Impact of Resistance Training Volume on Physical and Perceptual Outcomes of Breast Cancer Survivors Submitted to a Combined Training Program: A Randomized, Single-Blinded Study.

BACKGROUND: To determine the effect of resistance training volume on physical and perceptual outcomes of breast cancer survivors submitted to a combined training program. DESIGN: Randomized single-blinded study. METHODS: Nineteen breast cancer survivor women were randomized to a single-set (SS) or a multiple-set (MS) group. Both groups completed an 8-week combined training intervention in which the SS and MS groups performed 1 and 3 sets per resistance exercise, respectively. The following outcomes were assessed preintervention and postintervention: maximal knee extension dynamic strength (1-repetition maximum), quadriceps muscle thickness, peak oxygen uptake, time to exhaustion, cancer-related fatigue, and quality of life. RESULTS: Both interventions increased knee extension 1-repetition maximum (SS: 29.8% [37.5%]; MS: 19.3% [11.8%]), quadriceps muscle thickness (9.4% [4.1%]; 8.9% [5.9%]), and quality of life (4.3% [6.3%]; 7.9% [9.0%]), with no difference between the groups. However, only MS improved cancer-related fatigue (-2.1% [1.7%]) and time to exhaustion (21.3% [14.9%]), whereas peak oxygen uptake remained unchanged in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Cancer-related fatigue and time to exhaustion, improved only in the MS group after the intervention. On the other hand, similar knee extension 1-repetition maximum, quadriceps muscle thickness, and quality of life improvements were observed in breast cancer survivors irrespective of the resistance training volume performed.

Short-Term Effects of Land-Based Versus Water-Based Resistance Training Protocols on Post-Exercise Hypotension in Normotensive Men: A Crossover Study.

Considering that water immersion may acutely reduce blood pressure (BP) and that exercise may elicit positive post-exercise hypotension (PEH) responses, we aimed to analyze the presence of PEH in normotensive individuals and compare its magnitude between two resistance training sessions performed in aquatic or land environments. Ten physically active men (23.2 ± 3.1 years) performed the two training protocols in a randomized, counterbalanced fashion. BP measurements were performed for 30 min (at 5 min intervals) both prior to (resting) and after each of the protocols. No differences were observed between protocols at baseline (p > 0.05). Only the water-based resistance training protocol resulted in a systolic BP reduction from 10 to 20 min post-exercise (all p < 0.05) compared to baseline. Compared to the land-based session, systolic BP was lower in the water-based protocol from 10 to 25 min post-exercise (all p < 0.05). On the other hand, diastolic BP showed a similar PEH effect between water and land-based protocols for the entire 30 min post-session period (all p < 0.001). Our results suggest that water-based resistance training holds the potential as a nonpharmacological strategy to lower BP levels following exercise.

Physical Activity and Breast Cancer: A Case-Control Study in Southern Brazil.

Physical inactivity is one of the greatest public health challenges in the 21st century. More than five million deaths a year are caused by lack of physical activity (PA) around the world. Despite its relevance to public health, about one-third of the world's adults do not meet current PA recommendations for health benefits. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the association between lifetime PA and risk of breast cancer. A case-control study was conducted between November 2016 and June 2017. The cases were recruited from all cancer centers in the city of Pelotas in southern Brazil. Each case was age-matched (±5 years) with a neighborhood control enrolled based on nearby addresses of the cases. Overall, 230 cases and 231 controls were included. Lifetime leisure-time PA may decrease the odds of breast cancer (adjusted OR = 0.44; 95%CI 0.23-0.86) in the comparison between the most active with the least active quartile. PA was associated with a reduction in the odds of breast cancer. Future studies should aim at understanding the physiological pathways that could explain how an active lifestyle influences this disease, helping in the establishment of volume and intensities necessary to obtain the benefits.

Atividade física para gestantes e mulheres no pós-parto: Guia de Atividade Física para a População Brasileira / Physical activity for pregnant and postpartum women: Physical Activity Guidelines for the Brazilian Population

Este artigo tem por objetivo apresentar as recomendações de atividade física para gestantes e mu-lheres no pós-parto desenvolvidas para o Guia de Atividade Física para a População Brasileira. Para isso, utilizou-se uma abordagem de métodos mistos que incluiu quatro etapas: 1) levantamento das diretrizes internacionais mais recentes; 2) revisão narrativa de literatura sobre efeitos da prática de atividade física durante a gestação para a saúde da mulher e do bebê; 3) escuta com gestantes, mu-lheres no pós-parto, profissionais e pesquisadores; 4) consulta pública. As evidências sumarizadas suportam que a prática de atividade física durante a gestação e no período pós-parto é segura, traz be-nefícios à saúde da mãe e do bebê, e reduz os riscos de algumas complicações relacionadas à gestação. Gestantes devem ser incentivadas a realizar pelo menos 150 minutos por semana de atividade física de intensidade moderada. Gestantes com contraindicações devem procurar auxílio de profissionais qualificados. Em alguns casos, a prática de atividade física durante a gestação não é recomendada. Este documento servirá como ferramenta para nortear profissionais de saúde que atuam com ges-tantes e mulheres no pós-parto e irá orientar a população-alvo quanto a prática de atividade física

This manuscript aims to present the recommendations of physical activity for pregnant and postpartum women developed for the Physical Activity Guidelines for the Brazilian Population. A mixed-method ap-proach that included four steps was used: 1) review of the most recent international guidelines for physical activity during pregnancy; 2) narrative literature review on the effects of physical activity during pregnancy on the health of the woman and the baby; 3) consultation with pregnant women, postpartum women, pro-fessionals and researchers; 4) public consultation. The summarized evidence supports that physical activity during pregnancy and in the postpartum is safe, has benefits to the health of the mother and baby, and reduces the risks of some complications related to pregnancy. Pregnancy should be encouraged to do at least 150 min-utes a week of moderate intensity physical activity. Pregnancy women with contraindications should seek help from qualified professionals. In some cases, physical activity during pregnancy is not recommended. This document will be used as a tool to guide health professionals who work with pregnant women and women in the postpartum period. Also, it will inform and guide women during pregnancy and postpartum about the benefits of physical activity

Magnitude of vertical ground reaction force during water-based exercises in women with obesity.

Individuals with obesity are recommended to practice physical activity with reduced weight bearing, such as water-based exercises. However, the magnitude of the vertical ground reaction force (Fz) during these exercises is unknown in this population. This study aimed to verify the magnitude of peak Fz (Fzpeak) in women with obesity during different exercises performed in water and on land and at different intensities. Ten adult women with obesity class 1 (body mass index: 31.6 ± 0.57 kg·m-2) completed two randomised sessions, one performed on land and other in water, composed by three exercises (stationary running, frontal kick, butt kick) performed at cadences of 80 b·min-1, 100 b·min-1 and maximal. Fzpeak value was determined in each situation. Data were analysed using repeated-measures three-way ANOVA (α = 0.05). Significant lower Fzpeak values were observed in water (p < 0.001), with no significant differences between the exercises. A significant difference in the Fzpeak was verified between maximal cadence and 80 b·min-1 (p = 0.01). Water-based exercises performed by women with obesity revealed a Fzpeak reduction from land to water corresponding to 41-67%. Also, the three water-based exercises resulted in similar Fzpeak values, while an increase was observed 80 b·min-1 to the maximal cadence.

Water-based exercises in postmenopausal women: Vertical ground reaction force and oxygen uptake responses.

The purpose of the present study was to analyse vertical ground reaction force (Fz) and oxygen uptake (VO2) responses in six different water-based exercises performed at different cadences by postmenopausal women. Twelve postmenopausal women (57.3 ± 2.6 years, 158.1 ± 6.9 cm, 69.1 ± 10.9 kg) voluntarily took part in the study. Participants completed six sessions corresponding to maximal tests for each water-based exercise. Then, two sessions were performed for the experimental protocols, which comprised the performance of three exercises at three cadences (80, 100 and 120 b min-1), with Fz and VO2 measurements. Peak (Fzpeak) and impulse of Fz were determined. In addition, VO2 percentages relative to maximal VO2 (VO2max) values obtained in each maximal test were expressed as %VO2max. Data were analysed using two-way ANOVA with repeated measures (α = 0.05). As results, significant differences were found in Fzpeak and impulse between the water-based exercises, with similar VO2 and %VO2max values between them for each cadence. In addition, with the increasing cadence, Fzpeak (0.20-0.80 BW), VO2 (5.3-9.4 ml kg-1 min-1) and %VO2max (32.1-57.6%) values increased, while impulse (0.20-0.07 N.s/BW) values were reduced. Therefore, for a same physiological intensity, postmenopausal women experience different Fz loads during different water-based exercises.

Interval training during concurrent training optimizes cardiorespiratory adaptations in women / Exercício intervalado durante o treinamento concorrente otimiza as adaptações cardiorrespiratórias em mulheres

Abstract This study compared the effects of using continuous and interval aerobic exercise during concurrent training on cardiorespiratory adaptations in women. Thirty-two participants were randomly assigned into one of the following groups: continuous running and resistance training (C-RUN, n = 10), interval running and resistance training (I-RUN, n = 11), or control group that performed resistance training only (RT, n = 11). Each group trained twice a week during 11 weeks. Oxygen uptake corresponding to the first ventilatory threshold (VO2VT1), second ventilatory threshold (VO2VT2) and maximal effort (VO2max) was measured in a maximal incremental test performed before and after training. Significant increases in VO2VT1, VO2VT2 and VO2max were observed in all training groups. VO2VT2 and VO2max presented time-group interactions, indicating that the magnitude of the increase in these variables was dependent on the training group (VO2VT2: C-Run = 6.6%, I-Run = 15.7%, RT = 1.7%; VO2max: C-Run = 7.2%, I-Run = 14.3%, RT = 2.7%). The effect size observed for post-training values comparing C-RUN and RT groups was d = 0.566 for VO2VT2 and d = 0.442 for VO2max. On the other hand, values of d = 0.949 for VO2VT2 and d = 1.189 for VO2max were verified between I-RUN and RT groups. In conclusion, the use of continuous and interval aerobic exercise during concurrent training improved different cardiorespiratory parameters in women, but in a greater magnitude when interval aerobic exercise was performed simultaneously to resistance training.

Resumo O presente estudo comparou os efeitos do uso de exercício aeróbio contínuo e intervalado durante o treinamento concorrente nas adaptações cardiorrespiratórias de mulheres. Trinta e duas participantes foram randomizadas em três grupos de treinamento: corrida contínua + treinamento resistido (C-RUN, n = 10), corrida intervalada + treinamento resistido (I-RUN, n = 11), e apenas treinamento resistido (RT, n = 11). Cada grupo treinou 2 vezes por semana ao longo de 11 semanas. Foi avaliado o consumo de oxigênio correspondente ao primeiro (VO2VT1) e segundo (VO2VT2) limiar ventilatório, bem como o consumo máximo de oxigênio (VO2max) antes e depois dos treinamentos. Foram encontrados aumentos significativos no VO2VT1, VO2VT2 e VO2max ao final do período de treinamento nos três grupos. Ainda, foi encontrada interação tempo*grupo nas variáveis VO2VT2 e VO2max , sugerindo que a magnitude de alteração foi dependente do tipo de treinamento realizado (VO2VT2: C-Run = 6,6%, I-Run = 15,7%, RT = 1,7%; VO2max: C-Run = 7,2%, I-Run = 14,3%, RT = 2,7%). Da mesma forma, diferentes tamanhos de efeito foram observados ao final do treinamento, de acordo com a intervenção realizada (C-RUN versus RT d = 0,566 para o VO2VT2 e d = 0,442 para o VO2max; I-RUN versus RT d = 0,949 para o VO2VT2 e d = 1,189 para o VO2max). Embora o uso de exercício aeróbio contínuo e intervalado durante o treinamento concorrente tenha sido efetivo em promover adaptações cardiorrespiratórias em mulheres, os ganhos obtidos foram maiores quando o exercício intervalado foi associado ao exercício resistido.

Relationship between Oxygen Uptake, Heart Rate, and Perceived Effort in an Aquatic Incremental Test in Older Women.

Different parameters can be used to control the intensity of aerobic exercises, a choice that should consider the population and exercise environment targeted. Therefore, our study aimed to verify the relationship between oxygen uptake (VO2), heart rate (HR), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and cadence during an aquatic incremental test in older women. Nine older women (64.3 ± 4.4 years) engaged in a water-based aerobic training performed an aquatic incremental test using the stationary running exercise (cadence increases of 15 b·min-1 every 2 min) until participants' volitional exhaustion. VO2, HR, and RPE data were measured, and the percentage of peak VO2 (%VO2peak) and percentage of maximal HR (%HRmax) were calculated. Linear and polynomial regression analyses were performed (α = 0.05). Polynomial regressions revealed the best adjustments for all analyses. Data showed a significant relationship (p < 0.001) between %VO2peak and %HRmax (r = 0.921), %VO2peak and RPE (r = 0.870), and %HRmax and RPE (r = 0.878). Likewise, significant relationships between cadence (p < 0.001) and %VO2peak (r = 0.873), %HRmax (r = 0.874), and RPE (r = 0.910) were also observed. In summary, the physiological, subjective, and mechanical variables investigated were highly associated during an aquatic incremental test to exhaustion in older women. Therefore, these different parameters can be employed to adequately prescribe water-based programs according to preference and availability.

Exercício físico remoto e fadiga em sobreviventes do câncer de mama: uma intervenção em tempos da COVID-19 / Physical exercise using telehealth and fatigue in breast cancer survivors: an intervention in the days of COVID-19

O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar os efeitos de um programa de exercício físico supervisionado remotamente sobre a percepção de fadiga de sobreviventes do câncer de mama durante a pandemia da COVID-19. Participaram do estudo dez mulheres (56,30 ± 14,00 anos) fisicamente ativas, participantes de um programa de extensão universitário e que foram diagnosticadas com câncer de mama entre os estágios I-III (5,65 ± 2,19 anos de diagnóstico). O programa de exercício físico foi realizado de forma supervisionada por meio de chamada de vídeo durante 12 semanas, com duas sessões semanais de 30 minutos, em dias não consecutivos. Os treinos foram compostos por exercícios de mobilidade articular, de força, aeróbios e de equilíbrio, sendo modificados a cada três semanas. A percepção de fadiga relacionada ao câncer foi medida pela Piper Fatigue Scale por meio de chamada telefônica, antes e após as 12 semanas de intervenção. Os dados foram analisados utilizando o teste não-paramétrico Wilcoxon. Os resultados demonstraram valores de todos os domínios da fadiga relacionada ao câncer (fadiga total: p = 0,463; comportamental: p = 0,655; afetiva: p = 0,593; sensorial: p = 0,223; cognitiva: p = 0,141) estatisticamente semelhantes entre os momentos pré e pós intervenção. Conclui-se que, após 12 semanas de um programa de exercício físico supervisionado remotamente por chamada de vídeo, durante o distanciamento social devido a pandemia da CO-VID-19, a percepção de fadiga de mulheres sobreviventes do câncer de mama permaneceu estável

The purpose of the present study was to verify the effects of physical exercise using telehealth on the cancer-related fatigue in breast cancer survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ten physically active women (56.30 ± 14.00 years) participating in a university extension program and diagnosed with breast cancer between stages I-III (5.65 ± 2.19 years of diagnosis) were included in the study. Physical exercise program was carried out with supervision through video call for 12 weeks with two 30-minutes sessions per week on non-consecutive days. The training sessions consisted of joint mobility, strength, aerobic and balance exercises, and were modified every three weeks. The cancer-related fatigue was measured pre and post 12 weeks of intervention by the Piper Fatigue Scale through a telephone call. The data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon non-parametric test. The results showed values of all domains of cancer-related fatigue (total fatigue: p = 0.463; behavioral: p = 0.655; affective: p = 0.593; sensory: p = 0.223; cognitive/mood: p = 0.141) statistically similar between pre and post intervention time points. It is concluded that after 12 weeks of a supervised physical exercise program using telehealth, during social distance due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the perception of fatigue in breast cancer survivors remained stable

Randomized Clinical Trial of Water-Based Aerobic Training in Older Women (WATER Study): Functional Capacity and Quality of Life Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of 2 water-based aerobic training programs on functional capacity and quality of life (QoL) of older women. DESIGN: Randomized clinical trial. METHODS: A total of 41 women (64.3 [3.1] y) were randomized into a continuous (CTG) and an interval (ITG) water-based aerobic training group. Training programs were performed with exercise intensity based on rating of perceived exertion throughout 12 weeks (twice a week). Functional tests with and without dual-task and QoL questionnaire were applied pretraining and posttraining. Per protocol and intention to treat analysis were conducted using generalized estimating equations, with Bonferroni post hoc test (α = .05). RESULTS: The per protocol analysis showed an increase in the 30-second chair stand (6% [12%] vs 18% [13%]), 6-minute walk (4% [7%] vs 2% [8%]), and 5-m habitual gait velocity (6% [11%] vs 4% [7%]) tests after CTG and ITG training groups. In addition, the intention to treat analysis revealed an increase in the 30-second chair stand test (7% [13%] vs 12% [13%]) and physical domain of QoL (8% [26%] vs 14% [22%]) after CTG and ITG training groups, as well as an increase in the gait velocity with verbal task after CTG (6% [11%]). CONCLUSIONS: Both water-based aerobic training programs induced similar improvements in the functional capacity and maintained the QoL perception in older women.

Barriers to physical activity in women with and without breast cancer / Barreiras para a prática de atividade física em mulheres com e sem diagnóstico de câncer de mama

INTRODUCTION: Regular physical activity (PA) is important for the entire population, equally for healthy people and survivors of breast cancer. Despite the benefits of PA, there are women who do not attain the recommendation from the World Health Organization (WHO). OBJECTIVE: To describe and compare the barriers to PA in women with and without breast cancer. METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study was performed. The consisted of 230 women with primary breast cancer diagnosed up to one year and 231 women without breast cancer. Both groups were matched by age (±5 years). The participants answered a questionnaire with questions about barriers to PA and sociodemographic, anthropometric and behavioral characteristics. RESULTS: Women with breast cancer perceived more barriers to PA than those without diagnosis (59.4% versus 40.7%). The barriers most cited by women diagnosed with breast cancer were "feeling discomfort or pain" (59.6%) and "feeling tired" (56.1%). The barriers most mentioned by women without diagnosis were "lack of money" (21.6%) and "lack of company" (19.1%). CONCLUSION: Women with breast cancer report more barriers than women without the disease. Therefore, it is suggested that they have a lower level of PA in leisure time. The perceived barriers to PA among women with and without breast cancer are similar, but they differ in the physical barriers.

INTRODUÇÃO: A atividade física (AF) regular é importante para toda a população, tanto os indivíduos saudáveis quanto para sobreviventes do câncer de mama, mas apesar dos benefícios, há mulheres que não atendem os níveis de AF necessários preconizados pela Organização Mundial da Saúde. OBJETIVO: Descrever e comparar as barreiras para a prática de AF em mulheres com e sem diagnóstico de câncer de mama. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo transversal. A amostra foi obtida de um estudo de caso-controle sobre AF e câncer de mama, participaram do estudo 230 mulheres com câncer de mama primário diagnosticadas até um ano e 231 mulheres sem câncer de mama e ambos os grupos foram pareados por idade (±5 anos). As mulheres responderam a um questionário contendo perguntas sobre barreiras à AF e características sociodemográficas, antropométricas e comportamentais. RESULTADOS: Mulheres com câncer de mama perceberam mais barreiras para a prática de AF do que àquelas sem diagnóstico (59,4% versus 40,7%). As barreiras mais citadas pelas mulheres com diagnóstico de câncer de mama foram "sentir desconforto ou dor" (59,6%) e "sentir cansaço" (56,1%) e as mais citadas pelas mulheres sem diagnóstico foram "falta de dinheiro" (21,6%) e "falta de companhia" (19,1%). CONCLUSÃO: Mulheres com câncer de mama reportaram mais barreiras do que as mulheres sem diagnóstico, e por essa razão, apresentaram menores níveis de AF no lazer. As barreiras para a prática de AF entre mulheres com e sem diagnóstico de câncer de mama são similares, mas diferem nas barreiras físicas.

Kinetic parameters during land and water walking performed by individuals with Down Syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Down Syndrome (DS) is a genetic condition presenting delay in acquisition of main motor milestones, such as walking. Although studies have been investigating the biomechanical parameters during land walking performed by individual with DS, the literature is scarce regarding kinetic parameters analysis in this population, specially during water walking. RESEARCH QUESTION: This study sought to assess the vertical ground reaction force (Fz) of walking performed in water and on land at different speeds by individuals with DS. METHODS: Fourteen adults with DS (age: 27.9 ± 7.9 years; body mass: 58.4 ± 12.9 kg; height: 1.4 ± 0.1 m, body mass index: 29.2 ± 5.4 kg.m-2) completed two sessions of data collection, one on land and another in aquatic environment. The protocol consisted of walking performed at three self-selected speeds (slow, comfortable and fast) in randomized order. The Fz was assessed with a waterproof force plate in each condition. Two-way repeated-measures ANOVA (environment and speed), with Bonferroni's post hoc tests, were used for analysis. A significance level was set as α = 0.05. RESULTS: Significant differences were observed between environments (p < 0.001), with reduced first peak of Fz (68-73%), second peak of Fz (66-70%), loading rate (75-78%) and impulse (40-41%) in the water walking for all speeds analyzed. In the aquatic environment, no significant difference was observed for the first and second Fz peaks with the increasing speed of walking. Moreover, the loading rate significantly increased (p = 0.019) as the impulse significantly reduced (p < 0.001) in the higher speeds. SIGNIFICANCE: Individuals with DS present reduced Fz outcomes during water walking in comparison to land. Therefore, water walking may be performed by individuals with DS with safe vertical loads on lower limbs regardless the self-selected speed for rehabilitation, correction of gait and training purposes.

Water-based continuous and interval training in older women: Cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular outcomes (WATER study).

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of two water-based aerobic programs on cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular outcomes in older women. Forty-one women (60 to 75 years old) volunteered to participate in the study. Participants were randomized into a water-based continuous (CTG; n = 21; 63.9 ± 2.5 years) or an interval (ITG; n = 20; 64.8 ± 3.6 years) aerobic training group. Both training programs were performed for 12 weeks (45-min sessions twice a week), with exercise intensity based on rating of perceived exertion (Borg's RPE 6-20 Scale). Pre and post training assessments of cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular outcomes were performed. Data analyses were conducted using Generalized Estimating Equations and Bonferroni post-hoc test (α = 0.05). After the intervention, the CTG and the ITG displayed similar improvements in time to exhaustion (8% vs. 11%), peak oxygen uptake (9% vs. 7%), maximal dynamic knee extension strength (5% vs. 6%), dynamic muscular endurance of knee extensors (10% vs. 11%), maximal vastus lateralis electromyographic signal amplitude (13% vs. 35%), as well as an increase in muscle thickness (5% vs. 6%) and decrease in muscle echo intensity (-2% vs. -3%) of the quadriceps femoris. In conclusion, older women benefited from water-based exercise training prescribed based on participants' RPE, with both the interval and the continuous training programs resulting in similar increases in the cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular parameters.

Vertical Ground Reaction Force During a Water-Based Exercise Performed by Elderly Women: Equipment Use Effects.

Purpose: The present study aimed to compare the vertical ground reaction force responses during the performance of the stationary running water-based exercise with and without equipment at different cadences by elderly women. Method: Nineteen elderly women (age: 68.6 ± 5.0 years; body mass: 69.0 ± 9.5 kg; height: 154.9 ± 5.6 cm) completed one session consisting of the performance of the water-based stationary running with elbow flexion and extension immersed to the xiphoid process depth. The exercise was performed in three conditions, without equipment, with water-floating and with water-resistance equipment, at three cadences (80 b·min-1, 100 b·min-1 and maximal) in a randomized order. Peak and impulse of vertical ground reaction force were collected during the exercise using an underwater force plate. Repeated measures two-way ANOVA was used (α = 0.05). Results: Peak vertical ground reaction force (p < .001) and impulse (p ≤ 0.002) resulted in lower values for the water-floating use (0.42-0.48 BW and 0.07-0.13 N.s/BW) in comparison to the water-resistance equipment use (0.46-0.60 BW and 0.09-0.16 N.s/BW) and to the non-use of equipment (0.45-0.60 BW and 0.07-0.17 N.s/BW), except for the impulse at the maximal cadence. In addition, peak vertical ground reaction force at 80 b·min-1 (p = .002) and impulse at the maximal cadence (p < .001) showed lower values compared to the other cadences. Conclusion: The use of water-floating equipment minimizes the vertical ground reaction force during the stationary running water-based exercise performed by elderly women regardless of the cadence.

Water-based exercises in pregnancy: Apparent weight in immersion and ground reaction force at third trimester.

BACKGROUND: The morphological alterations during pregnancy may affect the biomechanical loads during exercise practice. Aquatic exercises may suit pregnant women, who are recommended to exercise with low vertical ground reaction force loads. Therefore, the study aimed to determine the apparent weight reduction during immersion and the vertical ground reaction force of three specific water-based exercises in pregnant women at the third trimester. METHODS: Eleven pregnant women volunteered to take part in the study [32.0 (SD 1.3) weeks, 28.1 (SD 5.7) years, 72.5 (SD 10.1) kg]. The protocol started with the participants immersed to the xiphoid process depth for the apparent weight assessment. Then, three water-based exercises (stationary running, frontal kick and butt kick) were randomly performed at a pre-selected cadence, with 5-min interval. The vertical ground reaction force was measured in each exercise and peak, impulse, contact time and swing time were determined. Repeated measures ANOVA was used (α = 0.05). FINDINGS: The apparent weight reduction resulted a mean of 82.9 (SD 6.5)% of body weight. Peak, impulse, contact time and swing time revealed no significant difference between exercises (P > 0.05). Values of peak of vertical ground reaction force ranged from 0.67 to 0.72 units of body weight. INTERPRETATION: Pregnant women at the third trimester can benefit from the apparent weight reduction during immersion for exercising. The three water-based exercises presented similar vertical ground reaction force values, which are considered as low odds for musculoskeletal injuries. Therefore, these findings highlight the safety of the water-based exercise program during pregnancy.

The "Hypertension Approaches in the Elderly: a Lifestyle study" multicenter, randomized trial (HAEL Study): rationale and methodological protocol.

BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a clinical condition highly prevalent in the elderly, imposing great risks to cardiovascular diseases and loss of quality of life. Current guidelines emphasize the importance of nonpharmacological strategies as a first-line approach to lower blood pressure. Exercise is an efficient lifestyle tool that can benefit a myriad of health-related outcomes, including blood pressure control, in older adults. We herein report the protocol of the HAEL Study, which aims to evaluate the efficacy of a pragmatic combined exercise training compared with a health education program on ambulatory blood pressure and other health-related outcomes in older individuals. METHODS: Randomized, single-blinded, multicenter, two-arm, parallel, superiority trial. A total of 184 subjects (92/center), ≥60 years of age, with no recent history of cardiovascular events, will be randomized on a 1:1 ratio to 12-week interventions consisting either of a combined exercise (aerobic and strength) training, three times per week, or an active-control group receiving health education intervention, once a week. Ambulatory (primary outcome) and office blood pressures, cardiorespiratory fitness and endothelial function, together with quality of life, functional fitness and autonomic control will be measured in before and after intervention. DISCUSSION: Our conceptual hypothesis is that combined training intervention will reduce ambulatory blood pressure in comparison with health education group. Using a superiority framework, analysis plan prespecifies an intention-to-treat approach, per protocol criteria, subgroups analysis, and handling of missing data. The trial is recruiting since September 2017. Finally, this study was designed to adhere to data sharing practices. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT03264443 . Registered on 29 August, 2017.

Neuromuscular adaptations to sixteen weeks of whole-body high-intensity interval training compared to ergometer-based interval and continuous training.

The neuromuscular adaptations between ergometer-based high-intensity interval training (HIIT-T; n = 15), whole-body high-intensity interval training (HIIT-WB; n = 12) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT; n = 14) were compared in forty-one healthy men randomized to 16 weeks of training (3x per week). Two-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed countermovement (CMJ) and squat (SJ) jump height (HIIT-T: 8.5 ± 13.3%; 3.1 ± 9.7%, HIIT-WB: 6.4 ± 9.8%, 10.4 ± 16.1% and MICT: 2.2 ± 9.5%; 4.4 ± 12.1%, respectively), SJ peak power (HIIT-T: 1.7 ± 3.9%; HIIT-WB : 6.4 ± 7.9%; MICT: 0.5 ± 6.5%) and CMJ rate of force development (HIIT-T: 58.1 ± 50.5%; HIIT-WB: 36.9 ± 54.2%; MICT: 38.4 ± 64.3%) improved similarly in all training groups (all p < 0.05). CMJ peak power increased only after HIIT-T (4.3 ± 5.5%) and HIIT-WB (4.5 ± 5.2%), while no differences were observed in both the rectus femoris and vastus lateralis maximal electromyographic amplitude. Finally, marked improvements were also observed in the number of repetitions in the HIIT-WB protocol at the eighth week, with no further improvement at the sixteenth week. These data suggest that 16 weeks of HIIT-WB is capable to improve neuromuscular function to a similar extent as HIIT-T and MICT.

Does Aerobic Exercise Impair Neuromuscular Function During Water-Based Resistance Exercises?

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the acute effects of water-based aerobic exercises on the performance of water-based resistance exercises by assessing kinematic parameters during protocols and neuromuscular responses after them. METHOD: Ten women performed 2 water-based protocols (i.e., resistance and concurrent water-based exercises) on separate days. We evaluated isometric force and electromyographic signal (sEMG) before and after protocols and analyzed kinematic parameters during a water-based resistance exercise. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between knee extension force production and sEMG from the vastus lateralis during the maximal voluntary contraction performed before and after the protocols. However, sEMG from the rectus femoris presented a significant difference between pretest and posttest measurements in both water-based protocols with greater values in the measurement after the end of the protocol (p = .046). The peak angular velocity of knee extension and mean angular velocity of knee extension and flexion showed similar values among the sets, with no difference between protocols. The peak angular velocity of knee flexion presented greater values in the water-based resistance exercises compared with the water-based concurrent protocol in the last set (p < .001). CONCLUSION: The main impairment induced by the water-based concurrent exercises was the lower peak angular velocity in the knee flexors compared with water-based resistance exercises alone.

Water-based aerobic and combined training in elderly women: Effects on functional capacity and quality of life.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of two water-based training programs (aerobic and combined) and a non-periodized physical activity program on functional capacity and quality of life (QoL) of elderly women. Forty-one elderly female volunteers (65 ±â€¯4 years) were divided into three groups: aerobic training group (WBA, n = 13), combined training (sequence: resistance/aerobic; WBC; n = 11) and a control group of non-periodized physical activity program (CG, n = 9). The participants performed the water-based trainings twice a week for 12 weeks. The resistance training sets were performed at maximal effort and the aerobic training was performed in the percentage of the heart rate corresponding to the anaerobic threshold (85-110%) determined in an aquatic progressive test. Assessments of QoL perception (WHOQOL-BREF) and functional tests 30-Second Chair Stand, 6-Minute Walk and 8-Foot Up-and-go were performed before and after training. The data were analyzed using Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE), and Bonferroni post-hoc test (α = 0.05). In CG, QoL perception in the physical domain decreased (12 ±â€¯10%) and there was no difference in the other domains. On the other hand, QoL perception was significantly increased in the water-based training groups after the training period in the physical (WBC: 13 ±â€¯16%), psychological (WBA: 9 ±â€¯16%; WBC: 10 ±â€¯11%), social relationships (WBA: 19 ±â€¯42%; WBC: 16 ±â€¯21%) and environmental (WBA: 10 ±â€¯17%; WBC: 16 ±â€¯28%) domains and overall QoL (WBA: 17 ±â€¯22%). No significant difference was observed in the physical domain for WBA and in the overall for WBC. Significant improvements were observed for all groups in the functional tests 30-Second Chair Stand (WBA: 32 ±â€¯11%; WBC: 24 ±â€¯14%; CG: 20 ±â€¯9), 6-Minute Walk (WBA: 10 ±â€¯7%; WBC: 7 ±â€¯6%; CG: 7 ±â€¯5%) and 8-Foot Up-and-go (WBA: 11 ±â€¯5%; WBC: 10 ±â€¯9%; CG: 10 ±â€¯6%). Based on the results observed in this study, it can be concluded that both water-based trainings (aerobic and combined) are effective in improving functional capacity and QoL perception of elderly women. Although non-periodized physical activities seem to be sufficient to positively modify the functional capacity of this population, they are not efficient in improving QoL perception.