Muscle function and postural balance in lifelong trained male footballers compared with sedentary elderly men and youngsters

Walking football for Health - physiological response to playing and characteristics of the players

Walking Football (WF) is one type of recreational football increasing in popularity, targeting older adults. Further knowledge on the intensity and physical workload of WF, characteristics of the players, the social context, and reasons for playing WF is needed. Thus, the aim of the study was to characterize the individuals that regularly play WF and their experience of WF, and the physiological characteristics of the sport. Sixty-three players from three clubs taking part in organised WF in Sweden were included. The players participated in up to four WF-games and underwent performance tests and answered a questionnaire. The participants mean age was 70.9 years, ranging from 63 to 85 years with 71% (n = 27) of the men and 68% (n = 13) of the women having a BMI > 25. Fifty-one percent (n = 27) of the players had hypertension, and 73% (n = 39) regularly used prescription drugs due to illness. During WF, the players covered on average 2,409 m (2,509 m for men and 2,205 m for women, p = .001). Expressed in percentage of their age-estimated maximal heart rate, mean heart rate represented 80 ± 9 and 80 ± 8% of max for men, and 78 ± 9 and 79 ± 9% of max for women in the first and second halves, respectively, hence WF can be considered a moderate intensity activity for older adults. The main reason for WF participation was to socialize. WF includes a considerable number of accelerations and decelerations, making it more energetically and mechanically demanding than walking.

Football training as a non-pharmacological treatment of the global aging population-A topical review

In the present topical mini-review, the beneficial impact of small-sided game football training for the increasing elderly global population is presented. As a multicomponent type of physical activity, football training executed on small pitched with 4-6 players in each team is targeting a myriad of physiological systems and causes positive adaptations of relevance for several non-communicable diseases, of which the incidence increases with advancing age. There is strong scientific evidence that this type of football training promotes cardiovascular, metabolic and musculo-skeletal health in elderly individuals. These positive adaptations can prevent cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, sarcopenia and osteoporosis, and lower the risk of falls. Also, football training has been proven an efficient part of the treatment of several patient groups including men with prostate cancer and women after breast cancer. Finally, regular football training has an anti-inflammatory effect and may slow the biological aging. Overall, there is a growing body of evidence suggesting that recreational football training can promote health in the elderly.

Effects of exercise habituation and aging on the intersegmental coordination of lower limbs during walking with sinusoidal speed change

Background

The time courses of the joint elevation angles of the thigh, shank, and foot in one stride during walking can be well approximated by a “plane” in a triaxial space. This intersegmental coordination (IC) of the lower limb elevation angles is referred to as the planar covariation law. We examined the effects of exercise habituation and aging on the thickness of the IC plane of the lower limbs under sinusoidal speed changing conditions.

Methods

Seventeen sedentary young (SY), 16 active young (AY), and 16 active elderly (AE) adults walked on a treadmill in accordance with a sinusoidal speed changing protocol at 120, 60, and 30 s periods with an amplitude of ± 0.56 m·s⁻¹. Motion of the lower limbs from the sagittal direction was recorded to calculate the elevation angles of the lower limbs. When the best-fit IC plane was determined, the smallest standard deviation of the IC plane was considered as the anteroposterior gait variability of the lower limbs. The coefficient of variance of the step width was also quantified to evaluate the lateral step variability (CV_SW).

Results

The standard deviation of the IC plane was significantly greater in the order of SY, AY, and AE, regardless of the sinusoidal wave periods of the changing speed. The CV_SW was not significantly different among the three groups.

Conclusions

Exercise habituation influences anteroposterior gait variability of the lower limbs, but not lateral step variability, even in young adults. Given these, gait adaptability for sinusoidal speed changes does not always decline with aging.

Trial registration

UMIN000031456 (R000035911; registered February 23, 2018).

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40101-022-00298-w.

The Aging Athlete: Paradigm of Healthy Aging

The Exercise Boom of the 1970's resulted in the adoption of habitual exercise in a significant portion of the population. Many of these individuals are defying the cultural norms by remaining physically active and competing at a high level in their later years. The juxtaposition between masters athletes and non-exercisers demonstrate the importance of remaining physically active throughout the lifespan on physiological systems related to healthspan (years of healthy living). This includes ~50% improved maximal aerobic capacity (VO₂max) and enhanced skeletal muscle health (size, function, as well as metabolic and communicative properties) compared to non-exercisers at a similar age. By taking a reductionist approach to VO₂max and skeletal muscle health, we can gain insight into how aging and habitual exercise affects the aging process. Collectively, this review provides a physiological basis for the elite performances seen in masters athletes, as well as the health implications of lifelong exercise with a focus on VO₂max, skeletal muscle metabolic fitness, whole muscle size and function, single muscle fiber physiology, and communicative properties of skeletal muscle. This review has significant public health implications due to the potent health benefits of habitual exercise across the lifespan.

Methods and Strategies for Reconditioning Motor Output and Postural Balance in Frail Older Subjects Prone to Falls

In frail older subjects, the motor output of the antigravity muscles is fundamental in resisting falls. These muscles undergo accelerated involutions when they are inactive and the risk of falling increases during leisure and domestic physical activity. In order to reduce their risk of falling, frail older subjects limit their physical activities/exercises. The problem is that the less they exercise, the less they are able to exercise and the greater the risk in exercising. Hence, a vicious circle sets up and the antigravity muscles inevitably continue to deteriorate. This vicious circle must be broken by starting a reconditioning program based on developing the strength of antigravity muscles (especially lower-limb muscles). To begin with, for each increase in muscle strength, postural balance is improved. Once this increase reaches the threshold beyond which postural balance no longer improves, it seems appropriate to implement exercises aimed at concomitantly improving motor output and postural balance in order to counteract or even reverse the involution process of the postural balance system. Methods and strategies toward this end are proposed in this present communication. However, the transfer effects between strength increase and postural balance ability are not yet totally known and future research should evaluate the relationship between muscle strength and postural balance throughout rehabilitation programs (i.e., program follow-ups) in frail older subjects in order to advance knowledge of this relationship.

High bone mineral density in lifelong trained female team handball players and young elite football players

PURPOSE

Low bone mineral density (BMD) and fractures are a major concern in the female population and preventative strategies are needed. Whether team sports participation may reduce age-related bone loss in elderly women is still uncertain.

METHODS

One hundred and thirty healthy, non-smoking women participated in this cross-sectional study, i.e., elderly (60-80 years) team handball players (EH, n = 35), elderly untrained controls (EC, n = 35), young (18-30 years) elite football players (YF, n = 30) and young untrained controls (YC, n = 30). A whole-body and two regional dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans were performed to evaluate BMD and a blood sample was collected for measurement of bone turnover markers (BTMs).

RESULTS

EH had higher BMD in all regions of the lumbar spine, except for L1, compared to EC (8-10%), and higher BMD in the femoral Ward's triangle (9%) and trochanter (7%) of the left leg. Furthermore, EH had higher mean leg BMD (8%) and whole-body BMD (5%) than EC. EH and YC had similar BMD in femoral trochanter, L1-L4 and mean leg despite an age difference of ~ 40 years. YF had higher BMD in all regions of the proximal femur (18-29%) and lumbar spine (12-16%) compared to YC, as well as higher mean leg BMD (20%) and whole-body BMD (13%). Sclerostin was 14% lower in EH compared to EC. YF showed higher PINP (98%), osteocalcin (57%), and CTX (83%) compared to YC.

CONCLUSION

Lifelong team handball training and elite football training are associated with superior bone mineralization and changed bone turnover in elderly and young women.

Effect of Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides on Stiffness of Lumbar Stabilizer Muscles in Patients With Nonspecific Low Back Pain: Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the immediate effect of Mulligan sustained natural apophyseal glides (SNAGs) on muscular stiffness by using ultrasound shear wave elastography, pain, and function in patients with nonspecific low back pain.

METHODS

In a prospective, randomized, controlled, double-blinded study, 30 participants with nonspecific low back pain were randomly divided into 2 groups: a real SNAG group (aged 21.0 ± 1.7, 5 men, 10 women) and sham SNAG group (aged 20.4 ± 0.5, 4 men, 11 women). Muscular stiffness of the multifidus and erector spinal muscles with ultrasound shear wave elastography, visual analog scale, the sit and reach, flamingo balance, the functional reach, side bridge, and Biering-Sorensen tests were made before and immediately after intervention. The Oswestry Disability Index score was recorded only baseline.

RESULTS

After intervention, the change in visual analog scale, sit and reach, Biering-Sorensen, and side bridge tests scores were significantly different between real SNAG and sham SNAG groups (P < .05), but there was no significant difference in functional reach and flamingo balance test scores between the groups (P > .05). There was no significant difference for all measurements between pre- and post-intervention in sham SNAG group (P > .05). There was a significant reduction in muscular stiffness in the real SNAG group. But there was no change in muscular stiffness between pre- and postintervention in the sham group (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that the Mulligan SNAG technique had a positive effect on pain severity, flexibility, trunk muscle endurance, and muscle stiffness in patients with nonspecific LBP.

Relation of Physical Activity Level to Postural Balance in Obese and Overweight Spanish Adult Males: A Cross-Sectional Study

The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of physical activity level on postural control in obese and overweight Spanish adult males. Forty-three males aged between 25 and 60 years old were included. Anthropometric, body composition, and physical activity variables were assessed, and postural control was evaluated using the Sensory Organization Test. No correlation was found between the level of physical activity and postural control, assessed by the Sensory Organization Test within the whole sample. However, within the group with a higher total fat mass percentage, non-sedentary individuals presented improved scores on the somatosensory organization test when compared to sedentary individuals (96.9 ± 1.8 vs. 95.4 ± 1.2; p < 0.05) and poorer scores on the composite equilibrium score (73.4 ± 7.2 vs. 79.2 ± 6.9; p < 0.05). The altered integration of somatosensory inputs most likely affects the tuning, sequencing, and execution of balance strategies in sedentary men with a high total fat mass percentage.

Effects of recreational team handball on bone health, postural balance and body composition in inactive postmenopausal women - A randomised controlled trial

This study reports the effects of a recreational team handball exercise programme (randomised controlled trial, RCT) on bone health, postural balance and body composition in inactive postmenopausal women without previous experience of the sport. Sixty-seven postmenopausal women (68.3 ± 6.2 years, stature 156.9 ± 5.8 cm, body mass 65.6 ± 9.6 kg, body fat 40.9 ± 5.9%, VO_2peak 25.2 ± 3.6 mL·min^-1·kg^-1) were randomised into team handball (THG, n = 41) and control (CG, n = 26) groups. During the 16-week intervention period, THG performed two to three 60-min training sessions per week, while CG continued with their habitual physical activity. Bone mineral density (BMD) and content (BMC), biochemical bone formation (osteocalcin (OC), procollagen type-1 amino-terminal propeptide (P1NP)) and resorption (carboxy-terminal type-1 collagen crosslinks (CTX)) markers, postural balance, body fat and lean mass were evaluated at baseline and post intervention. A time x group interaction (p ≤ 0.02) was shown for lumbar spine BMD (+1.5%) and BMC (+2.3%), P1NP (+37.6 ± 42.4%), OC (+41.9 ± 27.0%) and postural balance (-7 ± 37% falls), in favour of THG with no changes in CG. This RCT showed that short-term recreational team handball practice had an impact on bone turnover and was effective for improving bone health and postural balance in postmenopausal women without previous experience of the sport, hence potentially helping to reduce the risk of falls and fractures.

Effect of Aging on Trunk Muscle Function and Its Influence on Falls Among Older Adults

The objective was to determine whether trunk muscle function is influenced by the aging process and to identify if the trunk can be an important factor in older people's falls over a period of 1 year. The peak torque, rate of torque development, and torque steadiness of the trunk extensors and flexors were compared between a young group, older group (older adults with no episodes of falls), and older faller group (older adults who had suffered at least one fall episode over a period of 1 year) by one-way analysis of variance, followed by the post hoc Tukey test. The adjusted multivariate linear regression was applied to verify the association between the number of falls and the trunk parameters in older adults. The young group showed higher extensors and flexors peak torque and rate of torque development, and lower extensor torque steadiness at 10% when compared with older groups. Only trunk flexor peak torque showed a negative association with the number of future falls (p = .042), but there was no difference in trunk muscle function between the older group and the older faller group.

Chronic Fatigue, Physical Impairments and Quality of Life in Women with Endometriosis: A Case-Control Study

AIM

To explore endometriosis-related fatigue (ERF), health-related fitness, sleep quality, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in women with endometriosis in comparison with matched controls.

METHODS

Twenty-five affected women and twenty-five age and height-matched women without endometriosis were included. ERF was assessed through the Piper Fatigue Scale; health-related fitness was assessed through the Schöber, flamingo, and 6-min walking tests and dynamometry; and body composition was assessed through impedanciometry. Self-perceived physical fitness, sleep quality, and HRQoL were assessed through the International Fitness Scale, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the 12-item Short Form Health Survey, respectively.

RESULTS

Affected women exhibited higher levels of ERF than controls, increased fat mass, and physical deconditioning (reduced back strength, lumbar flexibility, body balance, and functional capacity, p-values < 0.050). Moreover, cases also had poorer perceived physical fitness, sleep quality, and HRQoL (p-value < 0.050). Finally, we observed deteriorated health-related fitness, sleep quality, and HRQoL in those women with endometriosis with higher levels of ERF.

CONCLUSIONS

This study constitutes the first evidence that women with endometriosis describe a generalized physical deconditioning, even more pronounced in affected women with higher levels of ERF. Further studies assessing the efficacy of rehabilitation interventions to face these physical impairments in women with endometriosis are warranted.

Contribution of hip abductor-adductor muscles on static and dynamic balance of community-dwelling older adults

BACKGROUND

The previous studies have investigated causes of and risk factors for falls and impairment of functional capability in older adults. However, the biomechanical factors involved in functional performance and postural control, and the contribution of hip muscles, are still unknown.

AIMS

The aim of the present study was to verify the association between the muscle function of hip abductors and adductors and static and dynamic balance, in a narrow base of support, in community-dwelling older adults.

METHODS

Eighty-one older adults, including both women and men, were evaluated. Tandem gait and single-leg stance were used to assess static and dynamic balance, and an isokinetic dynamometer was used to analyze muscle function (peak torque and rate of torque development according to body weight). Data were analyzed by a multivariate linear regression test without adjustment and with adjustment using two models: adjustment I (sex) and adjustment II (age).

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant association between peak torque of abductor in single-leg stance and tandem gait speed. The PT of hip adductors contributed to static balance performance, in a narrow base of support from the unadjusted data and from the adjusted data by sex.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the present study are relevant, because if deficits in balance and functionality in older adults can be linked to a decline in maximum muscle strength of hip abductors, this parameter can be treated to maintain independence in older adults for as long as possible.

Explosive voluntary torque is related to whole-body response to unexpected perturbations

Explosive torque has been demonstrated to relate to static balance. However, sports injuries occur dynamically and unpredictably, yet the relationship between explosive torque and balance response to dynamic perturbations is unknown. This study investigated the relationship between explosive torque of the plantar flexors and knee extensors and the centre of mass (COM) response to unexpected perturbations. Thirty-three healthy subjects (17 females, 16 males) were assessed for maximal and explosive isometric knee extension (KE) and plantar flexion (PF) torque and COM response (velocity (COMV), displacement (COMD)) to unexpected platform translations. Relationships between explosive torque and balance measures were investigated using Pearson's correlation and multiple regression. A negative relationship between PF explosive torque at 50, 100, and 150 ms and COMV at 300, 400, and 500 ms (r = -0.363 to -0.508, p ≤ 0.049), and COMD at 400 and 500 ms (r = -0.349 to -0.416, p ≤ 0.046) was revealed. A negative relationship between KE explosive torque at 50, 100, and 150 ms and COMV at 400 ms (r = -0.381 to -0.411, p ≤ 0.029) but not COMD was also revealed. Multiple regression found PF 100 ms predicted 17.3% of variability in COMD at 500 ms and 25.8% of variability in COMV at 400 ms. These results suggest that producing torque rapidly may improve COM response to unexpected perturbation.

Muscle morphology and performance in master athletes: A systematic review and meta-analyses

INTRODUCTION

The extent to which chronic exercise training preserves age-related decrements in physical function, muscle strength, mass and morphology is unclear. Our aim was to conduct a systematic review of the literature to determine to what extent chronically trained master athletes (strength/power and endurance) preserve levels of physical function, muscle strength, muscle mass and morphology in older age, compared with older and younger controls and young trained individuals.

METHODS

The systematic data search included Medline, EMBASE, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL and Web of Science databases.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

i) master athletes mean exercise training duration ≥20 years ii) master athletes mean age of cohort >59 years) iii) at least one measurement of muscle mass/volume/fibre-type morphology and/or strength/physical function.

RESULTS

Fifty-five eligible studies were identified. Meta-analyses were carried out on maximal aerobic capacity, maximal voluntary contraction and body composition. Master endurance athletes (42.0 ± 6.6 ml kg^-1 min^-1) exhibited VO_2max values comparable with young healthy controls (43.1 ± 6.8 ml kg^-1 min^-1, P = .84), greater than older controls (27.1 ± 4.3 ml kg^-1 min^-1, P < 0.01) and master strength/power athletes (26.5 ± 2.3 mlkg^-1 min^-1, P < 0.01), and lower than young endurance trained individuals (60.0 ± 5.4 ml kg^-1 min^-1, P < 0.01). Master strength/power athletes (0.60 (0.28-0.93) P < 0.01) and young controls (0.71 (0.06-1.36) P < 0.05) were significantly stronger compared with the other groups. Body fat% was greater in master endurance athletes than young endurance trained (-4.44% (-8.44 to -0.43) P < 0.05) but lower compared with older controls (7.11% (5.70-8.52) P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Despite advancing age, this review suggests that chronic exercise training preserves physical function, muscular strength and body fat levels similar to that of young, healthy individuals in an exercise mode-specific manner.

Effects of recreational football on women's fitness and health: adaptations and mechanisms

The review describes the fitness and health effects of recreational football in women aged 18-65 years. The review documents that 2 × 1 h of recreational football training for 12-16 weeks causes marked improvements in maximal oxygen uptake (5-15%) and myocardial function in women. Moreover, mean arterial blood pressure was shown to decrease by 2-5 mmHg in normotensive women and 6-8 mmHg in hypertensive women. This review also show that short-term (< 4 months) and medium-term (4-16 months) recreational football training has major beneficial impact on metabolic health profile in women, with fat losses of 1-3 kg and improvements in blood lipid profile. Lastly, 2 × 1 h per week of recreational football training for women elevates lower extremity bone mineralisation by 1-5% and whole-body bone mineralization by 1-2% within 4-12-month interventions. These training adaptations are related to the high heart rates, high number of fast runs, and multiple changes of direction and speed occurring during recreational football training for untrained women. In conclusion, regular small-sided football training for women is an intense and versatile type of training that combines elements of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), endurance training and strength training, thereby providing optimal stimuli for cardiovascular, metabolic and musculoskeletal fitness. Recreational football, therefore, seems to be an effective tool for prevention and treatment of lifestyle diseases in young and middle-aged women, including hypertension, type 2 diabetes and osteopenia. Future research should elucidate effects of football training for elderly women, and as treatment and rehabilitation of breast cancer patients and other women patient groups.

Relationship between Muscle Function, Muscle Typology and Postural Performance According to Different Postural Conditions in Young and Older Adults

Although motor output of the postural function clearly influences postural performance in young and older subjects, no relationship has been formally established between them. However, the relationship between lower-extremity muscle strength/power and postural performance is often pointed out, especially in older subjects. In fact, the influence of motor output may vary according to the postural condition considered (e.g., static, dynamic, challenging, disturbing). In static postural condition, there may be a relationship between lower-extremity muscle strength and postural performance when the value of muscle strength is below a certain threshold in older subjects. Above this threshold of muscle strength, this relationship may disappear. In dynamic postural condition, lower-extremity muscle power could facilitate compensatory postural actions, limiting induced body imbalance likely to generate falls in older subjects. In young subjects, there could be a relationship between very early rapid torque of the leg extensor muscles and postural performance. In the case of postural reaction to (external) perturbations, a high percentage of type II muscle fibers could be associated with the ability to react quickly to postural perturbations in young subjects, while it may enable a reduction in the risk of falls in older subjects. In practice, in older subjects, muscle strength and/or power training contributes to reducing the risk of falls, as well as slowing down the involution of muscle typology regarding type II muscle fibers.

Age-Related Differences in Maximal and Rapid Torque Characteristics of the Hip Extensors and Dynamic Postural Balance in Healthy, Young and Old Females

Palmer, TB, Thiele, RM, and Thompson, BJ. Age-related differences in maximal and rapid torque characteristics of the hip extensors and dynamic postural balance in healthy, young and old females. J Strength Cond Res 31(2): 480-488, 2017-The purpose of this study was to examine age-related differences in maximal and rapid torque characteristics of the hip extensor muscles and dynamic postural balance in healthy, young and older females. Eleven younger (age, 26 ± 8 years) and 11 older (age, 67 ± 8 years) females performed 2 isometric maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs) of the hip extensor muscles. Absolute and relative peak torque (PT) and rate of torque development (RTD) at early (0-50 ms) and late (0-200 ms) phases of muscle contraction were examined during each MVC. Dynamic postural balance was assessed using a commercially designed balance testing device, which provides a measurement of dynamic stability based on the overall stability index (OSI). Results indicated that absolute PT and early (RTD50) and late (RTD200) RTD variables were lower (p = 0.009-0.050), and postural OSI was higher (p = 0.011) in the old compared with the younger females; however, no differences were observed for relative PT or RTD variables (p = 0.113-0.895). A significant relationship was also observed in the older (r = -0.601; p = 0.050) but not the younger (r = -0.132; p = 0.698) females between RTD50 and OSI. The lower absolute PT and RTD and higher OSI values for the old females may contribute to the increased functional limitations often observed in older adults. The significant relationship observed in the older females between OSI and RTD50 perhaps suggests that these age-related declines in explosive strength may be an important characteristic relevant to dynamic balance scores, especially in older populations.

Effect of floorball training on blood lipids, body composition, muscle strength, and functional capacity of elderly men

Floorball training consists of intense repeated exercise and may offer a motivating and social stimulating team activity in elderly individuals. However, the effect of floorball training in elderly adults on physiological adaptations important for health is not known. Thus, this study examined the effect of floorball training on blood lipids, muscle strength, body composition, and functional capacity of men aged 65-76 years. Thirty-nine recreational active men were randomized into a floorball group (FG; n = 22) or petanque group (PG; n = 17), in which training was performed 1 h twice a week for 12 weeks. In FG and PG, average heart rate (HR) during training was 80% and 57%, respectively, of maximal HR. In FG, plasma low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides were 11% and 8% lower (P < 0.05), respectively. Insulin resistance determined by homeostatic model assessment (HOMA-IR) was reduced (P < 0.05) by 18%. HR during submaximal cycling was 5% lower (P < 0.05), and maximal voluntary contraction force was 8% higher (P < 0.05). Total and visceral fat content was lowered (P < 0.05) by 5% and 14%, respectively, HR at rest was 8% lower (P < 0.05) and performance in four different functional capacity tests were better (P < 0.05) after compared to before the training period. No changes were observed in PG. In conclusion, 12 weeks of floorball training resulted in a number of favorable effects important for health and functional capacity, suggesting that floorball training can be used as a health-promoting activity in elderly men.

Positive effects of 1-year football and strength training on mechanical muscle function and functional capacity in elderly men

PURPOSE

A decline in physical capacity takes place with increasing age that negatively affects overall physical function including work ability and the ability to perform typical activities of daily living (ADL). The overall aim of the present study was to determine the neuromuscular adaptations to long-term (1 year) football and strength training in older untrained adults, and to assess the concurrent effect on functional ADL capacity.

METHODS

Twenty-seven healthy elderly males (68.2 ± 3.2 years) were randomly assigned to 12 months of either recreational football training (FT: n = 10), strength training (ST: n = 9) or served as inactive controls (CON: n = 8). Recreational football training consisted of small-sided training sessions whereas strength training consisted of high intensity exercises targeting the lower extremity and upper body. Maximal thigh muscle strength and rate of force development (RFD) were assessed with isokinetic dynamometry, while postural balance and vertical jumping performance were evaluated using force plate analysis. Furthermore, functional ability was evaluated by stair-ascent and chair-rising testing.

RESULTS

A total of nine, nine and seven participants from FT, ST and CON, respectively, were included in the analysis. Both exercise regimens led to substantial gains in functional ability, evidenced by 24 and 18 % reduced stair-ascent time, and 32 and 21 % increased chair-rising performance in FT and ST, respectively (all P < 0.05). Long-term strength training led to increased concentric (14 %; P < 0.01) and isometric (23 %; P < 0.001) quadriceps and isometric hamstring strength (44 %; P < 0.0001), whereas football training mainly resulted in enhanced hamstring strength (18 %, P < 0.05) and RFD (89 %, P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term (1 year) strength training led to increased quadriceps and hamstring strength, whereas the adaptations to football training mainly included enhanced strength and rapid force capacity of the hamstring muscles. Gains in functional ability were observed in response to both training regimens, evidenced by reduced stair-ascent time and increased chair-rising performance. Long-term football exercise and strength training both appear to be effective interventional strategies to improve factors of importance for ADL by counteracting the age-related decline in lower limb strength and functional capacity among old male adults. This could potentially be a way to improve work ability of senior workers.

The identification of fall history using maximal and rapid isometric torque characteristics of the hip extensors in healthy, recreationally active elderly females: a preliminary investigation

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Maximal and rapid torque characteristics of the hip extensor muscles play an important role in fall prevention and other balance-related performances; however, few studies have investigated the ability of these variables at identifying fall-history status in healthy, recreationally active elderly adults. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of maximal and rapid isometric torque characteristics of the hip extensor muscles to differentiate between healthy, recreationally active elderly females with (fallers) and without (non-fallers) a history a falls.

METHODS

Six elderly female fallers (mean ± SD: age = 73 ± 7 year; mass = 68 ± 16 kg; height = 160 ± 5 cm) and nine elderly female non-fallers (age = 71 ± 7 year; mass = 66 ± 16 kg; height = 157 ± 6 cm) performed two isometric maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs) of the hip extensor muscles. Peak torque (PT) and absolute and relative rate of torque development (RTD) at the early (0-50 ms) and late (100-200 ms) phases of muscle contraction were examined during each MVC.

RESULTS

Absolute and relative RTD at 0-50 ms were greater (P = 0.039 and 0.011, respectively) in the non-fallers compared to the fallers. However, no group-related differences (P = 0.160-0.573) were observed for PT nor absolute and relative RTD at 100-200 ms.

CONCLUSIONS

Early rapid strength production of the hip extensor muscles may be a sensitive and effective measure for discriminating between elderly females of different fall histories. These findings may provide important insight regarding implications for the assessment of fall risk and in the development of proper training programs aimed at minimizing the occurrence of falls and other balance-related injuries in the elderly.

The acute effects of vibration training on balance and stability amongst soccer players

Acute whole body vibration training (WBVT) is a tool used amongst coaches to improve performance prior to activity. Its effects on other fitness components, such as balance and stability, along with how different populations respond are less well understood. The aim of the current research is to determine the effect of acute WBVT on balance and stability amongst elite and amateur soccer players. Forty-four healthy male soccer players (22 elite and 22 amateur) were assigned to a treatment or control group. The intervention group then performed 3 × 60 seconds static squat on vibration platform at 40 Hz (±4 mm) with Y balance test (YBT) scores and dynamic postural stability index (DPSI) measured pre and post. DPSI was significantly lower in the elite players in the acute WBVT compared to amateur players (F1, 40= 6.80; P = 0.013). YBT anterior reach distance showed a significant improvement in both amateur and elite players in the acute WBVT group (F1, 40= 32.36; P < 0.001). The improvement in DPSI amongst the elite players indicates a difference in responses to acute high frequency vibration between elite and amateur players during a landing stability task. The results indicate that acute WBVT improves anterior YBT reach distances through a possible improvement in flexibility amongst both elite and amateur players. In conclusion, acute WBVT training appears to improve stability amongst elite soccer players in comparison to amateur players, the exact reasoning behind this difference requires further investigation.

Effect of football or strength training on functional ability and physical performance in untrained old men

The effects of 16 weeks of football or strength training on performance and functional ability were investigated in 26 (68.2 ± 3.2 years) untrained men randomized into a football (FG; n = 9), a strength training (ST; n = 9), or a control group (CO; n = 8). FG and ST trained 1.6 ± 0.1 and 1.5 ± 0.1 times per week, respectively, with higher (P < 0.05) average heart rate (HR) (∼140 vs 100 bpm) and time >90%HRmax (17 vs 0%) in FG than ST, and lower (P < 0.05) peak blood lactate in FG than ST (7.2 ± 0.9 vs 10.5 ± 0.6 mmol/L). After the intervention period (IP), VO₂ max (15%; P < 0.001), cycle time to exhaustion (7%; P < 0.05), and Yo-Yo Intermittent Endurance Level 1 performance (43%; P < 0.01) were improved in FG, but unchanged in ST and CO. HR during walking was 12% and 10% lower (P < 0.05) in FG and ST, respectively, after IP. After IP, HR and blood lactate during jogging were 7% (P < 0.05) and 30% lower (P < 0.001) in FG, but unchanged in ST and CO. Sit-to-stand performance was improved (P < 0.01) by 29% in FG and 26% in ST, but not in CO. In conclusion, football and strength training for old men improves functional ability and physiological response to submaximal exercise, while football additionally elevates maximal aerobic fitness and exhaustive exercise performance.

Cardiovascular adaptations to 4 and 12 months of football or strength training in 65- to 75-year-old untrained men

The study examined the effects of 1 year of football or strength training on cardiovascular function in 65- to 75-year-old men. Twenty-six untrained men (age: 68.2 ± 3.2 years) were randomized to football training (FTG; n = 9), strength training (STG; n = 9), or control (CG; n = 8). In FTG, left ventricular (LV) internal diastolic diameter, end-diastolic volume, and mass index were 8%, 21%, and 18% higher (P < 0.01), respectively, after 12 months, with no changes in STG and CG. After 12 months, LV ejection fraction was increased (P < 0.05) by 8% and 5% in FTG and STG, respectively, and systolic longitudinal two-dimensional strain by 8% and 6%, whereas right ventricular systolic function improved (P < 0.05) by 22% in FTG, but not in STG and CG. In FTG, LV diastolic mitral inflow (E/A) ratio and peak early diastolic velocity (E') improved (P < 0.05) by 25% and 12%, respectively, after 12 months, with no changes in STG and CG. In FTG, maximum oxygen uptake was 16% and 18% higher (P < 0.001) after 4 and 12 months, respectively, and resting heart rate was 6 and 8 beats per minute lower (P < 0.001), respectively, with no changes in STG and CG. In conclusion, football training elicited superior cardiovascular effects compared with strength training in elderly untrained men.

Effects of recreational soccer in men with prostate cancer undergoing androgen deprivation therapy: study protocol for the 'FC Prostate' randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a cornerstone in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. Adverse musculoskeletal and cardiovascular effects of ADT are widely reported and investigations into the potential of exercise to ameliorate the effects of treatment are warranted. The 'Football Club (FC) Prostate' study is a randomized trial comparing the effects of soccer training with standard treatment approaches on body composition, cardiovascular function, physical function parameters, glucose tolerance, bone health, and patient-reported outcomes in men undergoing ADT for prostate cancer.

METHODS/DESIGN

Using a single-center randomized controlled design, 80 men with histologically confirmed locally advanced or disseminated prostate cancer undergoing ADT for 6 months or more at The Copenhagen University Hospital will be enrolled on this trial. After baseline assessments eligible participants will be randomly assigned to a soccer training group or a control group receiving usual care. The soccer intervention will consist of 12 weeks of training 2-3 times/week for 45-60 min after which the assessment protocol will be repeated. Soccer training will then continue bi-weekly for an additional 20 weeks at the end of which all measures will be repeated to allow for additional analyses of long-term effects. The primary endpoint is changes in lean body mass from baseline to 12 weeks assessed by dual X-ray absorptiometry scan. Secondary endpoints include changes of cardiovascular, metabolic, and physical function parameters, as well as markers of bone metabolism and patient-reported outcomes.

DISCUSSION

The FC Prostate trial will assess the safety and efficacy of a novel soccer-training approach to cancer rehabilitation on a number of clinically important health outcomes in men with advanced prostate cancer during ADT. The results may pave the way for innovative, community-based interventions in the approach to treating prostate cancer.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01711892.

Cardiovascular function is better in veteran football players than age-matched untrained elderly healthy men

The aim of the study was to determine whether lifelong football training may improve cardiovascular function, physical fitness, and body composition. Our subjects were 17 male veteran football players (VPG; 68.1 ± 2.1 years) and 26 healthy age-matched untrained men who served as a control group (CG; 68.2 ± 3.2 years). Examinations included measurements of cardiac function, microvascular endothelial function [reactive hyperemic index (RHI)], maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max), and body composition. In VPG, left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic volume was 20% larger (P < 0.01) and LV ejection fraction was higher (P < 0.001). Tissue Doppler imaging revealed an augmented LV longitudinal displacement, i.e., LV shortening of 21% (P < 0.001) and longitudinal 2D strain was 12% higher (P < 0.05), in VPG. In VPG, resting heart rate was lower (6 bpm, P < 0.05), and VO2max was higher (18%, P < 0.05). In addition, RHI was 21% higher (P < 0.05) in VPG. VPG also had lower body mass index (P < 0.05), body fat percentage, total body fat mass, android fat percentage, and gynoid fat percentage (all P < 0.01). Lifelong participation in football training is associated with better LV systolic function, physical fitness, microvascular function, and a healthier body composition. Overall, VPG have better cardiovascular function compared with CG, which may reduce their cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Toward effective forecast of professionally important sensorimotor cognitive abilities of young soccer players

Development of skill in young soccer players relies on progressive improvement in different professionally important sensorimotor cognitive abilities. Development of seven leading abilities was based on the results of 23 tests provided for experimental and control groups. 600 elite young soccer players of both sexes, ages 11 to 19 years, were assessed over a period of 4 years. Experimental groups were given different exercises to aid development of selected abilities. At the end of the monitoring period, the experimental groups demonstrated a significant improvement in contrast to the control groups, and the greatest improvements in different test performances were observed in the 11- to 13-year-olds. The test-retest ata show the testing process to be reliable. The study provides standard pedagogical models and data for trainers, coaches, and researchers working with young soccer players. Future research on talent identification and selection should adopt amultidimensional approach.

Long-term musculoskeletal and cardiac health effects of recreational football and running for premenopausal women

We examined long-term musculoskeletal and cardiac adaptations elicited by recreational football (FG, n=9) and running (RG, n=10) in untrained premenopausal women in comparison with a control group (CG, n=9). Training was performed for 16 months ( approximately 2 weekly 1-h sessions). For FG, right and left ventricular end-diastolic diameters were increased by 24% and 5% (P<0.05), respectively, after 16 months. Right ventricular systolic function measured by tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) increased (P<0.05) in FG after 4 months and further (P<0.05) after 16 months (15% and 32%, respectively). In RG and CG, cardiac structure, E/A and TAPSE remained unchanged. For FG, whole-body bone mineral density (BMD) was 2.3% and 1.3% higher (P<0.05) after 16 months, than after 4 and 0 months, respectively, with no changes for RG and CG. FG demonstrated substantial improvements (P<0.05) in fast (27% and 16%) and slow (16% and 17%) eccentric muscle strength and rapid force capacity (Imp30ms: 66% and 65%) after 16 months compared with 4 and 0 months, with RG improving Imp30ms by 64% and 46%. In conclusion, long-term recreational football improved muscle function, postural balance and BMD in adult women with a potential favorable influence on the risk of falls and fractures. Moreover, football training induced consistent cardiac adaptations, which may have implications for long-term cardiovascular health.