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Physical Activity, Exercise, and Health: Bridging Research and Clinical Practice

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A special issue of Journal of Clinical Medicine (ISSN 2077-0383). This special issue belongs to the section "Sports Medicine".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (28 February 2025) | Viewed by 10321

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Dr. Hannah Moir

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Health and Exercise Prescription, Department of Applied and Human Sciences, Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education, Kingston University London, Kingston Upon Thames, UK
Interests: physical activity; clinical disease management; exercise; exercise prescription; endurance; health; immune; metabolism; sex differences; sport; sports medicine

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The relationship between physical activity, exercise, and health has been extensively studied, demonstrating significant benefits across various domains of health and disease prevention. Evidence supports that regular physical activity improves cardiovascular health, enhances metabolic function, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases, e.g., diabetes and cancer. In recent decades, research has expanded to explore the role of exercise in clinical settings. This Special Issue aims to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice and explore the intersection of how physical activity, exercise, and health research can be applied to real-world clinical practice. By highlighting translational research, we seek to provide insights that can be directly applied to clinical interventions and public health strategies. In this Special Issue, we welcome authors to submit papers that showcase innovative research, including, but not limited to, advanced exercise prescription models tailored for specific clinical populations and interdisciplinary approaches combining exercise science with other medical fields, providing tangible benefits for both healthcare professionals and patients.

Dr. Hannah Moir
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Clinical Medicine is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

physical activity
exercise
health
disease prevention
clinical practice
exercise physiology
exercise prescription
rehabilitation
chronic diseases

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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10 pages, 1057 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Retrospective Analysis of Balance Parameters in Pregnant Women: A Sub-Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial

by Dilek Bayraktar, Seçkin Şenışık, Ayşe Kayalı Vatansever, Ömer Faruk Dadaş and Fuat Akercan

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(6), 1892; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14061892 - 11 Mar 2025

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Abstract

Objectives: Altered body biomechanics during pregnancy can lead to balance impairments and an increased risk of falls. Clinical exercise interventions can help regulate these biomechanical changes. Methods: A total of 101 pregnant participants (exercise group: n = 50; control group: n = 51) were retrospectively analyzed over an 8-week follow-up period. Single-leg balance parameters, including AP sway, ML sway, total body sway, OSD, and center of pressure velocity and acceleration, were assessed considering limb dominance. Measurements were taken at baseline and week 8. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used to analyze time–group interactions, with significance set at p < 0.001. The biomechanical impacts of participant height and body mass on center of pressure dynamics were also considered. Results: The exercise group (EG) demonstrated significant improvements in all balance parameters compared to the control group (CG) (p < 0.001), except for non-dominant anterior-posterior (AP) sway (p = 0.512). In the EG, medio-lateral (ML) and AP sway of the non-dominant limb were minimized, whereas these parameters were significantly increased in the CG. Although both groups exhibited an increased one-leg stance duration (OSD), the improvement was more pronounced in the EG. The controlled improvements observed in the EG suggest a protective effect of exercise on balance, particularly in the dominant limb. Conclusions: Clinical exercise interventions during pregnancy enhance balance parameters, reduce fall risk, and improve functional mobility. These findings suggest that structured exercise programs not only support maternal well-being but also improve reactive balance control. Given the biomechanical changes throughout pregnancy, future studies should examine the center of pressure velocity, acceleration, and the influence of maternal anthropometrics on postural stability to refine exercise recommendations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Exercise, and Health: Bridging Research and Clinical Practice)

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15 pages, 883 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of an 8-Month Multicomponent Training Program in Body Composition, Functional Fitness, and Sleep Quality in Aged People: A Randomized Controlled Trial

by Pedro Forte, Samuel G. Encarnação, Luís Branquinho, Tiago M. Barbosa, António M. Monteiro and Daniel Pecos-Martín

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(21), 6603; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13216603 - 3 Nov 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1806

Abstract

Background/Objectives: This study examined the effects of an intervention on anthropometrics, body composition, physical fitness, and sleep quality in aged individuals, comparing a control group (N = 11) and an experimental group (N = 13) across two measurement points. Methods: A multicomponent training program of 8 months was adopted as the intervention group. A bioimpedance balance, functional fitness test, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index measured body composition, functional fitness, and sleep quality. Results: Both groups showed minimal changes in body mass and hand grip strength. However, the experimental group experienced significant improvements in physical fitness, including a 26% increase in arm curl repetitions, an 18% reduction in 5 times sit-to-stand (5TSTS) completion time, and a 29% rise in 2-min step test (2MST) steps, indicating enhanced muscle endurance and cardiovascular fitness. Flexibility decreased significantly in the experimental group, while body fat percentage was reduced by 10%. Sleep quality improved by 47% in the experimental group but declined by 14% in the control group. Correlational analysis revealed that better sleep quality was linked to improved fitness performance and reduced body fat in the experimental group, with post-intervention results further confirming the connection between sleep and fat reduction. In the control group, improved sleep quality was associated with higher metabolic rates after 8 months. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the intervention positively impacted physical fitness and sleep quality, with potential benefits for overall health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Exercise, and Health: Bridging Research and Clinical Practice)

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15 pages, 537 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effectiveness and Validity of Inspiratory Muscle Training in the Training Process of Disabled Swimmers

by Paulina Okrzymowska, Wojciech Seidel and Krystyna Rozek-Piechura

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(18), 5365; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13185365 - 10 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1592

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of medium-intensity inspiratory muscle training added to standard swimming training on inspiratory muscle strength and aerobic endurance levels and training status in disabled swimming athletes. Methods: This study involved 16 disabled athletes: group I—athletes performing swimming training with 8 weeks inspiratory muscle training—IMT (50% of the maximum inspiratory pressure); group II—athletes performing standard swimming training with 8 weeks inspiratory muscle training (15% MIP). The following tests were performed three times: MIP, MEP, Borg RPE scale and swimming test: T-30 test; 8 × 100 progressive test. Results: There was a significant increase in the MIP and MEP in group I after IMT. There was a significant increase in the distance swam during the T-30 only in group I after IMT. Significant differences were found between the first and third measurements in group I, and the effect was maintained at follow-up. There was also a significant reduction in La concentration in group I after IMT. There was a significant reduction in heart rate at 88% and 93% of the maximum speed in group I after the applied training. Conclusion: Inspiratory muscle training with 50% of the maximum inspiratory pressure load significantly increased the respiratory muscle strength of disabled swimmers. The application of higher-intensity IMT effectively improved the training level and physiological parameters of the swimmers’ effort, indicating the need to include this type of training in the standard preparation of disabled swimmers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Exercise, and Health: Bridging Research and Clinical Practice)

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15 pages, 2827 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimation of Lactate Thresholds, Aerobic Capacity and Recovery Rate from Muscle Oxygen Saturation in Highly Trained Speed Skaters and Healthy Untrained Individuals

by Kinga Rębiś, Andrzej Klusiewicz, Barbara Długołęcka, Paweł Różański, Karol Kowieski and Tomasz Kowalski

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(17), 5340; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13175340 - 9 Sep 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2370

Abstract

Objective: The main objective of this study was to compare lactate thresholds and aerobic capacity from a graded-intensity exercise test (GXT) for near-infrared spectroscopy measurements in healthy, untrained individuals and highly trained athletes. Methods: This study included 29 untrained students (13 females) and 27 highly trained speed skaters (13 females). A maximal effort GXT was performed on a cycloergometer. The lactate-based aerobic and anaerobic thresholds, and the corresponding thresholds for muscle oxygen saturation (SmO₂), were determined. Results: The power values determined for all thresholds were significantly higher in female and male speed skaters compared to male and female college students. SmO₂ at anaerobic thresholds was significantly lower in female speed skaters than in female students. Both female and male skaters showed greater changes in SmO₂ after the GXT compared to students. The recovery did not significantly differ between groups within gender. There was a significant positive correlation in females between the rate of muscle reoxygenation and VO₂max power (r = 0.610). In speed skaters, the rate of muscle reoxygenation was not significantly higher than students and correlated positively with VO₂max (r = 0.449). Conclusions: The SmO₂ at the exercise thresholds, during and after maximal exercise, depends on the training status of the individual. The participants with a higher physical fitness level showed greater decreases in ΔSmO₂ at the AT level, as well as after maximal exercise. SmO₂ corresponding to the well-established exercise thresholds may be applied to guide training prescription. The rate of muscle reoxygenation after a GXT was also dependent on the aerobic capacity of the participants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Exercise, and Health: Bridging Research and Clinical Practice)

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Review

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16 pages, 766 KiB

Open AccessReview

Physical Exercise in Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A Scoping Review

by Pawel Kiper, Manon Chevrot, Julie Godart, Błażej Cieślik, Aleksandra Kiper, Martina Regazzetti and Roberto Meroni

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(8), 2655; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14082655 - 12 Apr 2025

Viewed by 586

Abstract

Background: Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare post-infectious, immune-mediated inflammatory disorder of the peripheral nervous system that can manifest in multiple distinct forms. It significantly impacts patients’ quality of life, causing both short-term and long-term impairments, including reduced strength, respiratory deficits, functional limitations, decreased endurance, and increased fatigue. This scoping review aimed to assess the impact of physical activity on strength, functional independence, and fatigue in patients with GBS, as well as to identify effective types of physical activity for rehabilitation programs. Methods: A literature search was conducted in March 2024 and updated in June 2024 across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. We included full-text, peer-reviewed articles written in English, French, Polish, or Italian that focused on strength, fatigue, and functional independence within the context of physical exercise. Results: A total of 1021 papers were eligible for screening, and after the screening process, 16 papers were included in this review. Conclusions: Physical exercise may enhance strength, reduce fatigue, and promote functional independence in GBS. Recommended interventions often include muscle strengthening, functional training, and endurance exercises. Larger, high-quality studies and further research into chronic fatigue mechanisms are needed to refine long-term rehabilitation strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Exercise, and Health: Bridging Research and Clinical Practice)

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Other

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19 pages, 742 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Effect of Exercise Program Interventions on Frailty, Clinical Outcomes, and Biomarkers in Older Adults: A Systematic Review

by Adchara Prommaban, Sasiwimon Moonkayaow, Phichayut Phinyo, Penprapa Siviroj, Wachiranun Sirikul and Peerasak Lerttrakarnnon

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(21), 6570; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13216570 - 1 Nov 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2802

Abstract

Background: Frailty is characterized by the decreased ability in older adults to handle daily or acute stressors due to age-related declines in physiological reserve and organ system performance. This condition results from the interaction of multiple physiological pathways and changes in biomarkers. Exercise programs are currently recommended to promote “healthy aging” in frail older adults. Objective: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of exercise program interventions in improving outcomes related to frailty, physical function, cognitive performance, and biomarkers in frail older adults. Methods: This study was designed according to the PRISMA guidelines. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Scopus for studies published between 2014 and 2024. Two independent reviewers extracted data, with disagreements resolved by a third reviewer. Randomized controlled trials involving pre-frail or frail older adults aged 60 and above in all settings were included. The focus was on the impact of exercise programs, especially multicomponent interventions, on frailty outcomes and biomarkers. Results: Nine studies involving a total of 2083 participants met the inclusion criteria. The age range of participants was 65.35 ± 5.15 to 86.7 ± 4.00 years, with 64.7% being female. The results demonstrated that multicomponent exercise programs significantly improved frailty status, enhanced physical and cognitive function, and improved emotional well-being. Additionally, these programs led to significant reductions in inflammatory biomarkers, such as IL-6 and TNF-α, which are associated with frailty. Conclusion: This review highlights the beneficial effects of multicomponent exercise programs on pre-frail and frail older adults, providing evidence that these interventions improve physical and cognitive functions and emotional well-being, and reduce inflammation. These findings offer valuable insights into developing targeted interventions to manage frailty in clinical practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Exercise, and Health: Bridging Research and Clinical Practice)

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