Effects of Therapies Involving Plyometric-Jump Training on Physical Fitness of Youth with Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis.

The aim of this systematic review was to assess the effects of plyometric-jump training (PJT) on the physical fitness of youth with cerebral palsy (CP) compared with controls (i.e., standard therapy). The PRISMA 2020 guidelines were followed. Eligibility was assessed using the PICOS approach. Literature searches were conducted using the PubMed, Web of Science, and SCOPUS databases. Methodological study quality was assessed using the PEDro scale. Data were meta-analyzed by applying a random-effects model to calculate Hedges' g effect sizes (ES), along with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). The impact of heterogeneity was assessed (I2 statistic), and the certainty of evidence was determined using the GRADE approach. Eight randomized-controlled studies with low-to-moderate methodological quality were included, involving male (n = 225) and female (n = 138) youth aged 9.5 to 14.6 years. PJT interventions lasted between 8 and 12 weeks with 2-4 weekly sessions. Compared with controls, PJT improved the muscle strength (ES = 0.66 [moderate], 95% CI = 0.36-0.96, p < 0.001, I2 = 5.4%), static (ES = 0.69 [moderate], 95% CI= 0.33-1.04, p < 0.001, I2 = 0.0%) and dynamic balance (ES = 0.85 [moderate], 95% CI = 0.12-1.58, p = 0.023, I2 = 81.6%) of youth with CP. Therefore, PJT improves muscle strength and static and dynamic balance in youth with CP compared with controls. However, more high-quality randomized-controlled trials with larger sample sizes are needed to provide a more definitive recommendation regarding the use and safety of PJT to improve measures of physical fitness.

Optimal Prescription for Superior Outcomes: A Comparative Analysis of Inter-Individual Variability in Adaptations to Small-Sided Games and Short Sprint Interval Training in Young Basketball Players.

This study compared the inter-individual variability in adaptive responses to six weeks of small-sided games (SSG) and short sprint interval training (sSIT) in young basketball players. Thirty well-trained young athletes (age: 16.4 ± 0.6 years; stature: 190 ± 8.4 cm; weight: 84.1 ± 8.2 kg) voluntarily participated and were randomly assigned to SSG (3 sets of 5 min 3v3 on full length (28 m) and half-width (7.5 m) court, with 2 minutes of passive recovery in-between), sSIT (3 sets of 12 × 5 s sprinting with 20 s recovery between efforts and 2 min of rest between sets), or CON (routine basketball-specific technical and tactical drills) groups, each of ten. Before and after the training period, participants underwent a series of laboratory- and field-based measurements to evaluate their maximum oxygen uptake (V̇O2max), first and second ventilatory threshold (VT1 and VT2), oxygen pulse, peak and average power output (PPO and APO), linear speed, change of direction (COD), countermovement jump (CMJ), and vertical jump (VJ). Both SSG and sSIT sufficiently stimulated adaptive mechanisms involved in enhancement of the mentioned variables (p < 0.05). However, sSIT resulted in lower residuals in percent changes in V̇O2max (p = 0.02), O2pulse (p = 0.005), VT1 (p = 0.001), PPO (p = 0.03), and linear speed (p = 0.01) across athletes compared to the SSG. Moreover, sSIT resulted in more responders than SSG in V̇O2max (p = 0.02, φ = 0.500), O2pulse (p = 0.003, φ = 0.655), VT1 (p = 0.003, φ = 0.655), VT2 (p = 0.05, φ = 0.436), and linear speed (p = 0.05, φ = 0.420). Our results indicate that sSIT creates a more consistent level of mechanical and physiological stimulus than SSG, potentially leading to more similar adaptations across team members.

Association between comorbidities at ICU admission and post-Sepsis physical impairment: A retrospective cohort study.

PURPOSE: Few studies have measured the association between pre-existing comorbidities and post-sepsis physical impairment. The study aimed to estimate the risk of physical impairment at hospital discharge among sepsis patients, adjusting for pre-existing physical impairment prior to ICU admission and in-hospital mortality. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed all consecutive adult patients admitted to an ICU in a tertiary community hospital, Kameda Medical Center, with sepsis diagnosis from September 2014 to October 2020. Inverse probability attrition weighting using machine learning was employed to estimate the risk of physical impairment at hospital discharge for sepsis patients with and without pre-existing comorbidities at ICU admission. This estimation was adjusted for baseline covariates, pre-ICU physical impairment, and in-hospital mortality. RESULTS: Of 889 sepsis patients analyzed, 668 [75.1%] had at least one comorbidity and 221 [24.9%] had no comorbidities at ICU admission. Upon adjusting for baseline covariates, pre-ICU physical impairment, and in-hospital mortality, pre-existing comorbidities were not associated with an elevated risk of physical impairment at hospital discharge (RR: 1.02, 95% CI: 0.92, 1.14). CONCLUSIONS: Pre-existing comorbidities prior to ICU admission were not associated with an increased risk of physical impairment at hospital discharge among sepsis patients after adjusting for baseline covariates and in-hospital mortality.

Physical conditioning methods for sludge deep dewatering: A critical review.

Sludge is an inevitable waste product of sewage treatment with a high water content and large volume, it poses a significant threat of secondary pollution to both water and the atmosphere without proper disposal. In this regard, dewatering has emerged as an attractive method in sludge treatment, as it can reduce the sludge volume, enhance its transportability and calorific value, and even decrease the production of landfill leachate. In recent years, physical conditioning methods including non-chemical conditioners or energy input alone, have been extensively researched for their potential to enhance sludge dewatering efficiency, such as thermal treatment, freeze-thaw, microwave, ultrasonic, skeleton builders addition, and electro-dewatering, as well as combined methods. The main objective of this paper is to comprehensively evaluate the dewatering capacity of various physical conditioning methods, and identify key factors affecting sludge dewatering efficiency. In addition, future research anticipated directions and outlooks are proposed. This work is expected to provide valuable insights for developing efficient, eco-friendly, and low-energy consumption techniques for deep sludge dewatering.

Dietary supplementation habits in international natural bodybuilders during pre-competition.

Bodybuilding is characterized by high-rates of sport supplementation. This is the first study to compare the supplementation patterns of winners (WB) and non-winners (NWB) among international natural bodybuilders during contest preparation. Fifty-six natural bodybuilders (5 women) (age = 28.85 ± 8.03 years; final body mass = 71.50 ± 10.28 kg), 19 WB (athletes who had achieved victory in an official natural bodybuilding championship at least once) and 37 NWB (athletes who never achieved victory), from 18 countries (55.36% from Spain) responded to this cross-sectional online survey related to their nutritional habits, strategies and supplementation practices. WB were significantly older (p = 0.024), completed more competitive seasons (p = 0.027) and participated in more competitions in the last contest year (p = 0.011). There were no significant differences between WB and NWB for years training for bodybuilding (p = 0.055), weeks of dieting for competition (p = 0.392), and body weight at the start (p = 0.553) and end (p = 0.330) of the season. Beverage and supplement consumption, purchasing patterns, and information sources did not differ between groups (p > 0.05). In conclusion, natural bodybuilding WB tended to be older and had more competitive experience, but shared similar supplementation protocols to NWB. Athletes' supplementation patterns were influenced by different sources of information. However, these natural bodybuilders mainly purchased their supplements through the internet without guidance from a coach or dietitian.

Warm-Up Strategies and Effects on Performance in Racing Horses and Sport Horses Competing in Olympic Disciplines.

Warm-up is a standard component of exercise preparation, intended to lower the risk of injury and improve performance. Comprehensive evidence-based guidelines per discipline are missing. This scoping review aimed to describe the physiological effects and strategies of active warm-up in horses according to different equestrian disciplines. The search strategies identified 479 papers for review. After application of selection criteria, 23 articles published from 1996 to January 2024 were included of which 12 discussed the effects of warm-up on physiological parameters and 11 discussed warm-up strategies in different disciplines. As shown in humans, warm-up enhanced aerobic capacity and increased blood and muscle temperatures, independently from its intensity. Riders emphasized the importance of warm-up to prepare horses for physical work and to increase their reactiveness to aids. A canter or trot was the preferred gait in elite or non-elite dressage horses, respectively, while the walk was in show jumping horses. Warm-up duration and intensity increased with increasing competitive level, but a longer and/or more intensive warm-up did not affect the final score. Dressage riders warmed up their horses for a longer time compared to show jumping riders. Future studies should objectively establish the most profitable warm-up strategies per equestrian discipline and level.

Optimization of Postural Control, Balance, and Mobility in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized Comparative Analysis of Independent and Integrated Effects of Pilates and Plyometrics.

The paradigm of comprehensive treatment approaches for children with cerebral palsy has gained traction, prompting clinicians to deliberate between independent and integrated treatment delivery. However, this decision-making process is often hindered by the dearth of empirical evidence available to inform optimal therapeutic strategies. This study, therefore, sought to compare the effects of Pilates-based core strengthening (PsCS), plyometric-based muscle loading (PlyoML), and their combination on postural control, balance, and mobility in children with unilateral cerebral palsy (ULCP). Eighty-one children with ULCP (age: 12-18 years) were randomized to PsCS (n = 27), PlyoML (n = 27), or a combined intervention (n = 27; equated for total sets/repetitions) group. The three interventions were applied twice/week over 12 successive weeks. Postural control (directional and overall limits of stability-LoS), balance, and mobility (Community Balance and Mobility Scale-CB&M; Functional Walking Test-FWT; Timed Up and Down Stair test-TUDS) were assessed pre- and post-intervention. The combined group exhibited greater increases in directional LoS compared to PsCS and PlyoML including the backward (p = 0.006 and 0.033, respectively), forward (p = 0.015 and 0.036, respectively), paretic (p = 0.017 and 0.018, respectively), and non-paretic directions (p = 0.006 and 0.004, respectively)], and this was also the case for overall LoS (p < 0.001 versus PsCS and PlyoML). In addition, the combined group displayed greater improvements compared to the PsCS and PlyoML groups regarding CB&M (p = 0.037 and p = 0.002, respectively), FWT (p = 0.012 and p = 0.038, respectively), and TUDS (p = 0.046 and p = 0.021, respectively). In conclusion, the combined PsCS and PlyoML exercise program promotes considerably greater improvements in postural control, balance, and mobility compared to unimodal training in children with ULCP.

Effects of Sand Surface Plyometric and Sprint Training on Physical and Technical Skill Performance in Beach Handball Players.

This study compared the effects of a 6-week combined plyometric and sprint-training program on the sand to regular preseason training, on the athletic performance and technical actions of beach handball (BH) players. Athletes were randomly assigned either to the control (CG, n = 12; BH training only) or the experimental group (EG, n = 12; plyometric + sprint + BH training). Assessments conducted before and after the training period included a squat jump, a countermovement jump, the Abalakov jump, a 15-m sprint, a modified Course-Navette endurance test, and four sport-specific BH throwing speed tests: a standing penalty throw, a 3-step running throw, a jump throw, and a 360º jump throw. The training intervention enhanced all athletic performance measures (all, p < 0.05). In contrast, the only improvement in the CG included endurance performance (p< 0.05). Significant time-group differences were noted in favor of the EG compared to the CG (p< 0.05) in the squat jump, the countermovement jump, the Abalakov jump, the jump throw velocity and 360º jump throw velocity. In conclusion, compared to BH regular training, 6 weeks of sand surface preseason plyometric and sprint training combined with regular BH training induced greater improvements in athletic performance and specific skills in BH players.

Effects of plyometric jump training on measures of physical fitness and lower-limb asymmetries in prepubertal male soccer players: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: High level of physical fitness is a paramount soccer performance factor. As such, developing key components of physical fitness such as sprinting, jumping, and change of direction (CoD) at an early age empowers both short- and long-term performance success. Although previous research in prepubertal male soccer players has reported physical fitness performance enhancements following plyometric jump training (PJT), the effects on inter-limb asymmetries remain unclear. OBJECTIVE: To assess the effects of PJT on measures of physical fitness and inter-limb asymmetries in prepubertal male soccer players. METHODS: A total of 27 participants were recruited, and randomly assigned to either a PJT group (n = 13; age = 12.7 ± 0.2 years; maturity offset = -1.6 ± 0.7) or an active control group (CG) (n = 14; age = 11.8 ± 0.4 years; maturity offset = -2.51 ± 0.61). The training intervention lasted eight-week and was conducted during the in-season period, with twice-weekly sessions. Physical fitness tests were conducted before and after the intervention, including the 505 change-of-direction (CoD; [505 CoD test]), countermovement-jump (CMJ) height, standing-long-jump (SLJ) distance, and single-leg hop test for distance with dominant (SHTD-D) and non-dominant legs (SHTD-ND). A jump-based asymmetry score was calculated as the difference between HTD and HTND. RESULTS: ANCOVA analysis revealed significant between-group differences in all physical fitness measures at post-test. Specifically, the PJT group showed significant large improvements in CMJ height, SLJ distance, HTD and HTND, and CoD speed (d = 0.84 to 2.00; ∆1.05% to 16.85%). Moreover, the PJT group showed a significant, small reduction in the inter-limb asymmetry score (d = 0.43; ∆-45.21%). In contrast, no significant changes were reported in the CG between pre-and post-tests (d = 0.07 to 0.24; ∆0.21% to 0.98%). CONCLUSIONS: The incorporation of PJT into the training schedules of prepubertal male soccer players resulted in positive effects on various measures of physical fitness. Furthermore, our findings suggest that PJT can reduce lower-limb asymmetry, which could potentially decrease the risk of lower limb injuries. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study does not report results related to healthcare interventions using human participants and therefore it was not prospectively registered.

Effects of recreational small-sided games from different team sports on the improvement of aerobic fitness in youth sedentary populations: A systematic review.

Aerobic fitness is a critical aspect of overall health and well-being, essential for maintaining a high quality of life. Unfortunately, sedentary behavior has been on the rise among young adults, and this has had a negative impact on their aerobic fitness levels. Therefore, it is crucial to identify enjoyable physical exercise training programs that can play a pivotal role in improving aerobic fitness. The objective of this study was to systematically review the experimental studies concerning the impact of small-sided games (SSGs) training programs, implemented across various team sports, on the enhancement of aerobic fitness in a youth sedentary population. A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and the Web of Science on August 01, 2023. Our eligibility criteria focused on studies involving sedentary youth populations (aged <18 years) as the target population. These studies needed to incorporate interventions based on SSGs as the intervention of interest, comparing them to passive or control groups as the comparator. The primary outcomes of interest were related to maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), assessed either directly or indirectly, or the results of field-based cardiorespiratory tests. We specifically considered two- or multi-arm randomized controlled studies as the study design of interest. Out of the initial pool of 1980 studies, we reviewed 38 full-text articles, ultimately selecting and analyzing 13 studies for inclusion in our review. Among the studies included, a total of 1281 participants were enrolled in SSG-based interventions, while 744 participants acted as part of the control groups. Regarding the impact on VO2max, the six studies that investigated this outcome showed varying improvements, ranging from 2.2 % to 31.3 % when participants were exposed to SSGs. In terms of the outcome related to endurance performance in field-based tests, the eight studies that examined this aspect found that participants exposed to SSGs showed improvements ranging from 0.1 % to 79.8 %. In conclusion, this systematic review suggests that SSG-based interventions conducted among sedentary youth populations can play a positive role in improving their aerobic fitness. This improvement in aerobic fitness can have potential positive impacts on their overall health and quality of life.

Measuring and assessing motor skills of selected Croatian U12, U14 and U16 tennis players.

Purpose: The aim of this research is to analyse and to determine the differences between tennis players in younger age categories (U12, U and U16) in certain motor skills. Methods: A total of 60 tennis players ranked in the rankings of the Croatian Tennis Federation were measured by using 10 tests for assessing explosive strength in jump, speed, agility, and trunk strength. The tennis players were divided into three groups of 20 respondents, depending on the age category in which they compete. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) between all age categories were found in indicators of frontal and lateral agility, running speed in the 20-m shuttle run test, and explosive strength in jump and repetitive trunk strength. Results: The results of the conducted tests indicate a linear development trend for the mentioned skills in relation with the increase of chronological age of the tennis players. Statistically significantly better results were shown between test subjects under 14 years compared to test subjects under 12 years in tests for the assessment of agility (SST,A9-3-6-3-9), in the 20 m sprint test, in tests of explosive strength of lower extremities (CMJ, CMJmax,SJ) and in the test of repetitive trunk strength (TF). Subjects under 16 years achieved significantly better results compared to subjects under 14 years in tests for assessing agility (SST, A9-3-6-3-9), speed (SRT5m, SRT10m, SRT20m) and explosiveness (CMJ, CMJmax, SJ). Players under 16 years recorded significantly better results in all tests for assessing agility (SST,A9-3-6-3-9), speed (SRT5m, SRT10m, SRT20m), explosiveness of the lower extremities (CMJ, CMJmax, SJ) and in the test for assessing repetitive trunk strength (TF). Statistically significant differences were not detected in tests of running speed in the 5-m and 10-m shuttle run tests among U12 and U14 tennis players, nor between U14 and U16 tennis players in the 60-s trunk flexion test. The highest heterogeneity of results in a single age category was determined in the test for assessing isometric trunk strength, and thus tennis players of different age categories do not differ significantly in this skill. Conclusion: The results of this research point to the development of specific motor skills in accordance with the increase of game demands and chronological age, however, also refer to the problem of muscle imbalance between front and back trunk musculature. Physical conditioning of young tennis players should be multilaterally directed in order to enable injury prevention and adjustment of tennis players to competitive demands.

Ensayo clínico aleatorizado en pacientes COVID- 19 sobre el efecto de la fisioterapia precoz en su acondicionamiento físico / Randomized clinical trial in Covid-19 patients on the effect of early physiotherapy on their physical condition

Introducción La Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) recomienda las intervenciones tempranas de rehabilitación y movilización en pacientes hospitalizados por COVID-19. Los beneficios de la fisioterapia precoz, durante la estancia hospitalaria, no han sido probados en ensayos clínicos. Objetivo Evaluar los efectos de la fisioterapia precoz y educación para la salud en pacientes COVID-19 hospitalizados, en relación con los síntomas descritos en estudios previos, analizando diferencias entre grupos respecto a su acondicionamiento físico, necesidad de oxigenoterapia y estancia hospitalaria. Metodología Ensayo clínico aleatorizado con dos brazos, desarrollado en unidades de hospitalización y cuidados respiratorios intermedios (UCRI), con pacientes COVID-19. Se incluyeron 64 sujetos en el grupo experimental (implementación de un programa de fisioterapia precoz tras 48-72 horas de ingreso) y 62 en el grupo control (tratamiento habitual del centro). Variables sociodemográficas y clínicas: escala de disnea modified Medical Research Council (Mmrc), oxigenoterapia, Medical Research Council Scale sum score (MRC-SS), 30 segundos sit to stand test (30 s-STST), fuerza de prensión manual (FPM), Tinetti, escala de fragilidad (FRAIL-España) y escala Post-COVID-19 Functional Status (PCFS). Se evaluaron al ingreso, al alta y a los dos meses del alta. Resultados Los experimentales tuvieron menos días de ingreso y de oxigenoterapia convencional. Al alta, presentan menor riesgo de caída (72,9 vs. 95,8%) y menor debilidad en MRC-SS (2,1 vs. 14,6%). A los dos meses tenían menor fragilidad (5,0 vs. 14,5%), mayor fuerza de prensión manual, menos disnea, mejores resultados en 30s-STST y menos limitaciones post-COVID (86,5 vs. 96,4%) (AU)

Introduction The WHO recommends early rehabilitation and mobilization interventions in patients hospitalized for COVID-19. The benefits of early physiotherapy, during the hospital stay, have not been proven in clinical trials. Objective To evaluate the effects of early physiotherapy and health education in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, in relation to the symptoms described in previous studies, analyzing differences between groups regarding their physical conditioning, need for oxygen therapy and hospital stay. Methodology Randomized clinical trial with two arms, developed in hospitalization and intermediate respiratory care units, with COVID-19 patients. Sixty-four patients included in the experimental group (implementation of an early physiotherapy program after 48–72 h of admission) and 62 patients in the control group (usual treatment of the center). Sociodemographic and clinical variables: mMRC, oxygen therapy, MRC-SS, 30 s-STST, FPM, Tinetti, FRAIL-España and PCFS. They were evaluated on admission, discharge and two months after discharge. Results The experimental patients had fewer days of admission and conventional oxygen therapy. At discharge, they present a lower risk of falling (72.9% vs. 95.8%) and less weakness in MRC-SS (2.1% vs. 14.6%). At two months they had less frailty (5.0% vs. 14.5%), greater hand grip strength, less dyspnea, better results in 30s-STST and fewer post-COVID limitations (86.5% vs. 96.4%). Conclusión The intervention of early physiotherapy in COVID-19 patients and the health education received, prevents muscle weakness during admission, improves physical conditioning at discharge and two months later, and reduces the days of hospital stay (AU)

Maturity Offset, Anthropometric Characteristics and Vertical Force-Velocity Profile in Youth Basketball Players.

This work aimed to analyze the relationships between maturity offset, anthropometric variables and the vertical force-velocity profile in youth (12-18 years old) male basketball players. The vertical force-velocity profile was measured in 49 basketball players, grouped in competitive-age categories, i.e., under 14, 16 and 18 years of age (U-14, U-16 and U-18, respectively). A bivariate correlational analysis was carried out between maturity offset, anthropometric variables (height, body mass, % fat, muscle mass, bone mass and body mass index (BMI)) and vertical force-velocity profile (theoretical maximal force [F0], theoretical maximal velocity [V0], theoretical maximal power [Pmax], force-velocity imbalance [Fvimb] and force-velocity profile orientation). The results showed significant correlations (p < 0.05) between Fvimb and maturity offset at early ages of training (12-15 years). The anthropometric profile was correlated (p < 0.05) with F0 in U-14, V0 in U-16, and Pmax in U-18 basketball players. The current findings suggest a relationship between the vertical force-velocity imbalance and maturity offset and the main vertical force-velocity profile variables. The vertical force-velocity profile is hypothesized as a useful index to correct vertical force-velocity deficits according to the maturity offset of male basketball players.

Effects of Upper-Body Plyometric Training on Physical Fitness in Healthy Youth and Young Adult Participants: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Upper-body plyometric training (UBPT) is a commonly used training method, yet its effects on physical fitness are inconsistent and there is a lack of comprehensive reviews on the topic. OBJECTIVE: To examine the effects of UBPT on physical fitness in healthy youth and young adult participants compared to active, specific-active, and passive controls. METHODS: This systematic review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines and utilized the PICOS framework. PubMed, WOS, and SCOPUS were searched. Studies were assessed for eligibility using the PICOS framework. The effects of UBPT on upper-body physical fitness were assessed, including maximal strength, medicine ball throw performance, sport-specific throwing performance, and upper limb muscle volume. The risk of bias was evaluated using the PEDro scale. Means and standard deviations were used to calculate effect sizes, and the I2 statistic was used to assess heterogeneity. Publication bias was assessed using the extended Egger's test. Certainty of evidence was rated using the GRADE scale. Additional analyses included sensitivity analyses and adverse effects. RESULTS: Thirty-five studies were included in the systematic review and 30 studies in meta-analyses, involving 1412 male and female participants from various sport-fitness backgrounds. Training duration ranged from 4 to 16 weeks. Compared to controls, UBPT improved maximal strength (small ES = 0.39 95% CI = 0.15-0.63, p = 0.002, I2 = 29.7%), medicine ball throw performance (moderate ES = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.43-0.85, p < 0.001, I2 = 46.3%), sport-specific throwing performance (small ES = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.25-0.86, p < 0.001, I2 = 36.8%), and upper limbs muscle volume (moderate ES = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.20-1.08, p = 0.005, I2 = 0.0%). The GRADE analyses provided low or very low certainty for the recommendation of UBPT for improving physical fitness in healthy participants. One study reported one participant with an injury due to UBPT. The other 34 included studies provided no report measure for adverse effects linked to UBPT. CONCLUSIONS: UBPT interventions may enhance physical fitness in healthy youth and young adult individuals compared to control conditions. However, the certainty of evidence for these recommendations is low or very low. Further research is needed to establish the optimal dose of UBPT and to determine its effect on female participants and its transfer to other upper-body dominated sports.

Plyometric Jump Training Exercise Optimization for Maximizing Human Performance: A Systematic Scoping Review and Identification of Gaps in the Existing Literature.

BACKGROUND: Plyometric jump training (PJT) encompasses a range of different exercises that may offer advantages over other training methods to improve human physical capabilities (HPC). However, no systematic scoping review has analyzed either the role of the type of PJT exercise as an independent prescription variable or the gaps in the literature regarding PJT exercises to maximize HPC. OBJECTIVE: This systematic scoping review aims to summarize the published scientific literature and its gaps related to HPC adaptations (e.g., jumping) to PJT, focusing on the role of the type of PJT exercise as an independent prescription variable. METHODS: Computerized literature searches were conducted in the PubMed, Web of Science, and SCOPUS electronic databases. Design (PICOS) framework: (P) Healthy participants of any age, sex, fitness level, or sports background; (I) Chronic interventions exclusively using any form of PJT exercise type (e.g., vertical, unilateral). Multimodal interventions (e.g., PJT + heavy load resistance training) will be considered only if studies included two experimental groups under the same multimodal intervention, with the only difference between groups being the type of PJT exercise. (C) Comparators include PJT exercises with different modes (e.g., vertical vs. horizontal; vertical vs. horizontal combined with vertical); (O) Considered outcomes (but not limited to): physiological, biomechanical, biochemical, psychological, performance-related outcomes/adaptations, or data on injury risk (from prevention-focused studies); (S) Single- or multi-arm, randomized (parallel, crossover, cluster, other) or non-randomized. RESULTS: Through database searching, 10,546 records were initially identified, and 69 studies (154 study groups) were included in the qualitative synthesis. The DJ (counter, bounce, weighted, and modified) was the most studied type of jump, included in 43 study groups, followed by the CMJ (standard CMJ or modified) in 19 study groups, and the SJ (standard SJ or modified) in 17 study groups. Strength and vertical jump were the most analyzed HPC outcomes in 38 and 54 studies, respectively. The effects of vertical PJT versus horizontal PJT on different HPC were compared in 21 studies. The effects of bounce DJ versus counter DJ (or DJ from different box heights) on different HPC were compared in 26 studies. CONCLUSIONS: Although 69 studies analyzed the effects of PJT exercise type on different HPC, several gaps were identified in the literature. Indeed, the potential effect of the PJT exercise type on a considerable number of HPC outcomes (e.g., aerobic capacity, flexibility, asymmetries) are virtually unexplored. Future studies are needed, including greater number of participants, particularly in groups of females, senior athletes, and youths according to maturity. Moreover, long-term (e.g., >12 weeks) PJT interventions are needed.

Rating of Perceived Exertion in the First Repetition is Related to the Total Repetitions Performed in Elastic Bands Training.

Several devices (e.g., linear transducers) have been used for predicting resistance training intensity. However, subjective scales, such as rating of perceived exertion (RPE), are proposed as reliable and easier-to-use tools for monitoring intensity during resistance training. Accordingly, different perceptive scales have been presented in previous research for monitoring intensity during resistance training with elastic bands. The aim was to assess the accuracy and reliability of RPE for quantifying the potential maximal repetitions that could be performed at a given RPE (from 2 to 8 of 10) obtained in the first repetition. For this purpose, 13 recreationally active participants (age: 26.33 [6.52] years, body mass index: 24.97 [5.08] kg/m2) were involved in two familiarization and two experimental sessions. In each session, participants randomly performed one set at each intensity of the first repetition from 2/10 to 8/10 until volitional failure in three different exercises (fly, military press, and push-press). An individual grip width of the elastic band was chosen in each set. The number of repetitions and heart rate were assessed. Significance level was set at p < .05. Repetitions decreased when intensity increased (p < .01) and heart rate was higher in the global exercise (i.e., push-press; p < .05), but nonsignificant differences between intensities were reported. The level of experience influenced the number of repetitions performed (p < .05). Intersession reliability was set from good to excellent (range: 0.64-0.91). Therefore, the RPE of the first repetition is a relevant and reliable parameter related to the total number of repetitions performed for each RPE value in trained participants enrolled in elastic bands resistance training.

Positive Effects of Plyometric vs. Eccentric-Overload Training on Performance in Young Male Handball Players.

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.

Recuperación aguda de la frecuencia cardíaca en una sesión de functional fitness y su relación con el consumo máximo de oxígeno

Fundamento: la frecuencia cardiaca de recuperación en esfuerzos físicos es un indicador relevante para los profesionales de la salud y el deporte. Objetivo: relacionar la recuperación aguda de la frecuencia cardíaca en una sesión submáxima de functional fitness con el consumo máximo de oxígeno en sujetos físicamente activos. Mètodos: estudio descriptivo de enfoque cuantitativo con una muestra a conveniencia conformada por 14 hombres (edad 21,32±4,36 años; masa corporal 71,42±14,68 kg; talla 1,75±0,17 m; IMC 23,01±3,61 kg/m2) y 5 mujeres (edad 22,81±3,48 años; masa corporal 65,82±8,45 kg; talla 1,56±0,21 m; IMC 21,54±1,35 kg/m2), estos realizaron en dos días separados por 48 horas una prueba maximal e incremental cardiorrespiratoria (Course-Navette) y el WOD Pukie (150 burpees en el menor tiempo posible). Se registró la frecuencia cardiaca máxima, frecuencia cardiaca de la sesión, frecuencia cardiaca de recuperación (1, 2 y 3 minutos). Se aplicaron la prueba de normalidad de Shapiro-Wilk y el coeficiente correlacional de Pearson (95 % de confianza y un p-valor de 0,05). Resultados: el consumo máximo de oxígeno no se relacionó significativamente en hombres (p>0,05), en el caso de las mujeres fue positivo con la frecuencia cardiaca de recuperación en todos los lapsos, pero con significación en 1 minuto (r = 0,81; p<0,05) y 3 minutos (r = 0,93; p<0,01). Conclusiones: el consumo máximo de oxígeno se relacionó positiva y significativamente con la frecuencia cardiaca de recuperación en una sesión de functional fitness en mujeres físicamente activas.

Foundation: the recovery heart rate in physical efforts is a relevant indicator for health and sports professionals. Objective: to relate the acute recovery of the heart rate in a submaximal functional fitness session with the maximum oxygen consumption in physically active subjects. Methods: descriptive study with a quantitative approach with a convenience sample made up of 14 men (age 21.32±4.36 years; body mass 71.42±14.68 kg; height 1.75±0.17 m; BMI 23 01±3.61 kg/m2) and 5 women (age 22.81±3.48 years; body mass 65.82±8.45 kg; height 1.56±0.21 m; BMI 21.54± 1.35 kg/m2), they performed a maximal and incremental cardiorespiratory test (Course-Navette) and the WOD Pukie (150 burpees in the shortest possible time) on two days separated by 48 hours. Maximum heart rate, session heart rate, and recovery heart rate (1, 2, and 3 minutes) were recorded. The Shapiro-Wilk normality test and the Pearson correlation coefficient (95% confidence and a p-value of 0.05) were applied. Results: the maximum oxygen consumption was not significantly related in men (p>0.05), in the case of women it was positive with the recovery heart rate in all periods, but with significance in 1 minute (r = 0 .81; p<0.05) and 3 minutes (r = 0.93; p<0.01). Conclusions: maximal oxygen consumption was positively and significantly related to recovery heart rate in a functional fitness session in physically active women.

Arbitrary absolute vs. individualized running speed thresholds in team sports: A scoping review with evidence gap map.

The aims of this scoping review were (i) to characterize the main methodological approaches to assessing individualized running speed thresholds in team sports players; (ii) to assess the use of traditional arbitrary (absolute) thresholds compared to individualized running speed thresholds in team sports players; (iii) to provide an evidence gap map (EGM) about the approaches and study designs employed in investigations in team sports and (iv) to provide directions for future research and practical applications for the strength and conditioning field. Methods studies were searched for in the following databases: (i) PubMed; (ii) Scopus; (iii) SPORTDiscus and (iv) Web of Science. The search was conducted on 15/07/2022. Risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Nonrandomized Studies (RoBANS). From 3,195 potentially relevant articles, 36 were eligible for inclusion in this review. Of the 36 included articles, 27 (75%) focused on the use of arbitrary and individualized running speed thresholds to describe the locomotor demands (e.g., high intensity running) of players. Thirty-four articles used individualized speed running thresholds based on physical fitness assessments (e.g., 40-m linear sprint) or physical performance (e.g., maximal acceleration). This scoping review supported the need for a greater focus to be placed on improving the methodological aspects of using individualized speed running thresholds in team sports. More than just creating alternatives to arbitrary thresholds, it is essential to increase the replicability of methodological conditions whilst ensuring that research comparing the most adequate measures and approaches to individualization takes into consideration the population and context of each study.

Multimodal prehabilitation in patients with non-small cell lung cancer undergoing anatomical resection: protocol of a non-randomised feasibility study.

BACKGROUND: The preoperative period can be used to enhance a patient's functional capacity with multimodal prehabilitation and consequently improve and fasten postoperative recovery. Especially, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) surgical patients may benefit from this intervention, since the affected and resected organ is an essential part of the cardiorespiratory fitness. Drafting a prehabilitation programme is challenging, since many disciplines are involved, and time between diagnosis of NSCLC and surgery is limited. We designed a multimodal prehabilitation programme prior to NSCLC surgery and aimed to conduct a study to assess feasibility and indicative evidence of efficacy of this programme. Publication of this protocol may help other healthcare facilities to implement such a programme. METHODS: The multimodal prehabilitation programme consists of an exercise programme, nutritional support, psychological support, smoking cessation, patient empowerment and respiratory optimisation. In two Dutch teaching hospitals, 40 adult patients with proven or suspected NSCLC will be included. In a non-randomised fashion, 20 patients follow the multimodal prehabilitation programme, and 20 will be assessed in the control group, according to patient preference. Assessments will take place at four time points: baseline, the week before surgery, 6 weeks postoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. Feasibility and indicative evidence of efficacy of the prehabilitation programme will be assessed as primary outcomes. DISCUSSION: Since the time between diagnosis of NSCLC and surgery is limited, it is a challenge to implement a prehabilitation programme. This study will assess whether this is feasible, and evidence of efficacy can be found. The non-randomised fashion of the study might result in a selection and confounding bias. However, the control group may help putting the results of the prehabilitation group in perspective. By publishing this protocol, we aim to facilitate others to evaluate and implement a multimodal prehabilitation programme for surgical NSCLC patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The current study is registered as NL8080 in the Netherlands Trial Register on the 10th of October 2019, https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/8080 . Secondary identifiers: CCMO (Central Committee on Research Involving Human Subjects) number NL70578.015.19, reference number of the Medical Ethical Review Committee of Máxima MC W19.045.