Endurance Performance Adaptations between SSG and HIIT in Soccer Players: A Meta-analysis.

The objective of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to compare the endurance performance chronic adaptations induced by running-based high-intensity interval training (HIIT), small-sided games (SSGs), and combined HIIT+SSGs in male and female youth and adult soccer players. The studies included in this review followed the PICOS criteria: (i) healthy soccer players; (ii) interventions based on SSGs; (iii) comparators exposed to only HIIT or combined SSGs+HIIT; (iv) endurance performance variables. Studies were searched for in the following databases: (i) PubMed; (ii) Scopus; (iii) SPORTDiscus; (iv) Web of Science. After conducting an initial database search that retrieved a total of 5,389 records, a thorough screening process resulted in the inclusion of 20 articles that met the eligibility criteria. Sixteen studies reported outcomes related to endurance performance measured through field-based tests, while five studies provided results from direct measurements of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). Results showed a non-significant small-magnitude favoring effect for the HIIT groups compared to the SSG groups (ES=0.37, p=0.074) for endurance, while a non-significant small-magnitude favoring SSGs was observed (ES=-0.20, p=0.303) for VO2max. Despite the very low certainty of evidence, the findings suggest similar effects induced by both SSG and HIIT on improving endurance performance and VO2max.

Effects of a horizontal speed deceleration training programme on measures of physical fitness in youth male handball players.

This study examined the effects of an 8-week horizontal speed deceleration training (HSDT) programme in combination with regular handball-specific training as compared with handball-specific training only in measures of physical fitness in male youth handball players. Thirty-nine players were randomly assigned to either an HSDT group (n = 18; 15.55 ± 0.24 years) or an active-control group (CG; n = 21; 14.59 ± 0.23 years). The results showed significant and large between-group differences at post-test in countermovement jump, change-of-direction speed, and repeated sprint ability (RSA) (all p < 0.01; d = 2.04 and 1.37, 1.39, 1.53, and 1.53 for the CMJ, 505 CoD, RSAbest, RSAaverage, and RSAtotal performances, respectively). The post-hoc-analysis demonstrated significant and large improvements in all measures of physical fitness in the HSDT group (∆2.49% to 16,25%; d = 1.01 to 1,70; all p < 0,01). The CG, however, failed to reach any significant difference in all measures of physical fitness ((∆0.31% to 1.98%; d = 0.15 to 0.22; p = 0.379; p > 0.05). To summarise, an 8-week in-season HSDT programme alongside regular handball-specific training yielded positive effects on various performance measures including jumping ability, CoD speed, and RSA, when compared to handball-specific training alone. These results highlight the potential benefits of integrating HSDT into the training regimen of youth handball athletes during the competitive season.

Differences in Approach and Avoidance Motivation Sensitivities Predicting Participation and Performance in Strength Sport.

ABSTRACT: Cusimano, K, Freeman, P, Moran, J, and Yamaguchi, M. Differences in approach and avoidance motivation sensitivities predicting participation and performance in strength sport. J Strength Cond Res 38(1): 180-184, 2024-Gray's Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory proposes that individual differences in behavior are due to the sensitivity to 2 brain systems: the behavioral inhibition system (BIS), which regulates aversive emotions to threatening stimuli, and the behavioral approach system (BAS), which regulates positive emotions toward rewarding or nonpunishing stimuli. The current study investigated whether BIS and BAS sensitivity predicts participation and performance in strength sports. A sample of 177 competitive strength athletes (male = 148; female = 29; mean age = 28.68; SD = 6.24 years) and 178 control participants (male = 89; female = 89; mean age = 29.39; SD = 7.42) completed the BIS/BAS scale, with strength athletes also providing their Wilks scores as a measure of sporting performance. Independent t tests showed significantly higher BIS (MD = 2.37, p = 0.003, 95% CI [0.79, 3.94], d = 0.31) and total BAS (MD = 11.71, p < 0.001, 95% CI [9.26, 14.15], d = 1.00) sensitivity in strength athletes than individuals in the control group. A 3-step hierarchical regression analysis revealed that the number of training years (ß = 0.506, p < 0 .001), BIS (ß = -203, p = 0.005) and BAS drive (ß = 0.188, p = 0.012) made significant unique contributions to predicting the Wilks score, with no significant contributions of age, sex, BAS fun seeking, and BAS reward responsiveness. The findings indicate that the overall reward sensitivity (total BAS score) and reward seeking (BAS drive) are associated positively with participation and performance in strength sports, respectively. Given the association of these brain systems to addiction and other psychiatric disorders, the findings could have implications in psychiatric treatment and sporting recruitment.

Evaluating the Effects of Consecutive Phases of Plyometric Jump Training on Athletic Performance in Male Soccer Players: The Effect of Training Frequency and Volume Manipulations.

ABSTRACT: Moran, J, Vali, N, Tallent, J, Howe, L, Clemente, FM, Chaabene, H, and Ramirez-Campillo, R. Evaluating the effects of consecutive phases of plyometric jump training on athletic performance in male soccer players: The effect of training frequency and volume manipulations. J Strength Cond Res 38(6): 1082-1089, 2024-This 14-week, 2-phase study aimed to determine the relative effects of 1 day or 2 days of volume-matched plyometric training on athletic performance (10- and 40-m sprints, change of direction [COD], and vertical jump [VJ]) in male soccer players (phase 1). The objective of phase 2 was to determine the relative effects of higher- and lower-volume plyometric training protocols in maintaining any previously attained increases in athletic performance from phase 1. A randomized parallel-group trial design was utilized. In phase 1, subjects ( n = 24; mean age: 19.5 ± 1.2 years; mean height: 179.7 ± 7.1 cm; mean weight: 69.8 ± 6.9 kg) were randomly allocated to 1 of 2 groups to receive either 1 day or 2 days of volume- and intensity-matched plyometric training for a 7-week period. For the second 7-week period (phase 2), half of each group was randomized into either a lower-volume or higher-volume plyometric training group. In phase 1, both the 1-day group and the 2-day group attained comparably significant ( p < 0.001) increases in performance in all fitness tests ranging from effect sizes (ESs) ( d ) of 0.4 (95% confidence interval: 0.11 to 0.70) for 10-m sprint to 1.51 (0.42-2.60) for VJ. There were no significant differences between the performance increases in the 2 groups. In phase 2, neither group increased or decreased performance, maintaining all previously attained increases with only trivial ESs observed (-0.02 [-0.58 to 0.53] to 0.11 [-0.38 to 0.61]). Increases in 10- and 40-m sprint speed, COD speed, and VJ height can be achieved and maintained with as little as 1 plyometric training session per week. Sessions can include 120 jumps to induce increases of the reported magnitudes, with 60 jumps to maintain these increases thereafter, in male soccer players.

Testing the peak running speed in analytical and contextual-based scenarios: Applied research in young adult soccer players.

The primary aim was to compare the peak running speed (PRS) attained in the 40-m linear sprint test, in an analytical-based soccer drill, in the 5-0-5 test, and a training match scenario. The secondary aim of the study was to evaluate the differences between the three assessment sessions and identify how the tests can vary from session to session. Additionally, we aimed to investigate the within-test variability to understand how consistent the performance is within each test format across the different sessions. Forty male under-19 players competing at the national level participated in this study. A training session was observed for each of the three study weeks in which the following tests/scenarios were monitored using a GPS. The 40-m linear sprint test and the analytical-based soccer drill presented the smallest within-subject coefficients of variation between the sessions. A large correlation (r = 0.742) was found between the PRS during the 40-m linear sprint test and the analytical-based soccer drill. The 40-m linear sprint test was the best method of those examined for measuring PRS. The analytical drill provides a reliable method for measuring PRS, although it differs from the 40-metre linear sprint test.

How effective are external cues and analogies in enhancing sprint and jump performance in academy soccer players?

This study investigated the effect of external (EC) and internal coaching cues (IC), analogies with a directional component (ADC) on sprint (20 m) and vertical jump performance in academy soccer players (n = 20). A repeated-measures analysis, with post-hoc comparisons, was used to identify any differences between these cues and a neutral (control) cue. Significant differences were found for both sprint (p < 0.001) and jump (p = 0.022) comparisons among cue types. In post-hoc analyses for the 20 m sprint, significant differences were observed between the EC and the IC, favouring the EC (p < 0.01, ES = 1.27 [CI: 0.24, 2.30]), and "away" ADC and the IC, favouring the "away" ADC (p < 0.01, ES = 1.21 [CI: 0.19, 2.22]). No other cues showed significant differences. For vertical jump, there was just one significant difference between comparisons, that being for the "away" ADC vs. the neutral cue, favouring the latter (p = 0.023, ES = 0.4 [CI: -0.04 to 0.84]). It appears that ECs and ADCs are most effective when coaching sprinting performance in academy soccer players. However, simply encouraging maximal effort from a youth athlete also appears to be a reasonable cueing strategy to drive performance in youth athletes.

Preseason Integrative Neuromuscular Training Improves Selected Measures of Physical Fitness in Highly Trained, Youth, Male Soccer Players.

ABSTRACT: Hammami, R, Negra, Y, Nebigh, A, Ramirez-Campillo, R, Moran, J, and Chaabene, H. Preseason integrative neuromuscular training improves selected measures of physical fitness in highly trained, youth, male soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 37(6): e384-e390, 2023-This study examined the effects of an 8-week integrative neuromuscular training (INT) program, including balance, strength, plyometric, and change of direction exercises, on measures of physical fitness in youth male soccer players. Twenty-four male soccer players participated in this study. They were randomly allocated into an INT (n = 12; age = 15.7 ± 0.6 years, body height = 179.75 ± 6.54 cm, body mass = 78.20 ± 7.44 kg, maturity-offset = +2.2 ± 0.6 years) or an active control (CG, n = 12; age = 15.4 ± 0.8 years, body height = 178.4 ± 6.4 cm, body mass = 72 ± 8.3 kg, maturity-offset = +1.9 ± 0.7 years) group. Before and after training, tests to measure dynamic balance (Y-Balance test [YBT]), muscle strength (one repetition maximum [1RM]), muscle power (five jump test [FJT], single-leg hop test [SLHT], and countermovement jump [CMJ] height), linear sprint time (10 and 30-m), and change of direction with ball (CoDball) were performed. The analysis of covariance was used to test between-group differences (INT vs. CG) at posttest using baseline values as covariates. Significant, large, between-group differences at posttest were noted for the YBT (p = 0.016; d = 1.1), 1RM (p = 0.011; d = 1.2), FJT (p = 0.027; d = 1.0), SLHT (p = 0.04; d = 1.4), CMJ height (p < 0.001; d = 1.9), 10-m sprint (p < 0.01; d = 1.6), and CoDball (p < 0.05; d = 0.9) in favor of the INT group. Significant moderate-to-large pre-to-post changes were detected in the INT group for YBT, 1RM, CMJ height, SLHT, FJT, 10-m and 30-m sprint time, and CoDball test (d = 0.7 to 3.07, p < 0.05). No significant pre-to-post changes were observed in the CG (p > 0.05), except for 10-m sprint time (d = 1.3; p < 0.05). Exposure to INT twice weekly is effective and time efficient to improve various measures of physical fitness in highly trained youth male soccer players.

Warm-up optimization in amateur male soccer players: A comparison of small-sided games and traditional warm-up routines on physical fitness qualities.

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of small-sided soccer games (SSSGs) and traditional warm-up (TWU) routines on physical fitness qualities in soccer players. Following a between-subject, randomized design, amateur-level soccer players were assigned to a SSSG warm-up (n = 10; age: 19.3 ± 2.8 years) or TWU group (n = 10; age: 19.3 ± 2.4 years). Players completed multiple trials of 10-m and 30-m linear sprints, change-of-direction speed (CODS) tests, and countermovement jumps (CMJ) prior to and following the warm-up routine. Separate mixed ANOVAs were performed to assess group effects (SSSG vs. TWU), time effects within each group (pre- vs. post-warm-up), and their interaction for each physical fitness quality. No significant interaction effects were observed for any dependent variable. Significant improvements were evident between baseline and follow-up measurements for 10-m sprint time (p = 0.002, Hedges' g effect size [g] = 0.59) and CMJ variables (height: p = 0.016, g = 0.20; power: p = 0.003, g = 0.19; force: p = 0.002, g = 0.14) in the TWU group and for CODS performance time (p = 0.012, g = 0.51) and CMJ variables (height: p < 0.001, g = 0.46; power: p = 0.002, g = 0.35; force: p = 0.001, g = 0.27) in the SSSG warm-up group. Both SSSG and TWU protocols improved selected physical fitness qualities with SSSG more effective at improving CODS and CMJ performance, and TWU more effective at improving linear speed. Soccer coaches may choose between SSSG or traditional warm-up activities according to player needs and preferences; however, the superior effects of SSSG suggest it might offer greater benefits than TWU in preparing players for optimal physical output.

Arbitrary absolute vs. individualized running speed thresholds in team sports: A scoping review with evidence gap map.

The aims of this scoping review were (i) to characterize the main methodological approaches to assessing individualized running speed thresholds in team sports players; (ii) to assess the use of traditional arbitrary (absolute) thresholds compared to individualized running speed thresholds in team sports players; (iii) to provide an evidence gap map (EGM) about the approaches and study designs employed in investigations in team sports and (iv) to provide directions for future research and practical applications for the strength and conditioning field. Methods studies were searched for in the following databases: (i) PubMed; (ii) Scopus; (iii) SPORTDiscus and (iv) Web of Science. The search was conducted on 15/07/2022. Risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Nonrandomized Studies (RoBANS). From 3,195 potentially relevant articles, 36 were eligible for inclusion in this review. Of the 36 included articles, 27 (75%) focused on the use of arbitrary and individualized running speed thresholds to describe the locomotor demands (e.g., high intensity running) of players. Thirty-four articles used individualized speed running thresholds based on physical fitness assessments (e.g., 40-m linear sprint) or physical performance (e.g., maximal acceleration). This scoping review supported the need for a greater focus to be placed on improving the methodological aspects of using individualized speed running thresholds in team sports. More than just creating alternatives to arbitrary thresholds, it is essential to increase the replicability of methodological conditions whilst ensuring that research comparing the most adequate measures and approaches to individualization takes into consideration the population and context of each study.

Managing thromboembolic risk in patients with hereditary and acquired thrombophilias.

While we are now able to diagnose inherited thrombophilias in a substantial number of patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE), the initial hope that their presence would inform recurrence risk and thus decisions on anticoagulation duration has largely been disappointing. Indeed, the presence or absence of transient provoking risk factors has proven to be the most important determinant of VTE recurrence risk. Thus, particular attention to transient acquired risk factors for VTE remains paramount, as they have generally been shown to carry more prognostic weight than inherited thrombophilias. The presence of other acquired risk factors may require additional management considerations, whether pertaining to anticoagulant choice, as in antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, or to addressing a new predisposing medical condition, as in malignancy. Antithrombin deficiency or the presence of ≥1 thrombophilic defect may be exceptions that can have a role in prognostication; however, as illustrated in this review through several case vignettes, interpretation and clinical application of the results of inherited thrombophilia testing is nuanced. We have chosen to focus on cases in which patients have been identified as having thrombophilic defects rather than the indications for undertaking testing in the first place or the extent of investigation. Management decisions in such cases ultimately hinge on individualized consideration of the benefits and risks of anticoagulation along with patient preference rather than on an algorithmic pathway based on thrombophilia status.

Psychosocial barriers and facilitators for a successful return to work following injury within firefighters.

OBJECTIVE: The aim was to explore firefighter's experiences during their recovery from injury. Focused specifically on exploring perceived psychosocial barriers and facilitators firefighters faced during recovery and return to work. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were used to provide an in-depth understanding of the firefighter's experiences. The semi-structured interviews were informed by a topic guide. The topic guide focused on five main themes, (1) overall experience of returning to operational duties following an injury, (2) perceived barriers experienced during their return to work, (3) perceived facilitators experienced during their return to work, (4) confidence in participating in physical activity following injury and (5) where they felt areas of improvement could be made with the return to work process. Thematic analysis of the data collected was undertaken using The Framework Method. RESULTS: Two main themes were sought after transcription: barriers and facilitators. From these, nine subthemes were identified (1) communication, (2) confidence in physical activity participation, (3) modified duties, (4) physiotherapy, (5) return to operational duties, (6) support, (7) inconsistency, (8) use of station gyms, (9) detachment from the watch. CONCLUSIONS: Consideration should be made for the consistency of procedures followed during an individual's return to work following an injury. Further research is needed to understand if the themes identified in this study are the same for other fire services. Further research is also needed to understand how the findings may be best implemented within the fire service.

The effects of repeated backward running training on measures of physical fitness in youth male soccer players.

This study explored the effects of an 8-week repeated backward running training (RBRT) programme on measures of physical fitness in youth male soccer players. Youth male soccer players were randomly allocated into a RBRT group (n = 20; 13.95 ± 0.22y) or a control group (CG; n = 16; 14.86 ± 0.29y). The CG continued normal soccer training, while the RBRT group replaced some soccer drills with RBRT twice per week. Within-group analysis revealed that RBRT improved all performance variables (∆-9.99% to 14.50%; effect size [ES] = -1.79 to 1.29; p ≤ 0.001). Meanwhile, trivial-to-moderate detrimental effects on sprinting and change of direction (CoD) speed (∆1.55% to 10.40%; p ≤ 0.05) were noted in the CG. The number of individuals improving performance above the smallest worthwhile change ranged from 65-100% across all performance variables in the RBRT group, whereas<50% in the CG reached that threshold. The between-group analysis indicated that the RBRT group improved performance on all performance tasks more than the CG (ES = -2.23 to 1.10; p ≤ 0.05). These findings demonstrate that substituting part of a standard soccer training regimen with RBRT can enhance youth soccer players' sprinting, CoD, jumping, and RSA performance.

Effects of plyometric jump training versus power training using free weights on measures of physical fitness in youth male soccer players.

This study aimed to contrast the effects of power training (PT) and plyometric-jump-training (PJT) programmes on measures of physical fitness in prepubertal male soccer players. Thirty-three participants were randomly allocated to PT group (n = 11), PJT group (n = 11), and an active control group (CG; n = 11). Before and after 12 weeks of training, tests were performed for the assessment of sprint-speed , change-of-direction (CoD) speed, muscular strength , and aerobic-endurance (AE). Findings indicated significant group×time interaction effects for all sprint-speed intervals, CoD speed, AE, and strength (d = 0.20-0.32). Post-hoc analyses revealed significant, moderate-to-large improvements in all sprint-speed intervals, CoD speed, AE, and muscle strength following PT (ES = 0.71 to 1.38). The PJT induced significant, moderate-to-large enhancements in 10 m, 20 m, and 30 m sprint, CoD speed, and AE (ES = 0.51 to 0.96) with no significant changes for 5 m sprint-speed and muscle strength (ES = 0.71 and 0.16, respectively). No significant pre-post changes were observed for the CG . Overall, PT and PJT are effective means to improve various measures of physical fitness in prepubertal male soccer players. Notably, to additionally improve acceleration and muscle strength, PT has an advantage over PJT.

A randomised controlled trial of 1- versus 2-day per week formats of Nordic hamstring training on explosive athletic tasks in prepubertal soccer players.

This randomised controlled trial examined the effect of volume-equated programmes of Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE) training, executed at frequencies of 1- or 2-days per week, on explosive athletic tasks (30 m sprint, 15 m manoeuvrability and standing long jump [SLJ]) in male youth soccer players (mean age: 10.3 ± 0.5 years). Players were divided into an experimental group (n = 31) which was further subdivided into 1-day (n = 16) and 2-days (n = 15) per week training conditions, and a control group (n = 14). There were significant group-by-time interactions for 30-m sprint (p < 0.001, d = 0.6), SLJ (p = 0.001, d = 1.27) and 15 m manoeuvrability (p < 0.001, d = 0.61). The experimental group demonstrated small to moderate effect sizes in 30-m sprint (d = 0.42, p = 0.077), SLJ (d = 0.97, p < 0.001) and 15 m manoeuvrability (d = 0.61, p < 0.001). The control group showed small significant performance decrements or no change in these variables. There were no significant differences between the 1-day and 2-day training groups. In two of the three tests (30 m sprint, SLJ) the 2-day group demonstrated larger effect sizes. The NHE enhances explosive athletic task performance in prepubertal youth soccer players and there may be only small advantages to spreading training over two days instead of one.

An eight-weeks resistance training programme with elastic band increases some performance-related parameters in pubertal male volleyball players.

The main aim was to evaluate the changes in dynamic, reactive, and power strength, and balance (as volleyball performance-related parameters) in pubertal volleyball players when a part of their normal inseason training regimen was replaced by an elastic band training (EBT). 27 male elite volleyball players were randomly allocated to intervention (N = 14; 14.86 ± 0.52 years) or control group (N = 13; 14.74 ± 0.36 years). The intervention consisted of an 8-week EBT program focused on the training of the lower limb, with different volumes and intensities. Countermovement jump (CMJ) and standing long jump (SLJ) were used to assess the power strength, squat one repetition-maximum, and reactive strength index to assess dynamic and reactive strength, respectively. Also, the balance was assessed through different parameters of the foot centre of pressure (CoP) displacements obtained with a force platform. An ANOVA of repeated measurements and post-hoc tests evaluated differences between groups and between baseline and post-intervention. Dynamic and power (CMJ and SLJ) strength, and anteroposterior displacement of the CoP were improved after the intervention. The control group only improved the dynamic strength. No statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) were found in the rest of the variables. EBT improves jump performance and other volleyball performance-related parameters in adolescent male athletes and should be considered to complement regular volleyball in-season training.

Consensus on tasks to be included in a return to work assessment for a UK firefighter following an injury: an online Delphi study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim was to provide a consensus tasks needed to be included in a return to work assessment for operational firefighters. METHODS: A two round online Delphi study was conducted with twenty-four participants including firefighters, service fitness advisers and occupational health managers. A consensus was set at 70% agreement. In round one, participants completed an online survey relating to tasks to be included during a return to work assessment for firefighters following an injury. Round two was an online consensus meeting to discuss the tasks where consensus was not achieved. RESULTS: A consensus was reached for ten of the thirteen tasks, including the number of repetitions required when lifting a light portable pump and climbing a ladder. A consensus was reached for the total distance equipment which should be carried. This included carrying a ladder, a hose and a light portable pump. CONCLUSIONS: This study has provided a consensus for tasks to be included when assessing a firefighter for return to work. Further research is needed to understand how to use this assessment optimally.

Non-local acute stretching effects on strength performance in healthy young adults.

BACKGROUND: Static stretching (SS) can impair performance and increase range of motion of a non-exercised or non-stretched muscle, respectively. An underdeveloped research area is the effect of unilateral stretching on non-local force output. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this review was to describe the effects of unilateral SS on contralateral, non-stretched, muscle force and identify gaps in the literature. METHODS: A systematic literature search following preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analyses Protocols guidelines was performed according to prescribed inclusion and exclusion criteria. Weighted means and ranges highlighted the non-local force output response to unilateral stretching. The physiotherapy evidence database scale was used to assess study risk of bias and methodological quality. RESULTS: Unilateral stretching protocols from six studies involved 6.3 ± 2 repetitions of 36.3 ± 7.4 s with 19.3 ± 5.7 s recovery between stretches. The mean stretch-induced force deficits exhibited small magnitude effect sizes for both the stretched (-6.7 ± 7.1%, d = -0.35: 0.01 to -1.8) and contralateral, non-stretched, muscles (-4.0 ± 4.9%, d = , 0.22: 0.08 to 1.1). Control measures exhibited trivial deficits. CONCLUSION: The limited literature examining non-local effects of prolonged SS revealed that both the stretched and contralateral, non-stretched, limbs of young adults demonstrate small magnitude force deficits. However, the frequency of studies with these effects were similar with three measures demonstrating deficits, and four measures showing trivial changes. These results highlight the possible global (non-local) effects of prolonged SS. Further research should investigate effects of lower intensity stretching, upper versus lower body stretching, different age groups, incorporate full warm-ups, and identify predominant mechanisms among others.

Effects of jump training on physical fitness and athletic performance in endurance runners: A meta-analysis.

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the effects of jump training (JT) on measures of physical fitness and athletic performances in endurance runners. Controlled studies which involved healthy endurance runners, of any age and sex, were considered. A random-effects model was used to calculate effect sizes (ES; Hedge's g). Means and standard deviations of outcomes were converted to ES with alongside 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). Twenty-one moderate-to-high quality studies were included in the meta-analysis, and these included 511 participants. The main analyses revealed a significant moderate improvement in time-trial performance (i.e. distances between 2.0 and 5.0 km; ES = 0.88), without enhancements in maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), velocity at VO2max, velocity at submaximal lactate levels, heart rate at submaximal velocities, stride rate at submaximal velocities, stiffness, total body mass or maximal strength performance. However, significant small-to-moderate improvements were noted for jump performance, rate of force development, sprint performance, reactive strength, and running economy (ES = 0.36-0.73; p < 0.001 to 0.031; I2 = 0.0% to 49.3%). JT is effective in improving physical fitness and athletic performance in endurance runners. Improvements in time-trial performance after JT may be mediated through improvements in force generating capabilities and running economy.

High-Speed Bodyweight Resistance Training Improves Functional Performance Through Maximal Velocity in Older Females.

The authors compared the effects of bodyweight resistance training at moderate- or high-speed conditions on muscle power, velocity of movement, and functional performance in older females. In a randomized, single-blinded noncontrolled trial, participants completed 12 weeks (three sessions/week) of bodyweight resistance training at high (n = 14; age = 70.6 ± 4.3 years) or moderate (n = 12; age = 72.8 ± 4.2 years) speeds. Data were analyzed with an analysis of variance (Group × Time) with α level set at <.05. After the intervention, timed up and go test performance (p < .05) and the rising from a chair test mean (22.4%) and maximal velocity (28.5%), mean (24.4%) and maximal power (27.7%), normalized mean (25.1%), and normalized maximal power (28.5%) increased in the high-speed group (p < .05). However, the moderate-speed group achieved no improvements (Δ6.7-14.4%; p > .2). The authors conclude that high-speed bodyweight resistance training is an effective and economically practical strategy to improve the functional capacity of older women relevant to daily life activities.

Aging and Recovery After Resistance-Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage: Current Evidence and Implications for Future Research.

Aging is anecdotally associated with a prolonged recovery from resistance training, though current literature remains equivocal. This brief review considers the effects of resistance training on indirect markers of muscle damage and recovery (i.e., muscle soreness, blood markers, and muscle strength) in older males. With no date restrictions, four databases were searched for articles relating to aging, muscle damage, and recovery. Data from 11 studies were extracted for review. Of these, four reported worse symptoms in older compared with younger populations, while two have observed the opposite, and the remaining studies (n = 6) proposed no differences between age groups. It appears that resistance training can be practiced in older populations without concern for impaired recovery. To improve current knowledge, researchers are urged to utilize more ecologically valid muscle-damaging bouts and investigate the mechanisms which underpin the recovery of muscle soreness and strength after exercise in older populations.