Showing papers on "Aerobic capacity published in 2015"

Interval Training Versus Continuous Exercise in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract: Background High aerobic capacity is inversely related to cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality. Recent studies suggest greater improvements in aerobic capacity with high-intensity interval training (interval) compared to moderate-intensity continuous aerobic exercise (continuous). Therefore we perform a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials comparing the effectiveness of INTERVAL versus CONTINUOUS in aerobic capacity, amongst patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD) and preserved ejection fraction Methods We searched PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, the Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Register, clinicaltrials.gov and TROVE for randomised controlled trials comparing INTERVAL with CONTINUOUS in patients with CAD. Studies published in the English language up to December 2013 were eligible for inclusion. Aerobic capacity, quantified by peak oxygen consumption (VO 2peak ) post exercise training was extracted and compared post-intervention between INTERVAL and CONTINUOUS by way of a fixed model meta-analysis. Secondary outcomes including anaerobic threshold, blood pressure and high-density lipoproteins (HDL) were also analysed. Results Six independent studies with 229 patients ( n =99 randomised to INTERVAL) were included in the meta-analysis. There was a significantly higher increase in VO 2peak following INTERVAL compared to CONTINUOUS (Weighted Mean Difference=1.53 ml•kg −1 min −1 , 95% CI 0.84 to 2.23) with homogeneity displayed between studies (Chi Squared=2.69; P =0.7). Significant effects of INTERVAL compared to CONTINUOUS were also found for anaerobic threshold but not systolic blood pressure. Conclusion In patients with CAD, INTERVAL appears more effective than CONTINUOUS for the improvement of aerobic capacity in patients with CAD. However, long-term studies assessing morbidity and mortality following INTERVAL are required before this approach can be more widely adopted.

Aerobic Capacity in Persons with Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract: Aerobic capacity (VO2max) is a strong health and performance predictor and is regarded as a key physiological measure in the healthy population and in persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) However, no studies have tried to synthesize the existing knowledge regarding VO2max in PwMS The objectives of this study were to (1) systematically review the psychometric properties of the VO2max test; (2) systematically review the literature on VO2max compared with healthy populations; (3) summarize correlates of VO2max; and (4) to review and conduct a meta-analysis of longitudinal exercise studies evaluating training-induced effects on VO2max in PwMS A systematic literature search of six databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, PEDro, CINAHL and SPORTDiscus) was performed To be included, the study had to (1) enrol participants with definite MS according to defined criteria; (2) assess aerobic capacity (VO2max) by means of a graded exercise test to voluntary exhaustion; (3) had undergone peer review; and (4) be available in English, Danish or Dutch The psychometric properties of the VO2max test in PwMS were reviewed with respect to reliability, validity and responsiveness Simple Pearson correlation analysis was used to assess the relation between key study characteristics and the reported mean VO2max The methodological quality of the intervention studies was evaluated using the original 11-item Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale A random coefficient model was used to summarize individual, weighted, standardized effects of studies that assessed the effects of exercise on aerobic capacity in PwMS A total of 40 studies, covering 165 healthy controls and 1,137 PwMS, fulfilled the inclusion criteria VO2max testing in PwMS can be considered a valid measure of aerobic capacity, at least in PwMS having low-to-mild disability, and an ∼10 % change between two tests performed on separate days can be considered the smallest reliable change (with 95 % certainty) in VO2max in PwMS The average body-weight-adjusted VO2max was significantly lower in PwMS (255 ± 52 mL·kg−1·min−1) compared with healthy controls (309 ± 54 mL·kg−1·min−1) The analysis of VO2max correlates revealed associations with a variety of outcomes covering all levels of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) model The meta-analysis showed that aerobic training in PwMS may improve VO2max by as much as 35 mL·kg−1·min−1 A valid and reliable test can be performed, in at least ambulant PwMS, by the gold standard whole-body maximal exercise test Aerobic capacity in PwMS is impaired compared with healthy people, and is significantly associated with factors on all levels of the ICF model, including disease severity Aerobic training can improve aerobic capacity in PwMS to a degree that is associated with secondary health benefits

Effects of Combined Aerobic and Resistance Exercise on Exercise Capacity, Muscle Strength and Quality of Life in HIV-Infected Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Abstract: Background Many HIV-infected patients demonstrate disability and lower aerobic capacity. The inclusion of resistance training combined with aerobic exercise in a single program is known as combined aerobic and resistance exercise (CARE) and seems to be an effective strategy to improve muscle weakness, as well as aerobic capacity in HIV-infected patients. We performed a meta-analysis to investigate the effects of CARE in HIV-infected patients. Methods We searched MEDLINE, Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, EMBASE, CINAHL (from the earliest date available to august 2014) for controlled trials that evaluated the effects of CARE in HIV-infected patients. Weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 test. Results Seven studies met the study criteria. CARE resulted in improvement in Peak VO2 WMD (4.48 mL·kg-1·min-1 95% CI: 2.95 to 6.0), muscle strength of the knee extensors WMD (25.06 Kg 95% CI: 10.46 to 39.66) and elbow flexors WMD (4.44 Kg 95% CI: 1.22 to 7.67) compared with no exercise group. The meta-analyses also showed significant improvement in Health status, Energy/Vitality and physical function domains of quality of life for participants in the CARE group compared with no exercise group. A nonsignificant improvement in social function domain of quality of life was found for participants in the CARE group compared with no exercise group. Conclusions Combined aerobic and resistance exercise may improve peak VO2, muscle strength and health status, energy and physical function domains of quality of life and should be considered as a component of care of HIV-infected individuals.

Aerobic scope explains individual variation in feeding capacity

Abstract: Links between metabolism and components of fitness such as growth, reproduction and survival can depend on food availability. A high standard metabolic rate (SMR; baseline energy expenditure) or aerobic scope (AS; the difference between an individual's maximum and SMR) is often beneficial when food is abundant or easily accessible but can be less important or even disadvantageous when food levels decline. While the mechanisms underlying these context-dependent associations are not well understood, they suggest that individuals with a higher SMR or AS are better able to take advantage of high food abundance. Here we show that juvenile brown trout (Salmo trutta) with a higher AS were able to consume more food per day relative to individuals with a lower AS. These results help explain why a high aerobic capacity can improve performance measures such as growth rate at high but not low levels of food availability.

Effects of a Short Physical Exercise Intervention on Patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Abstract: Background: The aim of this prospective randomized controlled trial was to investigate if a short-term endurance or combined endurance/resistance exercise program was sufficient to improve aerobic capacity and maximum force in adult patients (18–65 years) with multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods: All patients performed a three-month exercise program consisting of two training sessions per week, lasting 40 min each, with moderate intensity. All patients had a maximum value of 6 (low to moderate disability) on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). One group (combined workout group (CWG); 15 females, 4 males) completed a combined endurance/resistance workout (20 min on a bicycle ergometer, followed by 20 min of resistance training), while the other group (endurance workout group (EWG); 13 females, 5 males) completed a 40 min endurance training program. Aerobic capacity was assessed as peak oxygen uptake, ventilatory anaerobic threshold, and workload expressed as Watts. Maximum force of knee and shoulder extensors and flexors was measured using isokinetic testing. Quality of life was assessed with the SF-36 questionnaire, and fatigue was measured using the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale. Results: Both training groups increased in aerobic capacity and maximum force. EWG, as well as CWG, showed improvement in several subscales of the SF-36 questionnaire and decrease of their fatigue. Conclusion: A short exercise intervention increased both aerobic capacity and maximum force independent of whether endurance or combined endurance/resistance workouts were performed.

Black and White Race Differences in Aerobic Capacity, Muscle Fiber Type, and Their Influence on Metabolic Processes

Abstract: Obesity is a known risk factor for cardiometabolic disease. Increasing aerobic capacity (VO2max) reduces adiposity, maintains weight, and reduces the risk of developing obesity and cardiometabolic disease. Two major determinants of aerobic capacity are the metabolic properties specific to a particular muscle fiber type and the capacity of the cardiorespiratory system to deliver nutrient-rich content to the muscle. Recent research suggests that some race/ethnic groups, particularly non-Hispanic Black subjects, are predisposed to a reduced VO2max by way of muscle fiber type. Combined with insufficient physical activity, these characteristics place non-Hispanic Black subjects at an increased risk for obesity and other adverse health outcomes when compared with other race/ethnic groups. The purpose of this review was to suggest a model for explaining how skeletal muscle fiber type may contribute to reduced aerobic capacity and obesity among non-Hispanic Black subjects. Our review indicates that metabolic properties of type II skeletal muscle (e.g. reduced oxidative capacity, capillary density) are related to various cardiometabolic diseases. Based on the review, non-Hispanic Black subjects appear to have a lower maximal aerobic capacity and a greater percentage of type II skeletal muscle fibers. Combined with reduced energy expenditure and reduced hemoglobin concentration, non-Hispanic Black subjects may be inherently predisposed to a reduced maximal aerobic capacity compared with non-Hispanic White subjects, thereby increasing the risk for obesity and related metabolic diseases.

Aerobic Fitness Is Disproportionately Low in Adult Burn Survivors Years After Injury.

Abstract: A maximal aerobic capacity below the 20th percentile is associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality (Blair 1995). Adult Adult burn survivors have a lower aerobic capacity compared with nonburned adults when evaluated 38 +/- 23 days postinjury (deLateur 2007). However, it is unknown whether burn survivors with well-healed skin grafts (ie, multiple years postinjury) also have low aerobic capacity. This project tested the hypothesis that aerobic fitness, as measured by maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max), is reduced in well-healed adult burn survivors when compared with normative values from nonburned individuals. Twenty-five burn survivors (36 +/- 12 years old; 13 females) with well-healed split-thickness grafts (median, 16 years postinjury; range, 1-51 years) covering at least 17% of their BSA (mean, 40 +/- 16%; range, 17-75%) performed a graded cycle ergometry exercise to test volitional fatigue. Expired gases and minute ventilation were measured via a metabolic cart for the determination of VO2max. Each subject's VO2max was compared with sex- and age-matched normative values from population data published by the American College of Sports Medicine, the American Heart Association, and recent epidemiological data (Aspenes 2011). Subjects had a VO2max of 29.4 +/- 10.1ml O-2/kg body mass/min (median, 27.5; range, 15.9-53.3). The use of American College of Sports Medicine normative values showed that mean VO2max of the subjects was in the lower 24th percentile (median, 10th percentile). A total of 88% of the subjects had a VO2max below American Heart Association age-adjusted normative values. Similarly, 20 of the 25 subjects had a VO2max in the lower 25% percentile of recent epidemiological data. Relative to nongrafted subjects, 80 to 88% of the evaluated skin-graft subjects had a very low aerobic capacity. On the basis of these findings, adult burn survivors are disproportionally unfit relative to the general U.S. population, and this puts them at an increased risk of all-cause mortality (Blair 1995).

Cardiorespiratory Considerations in Dance: From Classes to Performances.

Abstract: When attempting to ascertain dancers' fitness levels, essential parameters, such as aerobic and anaerobic capacity, muscular power and strength, flexibility, and body composition, must be considered Dance is characterized as an intermittent type of exercise, demanding energy from different metabolic pathways (aerobic and anaerobic, lactic or alactic) A dancer's maximum aerobic capacity (ranging from 37 to 57 ml·kg(-1)·min(-1)) is related to his or her dance style, gender, level of technical ability, and status in a dance company However, dancers' cardiorespiratory requirements during dance classes (essentially designed for the development of technical skills) are significantly lower than during dance performances, indicating that there is a divergence between dance training and performance with regard to demands on dancers' physical fitness It follows that supplementary fitness training is needed in order to optimize dancers' technical and artistic performance and to reduce the incidence of injury Traditional aerobic and strength training have been proposed to cover dancers' lack of conditioning; however, it seems likely that high-intensity interval training would more properly meet the requirements of today's choreography Therefore, with an approach that applies basic exercise physiology to dance characteristics, this review covers the following topics: 1 dance as physical exercise; 2 dancers' aerobic capacity; 3 cardiorespiratory demands of dance classes and performances; 4 supplementary fitness training for dancers; and 5 fitness testing and assessment for dancers

Effects of Aerobic Training in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis.

Abstract: Objective. To evaluate the effects of aerobic exercise in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Methods. Seventy patients classified with AS by the modified New York criteria were included. The patients were randomly assigned into 2 groups. The intervention group (IG) performed 50 min of walking followed by stretching exercises 3 times a week for 12 weeks. The control group (CG) performed only stretching exercises. The outcome measurements were the Bath indexes [Bath AS Functional Index (BASFI), Bath AS Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), and Bath AS Metrology Index (BASMI)], Health Assessment Questionnaire for the Spondyloarthropathies (HAQ-S), AS Disease Activity Score (ASDAS), the 6-min walk test (6MWT), chest expansion, and the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36. Aerobic capacity was assessed by ergospirometry on a treadmill. Routine laboratory techniques were used in determining lipid levels. Assessments were performed immediately before randomization and after 6, 12, and 24 weeks. Results. Thirty-five patients were randomized to the IG and 35 to the CG. There was significant improvement in the BASFI, HAQ-S, BASMI, BASDAI, and ASDAS in both groups (p < 0.05), but did not differ between groups. There was a significant increase in the walking distance in the 6MWT in the IG compared with CG (p < 0.001). The IG showed significant improvement in cardiopulmonary capacity compared with CG. Cholesterol and triglyceride levels did not change in either group. Conclusion. In patients with AS, aerobic training improved walking distance and aerobic capacity. Aerobic training did not provide additional benefits in functional capacity, mobility, disease activity, quality of life, and lipid levels when compared with stretching exercises alone.

Relationship between daily physical activity and aerobic fitness in adults with cystic fibrosis

Abstract: The best clinical practice to investigate aerobic fitness includes measurements obtained during cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), however it remains an underutilised clinical measure in cystic fibrosis (CF). To investigate this further, different methods of quantifying exercise capacity in CF are required. The possibility that measuring physical activity (PA) by a portable accelerometer could be used to assess the CF aerobic state and could be added among the CPET surrogates has not been investigated. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between PA and exercise fitness both at submaximal and maximal levels in clinically stable adults with CF. Thirty CF patients (FEV1 71 ± 19% predicted) and fifteen healthy controls undertook an incremental CPET on a cycle ergometer. CPET-related measurements included: oxygen uptake (V’O2), carbon dioxide production (V’CO2), ventilatory profile, heart rate (HR) and oxygen pulse (V’O2/HR) throughout exercise and at lactic threshold (LT) and peak. LT measures represent submaximal exercise related data. PA was assessed using the accelerometer SenseWear Pro3 Armband. Moderate (>4.8 metabolic equivalents (METS)) and moderate + vigorous (>7.2 METS) PA was related to V’O2 (p = 0.005 and p = 0.009, respectively) and work rate (p = 0.004 and p = 0.002, respectively) at LT. Moderate PA or greater was positively related to peak V’O2 (p = 0.005 and p = 0.003, respectively). Daily PA levels were similar in CF and healthy controls. Except for peak values, V’O2 profile and the V’O2 at LT were comparable between CF and healthy controls. In adult CF patients daily PA positively correlated with aerobic capacity. PA measurements are a valuable tool in the assessment of exercise performance in an adult CF population and could be used for interventional exercise trials to optimize exercise performance and health status. PA levels and parameters obtained at submaximal exercise are similar in CF and in healthy controls.

L-Arginine Affects Aerobic Capacity and Muscle Metabolism in MELAS (Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy, Lactic Acidosis and Stroke-Like Episodes) Syndrome

Abstract: Objective To study the effects of L-arginine (L-Arg) on total body aerobic capacity and muscle metabolism as assessed by 31Phosphorus Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (31P-MRS) in patients with MELAS (Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy with Lactic Acidosis and Stroke-like episodes) syndrome. Methods We performed a case control study in 3 MELAS siblings (m.3243A>G tRNAleu(UUR) in MTTL1 gene) with different % blood mutant mtDNA to evaluate total body maximal aerobic capacity (VO2peak) using graded cycle ergometry and muscle metabolism using 31P-MRS. We then ran a clinical trial pilot study in MELAS sibs to assess response of these parameters to single dose and a 6-week steady-state trial of oral L-Arginine. Results At baseline (no L-Arg), MELAS had lower serum Arg (p = 0.001). On 31P-MRS muscle at rest, MELAS subjects had increased phosphocreatine (PCr) (p = 0.05), decreased ATP (p = 0.018), and decreased intracellular Mg2+ (p = 0.0002) when compared to matched controls. With L-arginine therapy, the following trends were noted in MELAS siblings on cycle ergometry: (1) increase in mean % maximum work at anaerobic threshold (AT) (2) increase in % maximum heart rate at AT (3) small increase in VO2peak. On 31P-MRS the following mean trends were noted: (1) A blunted decrease in pH after exercise (less acidosis) (2) increase in Pi/PCr ratio (ADP) suggesting increased work capacity (3) a faster half time of PCr recovery (marker of mitochondrial activity) following 5 minutes of moderate intensity exercise (4) increase in torque. Significance These results suggest an improvement in aerobic capacity and muscle metabolism in MELAS subjects in response to supplementation with L-Arg. Intramyocellular hypomagnesemia is a novel finding that warrants further study. Classification of Evidence Class III evidence that L-arginine improves aerobic capacity and muscle metabolism in MELAS subjects. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01603446.

Aerobic Fitness, Micronutrient Status, and Academic Achievement in Indian School-Aged Children

Abstract: Aerobic fitness has been shown to have several beneficial effects on child health. However, research on its relationship with academic performance has been limited, particularly in developing countries and among undernourished populations. This study examined the association between aerobic fitness and academic achievement in clinically healthy but nutritionally compromised Indian school-aged children and assessed whether micronutrient status affects this association. 273 participants, aged 7 to 10.5 years, were enrolled from three primary schools in Bangalore, India. Data on participants’ aerobic fitness (20-m shuttle test), demographics, anthropometry, diet, physical activity, and micronutrient status were abstracted. School-wide exam scores in mathematics and Kannada language served as indicators of academic performance and were standardized by grade level. The strength of the fitness/achievement association was analyzed using Spearman’s rank correlation, multiple variable logistic regression, and multi-level models. Significant positive correlations between aerobic capacity (VO2 peak) and academic scores in math and Kannada were observed (P < 0.05). After standardizing scores across grade levels and adjusting for school, gender, socioeconomic status, and weight status (BMI Z-score), children with greater aerobic capacities (mL * kg-1 * min-1) had greater odds of scoring above average on math and Kannada exams (OR=1.08, 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.15 and OR=1.11, 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.18, respectively). This association remained significant after adjusting for micronutrient deficiencies. These findings provide preliminary evidence of a fitness/achievement association in Indian children. While the mechanisms by which aerobic fitness may be linked to academic achievement require further investigation, the results suggest that educators and policymakers should consider the adequacy of opportunities for physical activity and fitness in schools for both their physical and potential academic benefits.

Effects of exercise on functional aerobic capacity in adults with fibromyalgia syndrome: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

Abstract: Background Patients with fibromyalgia present a reduced capacity of upper and lower limb physical performance and affect their independence in performing everyday activities. Objective The purpose of the present systematic review was to summarize evidence for the effectiveness and structure of exercise programs on functional aerobic capacity in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome. Methods Keyword searches were made of seven databases. The systematic review was limited to English language studies of people with FM that evaluated the effects of exercise programs on functional aerobic capacity (6-minute walk test). Results The criteria for inclusion were satisfied by 12 randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies. The main cumulative evidence indicates that the programs based on aerobic exercise alone and on aquatic exercises have large (effect size = 0.85) and moderate (effect size = 0.44) effects. Conclusions Aerobic and aquatic exercises at the proper intensity favour the increased functional aerobic capacity of fibromyalgia patients; however, most works do not adequately detail the intensity of the exercises. Moderate intensity exercise (aerobic and aquatic exercise) performed at least two times per week and 30-60 minutes a day is effective for increasing functional aerobic capacity, favouring the daily activities of daily living in this population.

Aerobic Training Increases Expression Levels of SIRT3 and PGC-1α in Skeletal Muscle of Overweight Adolescents Without Change in Caloric Intake.

Abstract: Sirtuin 3 enzyme (SIRT3) is involved in the regulation of mitochondrial energy homeostasis by activating Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator (PGC-1α). Murine models have shown that the protein SIRT3 was modified by exercise and diet, however, the effect of exercise without diet in humans has not been examined. Propose of this paper was to analyze the effect of aerobic training on SIRT3 and PGC-1α in skeletal muscle of overweight adolescents without change in caloric intake. Fourteen overweight or obese male adolescents (15.5 ± 0.8 years) trained 3 days-week/50 min × session, at 70-80% of maximal heart rate for 12 weeks. Anthropometrics and skeletal muscle biopsies from the vastus lateralis were taken before and after the exercise program to measure adiposity, SIRT3, and PGC-1α proteins. Peak aerobic capacity (VO2peak) was estimated before and after training. The participants did not change their eating habits during the intervention. SIRT3 (1.05 ± 0.11 vs. 1.25 ± 0.14 AU, p = .014) and PGC-1a (1.06 ± 0.15 Vs 1.39 ± 0.20 AU, p = .009) increased. Fat percentage and waist circumference decreased (p < .05). VO2peak increased after training (p < .001). There was a significant association between SIRT3 and PGC-1α after training program. These data suggest that aerobic training increased SIRT3 and PGC-1a expression levels in sedentary, overweight, or obese adolescents.

Prevalence and Factors Associated With Low Aerobic Performance Levels in Adolescents: A Systematic Review.

Abstract: Low aerobic performance levels have been considered one of the risk factors for premature mortality, regardless of presence of other health problems. The critical analysis of studies on the prevalence of low aerobic performance and associated factors may contribute to the epidemiological knowledge and analysis / discussion of socio-cultural aspects that influence low aerobic performance. The aim of this systematic review was to identify studies on the prevalence of low aerobic performance levels and possible associations between low aerobic performance and demographic/ biological factors, lifestyle and excess body fat in adolescents (11-19 years). The search was conducted in PubMed and SciELO databases using descriptors "aerobic capacity" or "aerobic fitness", "cardiorespiratory capacity" or "cardiorespiratory fitness", "aerobic power" or "aerobic endurance" or "cardiorespiratory endurance" and "adolescents". After the search and exclusion criteria, 33 articles were selected. Factors that were associated with low aerobic performance levels were female gender, low income, low consumption of dairy products and/or bread/cereals, increased consumption of sweetened beverages, insufficient physical activity level, excessive screen time and excess body fat. The heterogeneity of factors related to low aerobic performance levels demonstrates the complexity of this topic and the need for further studies to obtain definitive conclusions.

Changes in Body Composition and Physical Performance in Wheelchair Basketball Players During a Competitive Season

Abstract: The present study analyzed the changes in body composition and physical performance in wheelchair basketball (WB) players during one competitive season Players from a WB team competing in the first division of the Spanish League (n = 8, age: 265 ± 29 years, body mass: 798 ± 126 kg, sitting height: 914 ± 44 cm) participated in this research The upper limbs showed a decrease in subcutaneous adipose tissue and there was an improvement in physical abilities such as sprinting with the ball (5 and 20 m), handgrip and aerobic capacity However, the changes in physical fitness concerning sprinting without the ball and agility tests were low It would be interesting to study the effects of implementing specific programs to improve physical performance in WB and to establish more test sessions to monitor the effects of the programs followed

Aerobic training alone or combined with strength training affects fitness in elderly: Randomized trial

Abstract: Purpose: To investigate if combined strength and aerobic training can enhance aerobic capacity in the elderly to a similar extent as aerobic training alone when training duration is matched. Methods: Elderly men and women (age 63.2 ± 4.7) were randomized into two intervention groups: an aerobic group (AG, n = 17) and a combined group (CG, n = 16). Subjects trained 40 minutes three times a week for 12 weeks. Both groups trained 20 minutes at 65% of heart rate reserve on ergometer cycles followed by another 20 minutes on the ergometer cycles for AG and 20-minute strength training for the lower body for CG. The primary outcome was VO2max. Secondary outcomes were maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) in isometric knee extension, 1 repetition maximum in three leg exercises, body fat, waist-to-hip ratio, blood pressure and score on the Health Survey Short Form 36 (SF-36). Results: Both groups improved VO2max (p < .01) and MVC (p < .001). VO2max increased 17% confidence interval (CI) [7.4–26] in CG and 26%...

Incorporating Sprint Training With Endurance Training Improves Anaerobic Capacity and 2,000-m Erg Performance in Trained Oarsmen

Abstract: A 2,000-m time-trial performance, aerobic capacity, and anaerobic capacity were assessed in 16 trained oarsmen after sprint interval training (SIT) replaced a portion of an endurance-based training program (EBTSIT) vs an endurance-based program alone (EBTAlone) The EBTSIT involved 10 SIT sessions over 4 weeks, in addition to 12 continuous exercise sessions, 2 anaerobic threshold exercise sessions, and 4 strength training sessions The EBTAlone consisted of 20 continuous, 6 anaerobic threshold, 2 interval exercise sessions, and 8 strength training sessions Time-trial performance (2,000-m erg performance) improved with EBTSIT (baseline = 4146 ± 185, post = 4106 ± 175 seconds; p < 0001) but only approached significance in EBTAlone (baseline = 4130 ± 277, post = 4114 ± 279 seconds; p = 006) In a 60-second "all-out" anaerobic capacity test, peak power output (PPO) increased significantly with EBTSIT (PPO: EBTSIT: baseline = 566 ± 82, post = 623 ± 60 W; p = 002) but not with EBTAlone (EBTAlone: baseline = 603 ± 81, post = 591 ± 123 W; p = 059) Changes in average power output (APO) also approached significance (p = 007) (APO: EBTSIT: baseline = 508 ± 48, post = 530 ± 52 W; EBTAlone: baseline = 532 ± 55, post = 533 ± 68 W) Neither group experienced any change in aerobic capacity ((Equation is included in full-text article)or ventilatory threshold; p ≥ 016) We conclude that replacing a portion of EBT with SIT can improve both 2,000-m erg performance and anaerobic capacity, while maintaining aerobic fitness in trained oarsmen Incorporating SIT within endurance training programs may be useful during periods of low-volume training, to improve performance without sacrificing aerobic capacity

Aerobic exercise capacity: an important correlate of psychosocial function in first episode psychosis

Abstract: max) or by standardized exercisetests, such as walking-based protocols that measure total dis-tance achieved in a given timeframe. Vancampfort et al. (2)first reported an association between exercise capacity and glo-bal functioning in hospitalized patients with schizophrenia. Astrong relationship was found between the distance achievedon a standardized walk-test (a validated measure of aerobicexercise capacity) and the Global Assessment of Functioningscore (GAF) (2). Although causality cannot be establishedthrough a cross-sectional study, the findings provide furtherjustification for the inclusion of physical activity interventionsin schizophrenia, and the importance of examining changes inmaximal aerobic capacity, particularly given the potentialimpact that such strategies may have on physical health, men-tal health, and overall psychosocial functioning (3, 4).We aimed to replicate the findings of Vancampfort et al. (2)in a sample of young people experiencing a first episode of psy-chosis (FEP) attending a community treatment service in Syd-ney, Australia. Nineteen young people (19.9 2.4 years; 53%male) completed a staged submaximal exercise test on a cycleergometer within 4 weeks of referral to the service. Submaxi-mal exercise tests are a cheap, feasible, and valid alternative tomaximal exercise testing for both the general and clinical popu-lations. Submaximal exercise testing relies on heart rateresponse to a given workload, to estimate exercise capacity.The current study utilized the Young Men’s Christian Associa-tion (YMCA) protocol involving two, 3-min stages of continu-ous cycling at a cadence of 50 RPM.The mean estimated V0

Interval and continuous exercise enhances aerobic capacity and hemodynamic function in CHF rats

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of continuous versus interval aerobic exercise training on hemodynamic parameters, cardiac remodeling, and maximal exercise capacity (MEC) in chronic heart failure (CHF) rats.METHOD: Twenty-four male Wistar rats were subjected to myocardial infarction (MI) surgery. Five weeks post MI, the animals were assigned to one of three groups: sedentary group (CHF-Sed, n=8), aerobic continuous training group (CHF-ACT, n=8), and aerobic interval training group (CHF-AIT, n=8). Treadmill training was performed five times a week for 8 weeks (ACT: 50 min/day at 15 m/min and AIT: 40 min/day with 8 min of warm-up at 10 m/min and exercise at 15 m/min 4×4 min interspersed with 4×4 min at 23 m/min). MEC was evaluated pre and post exercise program.RESULTS: Left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), left ventricular mass/body mass ratio (LVM:BM), and total collagen volume fraction were lower in the trained groups compared with the sedentary group, but no difference was found between the trained groups. Systolic ventricular pressure (SVP) and maximum positive derivative of LV pressure (+dP/dtmax) were higher in the trained groups, but CHF-ACT showed higher +dP/dtmax compared to CHF-AIT. Both training regimens were able to increase MEC. However, the aerobic interval training was superior for improving MEC.CONCLUSION: Aerobic training is an important intervention to improve cardiac function and remodeling and physical capacity in CHF rats. Interval training is a potential strategy to maximize the results, but exercise type and intensity are still topics to be explored.

Muscular strength, aerobic capacity, and adipocytokines in obese youth after resistance training: A pilot study

Abstract: Exercise has shown positive training effects on obesity-related inflammation, however, resistance training has shown mixed results concerning adipocytokine levels. The purpose of this pilot study was to explore the effects of resistance training on blood adipocytokine concentrations in obese youth, with specific examination of the relationship between these biomarkers and improved fitness (i.e., aerobic capacity, muscular strength). Fourteen obese adolescents (16.1 ±1.6 y; BMI: 32.3 ±3.9 kg/m(2)) participated in a 16-week resistance training intervention. Body composition, fasting blood concentrations of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-ɑ), adiponectin, and leptin were measured pre- and post-training. Aerobic capacity was assessed via a maximal discontinuous exercise test. The rate of gain in muscular strength was calculated as the slope of progression in 1-repetition maximum throughout the intervention. Resistance training increased lean mass (total, trunk) and decreased per cent body fat (total, trunk). The training also caused moderate clear decreases in IL-6 and TNF-ɑ concentrations. A small increase in adiponectin was also observed before and after intervention. When the group was stratified by changes in aerobic capacity, there were substantially larger decreases in leptin levels for those with improved capacity. Correlation analyses also revealed a negative relationship between log-transformed leptin and aerobic capacity at rest. Improvement in quadriceps strength was positively correlated with IL-6 and TNF-ɑ, while improvement in shoulder adductor strength was positively correlated with IL-6 only. Resistance training improved adipocytokine markers, which were partially associated with improved physical fitness. Specifically, the relationship between strength improvements and IL-6 and TNF-ɑ suggests an exercise-induced signalling pathway that results in overall adaptive decreases in systemic inflammation in obese youth.

Use of an ankle-foot orthosis improves aerobic capacity in subacute hemiparetic stroke patients.

Abstract: Objective To investigate aerobic capacity with and without an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) in subacute hemiparetic stroke patients. Design Prospective crossover intervention study. Setting Rehabilitation clinic in secondary care. Patients Patients diagnosed with first-ever cerebral stroke involving the cortical or subcortical area resulting in hemiparesis (n = 15, 8 men and 7 women; average age, 62.1 years). Methods All subjects participated in 2 continuous, symptom-limited, low-velocity graded treadmill exercise stress tests under 2 different conditions, namely, with and without an AFO. The rest interval between tests was at least 48 hours. The order of exercise stress tests was randomized. Main Outcome Measurements To assess cardiorespiratory responses, oxygen consumption, heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, rate-pressure product, and respiratory exchange ratio were measured continuously throughout the test, and peak values were obtained. The rating of perceived exertion was recorded immediately after each test. The percentage of the age-predicted maximal heart rate and total exercise duration were also measured. Gait function was assessed by the Six-Minute Walk Test. Results Using an AFO significantly increased peak oxygen consumption and Six-Minute Walk Test results. Peak values of each of heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, rate-pressure product, and respiratory exchange ratio, rating of perceived exertion, percentage of age-predicted maximal heart rate, and total exercise duration were similar regardless of AFO use. Conclusions Use of an AFO may improve aerobic capacity in subacute hemiparetic stroke patients, and may improve energy efficiency and gait endurance.

Aerobic exercise training in modulation of aerobic physical fitness and balance of burned patients.

Abstract: [Purpose] This study aimed to determine the impact of aerobic exercise on aerobic capacity, balance, and treadmill time in patients with thermal burn injury. [Subjects and Methods] Burned adult patients, aged 20–40 years (n=30), from both sexes, with second degree thermal burn injuries covering 20–40% of the total body surface area (TBSA), were enrolled in this trial for 3 months. Patients were randomly divided into; group A (n=15), which performed an aerobic exercise program 3 days/week for 60 min and participated in a traditional physical therapy program, and group B (n=15), which only participated in a traditional exercise program 3 days/week. Maximal aerobic capacity, treadmill time, and Berg balance scale were measured before and after the study. [Results] In both groups, the results revealed significant improvements after treatment in all measurements; however, the improvement in group A was superior to that in group B. [Conclusion] The results provide evidence that aerobic exercises for adults with healed burn injuries improve aerobic physical fitness and balance.

The acute muscular effects of cycling with and without different degrees of blood flow restriction

Abstract: The aim was to compare the acute effects of work matched high intensity (75% peak aerobic capacity) aerobic exercise to low intensity (40% peak aerobic capacity) aerobic exercise with different degrees of blood flow restriction (BFR) [40% estimated arterial occlusion (40 BFR) and 60% estimated arterial occlusion (60 BFR)] on variables previously hypothesized to be important for muscle adaptation. There were no meaningful changes in torque. Anterior thigh muscle thickness was increased from baseline with high intensity cycling and 40 BFR (~2 mm increase, p ≤ 0.008). A significant increase in lactate occurred in all exercise conditions but was greatest with high intensity cycling (~5.4 mmol/L increase). Muscle activation was significantly higher with high intensity cycling compared to low intensity cycling with BFR, regardless of pressure (~25% vs. ~12% MVC). Mean power frequency was not different between conditions but did increase from the first 5 minutes of exercise to the last 5 minutes (93% vs. 101%, p < 0.001). Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were higher with high intensity cycling but discomfort was similar between conditions. We wish to suggest that high intensity cycling produces greater muscular stress than that observed with work matched low intensity cycling in combination with BFR.

Maximal fat oxidation, but not aerobic capacity, is affected by oral contraceptive use in young healthy women.

Abstract: Synthetic ovarian hormones contained in oral contraceptives (OC) may alter the aerobic capacity and lipid metabolism in oral contraceptive users (OC+) compared with non-users (OC−). The aim of this study was thus to investigate the differences between OC− and OC+ (1) in cardiorespiratory parameters at the anaerobic threshold (AT) and at the maximal aerobic capacity and (2) in the exercise intensity (Lipoxmax) at which lipid oxidation rate is maximal (MLOR). Twenty-one healthy untrained women (22.0 ± 0.6 years old) who took OC (OC+; low-dose monophasic OC, n = 11) or not (OC−; n = 10) performed two experimental exercise sessions. In the first one, cardiorespiratory parameters at the AT and at the maximal aerobic capacity were assessed during a maximal incremental exercise session. In the second one, Lipoxmax and MLOR were measured during a submaximal incremental exercise session. No significant difference was observed in cardiorespiratory parameters at the AT and at the maximal aerobic capacity between OC+ and OC− women. OC+ women showed higher MLOR (7.6 ± 1.9 vs 4.6 ± 1.0 mg min−1 kg FFM−1; p < 0.01) that was elicited by higher Lipoxmax (45.2 ± 5.2 vs 36.2 ± 4.1 % of VO2max; p < 0.001) compared to OC− women. OC+ and OC− women did not differ in cardiorespiratory parameters at the AT and at the maximal aerobic capacity. However, OC+ women show higher MLOR and Lipoxmax compared with OC− women. The hormonal status appears to be an important MLOR and Lipoxmax determinant in untrained women.