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Effectiveness of hand-arm bimanual intensive therapy including lower extremities in the rehabilitation of children with cerebral palsy: A systematic review protocol
(BMJ Publishing Group, 0025) Qu, Ya-Lan; Harun, Dzalani; Chai, Siaw Chui; Ebner-Karestinos, Daniela; Araneda, Rodrigo; Zanudin, Asfarina
Introduction Cerebral palsy (CP) is a paediatric disorder with permanent impairment of movement and posture with a prevalence of about 2.11 in 1000 births in the world. Given the therapeutic effect of hand-arm bimanual intensive therapy including lower extremities (HABIT-ILE) in children with CP, a systematic review of the available literature on this topic is warranted. The objective of this study is to systematically review the effectiveness of HABIT-ILE on upper extremity, lower extremity and trunk outcomes within the domains of body functions and structures, activity and participation of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health in children with CP. Methods and analysis This study will be conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Searches will be conducted in six databases: MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, OT seeker and Web of Science for available published literature. The grey literature sources will include WorldCat, National Technical Information Service, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Open Grey, WHO and OpenDOAR. Manual searches of citations of included papers will be performed to collect all experimental studies of HABIT-ILE in children with CP. The level of evidence for included articles will be classified according to the level of evidence in the guidelines for systematic reviews on the American Occupational Therapy Association website. Based on the study design of the included articles, the risk of bias will be assessed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool, the Cochrane Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies - of Interventions tool and the quality assessment tool recommended by the American Occupational Therapy Association. In order to synthesise the data, narrative synthesis will be used, along with meta-analysis, if available. Ethics and dissemination As this study only reviewed previously published articles, ethical approval was not required. The findings will be published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. © Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2025.
Relationship of indicators of ability and experience of military sports skydiving with the psychological state and performance in competition of elite jumpers
(Universidad de Murcia Servicio de Publicaciones, 2023) Ortín-Montero, Francisco José; Borrego-Balsalobre, Francisco José; Álvarez-Arangua, Sebastián; Valdivia-Moral, Pedro; Morales-Baños, Vicente
Multiple variables must be considered when talking about sports performance. Among them, the literature establishes the importance of psychology and indicator techniques of experience acquired in the discipline. This study aims to establish the relationship between certain constructs that define the psychological profile of the athlete with skill indicators in military parachuting. For this, 42 jumpers aged 40.86 years old (±7.35) belonging to the Spanish army and the civil guard during the celebration of the National Military Championship of Skydiving which is held annually surveyed to know their level of optimism, resilience, psychological well-being, and burnout. It is concluded that the years of skydiving experience and the number of jumps, as indicators of skill, must be taken into account with a higher level of concreteness and specificity since certain psychological variables can increase or decrease depending on them. It is convenient to study each case, in particular, to understand what can happen in the state of the parachutist and develop strategies for optimizing sports performance. © Copyright 2018: Servicio de Publicaciones de la Universidad de Murcia
Effects of a small-sided handball game on selective, sustained attention and attentional amplitude in a sample of young adults
(Universidad de Murcia Servicio de Publicaciones, 2023) Reigal, Rafael Enrique; Enríquez-Molina, Rocío; Sánchez-García, Carolina; Franquelo-Egea, María Auxiliadora; Contreras-Osorio, Falonn; Campos-Jara, Christian; Hernández-Mendo, Antonio; Morales-Sánchez, Verónica
Previous studies have highlighted the chronic and acute effects that physical exercise has on cognitive functioning. However, it is necessary to go deeper in order to obtain precise information on what type of exercise is more favorable for certain cognitive abilities. Thus, the objective of this work was to analyze the effects of a session of small games based on handball on selective, sustained attention and attention span in a sample of young adults. Fifty-two participants between the ages of 21 and 25 (M= 21.83; SD=.94) from the city of Malaga (Spain) took part in this study. A quasi-experimental intersubject's research design was used with a control and experimental group. Using non-parametric statistical analyzes (U Mann Whitney and Wilcoxon) we tried to explore the effects of the physical/sports activity session on four tests of attention span, two of selective attention and one of sustained attention. The results showed statistically significant effects on the selective tests and attention span, although not on the sustained attention test. The findings suggest that collective physical-sporting activity could have a significant acute effect on attention, although it would be necessary to continue investigating the specific dimensions of attention, given the differences found between some parameters and others. © Copyright 2018: Servicio de Publicaciones de la Universidad de Murcia
Analysis of Magnitude and Direction of Body Composition Asymmetries in Male Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Athletes: Pilot Study
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 0025-02) Ojeda-Aravena, Alex; Kons, Rafael L; Azócar-Gallardo, Jairo; Dopico-Calvo, Xurxo; Fernández, Aida; Tuesta-Roa, Marcelo; Cresp-Barria, Mauricio; Olivares-Arancibia, Jorge; Báez-San Martín, Eduardo
In order to optimize body composition and its components, it is of interest to analyze inter-limb asymmetries in athletes of popular combat sports such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). This study aimed to assess the magnitude and direction of body composition asymmetry in competitive male BJJ athletes. Seventeen experienced and competitive male BJJ athletes (age 34.59 ± 8.00 years, 172.94 ± 5.46 cm, BJJ experience 7.88 ± 5.57 years, and 3.71 ± 1.05 days of weekly volume training), including Guard Fighters (n = 7) and Pass Fighters (n = 10), participated in this study. In a single session, whole-body and segmental upper limb and lower limb body composition (BC) was assessed utilizing dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The assessment included total mass (TM), fat mass (FM), fat mass percentage (%FM), fat-free mass (FFM), and bone mineral content (BMC). Absolute differences between limbs were analyzed using a paired t-test. A comparison of BC asymmetries according to combat styles was conducted using an independent t-test. The effect size (ES) was interpreted as Cohen’s d. The main results revealed significant asymmetries in the upper limbs (ULs) of the total group; greater values were found on the left side for TM (p = 0.009, ES = 0.725), FM (p = 0.016, ES = 0.650), FFM (p = 0.026, ES = 0.594), and BMC (p < 0.001, ES = 0.993). In Pass Fighters, differences favored the right side in TM (p = 0.003, ES = 1.277), FM (p = 0.009, ES = 1.039), FFM (p = 0.011, ES = 1.000), and BMC (p < 0.001, ES = 1.916). In contrast, Guard Fighters showed no discrepancies in these parameters. No notable disparities were observed in the lower limbs. This pilot study reveals that BJJ athletes present significant asymmetries in BC, particularly in the ULs, with a marked predominance on the right side, especially in Pass Fighters. © 2025 by the authors.
Enhanced attention and memory in slackline practitioners: a descriptive study
(Federacion Espanola de Docentes de Educacion Fisica, 2023) Plaza, Paula; Bustamante, Paula; Ramírez, Valentina; Ghiorzi, Ricardo; Concha, Paula; Achiardi, Oscar
Introduction: It has been shown that the practice of slackline, a sports discipline that consists of balancing on a rope anchored between two fixed points, not only can improve motor aspects such as body balance and postural control, but also cognitive aspects such as spatial orientation. Here we wonder whether the practice of slackline is related to other cognitive functions such as attention and/or memory. Materials and methods: Slackline practitioners were invited to take the Toulouse-Pieron test to assess attention and the Benton test to assess visual memory. The same tests were applied to a control group composed of people of the same age and with the same educational level. Results: 14 slackline practitioners, mean age 23.7 ± 4.1 years, and 14 controls, mean age 23.5 ± 3.5 years, participated in the study. When comparing the groups, we observed differences of 20% in the memory score (p<0.001) and 30 points in the attention test (p=0.031) in favor of the slackline group. In addition, a high direct correlation was observed between years of slackline practice and attention (r = 0.710), and a moderate direct correlation between years of slackline practice and visuospatial memory (r = 0.332). Conclusion: These findings allow us to suggest practice of slackline is related to enhanced attention and memory and may represent a prophylactic alternative to generate functional reserves or to treat cognitive disorders such as ADHD. © 2023 Federacion Espanola de Docentes de Educacion Fisica. All rights reserved.
Heteronymous feedback from quadriceps onto soleus in stroke survivors
(BioMed Central Ltd, 2025-12) Cuadra, Cristian; Wolf, Steven L.; Lyle, Mark A.
Recent findings suggest increased excitatory heteronymous feedback from quadriceps onto soleus may contribute to abnormal coactivation of knee and ankle extensors after stroke. However, there is lack of consensus on whether persons post-stroke exhibit altered heteronymous reflexes and, when present, the origin of increased excitation (i.e. increased excitation alone and/or decreased inhibition). This study examined heteronymous excitation and inhibition from quadriceps onto soleus in paretic, nonparetic, and age-matched control limbs to determine whether increased excitation was due to excitatory and/or reduced inhibitory reflex circuits. A secondary purpose was to examine whether heteronymous reflex magnitudes were related to clinical measures of lower limb recovery, walking-speed, and dynamic balance. Methods: Heteronymous excitation and inhibition from quadriceps onto soleus were examined in fourteen persons post-stroke and fourteen age-matched unimpaired participants. Heteronymous feedback was elicited by femoral nerve and quadriceps muscle stimulation in separate trials while participants tonically activated soleus at 20% maximum voluntary isometric contraction. Fugl-Meyer assessment of lower extremity, 10-m walk test, and Mini-BESTest were assessed in stroke survivors. Results: Heteronymous excitation and inhibition onsets, durations, and magnitudes were not different between paretic, nonparetic or age-matched unimpaired limbs. Quadriceps stimulation elicited excitation that was half the magnitude of femoral nerve stimulation. Femoral nerve elicited paretic limb heteronymous excitation was positively correlated with walking speed but did not reach significance because only a subset of paretic limbs exhibited excitation (n = 8, Spearman r = 0.69, P = 0.058). Conclusions: Heteronymous feedback from quadriceps onto soleus assessed in a seated posture was not impaired in persons post-stroke. Despite being unable to identify whether reduced inhibition contributes to abnormal excitation reported in prior studies, our results indicate quadriceps stimulation may allow a better estimate of heteronymous inhibition in those that exhibit exaggerated excitation. Heteronymous excitation magnitude in the paretic limb was positively correlated with self-selected walking speed suggesting paretic limb excitation at the higher end of a normal range may facilitate walking ability after stroke. Future studies are needed to identify whether heteronymous feedback from Q onto SOL is altered after stroke in upright postures and during motor tasks as a necessary next step to identify mechanisms underlying motor impairment.
Prevalencia de la exóstosis del conducto auditivo externo entre practicantes de surf y bodyboard en la costa central de Chile
(Universidad de Chile, Departamento de Fonoaudiologia, 2023) Orellana, Carlos; Plaza, Paula; Poblete, Cristian; Karlsruher, Jan; Gallardo, Gonzalo
La exóstosis del conducto auditivo externo (ECAE), también conocida como oído de surfista, es una alteración del tejido óseo del oído externo, principalmente causada debido a la sobrexposición al frío. Considerando que los practicantes de deportes acuáticos como el surf y bodyboard de las costas del pacífico sur se exponen a aguas con temperaturas entre 12-16 °C, se busca determinar, en este estudio, la prevalencia y grado de ECAE en practicantes de surf y bodyboard de las localidades de Reñaca y Concón durante el año 2018. Se realizó una evaluación del CAE mediante video-otoscopía a 67 personas (134 oídos) practicantes de surf y bodyboard de las playas de Reñaca y Concón, y se les aplicó un cuestionario respecto a sus hábitos de práctica. Como resultado, se observó una prevalencia de ECAE del 77,6%, siendo el 61,2% ECAE bilateral y el 16,4% ECAE unilateral. Se pudo determinar, además, que el 62,3% de los participantes no usa protecciones. A partir de estos hallazgos, es posible concluir que existe una alta prevalencia de la ECAE en practicantes de surf y bodyboard en las costas centrales chilenas, lo que debería alertar tanto a la población practicante como a profesionales de la salud auditiva con el fin de promover una vida saludable en esta población.
Anogenital lesions produced by Human Papillomavirus. Prevalence study in children and adolescent not vaccinated
(Andes PediatricaOpen AccessVolume 94, Issue 1, Pages 29 - 36January-February 2023, 2023) Patricia Romero, Fuentes; Eugenio Ramírez V.; Mónica Muñoz O.; Paula Muñoz M.; Carolina González L.; Carolina Orellana C.; Carolina Pastene S.; Montserrat Balanda A.; Nicolásvergara V.; Alvaro Reyes P.
In Chilean children and adolescents, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection prevalence is unknown. In 2014, the HPV vaccine was incorporated into the National Immunization Program for girls, and since 2019 for boys. Objective: To determine the prevalence, genotypes, and characteristics of HPV infection in children and adolescents with anogenital lesions not vaccinated against HPV. Patients and Method: Children and adolescents with anogenital lesions who consulted at the Luis Calvo Mac-kenna Children’s Hospital between 2013 and 2017 were studied. The reason for consultation, age, sex, family history of HPV lesions, history of sexual abuse, and consensual sexual activity were recorded. HPV was detected by PCR and typification by reverse hybridization of the L1 gene. The samples were analyzed in the Oncogenic Virus Section of the Institute of Public Health. Results: 110 patients were studied; 44.5% were children. HPV was detected in 34 cases (30.9% [CI95% 22.4-40.4]), 22 (44.9%) were children and 12 (19.7%) adolescents. Eleven (91.7%) adolescents had a history of sexual contact (p < 0.005); 4 (18.2%) children disclosed sexual abuse. HPV was found in 25% of patients with genital lesions and 50% with perianal lesions (p < 0.015). The most frequent genotypes were 59, 58, 16, 18, 6, and 11. Only low-risk genotypes were detected in children and high-risk genotypes were detected in 11/12 (91.7%) of HPV (+) adolescents. Conclusion: The prevalence of HPV infection was 30%. In adolescents, the infection was related to sexual contact and high-risk HPV. In children, it was associated with low-risk genotypes. Perianal lesions are more frequently associated with HPV infection than genital lesions in children and adolescents. The visual inspection does not allow to specify the etiology of the genital lesions, so it is necessary to perform a PCR test for HPV. © 2023, Sociedad Chilena de Pediatria. All rights reserved
Interindividual Variability Response to Resistance and High-Intensity Interval Training on Blood Pressure Reduction in Hypertensive Older Adults
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2025-01) Cano-Montoya, Johnattan; Hurtado, Nicolas; Hurtado N.; Núñez Vergara, Carolina; Báez Vargas, Sebastián; Rojas-Vargas, Marcela; Martínez-Huenchullán, Sergio; Izquierdo, Mikel
This study evaluated the effects of resistance training (RT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in hypertensive older adults undergoing pharmacological therapy over four and eight weeks. We compared the efficacy of RT and HIIT in reducing non-responders (NRs) between weeks 4 and 8 and analyzed time-course adaptations in NRs and responders (Rs). Methods: Thirty-nine participants were randomized into RT-G (n = 13), HIIT-G (n = 13), or control (CG, n = 13) groups. RT utilized elastic bands, and HIIT involved cycle ergometers, with three weekly 30 min sessions for 8 weeks. SBP and DBP were measured before intervention and at weeks 4 and 8, respectively. Individual responses were classified as NRs or Rs using the Hopkins method (SDIR = √[SDExp2–SDCon2]). Time-course adaptations were evaluated. Results: Both the RT-G and HIIT-G reduced SBP at 8 weeks (RT-G: −13 mmHg; [ES: 1.12]; HIIT-G: −12 mmHg [ES: 0.8]; both p < 0.05). The proportion of NRs for SBP decreased from 46% to 38% in RT-G and 69% to 46% in HIIT-G. Rs showed a peak SBP reduction at 4 weeks (−14.7 and −25.5 mmHg), stabilizing by week 8 (−22.8 and −19.6 mmHg) in RT-G and HIIT-G, respectively. Conclusion: Eight weeks of RT and HIIT effectively reduced SBP and NR prevalence, with time-course adaptations favoring Rs.
Cardiorespiratory optimal point as a submaximal evaluation tool in endurance athletes: An exploratory study
(Frontiers Media S.A., 2023) Oyarzo-Aravena, Alexis; Arce-Alvarez, Alexis; Salazar-Ardiles, Camila; Ramirez-Campillo, Rodrigo; Alvarez, Cristian; Toledo, Camilo; Izquierdo, Mikel; Andrade, David C.
Introduction: The cardiorespiratory optimal point (COP) represents the lowest minute ventilation to oxygen consumption ratio (VE/VO2) and can be estimated during a CPET at submaximal intensity when an exercise test until volitional fatigue is not always advisable (i.e., a conflict zone where you cannot be confident of the security because near-competition, off-season, among other). COP’s physiological components have not been wholly described yet. Therefore, this study seeks to identify the determinants of COP in highly trained athletes and its influence on maximum and sub-maximum variables during CPET through principal c omponent analysis (PCA) (explains the dataset’s variance). Methods: Female (n = 9; age, 17.4 ± 3.1 y; maximal VO2 [VO2max]), 46.2 ± 5.9 mL/kg/min) and male (n = 24; age, 19.7 ± 4.0 y; VO2max, 56.1 ± 7.6 mL/kg/min) athletes performed a CPET to determine the COP, ventilatory threshold 1 (VT1) and 2 (VT2), and VO2max. The PCA was used to determine the relationship between variables and COP, explaining their variance. Results: Our data revealed that females and males displayed different COP values. Indeed, males showed a significant diminished COP compared to the female group (22.6 ± 2.9 vs. 27.2 ±3.4 VE/VO2, respectively); nevertheless, COP was allocated before VT1 in both groups. Discussion: PC analysis revealed that the COP variance was mainly explained (75.6%) by PC1 (expired CO2 at VO2max) and PC2 (VE at VT2), possibly influencing cardiorespiratory efficiency at VO2max and VT2. Our data suggest that COP could be used as a submaximal index to monitor and assess cardiorespiratory system efficiency in endurance athletes. The COP could be particularly useful during the offseason and competitive periods and the return to the sports continuum. Copyright © 2023 Oyarzo-Aravena, Arce-Alvarez, Salazar-Ardiles, Ramirez-Campillo, Alvarez, Toledo, Izquierdo and Andrade.
Test–Retest Reliability of the Functional Electromechanical Dynamometer for Squat Exercise
(MDPI, 2023-01) del-Cuerpo, Indya; Jerez-Mayorga, Daniel; Delgado-Floody, Pedro; Morenas-Aguilar, María Dolores; Chirosa-Ríos, Luis Javier
Background: the main objective of this study was to evaluate the test-retest reliability of two different functional electromechanical dynamometry (FEMD)-controlled squat training protocols. Methods: twenty-eight healthy young adults volunteered to participate in this study. They attended the laboratory on four different days and performed four sessions: two of three sets of 12 repetitions at 75% 1RM and two of three sets of 30 repetitions at 50% 1RM. The range of movement (ROM), mean dynamic strength (MDS), peak dynamic strength (PDS), mean velocity (MV), peak velocity (PV), mean potency (MP), peak potency (PP), work (W), and impulse (I) were recorded. To evaluate the reliability of FEMD, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and coefficient of variation (CV) were obtained. Results: reliability was very high for ROM (CV: 3.72%, ICC: 0.95), MDS (CV: 1.09%, ICC: 1.00), PDS (CV: 1.97%, ICC: 1.00), and W (CV: 4.69%, ICC: 1.00) conditions at 50% 1RM and for ROM (CV: 3.90%, ICC: 0.95), MDS (CV: 0.52, ICC: 1.00), PDS (CV: 1.49%, ICC: 0.98), and W (CV: 4.14%, ICC: 1.00) conditions at 75% 1RM and high for the rest of variables at 50 and 75% 1RM. Conclusions: this study demonstrates that FEMD is a reliable instrument to measure ROM, MDS, PDS, MV, PV, PV, MP, MP, W, and I during both squat protocols (50 and 75% 1RM) in healthy young adults. © 2023 by the authors.
Effects of Drop Jump Training on Physical Fitness in Highly Trained Young Male Volleyball Players: Comparing Maximal Rebound Height and Standard Drop Height Training
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2024-12) Hammami, Raouf; Ayed, Karim Ben; Negra, Yassine; Ramirez-Campillo, Rodrigo; Duncan, Michael; Rebai, Haithem
Background: Drop height has previously been used as an effective programming parameter in plyometric jump training. Less is known about the usage of maximal rebound jump height from a distinct drop height as a parameter for individualized plyometric jump training. Hence, the aim of this study was to contrast the effects of two different drop jump (DJ) training modalities using either the individualized maximal rebound height (MRHT) or a standard (SDHT) drop height on selected measures of physical fitness in young volleyball players. Methods: Thirty male young volleyball players aged 14 to 16 years were randomly assigned to an MRHT (n = 15) or an SDHT (n = 15) group. The MRHT group performed DJ exercises using a drop height according to the individual’s maximal rebound jump height from 30 cm, 40 cm, and 50 cm drop heights. The SDHT group performed DJs following a standardized drop height (30 cm) across the 8-week intervention period. The overall training volume was similar between MRHT and SDHT with one to three sets of 8 to 10 repetitions of DJ exercises per session. Before and after training, jump height and the reactive strength index (RSI) were taken as dependent variables from 30, 40, and 50 cm drop heights. In addition, dynamic balance (Y-balance test) as well as linear sprint and change-of-direction (CoD) speed were assessed. Results: Significant group × time interactions were found for jump height, balance, RSI, and linear sprint (p < 0.001; d = 0.12–3.42) but not CoD speed. Post hoc tests showed significant jump height improvements in favor of the MRHT group for drop heights from 30 cm (Δ20.4%, p < 0.001, d = 3.69), 40 cm (Δ20.3%, p < 0.001, d = 2.90), and 50 cm (Δ18.3%, p < 0.001, d = 3.37) and RSI50 (Δ30.14%, p < 0.001, d = 2.29). MRHT but not SDHT resulted in significant 5 m (Δ9.2%, p < 0.001, d = 1.32) and 20 m (Δ7.4%, p < 0.01, d = 2.30) linear sprint speed improvements. Conclusions: The findings demonstrate that MRHT but not SDHT improved DJ height, RSI, and linear sprint speed. Due to the importance of vertical jumps and short accelerations for overall competitive performance in volleyball, our results suggest that young male players should perform MRHT as part of plyometric jump training if the goal is to improve acceleration, reactive strength, and vertical jump performance. © 2024 by the authors.
Associations Between Fundamental Movement Skills, Muscular Fitness, Self-Perception and Physical Activity in Primary School Students
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2024-12) Sortwell, Andrew; Ramirez-Campillo, Rodrigo; Murphy, Aron; Newton, Michael; Hine, Gregory; Piggott, Ben
Background/Objectives: Positive self-perception, physical activity and fundamental movement skill (FMS) proficiency are important aspects of a child’s healthy development. The objective of this research was twofold: first, to explore associations between FMS, muscular fitness, self-perception and physical activity in school children; and second, to identify key predictors of FMS proficiency, athletic self-perception, physical activity levels in these participants and the differences between biological sexes. Methods: Primary school-aged children (n = 104; 53.85% female) from 8 to 10 years old (M = 9.04, SD = 0.69) engaged in two days of testing. All students were measured on FMS, standing long jump (SLJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), seated medicine ball chest throw and self-perception, followed by correlation and stepwise multiple linear regression analyses. Results: The findings revealed significant positive correlations between FMS proficiency, lower body muscular fitness (CMJ, SLJ), and athletic self-perception for the entire cohort, with varying results between male and female subgroups. Additionally, athletic self-perception showed strong relationships with other self-perception domains. Notably, forward stepwise regression analysis identified FMS proficiency as a significant predictor of physical activity levels, explaining 12.8% of the variance. SLJ, scholastic perception, and physical activity explained 45.5% of FMS variance for females. In males, FMS proficiency significantly predicted physical activity, accounting for 13.3% of the variance. SLJ and athletic competence self-perception explained 42.1% of FMS variance in males. Conclusions: The study indicates that FMS, self-perception, muscular fitness, and physical activity levels may mutually enhance each other, and that there is a need for biological sex-specific strategies to be considered in physical education programs. © 2024 by the authors.
Heteronymous feedback from quadriceps onto soleus in stroke survivors
(BioMed Central Ltd, 0025-12) Cuadra, Cristian; Wolf, Steven L.; Lyle, Mark A.
Background: Recent findings suggest increased excitatory heteronymous feedback from quadriceps onto soleus may contribute to abnormal coactivation of knee and ankle extensors after stroke. However, there is lack of consensus on whether persons post-stroke exhibit altered heteronymous reflexes and, when present, the origin of increased excitation (i.e. increased excitation alone and/or decreased inhibition). This study examined heteronymous excitation and inhibition from quadriceps onto soleus in paretic, nonparetic, and age-matched control limbs to determine whether increased excitation was due to excitatory and/or reduced inhibitory reflex circuits. A secondary purpose was to examine whether heteronymous reflex magnitudes were related to clinical measures of lower limb recovery, walking-speed, and dynamic balance. Methods: Heteronymous excitation and inhibition from quadriceps onto soleus were examined in fourteen persons post-stroke and fourteen age-matched unimpaired participants. Heteronymous feedback was elicited by femoral nerve and quadriceps muscle stimulation in separate trials while participants tonically activated soleus at 20% maximum voluntary isometric contraction. Fugl-Meyer assessment of lower extremity, 10-m walk test, and Mini-BESTest were assessed in stroke survivors. Results: Heteronymous excitation and inhibition onsets, durations, and magnitudes were not different between paretic, nonparetic or age-matched unimpaired limbs. Quadriceps stimulation elicited excitation that was half the magnitude of femoral nerve stimulation. Femoral nerve elicited paretic limb heteronymous excitation was positively correlated with walking speed but did not reach significance because only a subset of paretic limbs exhibited excitation (n = 8, Spearman r = 0.69, P = 0.058). Conclusions: Heteronymous feedback from quadriceps onto soleus assessed in a seated posture was not impaired in persons post-stroke. Despite being unable to identify whether reduced inhibition contributes to abnormal excitation reported in prior studies, our results indicate quadriceps stimulation may allow a better estimate of heteronymous inhibition in those that exhibit exaggerated excitation. Heteronymous excitation magnitude in the paretic limb was positively correlated with self-selected walking speed suggesting paretic limb excitation at the higher end of a normal range may facilitate walking ability after stroke. Future studies are needed to identify whether heteronymous feedback from Q onto SOL is altered after stroke in upright postures and during motor tasks as a necessary next step to identify mechanisms underlying motor impairment. © The Author(s) 2025.
Effects of Exercise Frequency with Complex Contrast Training on Measures of Physical Fitness in Active Adult Males
(Sports, Volume 11, Issue 1 January 2023 Article number 11, 2023) Kumar, Gopal; Pandey, Vivek; Thapa, Rohit K.; Weldon, Anthony; Granacher, Urs; Ramirez-Campillo, Rodrigo
Complex contrast training (CCT) is an exercise modality that utilizes both high-load resistance activity and low-load plyometric activity in a set-by-set fashion within a single exercise session. Such a combination of exercises targets multiple aspects of the force–velocity curve and may thus lead to improvement of various components of physical fitness. However, no previous study has attempted to compare the effects of load-equated two vs. three CCT sessions per week on measures of physical fitness. Forty-five male participants aged 21.4 ± 2.0 years were randomly assigned to either two weekly CCT sessions (CCT-2; n = 15), three weekly CCT sessions (CCT-3; n = 15), or an active control group (CG; n = 15). Selected measures of physical fitness were assessed pre- and post-six weeks of training. The tests included the assessment of 15 and 30 m linear sprint speeds, upper (medicine ball throw) and lower limb muscle power (standing long jump and countermovement jump with arm thrust), muscle strength (isokinetic peak knee extensor/flexor torque), and change-of-direction speed (modified agility T-test (MAT)). Significant group–time interactions were observed for all dependent variables (all p < 0.001, ɳp2 = 0.51–0.78) using ANOVA. Post hoc tests indicated significant performance improvements for the CCT-2 and CCT3 groups for all dependent variables (Hedge’s g = 0.28–3.26, %Δ = 2.4–16.7), including the 15 and 30 m linear sprint speeds (p < 0.001), medicine ball throw (p < 0.001), standing long jump (p < 0.001), countermovement jump with arm thrust (p < 0.001), right leg knee extensor (p < 0.001) and flexor peak torque (p < 0.001), left leg knee extensor (p < 0.001) and flexor peak torque (p < 0.001), and change-of-direction speed (p < 0.001). The CCT-3 group showed greater improvements in MAT compared to the CCT-2 group (g = 3.26 vs. 0.70, p < 0.001). In conclusion, compared to active controls, the load-equated CCT-2 and CCT-3 programs provided similar effects on measures of physical fitness in active adult males. However, an athlete’s goal is to improve their MAT score, the CCT-3 program may elicit greater improvements compared with the CCT-2 program. © 2023 by the authors
Maximal strength, sprint and jump performance in elite kumite karatekas
(BioMed Central Ltd, 0025-12) Cinarli, Fahri Safa; Aydogdu, Onur; Aydin, Yalcin; Tokgöz, Gürkan; Kahraman, Abdulselam; Beykumül, Ayşegül; Aygoren, Caner; Yılmaz, Nurkan; Ramirez-Campillo, Rodrigo i
Background: Both maximal muscle strength and muscle power are independently important for karatekas. However, the relationship between strength and power in elite male kumite karatekas is under researched. This study aimed to determine the relationship between back-leg-chest (BLC) isometric muscle strength with sprint and jump variables in elite male karatekas. Methods: Male elite/international level (tier 4) kumite karatekas (n = 14; age, 20.79 ± 1.67 year; height, 1.77 ± 0.06 m; weight, 72.21 ± 5.20 kg) were recruited. BLC strength, sprint and jump values were measured with a dynamometer, a photocell, and an application, respectively. Pearson correlation (trivial r < 0.1; small r < 0.3; moderate r < 0.5; large r < 0.7; very large r < 0.9; nearly perfect/perfect r ≥ 0.9) and linear regression analyses were performed to determine the relationship and shared variance between BLC strength, sprint, and jump performance. Results: There were large to very large correlations between BLC strength and sprint time (r = − 0.930, p < 0.01), velocity (r = 0.918; p < 0.01), acceleration (r = 0.913; p < 0.01) and running momentum (r = 0.721; p < 0.01). Additionally, BLC strength correlated with jump height (moderate, r = 0.550, p < 0.05), peak anaerobic power (moderate, r = 0.672, p < 0.01) and power to body mass ratio (moderate, r = 0.545, p < 0.05). BLC strength and sprint variables showed an r2 = 0.52–0.86 (p < 0.01), while BLC strength and jump variables showed an r2 = 0.29–0.45 (p < 0.05). Conclusions: BLC strength is related to jump and sprint performance in male elite karate athletes. This relationship underscores the importance of including strength training that targets BLC muscle strength in training programs for coaches and athletes.
Impact of Lower-Volume Training on Physical Fitness Adaptations in Team Sports Players: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
(Springer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH, 0025-12) Clemente, Filipe Manuel; Ramirez-Campillo, Rodrigo; Moran, Jason; Zmijewski, Piotr; Silva, Rui Miguel; Randers, Morten Bredsgaard
A small number of reviews have explored lower- versus higher-volume training in non-athletes, but the growing challenge of congested schedules in team sports highlights the need to synthesize evidence specific to team sport athletes. Thus, the objectives of this systematic review with meta-analysis are twofold: (i) to summarize the primary physiological and physical fitness outcomes of lower-volume versus higher-volume training interventions in team sports players; and (ii) to compare the effects of lower-volume training with higher, considering the training modalities used. Methods: We conducted searches across key databases, including PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science. We included team sports players with at least a trained or developmental level, focusing on studies comparing different training volumes (lower vs higher) within the same research. Lower volume training was defined in comparison to another load, emphasizing smaller training volume in terms of repetitions, duration, or frequency. The studies had to examine key physical performance adaptations and use two-arm or multi-arm designs. Methodological assessments of the included studies were performed using the Rob2 and ROBINS-I instruments, with evidence certainty evaluated through GRADE. Results: The initial search yielded 5,188 records, with 17 articles deemed eligible for the review. There was a non-significant trend favoring the higher-volume training group over the lower-volume group in resistance-based training when considering all pooled physical fitness outcomes (effect size − 0.05, 95% CI − 0.19 to 0.09, p = 0.506, I2 = 0.0%). A meta-analysis was not conducted for aerobic-based training due to only two studies being available, with one showing that lower volume training improved maximal oxygen uptake by 3.8% compared to 1.3% for higher volume, while the other indicated that lower training volumes enhanced performance by 1.6% versus 0.8%. The evidence certainty for physical performance outcomes was very low. Conclusions: In newly introduced resistance training, lower volumes—regardless of repetitions or frequency—can achieve similar fitness gains to higher volumes. More pronounced tapering also appears more effective for supercompensation. However, the variability in study designs and training methods makes it difficult to establish a clear minimal dose. The main contribution of this review is mapping current research, providing a foundation for future studies and training optimization.
Maximal strength, sprint and jump performance in elite kumite karatekas
(BioMed Central Ltda, 0025-12) Cinarli, Fahri Safa; Aydogdu, Onur; Aydin, Yalcin; Tokgöz, Gürkan; Kahraman, Abdulselam; Beykumül, Ayşegül; Aygoren, Caner; Yılmaz, Nurkan; Ramirez-Campillo, Rodrigo
Background: Both maximal muscle strength and muscle power are independently important for karatekas. However, the relationship between strength and power in elite male kumite karatekas is under researched. This study aimed to determine the relationship between back-leg-chest (BLC) isometric muscle strength with sprint and jump variables in elite male karatekas. Methods: Male elite/international level (tier 4) kumite karatekas (n = 14; age, 20.79 ± 1.67 year; height, 1.77 ± 0.06 m; weight, 72.21 ± 5.20 kg) were recruited. BLC strength, sprint and jump values were measured with a dynamometer, a photocell, and an application, respectively. Pearson correlation (trivial r < 0.1; small r < 0.3; moderate r < 0.5; large r < 0.7; very large r < 0.9; nearly perfect/perfect r ≥ 0.9) and linear regression analyses were performed to determine the relationship and shared variance between BLC strength, sprint, and jump performance. Results: There were large to very large correlations between BLC strength and sprint time (r = − 0.930, p < 0.01), velocity (r = 0.918; p < 0.01), acceleration (r = 0.913; p < 0.01) and running momentum (r = 0.721; p < 0.01). Additionally, BLC strength correlated with jump height (moderate, r = 0.550, p < 0.05), peak anaerobic power (moderate, r = 0.672, p < 0.01) and power to body mass ratio (moderate, r = 0.545, p < 0.05). BLC strength and sprint variables showed an r2 = 0.52–0.86 (p < 0.01), while BLC strength and jump variables showed an r2 = 0.29–0.45 (p < 0.05). Conclusions: BLC strength is related to jump and sprint performance in male elite karate athletes. This relationship underscores the importance of including strength training that targets BLC muscle strength in training programs for coaches and athletes. © The Author(s) 2025.
Positive Effects of Plyometric vs. Eccentric-Overload Training on Performance in Young Male Handball Players
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2023-09) Saez de Villareal, Eduardo; Calleja-González, Julio; Alcaraz, Pedro E.; Feito-Blanco, Javier; Ramírez-Campillo, Rodrígo
This study aimed to compare the effects of two 8-week in-season strength-training programs on handball players’ physical and technical parameters. Thirty-six male athletes were randomly separated into three groups: a control group (n = 12), a plyometric training group (PG, n = 12), and an eccentric-overload training group (EG, n = 12). The PG and EG performed upper- and lower-limb plyometric or eccentric-overload exercises, respectively, three times per week. Control groups performed regular handball training. The athletes were assessed for counter movement jump (CMJ) and Abalakov vertical jump (ABK) height, 15 m linear sprint time, handball-throwing speed (i.e., penalty throw; 3-step running throw; jump throw), and cardiorespiratory endurance through the 20 m shuttle-run test. Heart rate and blood lactate were measured at the end of the endurance test. No baseline differences were noted for dependent variables between groups. The session rating of perceived exertion was similar between the intervention groups (PG = 361 ± 12.2 AU; EG = 370 ± 13.3 AU). The ANOVA revealed significant (p < 0.05; Δ = 5–9%; effect size (ES) = 0.45–1.96). Similar improvements for experimental groups compared to the control group for CMJ, ABK jump, penalty throw, 3-step running throw, and jump throw. However, interventions did not affect 15 m, cardiorespiratory endurance, nor heart rate or blood lactate after the endurance test. In conclusion, an 8-week handball intervention by performing plyometric or eccentric-overload training in-season improves the physical and technical parameters of male players when compared to regular handball practice. © 2023 by the authors.
Effects of Six-Week Pre-Season Complex Contrast Training Intervention on Male Soccer Players' Athletic Performance
(Sciendo, 2023-09) Kumar, Gopal; Pandey, Vivek; Ramirez-Campillo, Rodrigo; Thapa, Rohit K.
Introduction. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a six-week complex contrast training (CCT) intervention on the athletic performance of highly-trained amateur male soccer players during the pre-season period. Material and Methods. Participants aged 21.3 were randomized to CCT (n = 7) or active (i.e. standard soccer training) control (CG; n = 9) groups. Athletic performance was assessed using the 30 m linear sprint test time, standing long jump distance (SLJ), countermovement jump (CMJ) height, and unilateral right-left knee flexion and extension isokinetic maximal strength tests. The experimental group replaced part of the standard soccer training schedule with three CCT sessions per week for six weeks. A two (pre-post intervention) by two (CCT, CG) mixed ANOVA was used to analyze the exercise-specific effects. In addition, between-group comparisons at post-test were conducted with baseline scores as covariate. Within group changes were analyzed using paired t-test. Results. Significant group-by-time interaction effects were found for all dependent variables (p < 0.001 - 0.004). Post-hoc tests using paired t-test revealed significant improvements in all dependent variables in CCT (all p ≤ 0.001; effect size (g) = 0.29 - 0.96; %Δ= 4.5 - 14.7), but not in CG (p = 0.174 - 0.633; g = 0.03 - 0.20; %Δ= 0.4 - 2.6). Further, Bonferroni adjusted post-hoc analysis using baseline scores as a covariate showed post-test differences in favor of CCT compared to CG for all variables. Conclusions. CCT is recommended as an effective training strategy during the pre-season to improve athletic performance among highly-trained amateur male soccer players. © 2023 Gopal Kumar et al., published by Sciendo.

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