Time Course of Recovery Following CrossFit® Karen Benchmark Workout in Trained Men.

The establishment of fatigue following the acute exercise stimulus is a complex and multi-factorial process, that might arise due to a range of distinct physiological mechanisms. However, a practical method of assessing CrossFit® athletes' recovery status has been neglected entirely in real-world sporting practice. The study describes the acute and delayed time course of recovery following the CrossFit® Benchmark Workout Karen. Eight trained men (28.4 ± 6.4 years; 1RM back squat 139.1 ± 26.0 kg) undertook the Karen protocol. The protocol consists of 150 Wall Balls (9 kg), aiming to hit a target 3 m high. Countermovement jump height (CMJ), creatine kinase (CK), and perceived recovery status scale (PRS) (general, lower and upper limbs) were assessed pre, post-0h, 24, 48 and 72 h after the session. The creatine kinase concentration 24 h after was higher than pre-exercise (338.4 U/L vs. 143.3 U/L; p = 0.040). At 48h and 72 h following exercise, CK concentration had returned to baseline levels (p > 0.05). The general, lower and upper limbs PRS scores were lower in the 24-h post-exercise compared to pre-exercise (general PRS: 4.7 ± 1.5 and 7.7 ± 1.7; p = 0.013; upper limbs PRS: 6.6 ± 1.3 and 7.5 ± 1.3; p = 0.037; lower limbs PRS: 3.9 ± 2.5 and 7.3 ± 0.1; p = 0.046). Our findings provide insights into the fatigue profile and recovery in acute CrossFit® and can be useful to coaches and practitioners when planning training programs. Moreover, recovery status can be useful to optimize training monitoring and to minimize the potential detrimental effects associated with the performance of repeated high-intensity sessions of CrossFit®.

Time-course effects of functional fitness sessions performed at different intensities on the metabolic, hormonal, and BDNF responses in trained men.

BACKGROUND: To investigate the time-course effects of a self-regulated training session (performed at an rating perceived exertion of 6/10), all-out session, and a control session on the metabolic, hormonal, and brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) responses in Functional-Fitness (FFT) participants. METHODS: In a randomized, crossover fashion, eight healthy males (age 28.1 ± 5.4 years old; body mass 77.2 ± 4.4 kg; VO2max: 52.6 ± 4.6 mL.(kg.min)-1; 2000 m rowing test 7.35 ± 0.18 min; 1RM back squat 135.6 ± 21.9 kg) performed a FFT session under two different conditions: all-out, or with the intensity controlled to elicit an rating perceived exertion (RPE) of 6 in the Borg 10-point scale (RPE6). A control session (no exercise) was also completed. Metabolic (lactate and creatine kinase), hormonal (testosterone and cortisol), and BDNF responses were assessed pre, post-0 h, 1 h, 2 h and 24 h after the sessions. RESULTS: Creatine kinase concentrations were significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) after 24 h for both training sessions. Total and free testosterone concentrations were lower post-2 h for all-out when compared to the RPE6 session (p ≤ 0.05). Serum cortisol concentration increased post-0 h (p = 0.011) for RPE6 and post-0 h (p = 0.003) and post-1 h (p = 0.030) for all-out session when comparing to baseline concentrations. BDNF was significantly higher (p = 0.002) post-0 h only for the all-out session when compared to baseline. A positive correlation between blood lactate concentrations and BDNF (r = 0.51; p = 0.01) was found for both effort interventions. CONCLUSIONS: A single FFT session when performed in all-out format acutely increases the concentrations of serum BDNF. However, physiological stress markers show that the all-out session requires a longer recovery period when compared to the RPE6 protocol. These findings can be helpful to coaches and practitioners design FFT session.

Incremental and decremental cardiopulmonary exercise testing protocols produce similar maximum oxygen uptake in athletes.

The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the maximal oxygen uptake ([Formula: see text]O2max) achieved during incremental and decremental protocols in highly trained athletes. Nineteen moderate trained runners and rowers completed, on separate days, (i) an initial incremental [Formula: see text]O2max test (INC) on a treadmill, followed by a verification phase (VER); (ii) a familiarization of a decremental test (DEC); (iii) a tailored DEC; (iv) a test with decremental and incremental phases (DEC-INC); (v) and a repeated incremental test (INCF). During each test [Formula: see text]O2, carbon dioxide production, ventilation, heart and breath rates and ratings of perceived exertion were measured. No differences were observed in [Formula: see text]O2max between INC (61.3 ± 5.2 ml kg-1 min-1) and DEC (61.1 ± 5.1 ml kg-1 min-1; average difference of ~ 11.58 ml min-1; p = 0.831), between INC and DEC-INC (60.9 ± 5.3 ml kg-1 min-1; average difference of ~ 4.8 ml min-1; p = 0.942) or between INC and INCF (60.7 ± 4.4 ml kg-1 min-1; p = 0.394). [Formula: see text]O2max during VER (59.8 ± 5.1 ml kg-1 min-1) was 1.50 ± 2.20 ml kg-1 min-1 lower (~ 2.45%; p = 0.008) compared with values measured during INC. The typical error in the test-to-test changes for evaluating [Formula: see text]O2max over the five tests was 2.4 ml kg-1 min-1 (95% CI 1.4-3.4 ml kg-1 min-1). Decremental tests do not elicit higher [Formula: see text]O2max than incremental tests in trained runners and rowers, suggesting that a plateau in [Formula: see text]O2 during the classic incremental and verification tests represents the maximum ceiling of aerobic power.

Obese elderly with diabetes experience more pain and reduced quality of life compared to obese elderly with hypertension.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Growth of elderly population is a worldwide phenomenon that impacts public health. The objective of this study was to compare the pain levels, strength, and quality of life among elderly obese with diabetes or hypertension. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study cohort comprised 52 obese elderly subjects with hypertension (n = 35) and diabetes (n = 17). The parameters measured were anthropometric features, handgrip strength, visual analog scale for pain, and quality of life using the World Health Organization questionnaire. RESULTS: The level of pain reported by obese hypertensive elderly subjects (5.3 ± 3.4) was lower than reported by obese diabetic elderly subjects (7.4 ± 2.4). Obese hypertensive elderly scored higher on quality of life (sensory functioning and past, present, and future [PPF] activities) than obese diabetic elderly. No differences were observed for the other parameters. Strength, pain, anthropometrics, and hemodynamics were not correlated to quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: Obese elderly diabetics exhibit worse pain scores, sensorial abilities, and PPF activities than obese hypertensive elderly individuals. RELEVANCE FOR PATIENTS: The difference in pain and quality of life aspects between obese elderly individuals with hypertension and diabetes should be accounted for in health-care programs designed for these individuals.

Session Rating of Perceived Exertion Is a Superior Method to Monitor Internal Training Loads of Functional Fitness Training Sessions Performed at Different Intensities When Compared to Training Impulse.

Despite its increase in popularity, little is known about how to best quantify internal training loads from functional fitness training (FFT) sessions. The purpose of this study was to assess which method [training impulse (TRIMP) or session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE)] is more accurate to monitor training loads in FFT. Eight trained males (age 28.1 ± 6.0 years) performed an ALL-OUT FFT session and an intensity-controlled session (RPE of six out of 10). Internal load was determined via Edward's TRIMP (eTRIMP), Bannister's TRIMP (bTRIMP), and sRPE. Heart rate was measured continuously during the session, while blood lactate and rate of perceived exertion were measured at baseline, and immediately and 30 min after the sessions. ALL-OUT blood lactate and RPE were significantly higher immediately and 30 min after the session compared to the RPE6 condition. ALL-OUT training load was significantly different between conditions using bTRIMP (61.1 ± 10.6 vs. 55.7 ± 12.4 AU) and sRPE (91.7 ± 30.4 vs. 42.6 ± 14.9 AU), with sRPE being more sensitive to such differences [p = 0.045, effect size (ES) = 0.76 and p = 0.002, ES = 1.82, respectively]. No differences in the training loads of the different sessions were found using eTRIMP (93.1 ± 9.5 vs. 84.9 ± 13.7 AU, p = 0.085). Only sRPE showed a significant correlation with lactate 30 min post session (p = 0.015; p = 0.596, large). sRPE was more accurate than both TRIMP methods to represent the overall training load of the FFT sessions. While the use of sRPE is advised, further research is necessary to establish its ability to reflect changes in fitness, fatigue, and performance during a period of training.

Effects of Pre-exhaustion Versus Traditional Resistance Training on Training Volume, Maximal Strength, and Quadriceps Hypertrophy.

BACKGROUND: The pre-exhaustion (PreEx) method is used as a resistance training (RT) method to increase muscle mass, yet the chronic effects of this method are poorly understood. OBJECTIVE: Although readily prescribed as a RT method for promotion of muscle hypertrophy, few researches give light to gains made after chronic PreEx RT. Therefore, we compared the effects of traditional versus PreEx RT programs on muscle strength, body composition, and muscular hypertrophy in adult males. METHODS: Untrained subjects (age: 31.37 ± 6.83 years; height: 175.29 ± 5.52 cm; body mass: 82.04 ± 13.61 kg; 1RM leg press: 339.86 ± 61.17 kg; 1RM leg extension: 121.71 ± 11.93 kg) were submitted to 9 weeks of RT with weekly sessions. Traditional (TRT) group (n = 12) performed three sets at 45° of leg press exercise at 75% of 1RM, PreEx group (n = 12) completed a set to failure on a leg extension machine prior to the leg press, and the control (CON) group (n = 7) did not train. Maximum strength, muscle thickness, and body composition were analyzed. RESULTS: PreEx group increased in maximal strength on leg press (16 ± 8%) and leg extension (17 ± 11%), while the TRT group improved by 15 ± 9 and 11 ± 4%, respectively. The thickness of the quadriceps muscles increased for both intervention groups. Specifically, the post-training thickness of the vastus lateralis was significantly higher for PreEx (55%) compared to the CON group. The TRT group presented a greater loss of total and thigh fat mass when compared with the PreEx method. These results were found in the presence of a lower training load for the PreEx group. CONCLUSION: The PreEx training can decrease the total training volume while maintaining results in strength and hypertrophy when comparing to TRT. However, TRT may be optimal if the goal is to decrease fat mass.

Time-Course of Changes in Physiological, Psychological, and Performance Markers following a Functional-Fitness Competition.

Functional Fitness Training (FFT) programs are characterized by utilizing a high volume of training and using a variety of high intensity exercises. While FFT are growing in the number of practitioners and popularity, the relationship between physiological biomarkers and subjective scales in the specific context of FFT has not yet been evaluated in the literature. The purpose of the present study was to monitor the time-course response of cytokines (IL-10 and 1L-1ß), immune variables (C-reactive protein -CRP and immunoglobulin A-IgA), hormonal milieu (cortisol-C, total testosterone-TT, free testosterone-FT and testosterone/cortisol-T/C ratio), creatine kinase-CK, muscle performance (countermovement jump height) and perceived well-being (WB) following a functional fitness competition. Nine amateur male athletes (age 27.1 ± 4.1 years; training experience 2.2 ± 1.3 years) completed five workouts over three consecutive days of FFT-competition. All variables were measured before, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h following the last day of competition. The FFT-competition induced a decrease in IL10/IL1ß ratio approximately 5% after 24h, 21% after 48h and 31% after 72h. Delta T/C ratio remained unchanged during the post-competition period. IgA displayed a significant increase 24h and 72h post FFT-competition. The WB status score was higher 72h after the FFT-competition as compared with pre-competition. The present findings suggest that FFT-competition induces transient changes in some inflammatory and hormonal biomarkers, and perceived well-being seems to be efficient to detect changes in muscle performance.

Acute Effects of the New Method Sarcoplasma Stimulating Training Versus Traditional Resistance Training on Total Training Volume, Lactate and Muscle Thickness.

Background: Trained subjects have difficulty in achieving continued results following years of training, and the manipulation of training variables through advanced resistance training (RT) methods is widely recommended to break through plateaus. Objective: The purpose of the present study was to compare the acute effects of traditional RT (TRT) versus two types of sarcoplasma stimulating training (SST) methods on total training volume (TTV), lactate, and muscle thickness (MT). Methods: Twelve trained males (20.75 ± 2.3 years; 1.76 ± 0.14 meters; body mass = 79.41 ± 4.6 kg; RT experience = 4.1 ± 1.8 years) completed three RT protocols in a randomly sequenced order: TRT, SST contraction type (SST-CT), or SST rest interval variable (SST-RIV) with 7 days between trials in arm curl (elbow flexors) and triceps pulley extension (elbow extensors) performed on the same day. Results: The SST groups displayed greater acute biceps and triceps brachii (TB) MT versus the TRT session, with no difference in lactate levels between them. The SST-CT resulted in greater biceps and TB MT versus the SST-RIV session. The TTV was greater for the TRT session versus the SST sessions, except in the case of the elbow flexors (no difference was observed between TRT and SST-CT), and higher for the SST-CT versus the SST-RIV. Conclusion: Trained subjects may benefit from using the SST method as this method may offer a superior MT stimulus and reduced training time, even with a lower TTV.

Are extreme conditioning programmes effective and safe? A narrative review of high-intensity functional training methods research paradigms and findings.

Extreme conditioning programmes (ECPs, eg, CrossFit, Insanity and Gym Jones) are a growing fitness regimen characterised by functional movements performed at high-intensity and with constantly varying movements. While the popularity and number of practitioners of ECPs are growing, a debate has been established between what is observed in the scientific literature and anecdotal reports from athletes, coaches and physicians about safety (incidence and prevalence of injuries and rhabdomyolysis) and benefits (physical and mental health). In this article, we review the prevalence and incidence of injuries, rhabdomyolysis, physiological responses and chronic adaptations to ECPs. The majority of the available evidence confirm that the estimated injury rate among athletes participating in ECPs is similar to that in weightlifting and most other recreational activities. Additionally, ECP sessions resulted in increased acute oxidative, metabolic and cardiovascular stress, and depending on the stimulus (intensity, duration and non-usual exercise) and training status of the practitioner, an ECP session may precipitate rhabdomyolysis. In the scientific literature, the current chronic effects of ECPs showed little or no effects on body composition and improvements in physical fitness and psychological parameters; however, further studies are important.

Comparison of the acute effects of traditional versus high velocity resistance training on metabolic, cardiovascular, and psychophysiological responses in elderly hypertensive women.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to compare the acute effects of traditional resistance training (RT) versus high velocity RT (HVRT) on metabolic, cardiovascular, and psychophysiological responses in elderly hypertensive women. METHODS: Fifteen elderly women (mean age ± standard deviation, 67.1±6.9 years) classified as having hypertension stage 1 or 2 were randomly allocated to complete traditional RT or HVRT; 1 week later, subjects allocated to RT completed the HVRT session and vice-versa. Heart rate, blood pressure, affective response, perceived effort, and blood samples analyzing lactate, nitrate, nitrite, oxidative damage (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances [TBARS]), and 6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic acid equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) collected before and after training sessions were assessed. Nutritional counseling was provided regarding nutrients that could affect cardiovascular and nitrate/nitrite analysis. RESULTS: Systolic blood pressure was not statistically different (p>0.05) between conditions at the beginning and during 30 minutes after sessions. Diastolic blood pressure, rate pressure product, and heart rate were not statistically different (p>0.05) between conditions at the beginning and during 45 minutes after sessions. Nitric oxide was significantly higher (p<0.0005) for HVRT compared to RT after 30 minutes of exercise. TBARS and TEAC were significantly higher (p<0.05) for HVRT compared with RT only immediately after exercise. There were no differences for psychophysiological variables between protocols. CONCLUSION: The acute cardiovascular and metabolic responses, including oxidative stress, are transient and within normal values. Taken together with the positive affective responses, both HVRT and RT with this intensity and volume seem to be safe for elderly hypertensive women under medication.

Validity of Session Rating Perceived Exertion Method for Quantifying Internal Training Load during High-Intensity Functional Training.

The aim of this study was to validate the quantification of internal training load (session rating perceived exertion, sRPE) and the effect of recall timing of sRPE during high-intensity functional training (HIFT) sessions. Thirteen male HIFT practitioners (age 27.2 ± 33 years, height 177.1 ± 4.0 cm, body mass 81.1 ± 9.0 kg) were monitored during two common HIFT training sessions: Fight Gone Bad (FGB) and Fran. The Edwards summated heart-rate-zone method was used as a reference measure of internal training load. The session-RPE rating was obtained using the CR-10 scale modified by Foster. The training load calculated by the Edwards-TRIMP index was significantly higher (p < 0.05) during the FGB (77.7 ± 4.9) than the Fran (19.8 ± 8.4) workout. There was a strong correlation (p < 0.05) between the Edwards-TRIMP index and the training load calculated by the sRPE in all time frames (0, 10, 20, and 30 min post-exercise). The RPE and sRPE measured at 30 min post-exercise time frame was significant lower than 0, 10, and 20 min post-exercise for both workouts. The session-RPE method is an easy and valid tool to evaluate internal training load for high intensity functional training practitioners.

Lactate, Heart Rate and Rating of Perceived Exertion Responses to Shorter and Longer Duration CrossFit® Training Sessions.

The aim of this study was to analyze blood lactate concentration (LAC), heart rate (HR), and rating perceived exertion (RPE) during and after shorter and longer duration CrossFit® sessions. Nine men (27.7 ± 3.2 years; 11.3 ± 4.6% body fat percentage and training experience: 41.1 ± 19.6 months) randomly performed two CrossFit® sessions (shorter: ~4 min and longer: 17 min) with a 7-day interval between them. The response of LAC and HR were measured pre, during, immediately after, and 10, 20, and 30 min after the sessions. RPE was measured pre and immediately after sessions. Lactate levels were higher during the recovery of the shorter session as compared with the longer session (shorter: 15.9 ± 2.2 mmol/L/min, longer: 12.6 ± 2.6 mmol/L/min; p = 0.019). There were no significant differences between protocols on HR during (shorter: 176 ± 6 bpm or 91 ± 4% HRmax, longer: 174 ± 3 bpm or 90 ± 3% HRmax, p = 0.387). The LAC was significantly higher throughout the recovery period for both training sessions as compared to pre-exercise. The RPE was increased immediately after both sessions as compared to pre-exercise, while there was no significant difference between them (shorter: 8.7 ± 0.9, longer: 9.6 ± 0.5; p = 0.360). These results demonstrated that both shorter and longer sessions induced elevated cardiovascular responses which met the recommendations for gains in cardiovascular fitness. In addition, both training sessions had a high metabolic and perceptual response, which may not be suitable if performed on consecutive days.

Efeito de dois ritmos de dança de salão na resposta da pressão arterial pós-exercício: uma comparação entre o samba e o bolero / Effect of two rhythms of ballroom dance on post exercise blood pressure response: a comparison between samba and bolero

A dança de salão pode representar uma alternativa de exercício físico para controle da pressão arterial (PA), tanto de forma crônica como aguda. O objetivo foi avaliar e comparar a resposta da PA após uma sessão de samba da gafieira e após uma sessão de bolero. Dezenove mulheres não hipertensas (21,9 ± 3,4 anos e IMC de 21,5 ± 2,5 kg/m2) praticantes da dança de salão avançada foram submetidas a duas sessões experimentais de dança de salão com dois ritmos, bolero e samba de gafieira, sendo avaliada a frequência cardíaca (FC) e a pressão arterial (PA) de repouso, durante as sessões (apenas FC) e a cada 10 min durante 60 min após as sessões. Durante as sessões, a FCmédia atingida no bolero foi 145 ± 15 bpm (78 ± 8 %FCmax) e no samba foi 178 ± 13 bpm (92 ± 6 %FCmax), representando intensidade moderada e vigorosa, respectivamente. No ritmo bolero, após 10 min do final da sessão, a pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) já apresentou valores semelhantes (p > 0,05) ao re-pouso (112,0 ± 12,9 mmHg), sendo mantidos até 60 min após a dança. No samba, a PAS entre os 30 a 60 min foi menor (p < 0,05) que em repouso (114,0 ± 13,0 mmHg), evidenciando hipotensão pós-exercício. Não foram observadas reduções da pressão arterial diastólica após as danças. O ritmo mais intenso, representado pelo samba, induziu hipotensão pós-exercício, o que não ocorreu com o ritmo bolero, que apresentou apenas uma diminuição do trabalho do miocárdio.

The ballroom dance could represent an alternative exercise to both acute and chronic control of blood pressure (BP). The objective was to evaluate and to compare the BP response after a single session of samba da gafieira and single session of bolero. Nineteen advanced ballroom dancers and normotensive women (21.9 ± 3.4 years and BMI of 21.5 ± 2.5 kg/m2) performed two experimental sessions of ballroom dancing with two rhythms, bolero and samba de gafieira. Heart rate (HR) and BP were measured before and every 10 min during 60 min following the experimental sessions. HR was also measured during the sessions. Mean HR was 145 ± 15 bpm (78 ± 8 %FCmax) and 178 ± 13 bpm (92 ± 6 %FCmax) for bolero and samba, respectively. This means that the intensity of bolero was moderate and samba was vigorous. After 10 min of bolero and at the end of the evaluation (60 min), systolic blood pressure (SBP) was not different (p > 0.05) from rest (112.0 ± 12.9 mmHg). SBP between the 30th and 60th min following the samba session was different (p < 0.05) from rest (114.0 ± 13.0 mmHg), showing post-exercise hypotension. Diastolic blood pressure did not present reduction following the experimental sessions. The most intense rhythm, representing by samba, elicited post-exercise hypotension, which did not occur with the bolero rhythm. Bolero only presented a decrease in myocardial work.

Extreme Conditioning Program Induced Acute Hypotensive Effects are Independent of the Exercise Session Intensity.

The aim of the study was to determine the acute systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure, rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and heart rate (HR) responses following two intense training sessions (24 hours apart). Nine male extreme conditioning program (ECP) practitioners with more than 6 months of experience (age 26.7 ± 6.6 years; body mass 78.8 ± 13.2 kg; body fat 13.5 ± 6.2 %) completed two experimental ECP sessions. Cardiovascular variables were measured before, immediately after and every 15 min during a 45 min recovery following each experimental session. Compared with pre-exercise data, our results showed a SBP decrease at 30 min post exercise session 1 (P≤0.05) and at 45 min following exercise session 2. DBP decreased (P≤0.05) at 15 min and 30 min following exercise session 1 and at 30 min after the exercise session 2, respectively. HR remained significantly higher (P≤0.05) 45 min following the first and second exercise session compared with pre-exercise values. Exercise session 1 induced a higher increase in HR (86 ± 11% of HRmax versus 82 ± 12% of HRmax, p = 0.01) and RPE (8.8 ± 1.2 versus 8.0 ± 1.2, p = 0.02) when compared to exercise session 2. In conclusion, post-exercise hypotension occurs following strenuous exercise sessions, regardless of the session design, which may have an important role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Endothelial nitric oxide synthase Glu298Asp gene polymorphism influences body composition and biochemical parameters but not the nitric oxide response to eccentric resistance exercise in elderly obese women.

Both endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene polymorphism and nitric oxide (NO) are involved in important cardiovascular, muscular and inflammatory physiological mechanisms during ageing and response to exercise. The aim of this study was to investigate the NO kinetic response following an acute eccentric resistance exercise (ERE) session and the possible effect of the Glu298Asp eNOS gene polymorphism in elderly obese women. Eighty-seven women (age 69·4 ± 6·1 years, body weight 74·9 ± 12·7 kg, height 151·9 ± 6·0 cm and BMI 32·5 ± 5·7 kg m-2 ) completed seven sets of ten eccentric repetitions at 110% of the ten repetitions maximum (10RM). NO concentrations remained elevated up to 48 h following the acute ERE session as compared with baseline, for GG and GT/TT groups (P<0·05), with no differences between genotypes. The GG genotype group had higher body weight, prevalence of obesity (BMI classification - 81% versus 56%), BMI and higher relative muscle strength, while they had significantly lower triglycerides, VLDL and urea concentrations as compared with TT/TG group. In conclusion, NO remains elevated for up to 48 h after an acute ERE session, without genotype interaction. The TT/TG genotype had a negative impact on triglycerides, VLDL and urea concentrations. Thus, T carriers should increase their attention to cardiovascular risk factor and metabolic disorders.

Understanding the responsiveness of nitric oxide to acute eccentric resistance exercise in elderly obese women.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: The aim of the present study was to examine nitrite concentration responses following eccentric resistance exercise (ERE) in elderly obese women. We also investigated the existence of high (HR) and low responders (LR) for nitrite and the possible differences with respect to creatine kinase (CK) response, metabolic and body composition variables. METHODS: Forty-nine elderly obese women completed an ERE session utilizing knee extensor exercise. LR for serum nitrite were defined as a ∆nitrite ≤ 20th percentile or 24.1 µmol/L and HR as a ∆nitrite > 20th percentile. RESULTS: Ten subjects were classified as LR and the remaining as HR (n = 39). The HR group displayed greater nitrite concentration at 0 h, 3 h, 24 h and 48 h following the ERE as compared with the LR (p < 0.05), and CK increased after 24 h and 48 h only for the HR group following the ERE (p < 0.05). Peak nitrite concentration was higher in the HR group versus the LR group (p < 0.05), while there was no difference between groups for pre-exercise nitrite values. The LR group displayed higher (p < 0.05) body fat, cholesterol, LDL and lower upper limb fat-free mass as compared with the HR group. The LR had lower (p < 0.05) upper limb fat-free mass than the HR group. CONCLUSIONS: Elderly obese women classified as HR displayed higher nitrite responses to ERE. Thus, researchers should be aware of the presence of different responsiveness of nitrite to acute exercise to avoid misinterpretation of data and to identify the higher cardiovascular risk factor of those classified as LR. RELEVANCE FOR PATIENTS: The elevated NO up to 48 h following an ERE session may suggest an important protective cardiovascular effect. The higher body fat, cholesterol, LDL and lower upper limb fat-free mass in the LR group might represent a deleterious effect of lower serum levels of nitrite.

Classification of pro-inflammatory status for interleukin-6 affects relative muscle strength in obese elderly women.

BACKGROUND: Obesity, defined by an excess amount of body fat or a percent body fat higher than 30 % for women is a complex chronic disorder with multifactorial etiology and is accompanied by chronic low-grade inflammation, which results in elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines. AIMS: The aim of this study was to compare muscle strength between high and low pro-inflammatory status in obese elderly women and to verify the relationship of IL-6 with muscle strength and fat-free mass. METHODS: Eighty-nine elderly women (age 69.47 ± 6.07 years; body mass 64.70 ± 12.04 kg; height 1.52 ± 0.06 m; body mass index 27.78 ± 4.75 kg/m(2)) were divided into two groups: high and low inflammatory status for IL-6. Lower limb muscle strength was tested using bilateral leg extension with the ten repetitions maximum test, IL-6 was measured by ELISA and body composition by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. RESULTS: Women classified from the high pro-inflammatory status presented lower relative muscle strength (P = 0.056) when compared with the low inflammatory status group, with no differences for absolute muscle strength (P = 0.18). There was a significant negative correlation of IL-6 with relative muscle strength (P = 0.03, R = -0.22) and a considerable trend toward significance (P = 0.06, R = -0.19) and negative association with fat-free mass (P = 0.84, R = -0.02). CONCLUSIONS: This study provides insights that a high pro-inflammatory status in sedentary obese elderly women might impair muscle strength and negatively affect fat-free mass. Thus, elderly women classified with high pro-inflammatory status for IL-6 should receive further health care attention to prevent this deleterious condition.

Comparison of percentage body fat and body mass index for the prediction of inflammatory and atherogenic lipid risk profiles in elderly women.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the clinical classification of the body mass index (BMI) and percentage body fat (PBF) for the prediction of inflammatory and atherogenic lipid profile risk in older women. METHOD: Cross-sectional analytical study with 277 elderly women from a local community in the Federal District, Brazil. PBF and fat-free mass (FFM) were determined by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. The investigated inflammatory parameters were interleukin 6 and C-reactive protein. RESULTS: Twenty-five percent of the elderly women were classified as normal weight, 50% overweight, and 25% obese by the BMI. The obese group had higher levels of triglycerides and very low-density lipoproteins than did the normal weight group (P≤0.05) and lower levels of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) than did the overweight group (P≤0.05). According to the PBF, 49% of the elderly women were classified as eutrophic, 28% overweight, and 23% obese. In the binomial logistic regression analyses including age, FFM, and lipid profile, only FFM (odds ratio [OR]=0.809, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.739-0.886; P<0.0005) proved to be a predictor of reaching the eutrophic state by the BMI. When the cutoff points of PBF were used for the classification, FFM (OR=0.903, CI=0.884-0.965; P=0.003) and the total cholesterol/HDL ratio (OR=0.113, CI=0.023-0.546; P=0.007) proved to be predictors of reaching the eutrophic state. CONCLUSION: Accurate identification of obesity, systemic inflammation, and atherogenic lipid profile is key to assessing the risk of cardiometabolic diseases. Classification based on dual energy X-ray absorptiometry measures, along with biochemical and inflammatory parameters, seems to have a great clinical importance, since it allows the lipid profile eutrophic distinction in elderly overweight women.

Enhancing of women functional status with metabolic syndrome by cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of combined aerobic and resistance training.

These data describe the effects of combined aerobic plus resistance training (CT) with regards to risk factors of metabolic syndrome (MetS), quality of life, functional capacity, and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in women with MetS. In this context, thirteen women (35.4 ± 6.2 yr) completed 10 weeks of CT consisting of three weekly sessions of ~60 min aerobic training (treadmill at 65-70% of reserve heart rate, 30 min) and resistance training (3 sets of 8-12 repetitions maximum for main muscle groups). Dependent variables were maximum chest press strength; isometric hand-grip strength; 30 s chair stand test; six minute walk test; body mass; body mass index; body adiposity index; waist circumference; systolic (SBP), diastolic and mean blood pressure (MBP); blood glucose; HDL-C; triglycerides; interleukins (IL) 6, 10 and 12, osteoprotegerin (OPG) and serum nitric oxide metabolite (NOx); quality of life (SF-36) and Z-Score of MetS. There was an improvement in muscle strength on chest press (p = 0.009), isometric hand-grip strength (p = 0.03) and 30 s chair stand (p = 0.007). There was a decrease in SBP (p = 0.049), MBP (p = 0.041), Z-Score of MetS (p = 0.046), OPG (0.42 ± 0.26 to 0.38 ± 0.19 ng/mL, p<0.05) and NOx (13.3 ± 2.3 µmol/L to 9.1 ± 2.3 µmol/L; p<0.0005). IL-10 displayed an increase (13.6 ± 7.5 to 17.2 ± 12.3 pg/mL, p < 0.05) after 10 weeks of training. Combined training also increased the perception of physical capacity (p = 0.011). This study endorses CT as an efficient tool to improve blood pressure, functional capacity, quality of life and reduce blood markers of inflammation, which has a clinical relevance in the prevention and treatment of MetS.

Identification of high responders for interleukin-6 and creatine kinase following acute eccentric resistance exercise in elderly obese women.

OBJECTIVES: Resistance exercise is used as a non-pharmacological tool to elicit both gains in and maintenance of physical function in the elderly. Thus, the present study examined the acute response of creatine kinase and interleukin-6 following an eccentric resistance exercise session in elderly obese women classified as high responders or normal responders. DESIGN: Cross-sectional field study. METHODS: Ninety elderly obese women (69.4 ± 6.01 years) were tested for a 10 repetition maximum on the leg extension exercise and then completed an acute eccentric resistance exercise session consisting of seven sets of 10 repetitions at 110% of 10 repetition maximum with a rest of 3 min between sets. Subjects were divided into normal response or high response on the basis of the peak serum interleukin-6 (NR = 59 and HR = 7) and creatine kinase (NR = 81 and HR = 9) concentration being greater than (HR) or less than (NR) the 90th percentile. RESULTS: Creatine kinase was higher at 0 h, 3h, 24h and 48 h following the ERE for the HR group. The peak creatine kinase was significantly higher in HR group versus the normal response group. The average increase in the serum interleukin-6 Δ for the HR group (∼ 850%) was significantly higher versus the normal response group (∼ 55%). Serum interleukin-6 was significantly higher at 0 h and 24h following eccentric resistance exercise only for the high response group, while peak levels were significantly higher in high response group versus the normal response group (p ≤ 0.005). Only one subject met the criteria to be classified as high response for both creatine kinase and interleukin-6 responsiveness. CONCLUSIONS: Elderly individuals classified as high response experienced greater creatine kinase and interleukin-6 responses to ERE. Thus, a prudent approach for eccentric resistance exercise prescription might be programming additional recovery days and/or lower intensity training, especially in the beginning stages of a program.