Applied Sciences

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12 pages, 1225 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatiotemporal Gait Parameters in Community-Dwelling Old-Old Koreans: Impact of Muscle Mass, Physical Performance, and Sarcopenia

by Youngyun Jin, Taewan Kim, Donghyun Kim, Young-Min Park and Jinkyung Cho

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 4379; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15084379 - 16 Apr 2025

Viewed by 245

Abstract

Muscle mass and physical function are key risk factors for sarcopenia, with emerging evidence suggesting links to gait variability in older adults. This study investigated the relationships between muscle mass decline, poor physical performance, sarcopenia, and spatiotemporal gait parameters in 242 Korean older [...] Read more.

Muscle mass and physical function are key risk factors for sarcopenia, with emerging evidence suggesting links to gait variability in older adults. This study investigated the relationships between muscle mass decline, poor physical performance, sarcopenia, and spatiotemporal gait parameters in 242 Korean older adults (mean age: 79.1 ± 4.2 years). Muscle mass (MM) was measured via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), physical performance (PP) via the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), and gait parameters (gait speed, stride length, double-limb stance) via the Optogait^® system. Stride length significantly influenced low MM, while double-limb stance was linked to increased risks of poor PP and sarcopenia. The area under the curve (AUC) for double-limb stance was 0.698 (95% CI: 0.633–0.763, p < 0.001) for poor PP and 0.647 (95% CI: 0.568–0.726, p = 0.001) for sarcopenia. A novel model combining gait speed and double-limb stance achieved an AUC of 0.702 (95% CI: 0.622–0.781, p < 0.001) with 78.9% sensitivity and 76.3% specificity. These findings highlight spatiotemporal gait analysis as a promising tool for early sarcopenia detection and management in older adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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14 pages, 9666 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Somatotype and Bioelectrical Impedance Vector Analysis in the Evaluation of Reference Characteristics of Elite Young Basketball Players

by Stefania Toselli, Luciana Zaccagni, Natascia Rinaldo and Mario Mauro

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 2894; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15062894 - 7 Mar 2025

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Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the morphological characteristics of a sample of young international elite basketball players to create new reference values, using both somatotype and Bioelectrical Impedance Vector Analysis (BIVA). Moreover, we analyze the influence of age and [...] Read more.

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the morphological characteristics of a sample of young international elite basketball players to create new reference values, using both somatotype and Bioelectrical Impedance Vector Analysis (BIVA). Moreover, we analyze the influence of age and maturation on anthropometric characteristics. Anthropometric measures (stature, body mass, body circumferences, skinfold thicknesses, and diameters) have been collected in a sample of 153 young basketball players of different age categories. From these measures, the endo-, ecto-, and mesomorph somatotypes components were calculated. In addition, impedance measurements were performed with a hand-to-foot bioimpedance analyser, and, subsequently, BIVA was carried out and biological maturity was estimated. A principal component analysis (PCA) has been assessed to reduce somatotype dimensionality. Almost all the collected variables differed between age groups. As regards the somatotype, the majority of the athletes were mesomorph–ectomorphal and the degree of homogeneity of the sample was high; the somatotype is aligned with that of the older athletes. Strong relationships were observed between mesomorphy, age, and bio-electric phase angle. Moreover, a tolerance ellipse graph was proposed as a reference for young elite athletes in basketball, and a new PCA-based method with one component was created to synthesize somatotype contents (eigenvalue = 2.42, R² = 0.807). Reference values for basketball players are needed by researchers, coaches, and practitioners for the process of talent identification and development. There are too many biological features to easily account for during growth, and field personnel need synthetic and more reliable approaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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44 pages, 872 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perceptions of a ‘Pelvic-Floor Friendly’ Group Exercise Class in Women with Urinary Incontinence

by Amanda J. M. Gard and David Lavallee

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 2705; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15052705 - 3 Mar 2025

Viewed by 866

Abstract

This mixed methods intervention study investigated perceptions of a tailored group exercise intervention designed to increase physical activity (PA) participation among women with urinary incontinence (UI). Recognising UI as a barrier to PA, the study aimed to minimise UI risk during exercise, enhance [...] Read more.

This mixed methods intervention study investigated perceptions of a tailored group exercise intervention designed to increase physical activity (PA) participation among women with urinary incontinence (UI). Recognising UI as a barrier to PA, the study aimed to minimise UI risk during exercise, enhance enjoyment, and foster social inclusion. The study included 15 participants, across intervention and control groups. Modifications included low-impact exercises, the presence of a pelvic health physiotherapist, and age-matched female instructors. Data from focus groups, surveys, and pre/post-intervention measures revealed that the intervention improved participants’ confidence, action planning, and perceptions of PA. Participants valued social opportunities and tailored modifications but noted the need for better advertising and instructor education. The findings suggest that such interventions can positively influence PA participation and reduce UI-related stigma. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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16 pages, 2658 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Moderate/High-Intensity Exercise and Coenzyme Q₁₀ Supplementation May Reduce Tumstatin and Improve the Lipid Dynamics and Body Mass in Rats

by Yavuz Yasul, Faruk Akçınar, Vedat Çınar, Taner Akbulut, İsa Aydemir, Mehmet Hanifi Yalçın, Emsal Çağla Avcu, Suna Aydın and Süleyman Aydın

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 2618; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15052618 - 28 Feb 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 740

Abstract

Coenzyme Q₁₀ (CoQ₁₀) is a molecule that serves as a coenzyme for mitochondrial enzymes, playing a fundamental role in mitochondrial bioenergetics as an electron and proton carrier in the energy production process. This study aimed to examine the modulatory effects [...] Read more.

Coenzyme Q₁₀ (CoQ₁₀) is a molecule that serves as a coenzyme for mitochondrial enzymes, playing a fundamental role in mitochondrial bioenergetics as an electron and proton carrier in the energy production process. This study aimed to examine the modulatory effects of moderate/high-intensity exercise and CoQ₁₀ supplementation on tumstatin, lipid dynamics, and body mass in rats. This study used 42 male Wistar Albino rats in six groups: a control group (C), a moderate-intensity continuous training group (MICT), a high-intensity continuous training group (HICT), a coenzyme Q₁₀ group (Q₁₀), a moderate-intensity continuous training combined with Q₁₀ group (MICTQ₁₀), and a high-intensity continuous training combined with Q₁₀ group (HICTQ₁₀) to assess the effects of exercise and 5 mg/kg/daily CoQ₁₀ supplementation. Rats underwent treadmill training, and tumstatin levels in plasma, cardiac, and skeletal muscle tissues were measured using ELISA and immunostaining techniques. In addition to the plasma, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) levels were analyzed using enzymatic methods, with the LDL-C calculated using the Friedewald equation. The atherogenic index of plasma was determined by the TG/HDL-C ratio. As compared to group C, body mass was significantly affected by both exercise intensity and supplementation (p = 0.01, η² = 0.37), with the MICTQ₁₀ and HICTQ₁₀ groups demonstrating the greatest reductions by day 50th (p = 0.0003, d = 4.02; p = 0.0001, d = 3.99). Lipid profiles varied significantly between groups. Compared to the C group, the MICTQ₁₀ group exhibited the most substantial decreases in LDL-C (p = 0.03, d = 2.35) and TG levels (p = 0.03, d = 2.25), while the HICTQ₁₀ group showed the most pronounced reduction in TC levels (p = 0.001, d = 6.41). Regarding tumstatin levels, skeletal muscle tumstatin levels were lowest in the HICTQ₁₀ group (p = 0.01, d = 2.11). Moreover, cardiac muscle tumstatin levels were significantly lower in the MICTQ₁₀, MICT, and HICTQ₁₀ groups compared to in the C group (p = 0.004, d = 1.01). These findings suggest that both exercise intensity and CoQ₁₀ supplementation exert notable physiological effects, particularly in modulating body mass, lipid metabolism, and tumstatin levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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13 pages, 3482 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Biofeedback in Dynamic Biomechanical Gait Training for Chronic Ankle Instability

by Byong Hun Kim, Tae Kyu Kang and Sae Yong Lee

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(4), 1688; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15041688 - 7 Feb 2025

Viewed by 919

Abstract

Gait analysis was performed in patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI). Despite advancements in rehabilitation techniques, the integration of gait-training strategies with concurrent feedback (visual and auditory) remains underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the dynamic biomechanical characteristics of CAI patients using a [...] Read more.

Gait analysis was performed in patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI). Despite advancements in rehabilitation techniques, the integration of gait-training strategies with concurrent feedback (visual and auditory) remains underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the dynamic biomechanical characteristics of CAI patients using a gait-training device following a 6-week intervention program. Thirty patients with CAI (Intervention Group; Sex: Male 8, Female 7, Age: 30.6 ± 4.08, Height: 170.49 ± 11.09 cm), (Control Group; Sex: Male 9, Female 6, Age: 30.49 ± 4.39, Height: 171.63 ± 9.90 cm) participated in this single-blind, randomized controlled trial. The intervention group completed six weeks of gait training using novel devices. Following the intervention, dorsiflexion angles increased significantly from 88.66 ± 5.47% to 92.60 ± 4.45% (p = 0.002) for the FAAM-ADL score, while FAAM-Sport scores improved from 80.79 ± 8.20% to 85.67 ± 6.41% (p = 0.000). Increased dorsiflexion and eversion angles were observed during the early to mid-late stance and late swing phases of gait for both walking and running. Joint moments demonstrated significant changes, with dorsiflexion, eversion, and abduction tendencies increasing throughout the gait cycle after the intervention. The newly developed inertial measurement unit (IMU) proved to be a viable gait-training device for CAI, highlighting that concurrent feedback may allow for greater improvements in deficiencies associated with CAI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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13 pages, 1010 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Low-Intensity High-Repetition Versus High-Intensity Low-Repetition Elastic Band Resistance Training on Functional Physical Fitness and Myokine Levels in Older Adults

by Moon Jin Lee, Jun-Young Sung and Jiyoun Kim

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(2), 757; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15020757 - 14 Jan 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1368

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of low-intensity high-repetition (LI-HR) and high-intensity low-repetition (HI-LR) resistance training (RT) on functional fitness and myokines in older adults. A total of 30 participants (mean age ~76 years) were randomized into control (n = 10), LI-HR (n = [...] Read more.

This study investigates the effects of low-intensity high-repetition (LI-HR) and high-intensity low-repetition (HI-LR) resistance training (RT) on functional fitness and myokines in older adults. A total of 30 participants (mean age ~76 years) were randomized into control (n = 10), LI-HR (n = 10), or HI-LR (n = 10) groups. Participants in LI-HR and HI-LR groups performed elastic band-based RT three times per week for 12 weeks. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included functional fitness (relative grip strength, sit-to-stand, 4 m walk, timed up-and-go (TUG)), ankle muscle strength, lower extremity power, and myokine levels (IL-6, IGF-1, SPARC, BDNF). Both experimental groups showed significant IL-6 reduction (LI-HR: p = 0.033; HI-LR: p = 0.015) and IGF-1 increase (LI-HR: p = 0.003; HI-LR: p < 0.001). SPARC increased significantly only in the HI-LR group (p = 0.021). Functional improvements were noted in TUG for both groups, while the 4 m walk improved significantly in the HI-LR group (p < 0.001). Body fat percentage increased in both LI-HR (p = 0.003) and HI-LR (p = 0.047). In conclusion, both LI-HR and HI-LR RT effectively enhance functional fitness and key myokines, with LI-HR emerging as a promising, accessible option for older adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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15 pages, 1042 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acute Effects of a Single-Bout Session of High-Intensity Functional Training and Moderate-Intensity Functional Training on Cognitive Functions, Anxiety, and Stress in Healthy Adults

by Francisco José Trujillo-Gutiérrez, José López-Aguilar, Francisco Álvarez-Salvago, Honorato Morente-Oria and José Daniel Jiménez-García

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 439; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010439 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 1462

Abstract

Background: Currently, it has been observed that a fast-paced lifestyle, along with factors such as work pressure and economic and political uncertainty, among others, negatively impacts cognitive functions and increases levels of anxiety and stress in the population. In this context, physical exercise [...] Read more.

Background: Currently, it has been observed that a fast-paced lifestyle, along with factors such as work pressure and economic and political uncertainty, among others, negatively impacts cognitive functions and increases levels of anxiety and stress in the population. In this context, physical exercise has been shown to be an effective means of alleviating these effects. The aim of this study is to analyze the acute effects of a single-bout session of high-intensity functional training (HIFT) and a single-bout session of moderate-intensity functional training (MIFT) on cognitive functions and psychological responses such as anxiety and stress. Methods: The study presents an experimental design with an analytical approach, involving 57 healthy adults in a 30 min functional exercise circuit. The HIFT group, with 28 participants, performed a high-intensity exercise circuit (>85% HR max). The MIFT group, with 29 participants, performed a moderate-intensity exercise circuit (70–80% HR max). To evaluate the dependent variables of executive function, attention, memory, anxiety, and stress, the Stroop Test, d2 Test, Word-Recall Test, STAI, and PSS were used, respectively. These tests were administered, in the order mentioned, immediately before and immediately after the training session. Results: Both groups (HIFT and MIFT) showed significant improvements in executive function, attention, and memory, as well as significant reductions in anxiety and stress after the intervention (all p values ranged between p < 0.001 and p < 0.04). However, the HIFT group demonstrated greater improvements in cognitive function and more pronounced reductions in anxiety and stress when compared to the MIFT group. Conclusions: Both HIFT and MIFT can improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety and stress, but high-intensity exercise appears to offer greater benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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9 pages, 623 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Resting Heart Rate and Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance in South Korean Adults

by An-Sik Heo and Jung-Chul Lee

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(16), 7096; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14167096 - 13 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1303

Abstract

Insulin resistance is closely associated with metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and the resting heart rate (RHR) is an important marker of the autonomic nervous system’s status. This study aimed to investigate the association between the RHR and [...] Read more.

Insulin resistance is closely associated with metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and the resting heart rate (RHR) is an important marker of the autonomic nervous system’s status. This study aimed to investigate the association between the RHR and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in Korean adults. Using data from the 2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES 2019), we analyzed 6118 adults and classified the participants into four groups based on their RHR (≤67, 68–71, 72–79, and ≥80 beats/min [bpm]). Logistic regression analysis considering demographic, lifestyle, and biochemical factors revealed that the odds of having a HOMA-IR of 2.5 or higher were significantly increased in the higher RHR groups. Specifically, compared to the ≤67 bpm group, the 68–71, 72–79, and ≥80 bpm groups had increased odds of 1.277, 1.599, and 1.919 times, respectively. These results are expected to contribute to the development of strategies for the early diagnosis and management of metabolic diseases through the RHR, and further research is needed to deepen the understanding of the physiological mechanisms of this relationship, including the management of the RHR through lifestyle modification and regular exercise and the effect of reducing insulin resistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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9 pages, 493 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Effects of Black Maca Supplementation on Isokinetic Muscle Function and Inflammation in Elite Athletes and Non-Athletes

by Eunjae Lee, Sunghwun Kang and Seung-Taek Lim

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(16), 7005; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14167005 - 9 Aug 2024

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Abstract

This study aimed to examine the effects of black maca supplementation on isokinetic muscle function and inflammatory markers in athletes and to extend these findings to non-athletes. The study involved 24 male participants, including 16 elite athletes (soft tennis and table tennis players) [...] Read more.

This study aimed to examine the effects of black maca supplementation on isokinetic muscle function and inflammatory markers in athletes and to extend these findings to non-athletes. The study involved 24 male participants, including 16 elite athletes (soft tennis and table tennis players) and 8 non-athletes (university students). Participants consumed capsules containing 2.5 g of 100% concentrated black maca extract over a 12-week period. Isokinetic muscle performance and physical fitness (strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, power, agility, cardiovascular endurance) assessments were conducted at baseline and after 12 weeks of supplementation. Two-way within-factor ANOVA showed a significant group × time interaction for 120°/s flexor movements (p < 0.05). Paired t-tests demonstrated significant improvements in 30°/s and 120°/s extensor and flexor movements in both athlete groups (p < 0.05, p < 0.01). Similarly, significant enhancements were observed in the non-athletes for the 30°/s flexor and 120°/s extensor and flexor movements (p < 0.01). Furthermore, reductions in interleukin-6 (from 137.9 ± 8.8 to 132.7 ± 4.6, p < 0.05) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (from 274.1 ± 13.4 to 264.2 ± 3.2, p < 0.05) were noted in the soft tennis group. The table tennis group also showed significant decreases in interleukin-6 (from 135.9 ± 4.7 to 131.3 ± 2.5, p < 0.01) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (from 282.1 ± 19.2 to 267.0 ± 6.4, p < 0.05). No significant changes were observed in the non-athlete group. Black maca supplementation may enhance isokinetic muscle function in elite athletes by reducing muscle contraction fatigue and improving anti-inflammatory responses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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9 pages, 214 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Designing and Conducting an Injury Study in Amateur Badminton Players

by Jin-Wook Jeon, Seung-Taek Lim and Ji-Hoon Cho

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 5194; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14125194 - 14 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1975

Abstract

This study aims to examine sports injuries among amateur badminton players engaged in recreational activities, establishing a foundation for developing effective injury prevention and training programs. We assessed 504 amateur badminton players (302 males, 202 females) competing in the 2023 National Badminton Tournament [...] Read more.

This study aims to examine sports injuries among amateur badminton players engaged in recreational activities, establishing a foundation for developing effective injury prevention and training programs. We assessed 504 amateur badminton players (302 males, 202 females) competing in the 2023 National Badminton Tournament in South Korea. This study focused on players involved in doubles matches, omitting singles competitors. Participants were divided into categories based on competitive and training sessions to document the location and type of injuries sustained. During competitions, the most frequently injured body parts were the waist (11.92%), ankle (11.66%), and knees and shoulders (11.53% each). In training sessions, injuries primarily affected the back and knees (12.43%) and shoulders (12.21%). The most common types of injuries during competitions were to muscles (35.60%), ligaments (29.32%), and tendons (12.04%), and during training to muscles (39.91%), ligaments (26.68%), and tendons (13.23%). Injuries resulting from player-to-player contact represented 19.44% of cases, while those involving non-player elements such as facility equipment accounted for 16.47%. There is a critical need to develop targeted injury prevention programs for amateur badminton players to mitigate injuries and enhance performance, thereby helping prevent the progression to chronic injury stages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)

11 pages, 466 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Arrangement Order Effects of Neuromuscular Training on the Physical Fitness of Youth Soccer Players

by Kwang-Jin Lee, Se-Young Seon and Keun-Ok An

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 4748; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114748 - 31 May 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1702

Abstract

Knowledge is limited regarding how neuromuscular training, conducted before and after soccer training, affects the fitness levels of youth soccer players. In this study, we aimed to analyze the effects of an eight-week neuromuscular training (NMT) program implemented before or after a soccer [...] Read more.

Knowledge is limited regarding how neuromuscular training, conducted before and after soccer training, affects the fitness levels of youth soccer players. In this study, we aimed to analyze the effects of an eight-week neuromuscular training (NMT) program implemented before or after a soccer session on physical fitness in youth soccer players. Thirty-two youth soccer players were categorized into two groups—namely, NMT before soccer-specific training (NBS; n = 15) and NMT after soccer-specific training (NAS; n = 17). NMT comprised integrated resistance, dynamic stability, core, and plyometric training three times weekly and was conducted for 8 weeks. Before and after the exercise intervention, the counter-movement jump (CMJ) and 10 and 20 m sprint were analyzed, and the results of the T-agility test, Illinois change of direction test (ICDT), and Y-balance test were assessed for all participants. In terms of the interaction between the effects of the time of observation and group, both groups showed improvement in the results of the 10 m sprint and T-agility and Y-balance tests. Regarding the difference in the time of observation, the NBS group showed positive improvements in the results of the CMJ, 10 and 20 m sprints, and T-agility test after the exercise intervention, and the NAS group showed positive improvements in the results of the CMJ, 10 m sprint, T-agility test, and ICDT after the exercise intervention. These findings suggest that neuromuscular training has the potential to improve the 10 m sprint ability and T-agility test results of youth soccer players, regardless of the training sequence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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Review

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12 pages, 10817 KiB

Open AccessReview

Importance of Electrolytes in Exercise Performance and Assessment Methodology After Heat Training: A Narrative Review

by Marcos S. Keefe, Courteney L. Benjamin, Douglas J. Casa and Yasuki Sekiguchi

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(22), 10103; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142210103 - 5 Nov 2024

Viewed by 4555

Abstract

Performing exercise in hot environmental conditions presents athletes with potential negative physiological and perceptual implications. Key constituents, such as fluid and electrolytes, are lost during sweating through the process of cooling the human body. The loss of electrolytes impairs exercise performance. Heat training [...] Read more.

Performing exercise in hot environmental conditions presents athletes with potential negative physiological and perceptual implications. Key constituents, such as fluid and electrolytes, are lost during sweating through the process of cooling the human body. The loss of electrolytes impairs exercise performance. Heat training is one strategy to combat sweat electrolyte loss, with decreased sweat electrolyte concentration being a main sudomotor adaptation. To measure sweat electrolyte concentration, two common assessment methods are typically utilized: whole-body washdown and regional sweat patch measurements. The effects of physiological adaptations and sweat electrolyte assessment methodology have been investigated; however, the importance of methodological differences between sweat electrolyte measurements following heat training has yet to be explored. This review explores the differences between sweat electrolyte measurement techniques following adaptations incurred with heat training. Future research directions are also provided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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Other

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13 pages, 1758 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Effect of Exercise Interventions on Sleep Quality and Weight Loss in Individuals with Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Control Trials

by Soonjo Ka, Yu Hyeon Choe, Young-Im Kim, Nahyun Kim, Minjae Seo, Youngju Choi and Jonghoon Park

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 467; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010467 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 4776

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of exercise interventions on sleep quality and weight loss through a systematic literature review and meta-analysis. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for publications up to December 2022. [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the effects of exercise interventions on sleep quality and weight loss through a systematic literature review and meta-analysis. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for publications up to December 2022. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the analysis. The Risk of Bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (ROB 2) tool, and disagreements were resolved by consensus. Data synthesis and meta-analysis were performed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Version 4 (CMA version 4) software, with outcomes expressed as pooled effect sizes, odds ratios (ORs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Seven RCTs encompassing 908 participants were analyzed. The meta-analysis indicated a significant improvement in sleep outcomes (OR = 3.93, 95% CI [2.04, 7.56], p < 0.001). The combined aerobic and resistance exercise regimen showed the most substantial effects on sleep quality. Additionally, four of the seven RCTs included in the weight loss analysis indicated a significant improvement in weight loss (OR = 2.58, 95% CI [1.79, 3.71], p < 0.001). Exercise interventions have a strong potential for improving sleep quality and weight loss in adults with obesity. Future studies should focus on developing optimized targeted strategies for sleep enhancement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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13 pages, 1495 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Rehabilitation and Return to Play of an Ice Hockey Athlete after Lateral Meniscus Repair: A Case Report

by Hyung Gyu Jeon, Jong Hyeon Lee, Tae Kyu Kang, Dong Wook Lee, Kyoung Uk Oh, Sae Yong Lee and Byong Hun Kim

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4084; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104084 - 11 May 2024

Viewed by 2272

Abstract

This report presents the case of an ice hockey player diagnosed with a tear in the anterior horn of the lateral meniscus at 19 years of age. In addition, we suggest a rehabilitation exercise program that enabled an early return to play for [...] Read more.

This report presents the case of an ice hockey player diagnosed with a tear in the anterior horn of the lateral meniscus at 19 years of age. In addition, we suggest a rehabilitation exercise program that enabled an early return to play for an ice hockey athlete in a university sports league. The patient underwent arthroscopic meniscal repair and was discharged one day after surgery. A three-stage rehabilitation program was developed, as follows: Phase I, the protective phase (reduce inflammation symptoms and restore range of motion to enable weight-bearing); Phase II, the restorative phase (improve the strength of the quadriceps muscle and recover cardiovascular endurance); Phase III, the return to full functional activity (familiarize the patient with sport-specific skills and recover a symmetric functional level on both sides). After completing the 10-week rehabilitation program, the patient returned to play and took part in games 71 and 84 days after surgery. The patient had no meniscus reinjury in the 10 years after surgery while playing in university and professional ice hockey leagues. The functional performance-focused rehabilitation program presented in this case report resulted in an early return to sport and good long-term outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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