Showing papers on "Aerobic capacity published in 2020"

Role of increasing the aerobic capacity on improving the function of immune and respiratory systems in patients with coronavirus (COVID-19): A review.

Abstract: Background and aims COVID-19 is a public world crisis, however, it is a self-limited infection. In COVID-19, the strength of immune and respiratory systems is a critical element. Thus, this review was conducted to demonstrate the short and long term effects of increasing the aerobic capacity on increasing the function and strength of immune and respiratory systems, particularly those essential for overcoming COVID-19 infections and associated disorders. Methods This review was carried out by searching in Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCO, Medline databases. The search was conducted over clinical trials and literature and systematic reviews on the effects of increasing the aerobic capacity on the function and strength of specific immune and respiratory elements essential for overcoming COVID-19 infections. Results This review found that increasing the aerobic capacity could produce short-term safe improvements in the function of immune and respiratory systems, particularly those specific for COVID-19 infections. This could be mainly produced through three mechanisms. Firstly, it could improve immunity by increasing the level and function of immune cells and immunoglobulins, regulating CRP levels, and decreasing anxiety and depression. Secondly, it could improve respiratory system functions by acting as an antibiotic, antioxidant, and antimycotic, restoring normal lung tissue elasticity and strength. Lastly, it could act as a protective barrier to decrease COVID-19 risk factors, which helps to decrease the incidence and progression of COVID-19. Conclusion This review summarizes that increasing the aerobic capacity is recommended because it has potential of improving immune and respiratory functions which would help counter COVID-19.

Effect of aerobic exercise training with and without blood flow restriction on aerobic capacity in healthy young adults: a systematic review with meta-analysis.

Abstract: Background Exercise training (ET) with blood flow restriction (BFR) is becoming increasingly popular, but the majority of BFR ET studies have evaluated skeletal muscle strength and hypertrophy. The favorable effect of BFR ET on skeletal muscle and the vasculature appears to improve aerobic capacity (AC) although conflicting results have been observed.Purpose: The purposes of this systematic review with meta- analysis were to examine the effects of aerobic ET with and without BFR on AC and to compare the effect of low-to-moderate aerobic ET with and without BFR to high-intensity aerobic ET with and without BFR on AC. Study design Systematic Review with Meta-analysis. Methods A comprehensive search for studies examining the effects of aerobic ET with and without BFR on AC was performed. Inclusion criteria were: (a) the study was conducted in healthy individuals, (b) there was random allocation of study participants to training and control groups, (c) BFR was the sole intervention difference between the groups. Results A total of seven studies (5 low-to-moderate ET and 2 high-intensity ET) were included in the meta-analysis providing data from 121 subjects. There was a significant standardized mean difference (SMD) of 0.38 (95% CI = 0.01, 0.75) in AC between the BFR and non-BFR groups of all seven studies (z = 2.01; p = 0.04). Separate analyses of the five low-to-moderate aerobic ET studies found similar results with aerobic ET with BFR eliciting a significantly greater AC (z = 2.47; p=0.01) than aerobic ET without BFR (SMD of 0.57; 95% CI = 0.12, 1.01). Separate analyses of the two high-intensity aerobic ET studies with and without BFR found no significant difference in AC between the groups (SMD of - 0.01; 95% CI = - 0.67, 0.64). Conclusion Aerobic ET with BFR elicits a significantly greater AC than aerobic ET without BFR in healthy young adults. However, low-to-moderate intensity aerobic ET with BFR elicited a greater improvement in AC than aerobic ET without BFR while high-intensity aerobic ET with BFR did not elicit an improvement in AC over high-intensity aerobic ET without BFR. Level of evidence 1a.

Low-Frequency HIIT Improves Body Composition and Aerobic Capacity in Overweight Men.

Abstract: BackgroundThe relationship between the frequency of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and the resultant adaptations is largely unclear.PurposeThis study compared the effects of different frequencies of HIIT with those of moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on body composition

Hyperglycaemia is associated with impaired muscle signalling and aerobic adaptation to exercise

Abstract: Increased aerobic exercise capacity, as a result of exercise training, has important health benefits. However, some individuals are resistant to improvements in exercise capacity, probably due to undetermined genetic and environmental factors. Here, we show that exercise-induced improvements in aerobic capacity are blunted and aerobic remodelling of skeletal muscle is impaired in several animal models associated with chronic hyperglycaemia. Our data point to chronic hyperglycaemia as a potential negative regulator of aerobic adaptation, in part, via glucose-mediated modifications of the extracellular matrix, impaired vascularization and aberrant mechanical signalling in muscle. We also observe low exercise capacity and enhanced c-Jun N-terminal kinase activation in response to exercise in humans with impaired glucose tolerance. Our work indicates that current shifts in dietary and metabolic health, associated with increasing incidence of hyperglycaemia, might impair muscular and organismal adaptations to exercise training, including aerobic capacity as one of its key health outcomes. The muscular and organismal response to exercise training is reduced in animal models associated with chronic hyperglycaemia, thus suggesting that chronic hyperglycaemia inhibits aerobic adaptation to exercise.

Combined aerobic and low-intensity resistance exercise training increases basal nitric oxide production and decreases arterial stiffness in healthy older adults.

Abstract: Meta-analyses have concluded that combined aerobic and high-intensity or moderate-intensity resistance exercise training has no effects on arterial stiffness. However, a recent study demonstrated that combined aerobic training and resistance training using rubber bands increases basal nitric oxide (NO) production and decreases arterial stiffness with marked reduction of body weight in obese adolescent girls. To investigate whether combined aerobic and low-intensity resistance training increases basal NO production and decreases arterial stiffness without body weight reduction in older adults, 27 healthy older individuals participated in a 6-week program as a part of the training group (mean body mass index, 21 kg/m2; walking and resistance training using one's body weight) or the control group (22 kg/m2, asked not to modify their lifestyle). The exercise intervention increased aerobic capacity, muscle strength, and plasma concentrations of nitrite/nitrate (end products of NO) and decreased pulse wave velocity (an index of arterial stiffness) without changes in body weight. In the control group, there were no differences in these measures before and after the study period. These results suggest that combined aerobic and low-intensity resistance exercise training increases basal NO production and decreases arterial stiffness in healthy older adults.

Effects of aerobic and resistance exercise on cardiac remodelling and skeletal muscle oxidative stress of infarcted rats

Abstract: We compared the influence of aerobic and resistance exercise on cardiac remodelling, physical capacity and skeletal muscle oxidative stress in rats with MI-induced heart failure. Three months after MI induction, Wistar rats were divided into four groups: Sham; sedentary MI (S-MI); aerobic exercised MI (A-MI); and resistance exercised MI (R-MI). Exercised rats trained three times a week for 12 weeks on a treadmill or ladder. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis test. Functional aerobic capacity was greater in A-MI and strength gain higher in R-MI. Echocardiographic parameters did not differ between infarct groups. Reactive oxygen species production, evaluated by fluorescence, was higher in S-MI than Sham, and lipid hydroperoxide concentration was lower in A-MI than the other groups. Glutathione peroxidase activity was higher in A-MI than S-MI and R-MI. Superoxide dismutase was lower in S-MI than Sham and R-MI. Gastrocnemius cross-sectional area, satellite cell activation and expression of the ubiquitin-proteasome system proteins did not differ between groups. In conclusion, aerobic exercise and resistance exercise improve functional capacity and maximum load carrying, respectively, without changing cardiac remodelling in infarcted rats. In the gastrocnemius, infarction increases oxidative stress and changes antioxidant enzyme activities. Aerobic exercise reduces oxidative stress and attenuates superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase changes.

Run for your life: tweaking the weekly physical activity volume for longevity

Abstract: > There is nothing better than exercise but more exercise. Regular physical activity (PA) and high cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF: aerobic capacity, VO2 max) reduce all-cause mortality even after adjusting for relevant confounders.1 2 Large-scale studies indicate an almost linear relationship between increasing CRF and longevity, with no signs of an upper limit.3 It remains less clear which PA volumes are optimal for a long life. Public health guidelines recommend a minimum of 150–300 min moderate intensity aerobic PA or 75–150 min vigorous intensity aerobic PA per week to induce general health benefits.4 Dr Hannah Arem and colleagues, using pooled data from six studies in the USA and Europe (including 661 137 adults), showed that meeting PA guidelines was associated with a large longevity benefit.5 And there were even further improvements until the benefit for longevity reached a threshold at a level 3–5 times higher (450–750 min/week) than the minimum recommendations, without adverse effects in those performing PA at ≥10 times that minimum. The maximum all-cause mortality reduction was almost 40% without relevant differences between …

Effects of a Combined Exercise Training Program on Health Indicators and Quality of Life of People Living with HIV: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 16 weeks of combined exercise training (CET) on muscle strength, body composition, depression, anxiety and quality of life of people living with HIV (PLHIV). Twenty-three participants completed the study, 14 in trained group (TG) and 9 in control group (CG). TG consisted of resistance and aerobic training three times a week, while the CG was exposed to recreational activities twice a week. CET promoted increased muscle strength (25% in overall strength) and aerobic capacity (+ 20% in training speed and + 23% in VO2 during aerobic training; p < 0.05). In addition, TG had better quality of life and reduced depression rates (from 7 subjects with mild, moderate or severe depression to 1 post-training). In conclusion, this pilot data demonstrated that 16 weeks of CET increased muscle strength, and improved depression and quality of life indexes in a small sample of PLHIV.

Physical and Physiological Profiles of Aerobic and Anaerobic Capacities in Young Basketball Players.

Abstract: Current trends in the analysis of the physical fitness of athletes are based on subjecting the athlete to requirements similar to those found in competition. Regarding physical fitness, a thorough study of the capacities that affect the development of team sports in different ages and gender is required since the demands are not equivalent. The objective of this paper was to characterize the physical-physiological demands of athletes in an aerobic and anaerobic test specific to basketball players, as well as the evolution of the variables according to age and gender. The research was carried out in 149 players from different training categories (n = 103 male; n = 46 female). The athletes performed two field tests that evaluated both aerobic capacity and lactic anaerobic capacity. Each athlete was equipped with an inertial device during the tests. Sixteen variables (equal in both tests) were analyzed. Three of them evaluated technical-tactical aspects, four variables of objective internal load, six kinematic variables of objective external load (two related to distance and four related to accelerometry) and three neuromuscular variables of objective external load. The obtained results show significant differences in the variables analyzed according to the age and gender of the athletes. They are mainly due to factors related to the anthropometric maturation and development inherent in age and have an impact on the efficiency and technical and tactical requirements of the tests carried out and, therefore, on the obtained results in the tests.

NAD + precursor increases aerobic performance in mice

Abstract: Nicotinamide riboside (NR) acts as a potent NAD+ precursor and improves mitochondrial oxidative capacity and mitochondrial biogenesis in several organisms. However, the effects of NR supplementation on aerobic performance remain unclear. Here, we evaluated the effects of NR supplementation on the muscle metabolism and aerobic capacity of sedentary and trained mice. Male C57BL/6 J mice were supplemented with NR (400 mg/Kg/day) over 5 and 10 weeks. The training protocol consisted of 5 weeks of treadmill aerobic exercise, for 60 min a day, 5 days a week. Bioinformatic and physiological assays were combined with biochemical and molecular assays to evaluate the experimental groups. NR supplementation by itself did not change the aerobic performance, even though 5 weeks of NR supplementation increased NAD+ levels in the skeletal muscle. However, combining NR supplementation and aerobic training increased the aerobic performance compared to the trained group. This was accompanied by an increased protein content of NMNAT3, the rate-limiting enzyme for NAD + biosynthesis and mitochondrial proteins, including MTCO1 and ATP5a. Interestingly, the transcriptomic analysis using a large panel of isogenic strains of BXD mice confirmed that the Nmnat3 gene in the skeletal muscle is correlated with several mitochondrial markers and with different phenotypes related to physical exercise. Finally, NR supplementation during aerobic training markedly increased the amount of type I fibers in the skeletal muscle. Taken together, our results indicate that NR may be an interesting strategy to improve mitochondrial metabolism and aerobic capacity.

Aerobic capacity and telomere length in human skeletal muscle and leukocytes across the lifespan

Abstract: A reduction in aerobic capacity and the shortening of telomeres are hallmarks of the ageing process. We examined whether a lower aerobic capacity is associated with shorter TL in skeletal muscle and/or leukocytes, across a wide age range of individuals. We also tested whether TL in human skeletal muscle (MTL) correlates with TL in leukocytes (LTL). Eighty-two recreationally active, healthy men from the Gene SMART cohort (31.4±8.2 years; body mass index (BMI)=25.3±3.3kg/m2), and 11 community dwelling older men (74.2±7.5years-old; BMI=28.7±2.8kg/m2) participated in the study. Leukocytes and skeletal muscle samples were collected at rest. Relative telomere length (T/S ratio) was measured by RT-PCR. Associations between TL, aerobic capacity (VO2 peak and peak power) and age were assessed with robust linear models. Older age was associated with shorter LTL (45% variance explained, P<0.001), but not MTL (P= 0.7). Aerobic capacity was not associated with MTL (P=0.5), nor LTL (P=0.3). MTL and LTL were correlated across the lifespan (rs=0.26, P=0.03). In healthy individuals, age explain most of the variability of LTL and this appears to be independent of individual aerobic capacity. Individuals with longer LTL also have a longer MTL, suggesting that there might be a shared molecular mechanism regulating telomere length.

The Relationship Between Repeated-Sprint Ability, Aerobic Capacity, and Oxygen Uptake Recovery Kinetics in Female Soccer Athletes.

Abstract: This study investigated the relationship between repeated-sprint ability, aerobic capacity, and oxygen uptake kinetics during the transition between exercise and recovery (off-transient) in female athletes of an intermittent sport modality. Eighteen professional soccer players completed three tests: 1) a maximal incremental exercise test; 2) a constant speed time-to-exhaustion test; and 3) a repeated-sprint ability test consisting of six 40-m sprints with 20 s of passive recovery in-between. Correlations between time-to-exhaustion, repeated-sprint ability, and oxygen uptake kinetics were calculated afterwards. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. A performance decrement during repeated-sprint ability was found to be related to: 1) time-to-exhaustion (e.g., exercise tolerance; r = -0.773, p < 0.001); 2) oxygen uptake recovery time (r = 0.601, p = 0.008); and 3) oxygen uptake mean response time of recovery (r = 0.722, p < 0.001). Moreover, the best sprint time (r = -0.601, p = 0.008) and the mean sprint time (r = -0.608, p = 0.007) were found to be related to maximal oxygen uptake. Collectively, these results reinforce the relation between oxygen uptake kinetics and the ability to maintain sprint performance in female athletes. These results may contribute to coaches and training staff of female soccer teams to focus on training and improve their athletes' aerobic capacity and recovery capacity to improve intermittent exercise performance.

The effect of 8 weeks of freestyle swim training on the functional fitness of adults with Down syndrome

Abstract: BACKGROUND Studies conducted on adults with Down syndrome have demonstrated the improvement of functional fitness (aerobic capacity, muscular strength, balance, flexibility, functional ability, body mass or body mass index) with varying exercise modalities but often with one or two components in isolation. Such modalities included walking, running, cycling, rowing or resistance training. Freestyle swim training has shown significant improvements of all parameters associated with functional fitness in the general population. Swimming is an aerobic activity where many of the large muscle groups are involved and may provide more functional fitness benefits. As a consequence, the purpose of our study was to investigate the effect of freestyle swim training on the functional fitness of adults with Down syndrome. METHODS Twenty-six adults with Down syndrome (33 ± 6 years; 34 ± 9 kg/m2 ) were randomly allocated to an exercise (n = 13; 81.3 kg) or control group (n = 13; 81.5 kg). The exercise group performed 8 weeks of freestyle swim training, three times a week, 30 min per session (increased to 40 min after 4 weeks). To evaluate differences between groups, a one-way analysis of variance was used, controlling for differences at baseline. RESULTS After 8 weeks of training, the results showed significant differences between the exercise and control group for body mass, body mass index, aerobic capacity, dynamic balance, muscular strength, 12-m swim time and functional ability (P < 0.05). Effect sizes ranged from small to large. CONCLUSIONS Various components of functional fitness improved significantly after an intervention period of freestyle swim training. The collective improvement of many functional fitness parameters shown by this study may hold benefits for these often-neglected and in many cases functionally impaired individuals.

Interspecific differences and ecological correlations of energy metabolism traits in freshwater fishes

Abstract: Metabolic energy fuels all biological processes, and thus, energy metabolism is vitally important for organisms. It has been suggested that interspecific variation in physiological functions is associated with the energetic metabolism of organisms, which varies considerably due to selection, adaptation and evolution. Thus, the present study aimed to clarify the relationship between the interspecific diversification of maintenance energy expenditure and two forms of anaerobic capacity (in terms of exercise and hypoxia tolerance) in freshwater fishes. Moreover, in the context of environmental adaptation, we hypothesized that selection for increased locomotor performance in species with a fast‐flow lifestyle favours a high aerobic and anaerobic capacity and, consequently, a high maintenance metabolism, whereas selection for strong hypoxia tolerance in species with a slow‐flow lifestyle favours a reduced maintenance metabolism and a reduced aerobic capacity. We examined these topics among 30 species of freshwater fish with different lifestyles based on the flow regimes of their habitats (fast, intermediate and slow flow). The resting metabolic rate of each species was measured, and then, the fish were subjected to two treatments: (a) exercise to exhaustion, after which we measured the maximum metabolic rate, excess post‐exercise oxygen consumption and metabolic recovery rate; and (b) hypoxia to the point of loss of equilibrium (LOE), after which we measured the metabolic response to recovery from hypoxia, including the peak metabolic rate (PMRₕ) and the excess post‐hypoxia oxygen consumption (EPOCₕ). We found that the resting metabolic rate was positively correlated with both the aerobic and anaerobic capacity of the fishes and that species from fast‐flow habitats have higher aerobic and anaerobic capacity with concomitantly increased resting metabolism. However, neither EPOCₕ nor LOE was correlated with resting metabolic rate. In summary, we suggest that selection for increased aerobic and anaerobic capacity to facilitate the demands of exercise has occurred in fast‐flow species, that selection for hypoxia tolerance may have favoured a reduction in this capacity in intermediate and slow‐flow species, and that specialized adaptations (such as flexibility in gill morphology and altered metabolic pathways) play important roles in hypoxia tolerance in some species. A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.

Effect of Aerobic Exercise Training and Deconditioning on Oxidative Capacity and Muscle Mitochondrial Enzyme Machinery in Young and Elderly Individuals.

Abstract: Mitochondrial dysfunction is thought to be involved in age-related loss of muscle mass and function (sarcopenia). Since the degree of physical activity is vital for skeletal muscle mitochondrial function and content, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of 6 weeks of aerobic exercise training and 8 weeks of deconditioning on functional parameters of aerobic capacity and markers of muscle mitochondrial function in elderly compared to young individuals. In 11 healthy, elderly (80 ± 4 years old) and 10 healthy, young (24 ± 3 years old) volunteers, aerobic training improved maximal oxygen consumption rate by 13%, maximal workload by 34%, endurance capacity by 2.4-fold and exercise economy by 12% in the elderly to the same extent as in young individuals. This evidence was accompanied by a similar training-induced increase in muscle citrate synthase (CS) (31%) and mitochondrial complex I-IV activities (51-163%) in elderly and young individuals. After 8 weeks of deconditioning, endurance capacity (-20%), and enzyme activity of CS (-18%) and complex I (-40%), III (-25%), and IV (-26%) decreased in the elderly to a larger extent than in young individuals. In conclusion, we found that elderly have a physiological normal ability to improve aerobic capacity and mitochondrial function with aerobic training compared to young individuals, but had a faster decline in endurance performance and muscle mitochondrial enzyme activity after deconditioning, suggesting an age-related issue in maintaining oxidative metabolism.

Moderate- to high intensity aerobic and resistance exercise reduces peripheral blood regulatory cell populations in older adults with rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract: Exercise can improve immune health and is beneficial for physical function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but the immunological mechanisms are largely unknown. We evaluated the effect of moderate- to high intensity exercise with person-centred guidance on cells of the immune system, with focus on regulatory cell populations, in older adults with RA. Older adults (≥65 years) with RA were randomized to either 20-weeks of moderate – to high intensity aerobic and resistance exercise (n = 24) or to an active control group performing home-based exercise of light intensity (n = 25). Aerobic capacity, muscle strength, DAS28 and CRP were evaluated. Blood samples were collected at baseline and after 20 weeks. The frequency of immune cells defined as adaptive regulatory populations, CD4 + Foxp3 + CD25 + CD127- T regulatory cells (Tregs) and CD19 + CD24hiCD38hi B regulatory cells (Bregs) as well as HLA-DR−/lowCD33 + CD11b + myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), were assessed using flow cytometry. After 20 weeks of moderate- to high intensity exercise, aerobic capacity and muscle strength were significantly improved but there were no significant changes in Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS28) or CRP. The frequency of Tregs and Bregs decreased significantly in the intervention group, but not in the active control group. The exercise intervention had no effect on MDSCs. The reduction in regulatory T cells in the intervention group was most pronounced in the female patients. Moderate- to high intensity exercise in older adults with RA led to a decreased proportion of Tregs and Bregs, but that was not associated with increased disease activity or increased inflammation. Improved Ability to Cope With Everyday Life Through a Person-centered Training Program in Elderly Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis - PEP-walk Study, NCT02397798 . Registered at ClinicalTrials.gov March 19, 2015.

Effects of 12-week aerobic exercise on patient-reported outcomes in women with systemic lupus erythematosus

Abstract: To evaluate the effects of aerobic exercise on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and whether changes in cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) mediate the ...

Arm crank ergometer "spin" training improves seated balance and aerobic capacity in people with spinal cord injury.

Abstract: BACKGROUND There is some evidence that upper-body training modalities can improve not only aerobic capacity but also seated balance in people with spinal cord injury (SCI), even in those classified with motor-complete paralysis above T6. Here, we evaluated the effect of arm crank ergometry (ACE) "spin" training on trunk muscle recruitment and its effects on seated balance and aerobic capacity. METHODS Eight individuals with high-level complete and 6 with either a low-level complete or a motor-incomplete SCI participated in this study. Participants completed 5 weeks of a group ACE "spin" training protocol which featured modulations in cadence and resistance as well as back-supported and unsupported bouts. Surface electromyography was used to confirm trunk muscle recruitment during unsupported ACE. Changes in aerobic capacity (peak oxygen consumption) and seated balance control (center of pressure parameters) were assessed at pre- and post-intervention. RESULTS Unsupported ACE was effective for eliciting trunk muscle activity (P < .05). Following training, peak oxygen consumption significantly improved by an average of 16% (P = .005). Static sitting balance significantly improved from pre- to post-intervention, but only when tested with eyes closed as measured by a reduction in area (P = .047) and velocity of center of pressure (P = .013). No significant changes were observed in static sitting balance with eyes open or in dynamic sitting balance. CONCLUSION Group ACE "spin" classes may benefit not only aerobic fitness but also static seated balance control in people with SCI.

The 30-15 Intermittent Fitness Test: A Reliable, Valid, and Useful Tool to Assess Aerobic Capacity in Female Basketball Players.

Abstract: Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability, validity, and usefulness of 30–15 Intermittent Fitness Test (30-15IFT) in female basketball players. Methods: Nineteen f...

Effect of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on aerobic capacity, respiratory muscle strength and rate of perceived exertion in paraplegics.

Abstract: Objectives: The purpose is to study the effect of inspiratory muscle training on aerobic capacity, respiratory muscle strength and rate of perceived exertion in paraplegics.Study Design: Randomized...

Stepwise Load Reduction Training: A New Training Concept for Skeletal Muscle and Energy Systems.

Abstract: An increased ability to supply energy to skeletal muscle is expected to contribute to greater athletic performance, and therefore, a variety of training methods are used for improving these energy supply systems. These methods are classified into two broad categories: a bout of continuous exercise at a given load/intensity and intermittent bouts of exercise at a given load/intensity with recovery intervals. Interestingly, recent work suggests that a training method which starts at a high load/intensity and gradually decreases the exercise load/intensity within a given training set (stepwise load reduction training) may provide a range of adaptations. In resistance training, the load starts off high and is then reduced as the set continues which is expected to simultaneously increase muscle strength, endurance, and size. In training focused on aerobic and anaerobic metabolic systems, intensity starts off high and is then reduced as the exercise continues which is expected to simultaneously increase maximal anaerobic power, anaerobic capacity, and aerobic capacity. Because stepwise load reduction training has no recovery intervals between each load/intensity, the training effects are achieved within a short time per session (several minutes). However, only minimal evidence exists to support the effects of stepwise load reduction training; therefore, further studies with larger samples are needed.

Ejercicio físico aeróbico y atención selectiva en escolares de educación primaria (Aerobic physical exercise and selective attention in primary school children)

Abstract: . Physical exercise can have beneficial effects on cognitive functions and academic performance. Among cognitive functions, the study of attention in schoolchildren has acquired special interest due to its possible influence on specific aspects such as academic performance or social integration. The objective was analyze the acute effect of an aerobic physical exercise session on selective attention in a sample of 48 boys and 40 girls (Age, M ± DT = 9.48 ± .505 years). A quasi-experimental study design with a control group and an experimental group was used. Physical exercise involves walking a mile as quickly as possible. Selective attention was measured with the Face Test. The experimental group was divided into two subgroups (minor v. major) according to the time spent in the mile. The results of the differences affected in correct answers (p = .012), inhibitory control (p = .020) and omissions (p = .007) after the intervention. An inverse correlation was detected between the time spent on physical exercise and correct answers (p = .022). The analysis of variance detected higher records in correct answers (p = .047) in the group with less time spent. The results suggest that performing a short duration aerobic exercise session could have positive acute effects on selective attention. Performing physical exercise like the mile in less time is related to better selective attention. A better aerobic capacity could be related to more selective attention.

Cardiorespiratory function and VO2 kinetics after sleeve gastrectomy: a follow-up analysis.

Abstract: Although poor cardiorespiratory function is a powerful predictor of mortality in patients with obesity, functional evaluation has been given little attention after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). The aim of this study was thus to investigate the impact of LSG on functional capacity analysing a shorter and longer post-surgical follow-up. In this observational study, 24 patients with severe obesity (BMI 44.04 ± 5.84 kg/m2, age 47.0 ± 9.0 years) performed cardiopulmonary exercise testing 7 months pre-, 6 and 16 months post-LSG. Exercise capacity, oxygen uptake and VO2 kinetics were analysed during treadmill exercise testing. Although patients showed an improved peak work capacity after LSG, parameters of maximal absolute aerobic capacity demonstrated a significant decrease, which was confirmed also in the follow-up analysis. Furthermore, the time constant Tau (τ) of the fundamental component of VO2 kinetics was altered by LSG, however, within the 16 months of follow-up it returned towards baseline values. It can thus be concluded that LSG improved peak work capacity along with a lower maximal absolute aerobic capacity, which might be due to a loss of muscle mass and potentially impaired peripheral oxidative muscle metabolism. However, VO2 kinetics might suggest an initial restoration of peripheral oxidative muscle capacity after a longer follow-up.

Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Improves Respiratory Muscle Function and Functional Capacity in Children with Congenital Heart Disease. A Prospective Cohort Study

Abstract: Critical surgical and medical advances have shifted the focus of congenital heart disease (CHD) patients from survival to achievement of a greater health-related quality of life (HRQoL) HRQoL is influenced, amongst other factors, by aerobic capacity and respiratory muscle strength, both of which are reduced in CHD patients This study evaluates the influence of a cardiopulmonary rehabilitation program (CPRP) on respiratory muscle strength and functional capacity Fifteen CHD patients, ages 12 to 16, with reduced aerobic capacity in cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) were enrolled in a CPRP involving strength and aerobic training for three months Measurements for comparison were obtained at the start, end, and six months after the CPRP A significant improvement of inspiratory muscle strength was evidenced (maximum inspiratory pressure 21 cm H2O, 23%, p < 001) The six-minute walking test showed a statistically and clinically significant rise in walked distance (48 m, p < 001) and a reduction in muscle fatigue (17 out of 10 points, p = 0017) These results suggest CPRP could potentially improve respiratory muscle function and functional capacity, with lasting results, in children with congenital heart disease, but additional clinical trials must be conducted to confirm this finding

The Effect of Vitamin D3 Supplementation on Physical Capacity among Active College-Aged Males.

Abstract: Vitamin D3 supplementation can affect strength and power; however, the effect on both aerobic and anaerobic performance remains unclear Here, we investigate the effects of eight weeks of a high dose of vitamin D3 supplementation and its impact on circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D3) concentrations and selected indicators of physical capacity Subjects (n = 28, age 211 ± 16) were divided into two groups: supplemented (SUP), which was given 6000 IU of vitamin D3 daily for eight weeks; and placebo group (PLA) Serum 25-OH-D3 concentrations were determined in pre- and post-intervention Aerobic (VO2max test) and anaerobic (Wingate Anaerobic Test) capacity were determined before and after the supplementation The mean baseline concentration of 25-OH-D3 was recognized as deficient (20 ng/mL) and significantly increased over time in the supplemented group (p < 001, η2 = 086), whilst it remained unchanged in the placebo group Moreover, the supplementation caused a significant improvement in maximal aerobic (p < 005, η2 = 027) and anaerobic power (p < 001, η2 = 051) whereas no changes were observed in PLA group The VO2max differences were also significant in the supplemented group (p < 005) In summary, the changes in aerobic and anaerobic capacity observed in this study were associated with a serum concentration of 25-OH-D3 Our data imply that vitamin D3 supplementation with a dose of 6000 IU daily for eight weeks is sufficient to improve physical capacity and vitamin D3 status

The influence of amaranth ( Amaranthus hypochondriacus ) dietary nitrates on the aerobic capacity of physically active young persons

Abstract: Recent evidence indicates that elevating plasma nitrites through dietary nitrates (NO3−) supplementation is associated with enhanced muscle efficiency, fatigue resistance and performance. Beetroot (in various forms) is the dominant source of dietary NO3− primarily due to its vast availability and the simple form of preparation suitable for final consumption. After a few years of research and experimentation, our scientific team identified alternative source rich with dietary NO3− as possible nitric oxide precursor, amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) with a standardized concentration 9–11% of NO3−. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of single-dose (±400 mg of dietary NO3−) and long-term (6 days) supplementation of amaranth concentrate derived dietary NO3− on aerobic capacity in physically active young people. We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human study. Thirteen healthy and physically active young male participants were randomized into experimental and placebo groups. The aerobic capacity was tested during increasing cycling exercise (ICE) with pulmonary gas exchange recording and analysis. The peak power of the ICE, the maximum oxygen consumption and the first ventilatory threshold were significantly increased after long-term consumption of dietary amaranth (from 4.44 ± 0.50 to 4.55 ± 0.43 W/kg; from 37.7 ± 2.7 to 41.2 ± 5.4 mL/kg/min and from 178.6 ± 30.3 to 188.6 ± 35.2 W, p < 0.05; respectively) in experimental group. Long-term (6 days) use of dietary NO3− from amaranth may improve the aerobic capacity during ICE in young physically active male persons. It can be recommended as the nutritional supplement during last week of preparation for competition in endurance events.

Exercise in patients on chronic hemodialysis: current evidence, knowledge gaps and future perspectives.

Abstract: Purpose of review Physical inactivity is common in hemodialysis patients, and is associated with disability and poor outcomes. We summarize the effects of aerobic, resistance or mixed exercise training on aerobic capacity, muscle mass and strength, dialysis efficiency, quality of life and cardiovascular adaptation according to clinical studies on this population, also focusing on knowledge gaps as topics for future research. Finally, we put evidence into clinical context deriving practical indications for exercise implementation in these patients. Recent findings In hemodialysis patients, aerobic or mixed exercise training increases predominantly aerobic capacity, whereas resistance training seems more effective in increasing muscle strength. Data concerning dialysis efficiency are equivocal, although phosphate and potassium clearances seem to be improved. There is also inconclusive evidence concerning changes in cardiovascular risk factors. All types of exercise improve patients' quality of life. However, there is a need for protocol standardization and selection of easily measurable endpoints. In clinical practice, it is advised that exercise implementation be performed gradually, and goals be tailored to individual pretraining fitness levels to maximize patient adherence and clinical benefits. Summary The overall evidence suggests that exercise training is beneficial and well tolerated in hemodialysis patients, although heterogeneity across studies hinders generalization of results. In any case, a gradual and individualized approach should be used to implement exercise in these patients.