício de extensão do joelho. 20% de 1RM em ambos os métodos. Resultados: Encontraram-se aumentos em ambos os métodos na CIRC, ESP proximal, ESP medial, ESP distal e 1RM. A EVA ao final da terceira série de exercícios aumentou no ISO, sendo menor que a relatada no OCL. Não foram encontradas outras diferenças entre os métodos utilizados. Conclusões: Deste modo, ambos os sistemas utilizados produziram efeitos similares nos ganhos de força e hipertrofia. As vantagens de ambos os métodos consistem no uso de cargas reduzidas, podendo ser importante para o treinamento em idoso ou programas de reabilitação. Estudos que comparem os métodos aqui utilizados com o treinamento resistido convencional devem ser realizados.

A INFLUÊNCIA DO TREINAMENTO RESISTIDOE DA SUPLEMENTAÇÃO DO ÓLEO DE PEIXE EM PARÂMETROS SANGUÍNEOS EM MULHERES IDOSAS / THE INFLUENCE OF STRENGHT TRAINING AND FISH OIL SUPPLEMENTATION ON BLOOD PARAMETERS OF ELDERLY WOMEN

RESUMO Este estudo objetivou investigar o efeito crônico da óleo de peixe (FO) e o treinamento resistido (ST) nos parâmetros sanguíneos (glicemia, triglicérides e HDL, LDL colesterol VLDL) de mulheres idosas. Quarenta e cinco mulheres (64 ± 1,4 anos) foram distribuídas em três grupos: um grupo que realizou 90 dias de treinamento resistido (ST; n = 15), um grupo que realizou 90 dias de treinamento resistido associado à 2g / dia de óleo de peixe (ST90; n = 15) e o ultimo grupo que consumiu óleo de peixe por 60 dias antes de iniciar os 90 dias de treinamento resistido associado ao FO (ST150; n = 15). O treinamento foi realizado 3 vezes / semana, durante 12 semanas. Os parâmetros sanguíneos foram avaliados nos 3 grupos nas condições, pré-suplementação e pré-treinamento (PRÉ) e pós-suplementação (PÓS60) e pós-treinamento (PÓS). Os efeitos positivos foram comprovados sobre a glicemia e colesterol HDL quando FO e exercício foram combinadas (ST90 e ST150). A glicemia de ST e ST150 não apresentou mudanças entre PRÉ-PÓS e PRÉ-PÓS60, respectivamente. No entanto, quando foi combinado o exercício com o FO reduções na glicemia foram encontrados no ST90 (21%) e ST150 (19%) a partir de PRÉ e PÓS (p <0,05). A FO causou ganhos significativos no HDL (ST150 PRE- PÓS60). Contudo, o exercício foi eficaz quando acompanhado da suplementação FO (ST90, ST150, PRÉ-PÓS, p<.0.05). Os triglicérides do sangue diminuiu quando FO e o exercício resistido (p<0,05) foram aplicados separadamente (ST, ST90 e ST150 PRÉ, PÓS 60 e PÓS). Houve uma redução nas concentrações de VLDL em todos os grupos (26% de ST, 35% em ST90, ST150 de PÓS60 em 35% e 36% em PÓS). A LDL não foi alterada. Conclui-se que os parâmetros sanguíneos (triglicérides e VLDL) diminuiu quando FO e exercícios foram aplicados separadamente. Os efeitos positivos foram evidenciados sobre a glicemia e colesterol HDL quando FO e exercício foram combinadas.

ABSTRACT It was aimed to investigate the chronic effect of FO and ST on blood parameters (glycaemia, triglycerides, and HDL, LDL VLDL cholesterol) of elderly women. METHODS: Forty-five women (64 ± 1.4 years) were assigned to one group of strength training (ST; n=15), one group of strength and 2g/day of FO supplemented by 90 (ST90; n=15) and 150 days (ST150; n=15). The ST150 started FO 60 days before commencing the strength training. Training was performed 3 times/wk, for 12 weeks. The blood parameters were assessed at before supplementation (POST60), pre-training (PRE) and post-training (POST). Positive effects were evidenced on glycaemia and HDL cholesterol when FO and exercise were combined (ST90 e ST150). The glycaemia of ST and ST150 showed no changes between PRE-POST and POST60-PRE, respectively. However, when training was combined with FO supplementation reductions in the glycaemia were found in the ST90 (21%) and ST150 (19%) from PRE to POST (p<0.05). The FO caused significant gains in HDL (ST150 POST 60-PRE). The HDL was not influenced by exercise alone (ST PRE-POS; p>0.05). However, exercise was effective when accompanied by FO supplementation (ST90, ST150, PRE-POST, p<.0.05). The triglycerides decreased when FO and exercises (p<0.05) were applied separately (ST, ST90 and ST150 POST60-POST). No additional reductions were found by combining FO and exercise. There was a reduction in the concentrations of VLDL in all groups (26% for ST, 35% in ST90, ST150 base in 35% and 36% in post ST150). The LDL was not altered. In concluision The blood parameters (triglycerides and VLDL) decreased when FO and exercises were applied separately. No additional reductionswere found by combining FO and exercise. Positive effects were evidenced on glycaemia and HDL cholesterol when FO and exercise were combined.