Does rest interval between unilateral exercise protocols influences on contralateral neuromuscular responses in untrained individuals?

INTRODUCTION: Effects on strength performance and muscle activation in the contralateral limb have been observed after training with the ipsilateral limb (IL). Cross fatigue effects in the contralateral limb (CL) can occur at intervals of up to 48 h after a training session performed with the ipsilateral limb. The objective of this study was to verify the effect of a training session in the ipsilateral limb, on the strength and activation of the muscles in the contralateral limb also submitted to the training protocol. METHODS: 10 untrained men (mean ± SD: age = 23.7 ± 4.9 years) performed unilateral knee extension with both limbs in equated protocols, in two conditions with different intervals between limbs - 20 min and 24 h. RESULTS: There were no differences in the comparison of the force produced between the pre x post interventions with the CL limb, as well as in the activation of the quadriceps during its performance. These results were similar for the two different intervals between the protocols. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that when the CL member performs the protocol after the IL, the responses in the CL depend mainly on the requirement imposed on the protocol performed by this member, without influence of the training protocol performed previously with the IL member.

Can Anthocyanins Reduce Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness or Are We Barking Up the Wrong Tree?

Exercise-induced muscular overload can trigger delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). DOMS is related to the indiscriminate use of analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs without proper guidance, decreased physical exercise adherence and degenerating sports performance, increased risk of injury, and reduced muscle strength and function. Dietary anthocyanins have been extensively studied as potential natural treatments for DOMS, but the indication, dosage, and form of use remain highly variable. Therefore, this review aims to synergize and present evidence relating to the effect of anthocyanins on DOMS in clinical studies. Notably, the results of anthocyanin supplementation for DOMS were found to be inconclusive. The use of protocols with lower anthocyanin doses yielded better results than those with high-dose supplements, suggesting that anthocyanin-rich foods are more accessible as therapeutic tools, leading to the conclusion that these foods could be used to prevent and treat DOMS. However, consumption protocols for this purpose are not yet well established, and the answer is dependent on the methodological quality of future studies.

Effects of eight weeks of mat pilates training on selected hematological parameters and plasma volume variations in healthy active women.

AIM: To evaluate the effects of eight weeks of mat Pilates training on selected hematological parameters, i.e. white blood cell, neutrophils, monocyte, lymphocyte, hematocrit, hemoglobin as well as plasma volume variations in healthy, active women. METHODS: Twenty-eight women physical education students volunteered to participate in the present investigation. They were assigned to two groups: a Pilates training group (n = 14) that followed an 8-week Pilates training program, and a control group (n = 14). Blood samples were collected at rest at two separate occasions before and after Pilates training. RESULTS: The Pilates training group had higher values of plasma volume variations and lower values of white blood cell (19.4%), neutrophils (32%), hematocrit (4.3%) and hemoglobin (4.6%) compared to control group (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The results of the present study suggested that Pilates training could be an effective strategy for increasing plasma volume variations and boosting immune system in healthy active women.

Efeito do treinamento de força com diferentes velocidades de movimento sobre a capacidade funcional e qualidade de vida em idosos: uma revisão sistemática / Effect of resistance training with different movement speeds on functional capacity and quality of life in elderly: a systematic review

Uma das alternativas para manter o idoso ativo a fim de melhorar as capacidades funcionais e a qualidade de vida (QV) é o treinamento de força (TF). Porém, existem variáveis que devem ser consideradas na prescrição do TF como a velocidade de movimento. O objetivo do presente estudo foi realizar uma revisão sistemática para verificar o impacto de programas de TF realizados com diferentes velocidades de movimento na capacidade funcional e qualidade de vida em idosos saudáveis. Após seleção de artigos nas bases de dados Pubmed, Scopus e Web of Science foram encontrados 282 artigos, contudo, após a aplicação dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão foram considerados elegíveis 13 artigos para a revisão. Desses, 10 evidenciaram melhora na funcionalidade do grupo treinamento de força em alta velocidade (TFAV) ou resultado similar comparado ao treinamento tradicional (TT), dois encontraram resultados inalterados para ambos os grupos e um indicou que o grupo TT teve melhoras nos testes funcionais comparado ao TFAV. Quanto à QV, somente dois artigos avaliaram esta variável e foi observado resultado positivo utilizando o TFAV. Assim, foi observado que grande parte dos estudos sugere a realização do TFAV em detrimento do TT visando melhora ou manutenção da funcionalidade e QV. (AU)

One of the alternatives to keep the elderly active in order to improve functional capacities and quality of life (QL) is resistance training (RT). However, there are variables that should be considered in the prescription of RT as the speed of movement. The aim of the present study was to carry out a systematic review to verify the impact of RT programs carried out with different movement speeds on functional capacity and quality of life in healthy elderly people. After selecting articles in the Pubmed, Scopus and Web of Science databases, 282 articles were found, however, after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 13 articles were considered eligible for review. Of these, 10 showed improvement in the functionality of the high-speed resistance training group (HSRT) or similar result compared to traditional training (TT), two found results unchanged for both groups and one indicated that the TT group had improvements in functional tests compared to HSRT. As for QL, only two articles evaluated this variable and a positive result was observed using HSRT. Thus, it was observed that most studies suggest the performance of HSRT at the expense of TT in order to improve or maintain functionality and QL. (AU)

Estrutura, perfil dos frequentadores e padrão de utilização de Academias a Céu Aberto em Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais / Characteristics, the profile of users, and pattern of use of outdoors gyms in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever a estrutura, o perfil dos frequentadores e o padrão de utilização de Academias a Céu Aberto (ACA) localizadas em áreas de vulnerabilidade distintas de Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. Estudo com delineamento transversal e análises exploratórias, realizado em duas ACA no ano de 2016. Foram utilizadas três abordagens in loco para mensurar as variáveis de interesse: das estruturas das ACA (PA R A), entrevistas face-a-face com os usuários presentes e observação sistemática dos frequentadores (SOPARC). Os dados foram analisados com a estatística descritiva e testes de qui-quadrado e Fisher no software R (p < 0,05). ACA-médio risco apresentou melhores estruturas para exercícios, conforto para usuários e condições de limpeza, estética e segurança comparadas à ACA-baixo risco. Foram entrevistados 49 adultos (51,2% mulheres) e observados 294 frequentadores (59,9% homens). Entre os usuários entrevistados, a maioria tinha mais de 50 anos, apresentavam sobrepeso ou obesidade (65,2%). Ademais, 51,0% dos entrevistados realizavam 150 minutos ou mais de atividade física moderada ou vigorosa, sendo que 24,5% deles atingiram esse tempo utilizando apenas as ACA (p = 0,016). Por meio do SOPARC, foi observado proporcionalmente maior presença de adultos (62,0%), de frequentadores em atividades sedentárias (58,4%), seguido de exercícios nos aparelhos das ACA (34,7%), e em dias de semana (64,0%). Proporção significativa de frequentadores em atividades sedentárias foi observada na ACA-baixo risco (p < 0,001). Este estudo contribui para orientação de políticas públicas de promoção de atividade física nas ACA, reforçando a relevância dos aspectos do ambiente físico e social no planejamento, monitoramento e avaliação dessas intervenções

This study aimed to describe the characteristics, the profile of users, and the pattern of use of Outdoors Gym (ACA - Portuguese abbreviation) in different socioeconomic areas of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. A cross-sectional study was carried out in the two ACA in 2016. Three instruments were used to measure the variables of interest in loco: the characteristics of the ACA ( PARA), face to face interviews, and systematic observation of attendees (SOPARC). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square and Fisher tests in the R software (p < 0.05). ACA-medium risk showed better structures for exercises, comfort for users, and conditions of cleanliness, aesthetics, and safety compared to ACA-low risk. Forty-nine adults (51.2% women) were interviewed, and 294 participants were observed (59.9% men). Among the users in-terviewed, most were over 50 years old, were overweight or obese (65.2%). Furthermore, 51.0% of respond-ents performed 150 minutes or more of moderate or vigorous physical activity, and 24.5% of them reached this time using only the ACA (p = 0.016). Through SOPARC was observed a proportionally greater presence of adults (62.0%), who were in sedentary behaviors (58.4%), followed by ACA exercises (34.7%) and dur-ing weekdays (64.0%). A significant proportion of participants in sedentary activities was observed in the ACA-low risk (p < 0.001). This study may contribute to guiding physical activity promotion and reinforces the relevance of physical and social environments in the planning, monitoring, and evaluation of ACA

A realização de supersérie em uma sessão completa de treinamento impacta no volume e percepção subjetiva de esforço de praticantes de musculação / La realización de una superserie en una sesión completa de entrenamiento influye en el volumen y percepción subjetiva de esfuerzo de practicantes de musculación / Performing a superset in a complete training session impact on volume and rate of perceived exertion of resistance training practitioners

Objetivo: Comparar os protocolos tradicional e supersérie, com intervalo de recuperação equiparado, quanto ao volume total de treinamento (número de repetições x peso), número total de repetições por exercício e percepção subjetiva de esforço em uma sessão de treinamento.Método: Dezesseis homens treinados realizaram de forma randomizada os protocolos. No protocolo tradicional foram executadas três séries com intervalos de dois minutos entre séries e três minutos entre exercícios. No protocolo supersérie, 30 segundos após o término de cada série, o voluntário realizava o outro exercício. Depois de finalizado o segundo exercício da supersérie, o voluntário aguardava o término do intervalo (dois minutos) para reiniciar o primeiro exercício da supersérie.Resultados: Verificou-se maior volume total de treinamento no protocolo tradicional em comparação ao supersérie (p = 0.003). Adicionalmente, no protocolo tradicional os voluntários realizaram maior número de repetições (p < 0.05) em cinco dos oito exercícios. Com relação à percepção subjetiva de esforço, os participantes relataram maiores valores de esforço no protocolo supersérie quando comparado ao protocolo tradicional (p = 0.017).Conclusão: Foi observada redução no volume total de treinamento com a utilização do protocolo supersérie, comparado ao protocolo tradicional, em uma sessão de treinamento na musculação. Adicionalmente, houve uma maior percepção subjetiva de esforço dos sujeitos no protocolo supersérie. Sendo assim, a aplicação do protocolo tradicional torna-se uma alternativa eficiente quando o objetivo é priorizar o volume de treinamento. (AU)

Objetivo: Comparar el protocolo tradicional y el de superserie, con pausa equiparada, en cuanto al volumen total de entrenamiento (número de repeticiones x peso), número total de repeticiones por ejercicio y percepción subjetiva de esfuerzo, en una sesión de entrenamiento.Método: Dieciséis hombres entrenados realizaron de forma aleatorizada los protocolos. En el protocolo tradicional se realizaron tres series con intervalos de dos minutos entre las series y tres minutos entre los ejercicios. En el protocolo de superserie, 30 segundos después de finalizada cada serie, el voluntario realizaba el otro ejercicio. Después de finalizado el segundo ejercicio de la superserie, el voluntario aguardaba el final del intervalo (dos minutos) para reiniciar el primer ejercicio de la superserie.Resultados: Se verificó mayor volumen total de entrenamiento en el protocolo tradicional en comparación con el protocolo superserie (p = 0.003). Adicionalmente, en el protocolo tradicional, los voluntarios realizaron mayor número de repeticiones (p < 0.05) en cinco de los ocho ejercicios de la sesión de entrenamiento. En cuanto a la percepción subjetiva de esfuerzo los participantes reportaron mayores valores de esfuerzo en el protocolo superserie comparado con el protocolo tradicional (p = 0.017).Conclusión: Se observó reducción en el volumen total de entrenamiento con la utilización del protocolo superserie, comparado al protocolo tradicional, en una sesión completa de entrenamiento de musculación. Adicionalmente, hubo una mayor percepción subjetiva de esfuerzo de los sujetos en el protocolo superserie. Por lo tanto, la aplicación del protocolo tradicional se convierte en una alternativa eficiente cuando el objetivo es priorizar el volumen de entrenamiento. (AU)

Objective: To compare the traditional protocol and supersets, with equal rest interval, on volume load (number of repetitions x load), total number of repetitions per exercise, and rating of perceived exertion in a training session.Method: Sixteen resistance trained men randomly performed the protocols. In traditional protocol, three sets were performed with rest intervals of two minutes between sets and three minutes between exercises. In the superset protocol, 30 seconds after the end of each set, the subject performed the other exercise. After completing the second exercise of the superset, the volunteer waited for the end of the rest intervals (two minutes) to restart the first exercise of the superset.Results: There was a higher total training volume in traditional protocol compared to superset protocol (p = 0.003). Additionally, in traditional protocol, the volunteers performed a greater number of repetitions (p < 0.05) in five of the eight exercises of the training session. Regarding the median rating of perceived exertion of the training session, it was verified that the participants reported higher effort values in the superset protocol when compared to the traditional protocol (p = 0.017).Conclusion: A reduction in the total volume of training was observed with the use of the superset protocol alternated by body segment, compared to the traditional protocol, in a complete resistance training session. Additionally, there was a higher rating of perceived exertion of the subjects in the superset protocol. Thus, the application of the traditional protocol becomes an efficient alternative when the goal is to prioritize the training volume. (AU)

Resistance training intervention performed with different muscle action durations influences the maximal dynamic strength without promoting joint-angle specific strength gains.

The present study investigated the effect of 10-week matched (range of motion, volume, intensity, rest, and repetition duration) training protocols with varying muscle action duration (MAD) on maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) test at eight different knee angles and one-repetition maximum (1RM) test after in seated knee extensor machine. Forty women were allocated into one control and three training groups with varying MAD: 5C1E (5s concentric action [CON] and 1s eccentric action [ECC]), 3C3E (3s CON and 3s ECC), and 1C5E (1s CON and 5s ECC). All training groups (5C1E, 3C3E, and 1C5E) showed a greater relative response in 1RM performance than the control group (0.1 ± 3.5%, p ≤ 0.05). The 1C5E group presented greater relative increases in the 1RM performance (22.1 ± 11.6%) compared to 5C1E (13.6 ± 9.2%; p ≤ 0.05) and 3C3E (14.1 ± 5.5%, p ≤ 0.05) groups. The training groups increased the MVIC performance more than the control group (p ≤ 0.05), although there were no significant differences between the training groups. This study demonstrated that isoinertial resistance training protocols with shorter CON MAD showed greater maximum dynamic strength performance response than matched training protocols with other MAD configurations. However, the configuration of MAD did not induce angle-specificity to increase the maximum isometric strength.

Resistance training with different repetition duration to failure: effect on hypertrophy, strength and muscle activation.

BACKGROUND: This study investigated the effects of two 14-week resistance training protocols with different repetition duration (RD) performed to muscle failure (MF) on gains in strength and muscle hypertrophy as well as on normalized electromyographic (EMG) amplitude and force-angle relationships. METHODS: The left and right legs of ten untrained males were assigned to either one of the two protocols (2-s or 6-s RD) incorporating unilateral knee extension exercise. Both protocols were performed with 3-4 sets, 50-60% of the one-repetition maximum (1RM), and 3 min rest. Rectus femoris and vastus lateralis cross-sectional areas (CSA), maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) at 30o and 90o of knee flexion and 1RM performance were assessed before and after the training period. In addition, normalized EMG amplitude-angle and force-angle relationships were assessed in the 6th and 39th experimental sessions. RESULTS: The 6-s RD protocol induced larger gains in MVIC at 30o of knee angle measurement than the 2-s RD protocol. Increases in MVIC at 90o of knee angle, 1RM, rectus femoris and vastus lateralis CSA were not significant between the 2-s and 6-s RD protocols. Moreover, different normalized EMG amplitude-angle and force-angle values were detected between protocols over most of the angles analyzed. CONCLUSION: Performing longer RD could be a more appropriate strategy to provide greater gains in isometric maximal muscle strength at shortened knee positions. However, similar maximum dynamic strength and muscle hypertrophy gains would be provided by protocols with different RD.

Comparison of quadriceps muscle activation in exercises with different duration of concentric and eccentric contractions / Comparación de la activación muscular del cuádriceps en ejercicios con diferente duración de las contracciones concéntricas y excéntricas

AIM: The objective of the present study was to compare the amplitude of the electromyographic (EMG) signal of the quadriceps muscle portions vastus medialis (VM), vastus lateralis (VL) and rectus femoris (RF) and the activation ratio (VM/VL, VM/RF and VL/RF) in protocols with different durations of concentric and eccentric muscular actions. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Twelve female volunteers performed the knee extensor exercise with two different protocols [1s for concentric muscle action and 5s for eccentric muscle action (1:5); 5s of concentric muscle action and 1s of eccentric muscle action (5:1)] and 3 sets of 6 repetitions, 180s of pause between each sets and a intensity of 50% of 1RM. The root mean square of the amplitude of the normalized EMG signal was calculated for each repetition in each series. RESULTS: it was observed an increase in the activation of the VM and VL portions in equivalent repetitions of each series and for the VL portion, the 1: 5 protocol provided greater activation compared to the other protocol. No differences were found for muscles activation ratios VM/RF and VL/RF, being that for the VM/VL ratio there was only change at one repetition. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that the portions of the quadriceps muscle may present different EMG responses in similar protocols, but this fact may not interfere in the synergism between them. The reduced degrees of freedom of the knee extension exercise and the characteristics of the protocols adopted may be the elements that contributed to the limited alterations that occurred in the present study

OBJETIVO: El objetivo del presente estudio fue comparar la amplitud de la señal electromiográfica (EMG) de las porciones de músculo cuádriceps vasto medial (VM), vasto lateral (VL) y recto femoral (RF) y la relación de activación (VM/VL, VM/RF y VL/RF) en protocolos con diferentes duraciones de acciones musculares concéntricas y excéntricas. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: Doce mujeres voluntarias realizaron el ejercicio extensor de rodilla con dos protocolos diferentes [1 s para la acción muscular concéntrica y 5 s para la acción muscular excéntrica (1: 5); 5s de acción muscular concéntrica y 1s de acción muscular excéntrica (5: 1)] y 3 series de 6 repeticiones, 180s de pausa entre cada serie y una intensidad del 50% de 1RM. La raíz media cuadrática de la amplitud de la señal electromiográfica normalizada se calculó para cada repetición en cada serie. RESULTADOS: se observó un aumento en la EMG de las porciones de VM y VL en repeticiones equivalentes de cada serie y para la porción de VL, el protocolo 1: 5 proporcionó una mayor activación en comparación con el otro protocolo. No se encontraron diferencias para las relaciones de activación de los músculos VM/RF y VL/RF, siendo que para la relación VM/VL solo hubo cambios en una repetición. CONCLUSIÓN: Los resultados sugieren que las partes del músculo del cuádriceps pueden presentar diferentes respuestas de EMG en protocolos similares, pero este hecho puede no interferir en el sinergismo entre ellos. Los grados reducidos de libertad del ejercicio de extensión de la rodilla y las características de los protocolos adoptados pueden ser los elementos que contribuyeron a las alteraciones limitadas que se produjeron en el presente estudio

The Effects of Altering the Concentric/Eccentric Phase Times on EMG Response, Lactate Accumulation and Work Completed When Training to Failure.

This study compared the electromyographic response, the blood lactate concentration (BLC), and the maximum number of repetitions (MNR) between protocols of different concentric/eccentric duration taken to muscle failure. This comparison may help to understand how different concentric/eccentric duration may influence performance and the central and metabolic responses in trained men. Seventeen strength-trained men performed two protocols in a counterbalanced design. Three sets of the Smith bench press exercise were performed to failure at 60% of the one-repetition maximum (1RM) using each protocol (4-s concentric/2-s eccentric [4 s: 2 s]; and 2-s concentric/4-s eccentric [2 s: 4 s]). The normalized root mean square (EMGRMS) and the mean frequency (EMGMF) of the electromyographic signals for the pectoralis major and the triceps brachii were compared in the first, middle, and last repetitions. The BLC was assessed at rest, during and after the test sessions. To compare the EMG and BLC, a 3-way ANOVA with repeated measures with a post hoc Tukey's test was used. To compare the MNR performed across the sets, an ANOVA-type rank test with the Dunn's post hoc test was used. The ANOVA indicated a greater EMGRMS for Protocol 4 s: 2 s in the pectoralis major and a lower EMGMF for Protocol 4 s: 2 s in the triceps brachii at the middle and last repetitions. Both protocols increased the EMGRMS and decreased the EMGMF across repetitions. Despite the results show different levels of activation and neuromuscular fatigue between protocols, the BLC and the MNR were similar.

Ação "Lazer Mais Saúde": experiências em promoção da atividade física nas Academias a Céu Aberto em Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil / "Lazer Mais Saúde" action: experiences in promoting physical activity at outdoor gyms in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Este estudo objetivou desenvolver e apresentar o modelo lógico da ação Lazer Mais Saúde (LMS), associada à ação de instalação das Academias a Céu Aberto (ACA) em Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil. O modelo lógico foi baseado nas diretrizes do Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Foi realizado levantamento e análise de documentos e publicações oficiais produzidos entre 2009-2017. As primeiras ACA foram instaladas em 2010, totalizando 188 unidades em 2013 e 404 em 2017. O processo de instalação, manutenção, bem como, sensibilização e orientação de milhares de usuários das ACA foi conduzido. Em longo prazo, as ações vinculadas à ACA visam aumentar os níveis de atividade física de lazer na população-alvo e mitigar as desigualdades intra urbanas no acesso à atividade física. Este trabalho contribuiu para o registro sistemático das ações LMS e ACA em Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. O LMS foi aperfeiçoado continuamente, através de intervenções baseadas em evidências de gestão

This study aimed to develop the logical model of the "Lazer Mais Saúde" (LMS), related to outdoor gym implementation in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The logical model was based on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. A documental revision in official publications and reports produced between 2009 to 2017 was conducted. The outdoors gyms were installed in 2010, totaling 188 in 2013 and 404 in 2017. The installation, maintenance process, as well as raising awareness and guidance for thousands of users were accomplished. In the long term, outdoor gyms action aims to increase the levels of leisure-time physical activity to target groups and mitigate intra-urban inequalities in the access to physical activity facilities. This article contributed to the systematic register of LMS and outdoor gym actions in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. The LMS has been continuously improved through the use of evidence-based management interventions

Does the Airmax® internal nasal dilator increase peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) in adolescent athletes?

OBJECTIVES: Nasal dilators are being developed for the purpose of increasing air flow in the nasal valve. The aim of this study is to evaluate the use of the internal nasal dilator (IND) by adolescent athletes. METHODS: A double-blind, crossover clinical trial in which we evaluated 54 adolescents using experimental and placebo INDs, submitted to a cardio-respiratory test in randomized order. The predicted values for the peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) were obtained and the intensity of dyspnea was evaluated using the visual analog scale method after the race. RESULTS: In relation to PNIF (% predicted), when participants used the experimental IND, significantly higher means were found in comparison with the placebo (104.27±24.67L/min and 97.73±25.61L/min, respectively) (p=0.010). There were no significant differences observed in terms of heart rate (HR), pulse oximetry (SpO2) and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), before and after the cardio-respiratory test. There was also no significant difference (p>0.05) between the use of experimental and placebo INDs on dyspnea scale measurements after completion of the cardio-respiratory test. CONCLUSION: Results suggested that the Airmax® IND improves nasal patency, as measured by PNIF, in healthy adolescent athletes. There was no statistically significant difference in the values for heart rate and SpO2. There was also no difference between the conditions tested for the mean VO2max. Further studies should be conducted to evaluate the effect of IND in adolescent athletes with chronic diseases, such as asthma and allergic rhinitis, and also using other cardio-respiratory assessment methods.

Longer repetition duration increases muscle activation and blood lactate response in matched resistance training protocols

This study analyzed the effect of different repetition durations on electromyographic and blood lactate responses of the bench press exercise. Fifteen recreationally trained male volunteers completed two training protocols, matched for intensity (% one-repetition maximum; 1RM), number of sets, number of repetitions, and rest intervals. One of the protocols was performed with a repetition duration of 4 s (2 s concentric: 2 s eccentric; 2:2 protocol), whereas the second protocol had a repetition duration of 6 s (2 s concentric: 4 s eccentric; 2:4 protocol). The results showed higher normalized integrated electromyography (pectoralis major and triceps brachii) for the 2:4 protocol. Blood lactate concentration was also higher in the 2:4 protocol across all sets. These results show that adding 2 s to the eccentric action in matched training protocols increases muscle activation and blood lactate response, which reinforces the notion that increasing repetition duration is an alternative load progression in resistance training.

ANÁLISE DO PERFIL DA FLEXIBILIDADE DE CRIANÇAS E ADOLESCENTES MENSURADA POR MEIO DE DOIS TESTES / ANALYSIS OF THE FLEXIBILITY PROFILE OF CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS MEASURED BY TWO TESTS

RESUMOO objetivo do presente estudo foi mensurar a flexibilidade de crianças e adolescentes de ambos os sexos (7 aos 15 anos de idade), utilizando o teste de Sentar-e-Alcançar (TSA) e outro teste (Banco para a Avaliação da Flexibilidade - BAFLEX) que possibilite controlar as influências das características antropométricas individuais. Participaram do estudo 250 escolares do sexo masculino e feminino, agrupados em cinco faixas etárias: 7, 9, 11, 13, 15 anos. Quando testados pelo TSA, foi verificado um comportamento similar entre os sexos, destacando-se uma diminuição da flexibilidade até os 13 anos e estabilização aos 15 anos de idade. Em relação ao BAFLEX, não foi detectada redução do desempenho, mas sim um aumento da flexibilidade com o avanço da idade. Adicionalmente, as voluntárias apresentaram maiores níveis de flexibilidade que os indivíduos do sexo masculino na faixa etária de 13 anos. O comportamento da flexibilidade foi diferente entre os testes utilizados, reforçando a expectativa de que os resultados do TSA são influenciados por características antropométricas.

ABSTRACTThe aim of this study was to measure the flexibility of children and adolescents of both sexes (7 to 15 years old), using the Sit-and-Reach (SRT) and other test (Bench for Flexibility Assessment - BFA) that allows controlling the influences of individual anthropometric characteristics. The study included 250 male and female students, grouped into five age groups: 7, 9, 11, 13, and 15 years old. When tested by the SRT, there was similar pattern between the sexes, especially a reduction in the flexibility up to 13 years and then stabilizing the performance at 15 years old. With regard to BFA, this test did not detect a reduction in performance, but an increase in the flexibility with advancing age. Additionally, the female volunteers had higher levels of flexibility than males aged 13 years old. The flexibility behavior was different between the tests used, supporting the expectation that SRT results are influenced by anthropometric characteristics.

Comparação do desempenho no teste de uma repetição máxima utilizando dois diferentes protocolos / Comparison of performance in one repetition maximum test using two different protocols

O objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar o desempenho no teste de uma repetição máxima (1RM) utilizando dois diferentes protocolos no exercício supino livre. Dezessete voluntários do sexo masculino treinados na musculação realizaram dois protocolos para determinação do 1RM no exercício supino. No protocolo A o peso deveria ser deslocado durante uma repetição por tentativa até que ocorresse falha na tentativa seguinte. No protocolo B os indivíduos deveriam deslocar o peso por duas repetições em cada tentativa, e o maior peso que poderia ser deslocado até uma falha na ação muscular concêntrica na segunda repetição da tentativa foi considerado como representativo do 1RM. Verificou-se diferença significativa no desempenho entre os protocolos A e B. Esses resultados possibilitam concluir que os protocolos A e B aplicados no teste de 1RM no exercício supino não são intercambiáveis.

The purpose of this study was to compare the performance in one repetition maximum (1RM) testing using two different test protocols in a bench press exercise. A total of 17 weight-trained men performed two protocols to determine the 1RM bench press exercise. In protocol A, the weight should be lifted for one repetition per attempt until fail on the next attempt. In protocol B, subjects should lift the weight for two repetitions in each attempt and the heaviest weight that could be lifted until a concentric muscle action fail at the second repetition was considered as representative of 1RM. Each subject performed the two protocols and the testing order was randomly assigned and balanced between the subjects. Significant difference between protocols A and B was found. The results suggest that protocols A and B using by 1RM testing in bench press exercise were not interchangeable.

Relação entre o processo de ensino-aprendizagem-treinamento e o desenvolvimento do conhecimento tático no voleibol / Relationship between teaching-learning-training process and the development of tactical knowledge in volleyball

O objetivo desse estudo foi verificar em que medida o processo de ensino-aprendizagem-treinamento utilizado em uma equipe feminina de voleibol favoreceu o desenvolvimento do conhecimento tático declarativo das atletas. Doze jogadoras (idade média 13,9 ± 0,3 anos) pertencentes a um clube participaram da pesquisa. Para caracterizar o processo de ensino-aprendizagem-treinamento foram filmadas e posteriormente analisadas 17 sessões consecutivas de treinamento. Para verificar o desenvolvimento do conhecimento tático, utilizou-se o teste validado por PAULA (2001), sendo este aplicado no início e no final das sessões de treino registradas. Na análise das sessões de treino, as atividades relacionadas ao desenvolvimento da capacidade técnica ocuparam 57,5 por cento do tempo total de treinamento, enquanto que em 29,9 por cento do tempo foram desenvolvidas atividades com características de aperfeiçoamento tático. Para o conhecimento tático, não foi verificado aumento em nenhuma das variáveis medidas no teste. Esses resultados demonstraram que o treinador planificou suas sessões de forma a dedicar maior atenção ao componente técnico, sendo este contemplado especialmente através das atividades sem conexão com situações de jogo, como "fundamentos individuais" ou "combinação de fundamentos". A estrutura de treinamento utilizada parece não ter favorecido o aumento do nível de conhecimento tático declarativo no decorrer do período de treinamento avaliado.

The aim of this study was to verify the extent to which the teaching-learning-training process used in a female volleyball team promoted the development of the tactical knowledge. Twelve female players (13.9 ± 0.3 years) of a volleyball team participated in the study. To characterize the process of teaching-learning-training were video recorded and subsequently analyzed 17 consecutive sessions of technical-tactical training. The test validated by PAULA (2001) was used to verify the development of the declarative tactical knowledge and it was applied at the beginning and at the end of the registered training sessions. When analyzing the training sessions, activities related to the development of technical capacity occupied 57.5 percent of total time of training, while in 29.9 percent of total time was developed activities with tactical characteristics. There was no increase in any of the variables measured in the tactical knowledge test. The results demonstrated that the coach prepared training sessions dedicating more attention to the technical component, which is shown particularly through the activities without association with game situations, as "individual skills" and "skills combination". The training design used does not seem to have helped to increase the declarative tactical knowledge during the study period.

Validade de testes utilizados para medir a flexibilidade dos músculos posteriores da coxa em estudantes universitários / Validity of tests used to measure the flexibility of hamstring muscles in university students

Apesar do teste Sentar-e-Alcançar (TSA) ser frequentemente utilizado na mensuração da flexibilidade dos músculos posteriores da coxa (PC), este teste ainda apresenta validade questionável para esta finalidade. Os objetivos desse estudo foram: a) verificar o nível de correlação entre o desempenho no Banco para a Avaliação da Flexibilidade (BAFLEX) e o desempenho em um teste específico para a medida da flexibilidade dos músculos PC (Teste de Extensão de Joelho modificado – TEJ-mod); b) verificar se o nível de correlação das medidas no TSA modificado (TSA-mod) é aumentada quando correlacionado com uma medida de critério (TEJ-mod) realizada de forma ativa. Participaram deste estudo 26 voluntários (13 indivíduos de cada sexo) com idade média de 22,2 ± 3,4 anos. Os voluntários realizaram aleatoriamente a mensuração da flexibilidade utilizando diferentes testes (BAFLEX, TSA-mod, TEJ-mod). Os coeficientes de correlação de Pearson indicaram níveis de associação significativos e moderados (BAFLEX x TEJ-mod: r = 0,57; TSA-mod x TEJ-mod: r = 0,52; poder > 0,8 em todas as análises). Embora o BAFLEX objetive minimizar problemas presentes no TSA, como diferenças antropométricas entre os indivíduos e a participação de movimentos compensatórios, tal teste não resultou numa alta correlação com o TEJ-mod. Além disso, a realização ativa da medida da flexibilidade dos músculos PC também não permitiu alcançar níveis de correlação altos entre TSA-mod e TEJ-mod. Baseado na baixa variância comum entre BAFLEX e TEJ-mod (32,4%), bem como entre TSA e TEJ-mod (27,3%), conclui-se que os desempenhos nos testes TSA-mod e BAFLEX não são determinados suficientemente pela flexibilidade dos músculos PC.

Although the Sit-and-Reach Test (SRT) is often used to measure the flexibility of the hamstring muscles, this test still shows questionable validity for this purpose. The aims of this study were to (a) verify the level of correlation between performance on Bench for Flexibility Assessment (BFA) and performance on a specific test for the measurement of hamstring flexibility (modified Knee Extension Test – mKET), and (b) verify whether the level of correlation between performance on modified SRT (mSRT) is increased when correlated with a criterion measurement (mKET) executed actively. The study included 26 volunteers (13 males and 13 females) with an average age of 22,2 ± 3,4 years. The subjects were randomly tested for each of three assessments of hamstring flexibility (BFA, mSRT, mKET). The Pearson correlation coefficients indicated significant and moderate levels of association among tests (BAF x mKET: r = 0,57; mSRT x mKET: r = 0,52; power > 0,8 in all analyses). Although BFA aims to minimize problems found in the TSA, as anthropometric differences among the individuals and the participation of compensatory movements, the BFA did not provide a high correlation with the mKET. Furthermore, the active measurement of hamstring flexibility also failed to achieve high levels of correlation between mSRT and mKET. Based on the low common variance between BFA and mKET (32.4%), and between mSRT and mKET (27.3%), we concluded that performances on mSRT and BFA are not sufficiently determined by the flexibility of the hamstring muscles.