Exercise Physiology and Biochemistry: 3rd Edition

A special issue of Physiologia (ISSN 2673-9488). This special issue belongs to the section "Exercise Physiology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2026 | Viewed by 15648

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Physiology, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
Interests: molecular endocrinology; endocrine oncology; exercise physiology; molecular physiology; medical education
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Physiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
Interests: skeletal and cardiac muscle physiology; exercise physiology; clinical exercise physiology; molecular exercise physiology; mechanotransduction
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

It is well known that most people in industrialized societies are engaging in far less physical activity than the human body has evolved to support. Regular exercise puts the body under physical and metabolic stress, increases the amount of energy that it burns while exercising, boosts the resting energy expenditure, and affects more physiological systems than any other everyday activity.

More specifically, the biochemistry of exercise is not only a concern for athletes and exercise physiologists, it also has important implications for those who engage in only moderate exercise, as well as for more fully sedentary individuals. Exercise also has profound beneficial effects on the biochemistry of people suffering with diabetes, obesity, and other metabolic disorders. Moreover, the recent COVID-19 outbreak has revealed that exercise and physical activity provide protection against severe SARS-CoV2 infection and the comorbidities thereof, such as obesity and cardiovascular diseases, which emerged as the most significant factors affecting postinfection mortality.

We are pleased to announce this Special Issue focused on “Exercise Physiology and Biochemistry”, i.e., the study of acute responses and chronic adaptations to exercise. Our Special Issue seeks to cover, but is not limited to, the following topics: physical or motor activity and biomechanics, exercise training, exercise metabolism, thermoregulation, systemic physiological responses (musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine, and others), and clinical exercise physiology and biochemistry.

This Special Issue aims to present advances and new insights into the molecular, cellular, and systemic mechanisms that mediate acute and adaptive responses to exercise in health and disease.

Prof. Dr. Michael Koutsilieris
Prof. Dr. Anastassios Philippou
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • exercise physiology 
  • exercise biochemistry 
  • exercise metabolism 
  • clinical exercise physiology 
  • strength training 
  • aerobic exercise 
  • high-intensity interval training (HIIT) 
  • skeletal muscle physiology

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Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 523 KB  
Article
Cerebrovascular Reactivity to Hypocapnia Following Maximal Sprint Exercise Is Better Maintained in Females than Males
by Philip Buys, Max E. Weston, Emma L. Curtin, Norita Gildea and Mikel Egaña
Physiologia 2026, 6(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia6010016 - 14 Feb 2026
Viewed by 309
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Despite increasing interest in high-intensity exercise and cerebrovascular function, the effects of maximal sprint exercise on cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR), a key indicator of vascular health, remain unclear. Methods: This study investigated the acute effects of a 30-s all-out cycling sprint (Wingate Anaerobic [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Despite increasing interest in high-intensity exercise and cerebrovascular function, the effects of maximal sprint exercise on cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR), a key indicator of vascular health, remain unclear. Methods: This study investigated the acute effects of a 30-s all-out cycling sprint (Wingate Anaerobic Test, WAnT), on CVR to hypocapnia in 24 healthy young adults (12 males). Following familiarisation and a V˙O2max test, participants completed an experimental session where CVR was assessed at rest and 30 min post-WAnT. CVR was evaluated using a 1-min voluntary hyperventilation protocol (25 breaths·min−1), with middle cerebral artery blood velocity (MCAv) measured via transcranial Doppler ultrasound and end-tidal CO2 (PETCO2) recorded breath-by-breath. CVR was calculated as the absolute change in MCAv per 1 mmHg change in PETCO2 from the final 10 s of hyperventilation. Results: Resting MCAv and PETCO2 were significantly reduced post-WAnT (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001 respectively). Consequently, the reductions in MCAv and PETCO2 during hyperventilation were attenuated after exercise in both males and females (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001 respectively). Despite these changes, CVR remained unaltered in both sexes following WAnT (males: 1.79 ± 0.35 vs. 1.59 ± 0.26 cm·s−1·mmHg−1, p = 0.09; females: 2.01 ± 0.44 vs. 2.01 ± 0.46 cm·s−1·mmHg−1, p = 0.97). However, post-exercise CVR was significantly lower in males than females, despite no baseline sex differences (p = 0.01). Conclusions: Cerebrovascular reactivity to hypocapnia is preserved 30 min after a single bout of maximal sprint exercise in healthy young adults. Notably, females demonstrated a more favorable maintenance of CVR post-exercise compared to males, suggesting potential sex differences in CVR following maximal sprint exercise. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise Physiology and Biochemistry: 3rd Edition)
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15 pages, 646 KB  
Article
Effects of Karting Competition on Heart Rate Variability, Fatigue, Neuromuscular Function, and Cognitive-Motor Performance in Racing Drivers: An Exploratory Study
by Mariano Costa Pires, Fábio Yuzo Nakamura, Diogo Vaz Leal and Alberto Jorge Alves
Physiologia 2026, 6(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia6010014 - 8 Feb 2026
Viewed by 497
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Competitive karting places high physiological and cognitive demands on drivers. This field study investigated the acute effects of racing on heart rate variability (HRV), perceived fatigue and neuromuscular function, and cognitive-motor performance during an official event held under persistent rain. Methods: Longitudinal, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Competitive karting places high physiological and cognitive demands on drivers. This field study investigated the acute effects of racing on heart rate variability (HRV), perceived fatigue and neuromuscular function, and cognitive-motor performance during an official event held under persistent rain. Methods: Longitudinal, repeated-measures design across two conditions: control (race video viewing) and competition (qualifying and race). Four drivers (Junior, X30 Senior, X30 Super Shifter) were assessed pre/post-control and post-qualifying/race on Day 1 (Saturday) and pre/post-race only on Day 2 (Sunday). Measures included continuous heart rate, pre/post HRV (HRV4Training; rMSSD, SDNN), perceived fatigue (ROF), bilateral handgrip strength, and visuomotor performance (reaction times and accuracy). Results: On Day 1, SDNN and rMSSD decreased significantly after qualifying versus pre- and post-control (p < 0.05), remaining globally lower post-race; no changes emerged in frequency-domain indexes. Perceived fatigue, handgrip strength, and mean/max reaction times did not change significantly; an improvement in minimum reaction time was observed post-race versus post-control (p = 0.033). rMSSD consistently decreased after racing on both days (p < 0.05) with no day × time interaction observed, and accuracy improved on Sunday, reflected by more correct attempts (hits) and fewer failed attempts (errors) (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Racing was associated with lower time-domain HRV indices (rMSSD/SDNN), consistent with heightened autonomic activation without measurable decrements in handgrip-based neuromuscular function or cognitive-motor performance. The improved accuracy on Day 2 may be related to an increased level of physiological activation and readiness associated with race day. Routine HRV monitoring across race weekends is recommended to guide recovery decisions when subjective scales show limited immediate sensitivity. These findings are preliminary due to the small and heterogeneous sample and should be interpreted cautiously. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise Physiology and Biochemistry: 3rd Edition)
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12 pages, 1177 KB  
Article
One Week of a Betalain-Rich Beetroot Concentrate Does Not Improve 4 km Time-Trial Performance but Impairs Repeated Sprint Cycling Performance in Trained Cyclists
by Steven Vitti, Meghan E. Smith, Sean Killip, Alyssa Sarkisov, Grace Frattellone, Craig Mattern and Justin Faller
Physiologia 2025, 5(4), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia5040054 - 5 Dec 2025
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Abstract
Purpose: We aimed to assess the effects of one-week betalain-rich beetroot concentrate (BRC) supplementation on high-intensity cycling performance in trained cyclists. Methods: Eighteen male (n = 15) and female (n = 3) cyclists (age: 38.83 ± 8.09; weight: 73.23 ± 10.95 [...] Read more.
Purpose: We aimed to assess the effects of one-week betalain-rich beetroot concentrate (BRC) supplementation on high-intensity cycling performance in trained cyclists. Methods: Eighteen male (n = 15) and female (n = 3) cyclists (age: 38.83 ± 8.09; weight: 73.23 ± 10.95 kg; height: 176.86 ± 9.60 cm) were supplemented with a BRC or a placebo (PLA) for six days prior to the experimental trials. On the seventh day, a final dose was administered, and participants completed three all-out 15 s cycling sprints back-to-back, followed by a 4 km cycling time trial (TT). Physiological indicators related to performance were measured throughout the 4 km TT. Results: Sprint performance remained unchanged following PLA treatment. However, BRC treatment led to significant reductions in sprint performance during sprints 2 and 3 compared to sprint 1 (p < 0.05). Time trial performance did not differ between treatments (p > 0.05). Significant increases in physiological and psychological responses during the 4-km time trial were observed following both treatments (p < 0.05). However, heart rate was higher at 2 km compared to 1 km, the respiratory exchange ratio was slightly elevated at 2 km and 4 km relative to 1 km, and VO2 was slightly higher at 3 km and 4 km compared to pre-TT following BRC treatment only (p < 0.05). Conclusions: One week of a BRC does not enhance 4 km TT performance but may impair repeated-sprint performance in trained cyclists. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise Physiology and Biochemistry: 3rd Edition)
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15 pages, 841 KB  
Article
Validation of a Smartphone Application for Measuring Peak Torque During the Nordic Hamstring Exercise in Recreational Athletes
by Amândio Dias, Bruno Lopes, Francisco Machado, João Fonseca, Ricardo Santos and Rodrigo Alves
Physiologia 2025, 5(4), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia5040053 - 5 Dec 2025
Viewed by 832
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Hamstring injuries are highly prevalent in sports and often occur, particularly among recreational and professional athletes. Assessing eccentric hamstring strength is critical for injury prevention and rehabilitation, with isokinetic dynamometry being considered the gold standard. However, its accessibility is limited by cost [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Hamstring injuries are highly prevalent in sports and often occur, particularly among recreational and professional athletes. Assessing eccentric hamstring strength is critical for injury prevention and rehabilitation, with isokinetic dynamometry being considered the gold standard. However, its accessibility is limited by cost and logistics. This study aimed to evaluate the validity and reliability of the My Jump Lab (version 4.0) mobile application in estimating eccentric peak torque in the break-point angle, compared with isokinetic dynamometry. Methods: Twenty-seven recreational athletes (twenty-six male, one female) were assessed bilaterally using the mobile application and isokinetic dynamometer, which is considered the gold standard for this type of strength assessment. Statistical analysis included Pearson’s correlation, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), coefficient of variation (CV), and Bland–Altman plots. Results: Results showed excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.999; CV = 0.66%) for both smartphone application evaluators and good comparative validity and reliability (ICC ≈ 0.76 with confidence interval: 0.5367–0.876; p < 0.001 and r ≈ 0.705;) when comparing with isokinetic dynamometry. Conclusions: My Jump Lab is a mobile application which can provide a practical and accessible mean for monitoring eccentric hamstring strength in field settings. The app may serve as a feasible field-based alternative to laboratory dynamometry for eccentric strength monitoring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise Physiology and Biochemistry: 3rd Edition)
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15 pages, 2058 KB  
Article
Effects of Acute Morning Melatonin Supplementation Versus Placebo on Cardiometabolic Responses to High-Intensity Interval Exercise: A Randomized Crossover Trial in Active Men
by Naiara Ribeiro Almeida, Diego Alves dos Santos, Kaio Lages dos Santos, Diego Ignácio Valenzuela Pérez, Felipe J. Aidar, Walesca Agda Silva Miranda, Bianca Miarka, Andreia Cristiane Carrenho Queiroz and Ciro José Brito
Physiologia 2025, 5(4), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia5040040 - 9 Oct 2025
Viewed by 3244
Abstract
Aims: The present study evaluated the acute morning effect of melatonin supplementation (5 mg) on cardiometabolic responses. Methods: For this purpose, 12 physically active men (22.1 ± 1.3 years; 1.7 ± 01 m; 74.7 ± 12.1 kg; 24.3 ± 2.7 m/kg2; [...] Read more.
Aims: The present study evaluated the acute morning effect of melatonin supplementation (5 mg) on cardiometabolic responses. Methods: For this purpose, 12 physically active men (22.1 ± 1.3 years; 1.7 ± 01 m; 74.7 ± 12.1 kg; 24.3 ± 2.7 m/kg2; VO2max: 46.9 ± 2.3 mL/kg/min; 17.3 ± 5.2%F) were measured in a double-blind crossover protocol, where participants were measured before, during, and after a high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) protocol [4 × 4 min at 95% of maximum heart rate (HRmax) with a 3 min interval at 60–70% of HRmax] followed by 30 min of recovery. At rest, the following variables were measured: HR, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), lactate, and maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max). At the end of each stage and interval, VO2, respiratory exchange ratio (RER), and HR were measured. During recovery, VO2, VCO2, RER, SBP, DBP, and HR were measured. Results: Melatonin significantly enhanced recovery metabolism, as evidenced by increased VO2 at Interval 3 (+2.2 mL/kg/min, p = 0.03, d = 0.69) and 5 min postexercise (+2.4 mL/kg/min, p = 0.02, d = 0.81). The RER was higher during Sprint 4 (+0.08, p = 0.01, d = 0.84), indicating greater carbohydrate reliance. Cardiovascular recovery was also improved, with a reduced HR at 30 min (−5 bpm, p = 0.04, d = 0.66) and lower SBP at 15 min (−8 mmHg, p = 0.02, d = 0.75). Lactate concentration at 30 min was lower with melatonin (−0.7 mmol/L, p = 0.03, d = 0.72). No significant effects were observed at rest or during early exercise. Conclusions: Acute morning melatonin intake may amplify metabolic responses to HIIE while facilitating cardiometabolic recovery. This dual-phase action may benefit athletes aiming to optimize energy expenditure, fat metabolism, and recovery during early-day training. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise Physiology and Biochemistry: 3rd Edition)
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15 pages, 1240 KB  
Article
Effects of Respiratory Muscle Training on Performance and Inspiratory Strength in Female CrossFit Athletes: A Randomized Controlled Trial
by Juliana Andrade Assis, Lúcio Marques Vieira-Souza, Diego Valenzuela Pérez, Cristiano Diniz da Silva, Carlos Fuentes Veliz, Naiara Ribeiro Almeida, Bianca Miarka, Otávio Toledo Nóbrega and Ciro José Brito
Physiologia 2025, 5(4), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia5040039 - 6 Oct 2025
Viewed by 5152
Abstract
Background: The high-intensity demands of CrossFit induce respiratory muscle fatigue, potentially impairing performance via the metaboreflex. Respiratory muscle training (RMT) may mitigate this effect, but evidence in female athletes remains limited. Objective: We aimed to investigate the effects of RMT on sport-specific performance [...] Read more.
Background: The high-intensity demands of CrossFit induce respiratory muscle fatigue, potentially impairing performance via the metaboreflex. Respiratory muscle training (RMT) may mitigate this effect, but evidence in female athletes remains limited. Objective: We aimed to investigate the effects of RMT on sport-specific performance and maximal inspiratory pressure (PIMAX) in recreational female CrossFit practitioners. Design: We conducted a parallel-group randomized controlled trial. Setting: The study was conducted in a CrossFit-affiliated gym. Participants: We recruited twenty-nine recreational female practitioners (age: 30.3 ± 7.9 years) with ≥1 year of uninterrupted training who were free from respiratory diseases. Interventions: Participants were randomized to a CrossFit-only group (n = 14) or CrossFit + RMT group (n = 15). Both trained 5 days/week for 6 weeks; the RMT group additionally performed 30 inspiratory efforts at 50% of PIMAX, 5 days/week, with weekly load adjustment. Main Outcome Measures: Primary: Sport-specific performance (total repetitions in a 10-min AMRAP [As Many Rounds As Possible] test). Secondary: PIMAX (cmH2O). Measurements were taken pre- and post-intervention. Results: Baseline performance and PIMAX were similar between groups. After 6 weeks, the CrossFit + RMT group improved in performance more (Δ = +10.5 ± 10.7 reps, p = 0.03, ηp2 = 0.168) than the CrossFit-only group (Δ = +2.3 ± 8.1). PIMAX gains were also greater with RMT (Δ = +19.6 ± 8.4 cmH2O, p = 0.043, ηp2 = 0.148) vs. control (Δ = +10.1 ± 9.7). No adverse events occurred. Conclusions: Adding RMT to CrossFit training enhanced sport-specific performance and inspiratory strength in recreational female practitioners more than CrossFit alone. RMT appears to be a safe and effective complementary strategy for high-intensity functional training. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise Physiology and Biochemistry: 3rd Edition)
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10 pages, 774 KB  
Article
Analysis of the Physiological Characteristics of Elite Male and Female Junior Rowers During Extreme Exercise
by István Barthalos, Zoltán Alföldi, Imre Soós, Anna Horváth Pápai, Ádám Balog, László Suszter and Ferenc Ihász
Physiologia 2025, 5(4), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia5040038 - 3 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1666
Abstract
Background: Rowing is a highly demanding endurance sport, requiring simultaneous work of approximately 70% of the body’s muscle mass and the combined contribution of aerobic and anaerobic energy systems. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the cardiorespiratory responses and performance characteristics of elite [...] Read more.
Background: Rowing is a highly demanding endurance sport, requiring simultaneous work of approximately 70% of the body’s muscle mass and the combined contribution of aerobic and anaerobic energy systems. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the cardiorespiratory responses and performance characteristics of elite junior male and female rowers during maximal effort over 2000 m on a rowing ergometer. Methods: Fifteen junior rowers (six males aged 15–17 and nine females aged 15–18) participated in the study. Anthropometric data (body height, weight, and body surface area) were recorded. All participants performed a maximal 2000 m test on a Concept2 D-model ergometer. Throughout the test, oxygen uptake (VO2), carbon dioxide production (VCO2), heart rate, and ventilation parameters were continuously measured. Performance and physiological data were analyzed in three intensity zones, defined by ventilatory thresholds (VT1–VT3), as well as at peak exercise. Results: Significant anthropometric differences were observed between genders. In terms of performance, males completed the 2000 m test significantly faster than females (208.83 ± 87.66 s vs. 333.78 ± 97.51 s, p = 0.0253). Relative VO2 at peak exercise was higher in males (58.73 ± 5.25 mL·kg−1·min−1) than females (48.32 ± 6.09 mL·kg−1·min−1, p = 0.0046). In most cardiorespiratory parameters, males outperformed females significantly, except for heart rate and ventilatory equivalents. Ranking analysis revealed that higher VO2max values were generally associated with a better placement in both genders, though this relationship was not perfectly linear. Performance time was negatively correlated with VO2Peak (r = −0.8286; p < 0.001), rVO2Peak (r = −0.6781; p < 0.01), and O2PPeak (r = −0.7729; p < 0.01). Conclusions: The findings confirm significant gender differences in anthropometric and cardiorespiratory characteristics of elite junior rowers and reinforce VO2max as a key determinant of performance. Yet, deviations from a direct VO2max–rank correlation highlight the influence of tactical, psychological, and biomechanical factors. Future research should provide practical recommendations for monitoring performance and tailoring training to optimize adaptation and long-term athlete development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise Physiology and Biochemistry: 3rd Edition)
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Review

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18 pages, 860 KB  
Review
Bioenergetic Profiling in Exercise: Methods, Limitations and Practical Applications—A Narrative Review
by Manoel J. Rios, David B. Pyne and Ricardo J. Fernandes
Physiologia 2026, 6(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia6010019 - 6 Mar 2026
Viewed by 676
Abstract
Quantifying oxidative, glycolytic, and phosphagen energy system contributions during exercise is challenging due to their simultaneous activation and reliance on indirect estimation. This narrative review critically examines the methodological foundations, assumptions, and practical implications of current approaches used to estimate energy system contributions [...] Read more.
Quantifying oxidative, glycolytic, and phosphagen energy system contributions during exercise is challenging due to their simultaneous activation and reliance on indirect estimation. This narrative review critically examines the methodological foundations, assumptions, and practical implications of current approaches used to estimate energy system contributions during continuous and intermittent exercise, with the aim of clarifying how these methods shape the interpretation of bioenergetic responses. Oxidative contribution, primarily estimated through oxygen uptake (VO2) integration, typically exceeds (~75–88%) in continuous efforts longer than 6 min and can reach values above ~87% when exercise duration allows full development of VO2 kinetics, particularly in trained young adult cohorts. In contrast, supramaximal efforts shorter than 30–90 s involve markedly lower oxidative contribution, commonly below ~50% and as low as ~8–19%. Glycolytic contribution is inferred from net blood lactate concentration accumulation and increases with exercise intensity, ranging from ~3–5% in longer severe-intensity efforts to values up to ~60% during brief maximal tasks lasting 15–30 s. Phosphagen contribution is estimated using the fast component of post-exercise VO2 recovery or theoretical phosphocreatine breakdown models, and can reach ~39–48% in maximal efforts lasting 10–15 s, while declining to values below ~10% in prolonged exercise. Each method is shaped by exercise duration, intensity, structural format, and physiological assumptions, contributing to methodological heterogeneity and limiting direct comparability between studies. Advances in portable gas analyzers, near-infrared spectroscopy, and biosensing technologies have improved temporal resolution and ecological validity. To enhance the accuracy and practical application of energy system profiling, standardized and integrative frameworks are urgently required. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise Physiology and Biochemistry: 3rd Edition)
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32 pages, 1993 KB  
Review
Exercise and Dietary Factors in Skeletal Muscle Anabolism Across Aging: Inferences for the Insulin/IGF-1 Axis—A Narrative Review
by Vianney Curiel-Cervantes
Physiologia 2026, 6(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia6010005 - 9 Jan 2026
Viewed by 993
Abstract
Resistance training (RT) influences endocrine pathways that control skeletal muscle (SM) growth. This review summarizes 25 years of evidence (January 2000–December 2025) from PubMed, Medline, and ScienceDirect, focusing on three aspects: (1) exercise types such as RT, speed, power, high-intensity interval training, and [...] Read more.
Resistance training (RT) influences endocrine pathways that control skeletal muscle (SM) growth. This review summarizes 25 years of evidence (January 2000–December 2025) from PubMed, Medline, and ScienceDirect, focusing on three aspects: (1) exercise types such as RT, speed, power, high-intensity interval training, and aerobic training at various intensities; (2) dietary factors, including caloric restriction, total protein, protein sources, amino acids, and carbohydrates; and (3) aging-related physiological factors that may impair the insulin/IGF-1 axis in SM, such as insulin resistance, fat infiltration, physical inactivity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammation. The data from Grade A evidence in systematic reviews and RCTs are prioritized to develop practical recommendations and future research directions for young, middle-aged, older, and very old individuals. Evidence regarding the effects of anabolic amino acids in women, middle-aged, and very old individuals, as well as locally mediated IGF-1 effects of any type of exercise, is limited. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise Physiology and Biochemistry: 3rd Edition)
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