Norms for an isometric muscle endurance test

Health benefits of short Taichi Qigong exercise (STQE) to University Students' core strength, lower limb explosive force, cardiopulmonary endurance, and anxiety: A Quasi experiment research

BACKGROUND

College students' physical fitness has declined over the past decades. Taichi Qigong exercise offers numerous health benefits and could serve as a suitable option for them. Traditional programs, however, are time-consuming and necessitate long-term commitments. Therefore, a more cost-effective intervention is needed.

METHODS

The study enrolled a total of 31 students who actively participated in a 5-week STQE program, consisting of three 60-minute sessions per week. Physical and mental health assessments included the Plank test, vital capacity measurement, 1000/800 m run test, standing jump, and the Zung Self-Rating Scale. Data analysis was performed using SPSS.

RESULTS

Following the STQE intervention, participants showed improvement in core strength (28.1 seconds in the Plank test, P = .025) and lower limb explosive force (6.52 cm in the standing jump test, P = .011), accompanied by a decrease in anxiety levels (a reduction of 3.41 in the Zung Self-Rating Scale, P = .039). However, no significant improvements were observed in cardiopulmonary endurance, as evidenced by a non-significant increase of 237.84 mL in vital capacity (P = .134) and a non-significant reduction of 1.6 seconds in the 1000/800 m run test (P = .764).

CONCLUSION

The study suggests that the STQE program effectively improves core strength, lower limb explosive force, and reduces anxiety levels among university students.

Effects of Pilates Exercises on Core Stability After Recovery from COVID-19: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Purpose

The primary objective was to investigate the effects of Pilates exercises on CS, and the secondary objective was to assess static trunk balance after recovery from COVID-19.

Patients and Methods

145 recovered COVID-19 university students between the ages of 19 and 25 participated in this single-blinded, randomized controlled trial study. The participants were divided into a Pilates group and a control group, each of which received a home exercise program. Core muscle endurance was measured using the five basic endurance tests and static balance using the Prokin system with open eyes (OE) and closed eyes (CE) at baseline and after three months of treatment.

Results

All measured parameters showed improvement within the groups after treatment. Group comparison revealed a significant increase in the Pilates group in all core endurance tests (P<0.001). The Prokin system results showed improvement in the Pilates group after treatment, while perimeter with OE, CE, and ellipse area with EC decreased (P<0.001), but there was no significant difference in ellipse with OE between the groups.

Conclusion

Pilates exercises positively improved core muscle endurance and trunk balance in people infected with COVID-19, which will be reflected in their quality of movement patterns and quality of life.

Effects of a complex yoga-based intervention on physical characteristics

Empirical studies on yoga have shown that regular practice can have a beneficial effect on risk factors of cardiovascular diseases; also, it can decrease body weight, body fat and increase muscle mass. Positive effects on balance and flexibility were also reported. This study evaluated the impact of a 3-month complex yoga-based program, including physical exercises, education, and social support, with a quasi-randomized design in a middle-aged community sample. The intervention group consisted of 46 participants while the passive control group was 29 participants. The intervention group showed a significant increase in core muscle strength and hamstring flexibility and a decrease in body  fat. No significant changes were found concerning risk factors of cardiovascular diseases, body weight, muscle mass, balancing ability, and dietary habits. A 3-month yoga intervention cannot substantially impact the cardiovascular system and body weight control in middle-aged adults.

Differences in Abdominal Muscle Thickness, Strength, and Endurance in Persons Who Are Runners, Active, and Inactive

BACKGROUND

Core musculature is important for efficiency during activities including running. Both abdominal muscle strength and endurance contribute to this efficiency. The purpose of this study is to determine what differences and relationships exist in abdominal muscle thickness, strength, and endurance among persons who are runners, active, and inactive.

HYPOTHESIS

Persons in the running group would show significantly greater abdominal muscle thickness, muscle strength, and muscle endurance compared with those in the nonrunning groups.

STUDY DESIGN

Quantitative cohort design.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 2b.

METHODS

A total of 78 subjects aged 18 to 27 years were divided into 3 groups: runners, active, and inactive. Assessment included abdominal muscle thickness via diagnostic ultrasound (Mindray North America), strength using a static Isotrack dynamometer (JTech Medical), and abdominal muscle endurance using a side plank. Statistical analysis using analysis of variance, t tests, and Pearson's correlation coefficients and partial correlations was performed using SPSS Version 26 with a significance level of P < 0.05.

RESULTS

Significantly greater muscle thickness of internal obliques (IOs) at rest and during contraction was found in the running group compared with the active group, the active group compared with the inactive group, and the running group compared with the inactive group. There were no statistically significant differences in overall strength measured by dynamometry among the 3 groups. Plank time was significantly greater for the running group compared with the other 2 groups. Male participants were greater in all areas: strength, plank time as a measure of muscle endurance, and muscle thickness. Body mass index was significantly correlated with resting thickness, muscle endurance, and muscle strength.

CONCLUSION

Persons who run, are active, and are inactive use their abdominal muscles differently. Runners have thicker IOs and better abdominal muscle endurance than the other 2 groups. Focusing on endurance training of the obliques may be beneficial for persons who run.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This research could contribute to developing core training programs to ensure runners target the correct abdominal muscles with the best type of training.

A Research Note Investigating the Leg Tuck and Plank With Potential Impacts for Occupational Testing

ABSTRACT

Gonzalez, SM, Withrow, KL, Rubin, DA, Lynn, SK, Dawes, JJ, Orr, RM, and Lockie, RG. A research note investigating the leg tuck and plank with potential impacts for occupational testing. J Strength Cond Res 37(10): 2076-2079, 2023-The U.S. Army recently replaced the leg tuck with the plank in their physical ability testing. There has been limited analysis of whether these 2 tests correlate, have any relationships with body composition and strength, or are sex-neutral. Forty-nine civilian college students (28 males, 21 females) were recruited as surrogates for tactical personnel. The following were measured: height, body mass, body fat percentage (BF%), and muscle mass percentage (MM%) measured through bioelectrical impedance analysis, grip strength, leg tuck, and plank. Independent t -tests were calculated to determine between-sex differences for all variables ( p < 0.05). Partial correlations controlling for sex were used to compute relationships between the leg tuck, plank, and other variables. Stepwise regression controlling for sex derived predictive relationships for the leg tuck and plank. Males were taller, had greater body mass, MM%, and were superior in grip strength and the leg tuck; females had greater BF%. There were no significant between-sex differences for the plank. The leg tuck correlated with BF%, MM%, grip strength, and the plank ( r = ±0.333-0.524). In addition to the leg tuck, the plank correlated with BF% ( r = -0.288). The leg tuck was predicted by sex, grip strength, and the plank (adjusted r2 = 0.662). No variables predicted the plank. As there were no between-sex differences and sex was not a plank predictor, it appears this test minimized sex differences on task performance in civilians. However, the leg tuck and plank likely measure different qualities; further research is needed on job task relationships.

Associations among metabolic health, weight status, and various physical fitness components in Japanese adolescents: a cross-sectional study (NICE EVIDENCE study- Agano 3)

Aim was to examine associations among metabolic health, weight status, and various physical fitness (PF) components in 1744 Japanese adolescents aged 13-14. Anthropometric measurements and PF tests (20 m shuttle run test [20mSRT], handgrip strength/body mass [HG], standing long jump [SLJ], and sit ups [SU]) were administered. The bottom sex-specific quintile of PF indicated "low fit". Participants were classified as non-overweight (non-OW) or overweight/obese (OW) according to the International Obesity Task Force. Clustered metabolic risk was defined as the sum of Z scores for mean arterial pressure, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and HbA1c, divided by three, and ≥ 1 SD. Combination of weight status and scores for HG or SU were additively associated with clustered metabolic risk. Compared with the non-OW-moderate-high fit group, the OW-low HG group was 3.05 (95%CI: 1.88-4.97) times more likely to have clustered metabolic risk although risk was not significantly elevated in the OW-moderate-high HG group (1.52 [95%CI: 0.88-2.62]). A similar association was observed between OW and low SU scores but not between OW and low 20mSRT or SLJ scores. Adolescents with OW and moderate-high HG or SU scores had a lower prevalence of an unfavourable metabolic state than those with OW and low HG or SU results.

Effect of electrical stimulation training and detraining on abdominal muscle function

BACKGROUND

Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) has been applied in many rehabilitation settings for muscle strengthening, facilitation of muscle contraction, re-education of muscle action, and maintenance of muscle strength and size during prolonged immobilization.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate effect of 8 weeks of EMS training on abdominal muscle function and to determine whether the training effect could be maintained after 4 weeks of EMS detraining.

METHODS

Twenty-five subjects performed EMS training for 8 weeks. Before and after 8 weeks of EMS training, and after 4 weeks of EMS detraining, muscle size (cross-sectional area [CSA] of the rectus abdominals [RA] and lateral abdominal wall [LAW]), strength, endurance, and lumbopelvic control (LC) were measured.

RESULTS

There were significant increases in CSA [RA (p< 0.001); LAW (p< 0.001)], strength [trunk flexor (p= 0.005); side-bridge (p< 0.05)], endurance [trunk flexor (p= 0.010); side-bridge (p< 0.05)], and LC (p< 0.05) after 8 weeks of EMS training. The CSA of the RA (p< 0.05) and the LAW (p< 0.001) were measured after 4 weeks of detraining and they were greater than that of the baseline. There were no significant differences in abdominal strength, endurance, and LC between baseline measurements and post-detraining.

CONCLUSION

The study indicates that there is less of a detraining effect on muscle size than on muscle strength, endurance, and LC.

The effect of tDCS on improving physical performance and attenuating effort perception during maximal dynamic exercise in non-athletes

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to test the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), using different electrode positioning and montages, on physical performance in maximum incremental tests of healthy non-athlete subjects.

DESIGN

A double-blinded, crossover, sham-controlled study.

METHOD

Fifteen subjects (aged 25.8 ± 5 years, nine women) received one of five different tDCS protocols: (i) anodal tDCS on the primary motor cortex (M1) (a-tDCS/M1), (ii) anodal tDCS on the left temporal cortex (T3) (a-tDCS/T3), (iii) cathodal tDCS on M1 (c-tDCS/M1), (iv) cathodal on T3 (c-tDCS/T3), or (v) sham tDCS. The protocols were assigned in a random order in separate sessions. After tDCS, the volunteers performed the maximal incremental exercise test (MIT) on a cycle ergometer in each session. The following measures were used to evaluate physical performance (primary outcome) during MIT: time to exhaustion (TE), maximum power (MAX-P), and Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale. In addition, as a secondary outcome measure, we assessed the lower-limb corticospinal excitability and electrical muscular activity.

RESULTS

tDCS applied over T3 or M1 did not influence electrical muscular activity or increase physical performance during MIT in healthy non-athlete subjects. However, our data confirmed that a-tDCS on the M1 increases lower-limb cortical excitability.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that tDCS is not effective in improving performance during maximal dynamic exercise in non-athletes. However, we confirmed that the a-tDCS M1 protocol used in this study might increase cortical excitability in the lower limb motor cortex.

Pre-neuromusculoskeletal injury Risk factor Evaluation and Post-neuromusculoskeletal injury Assessment for Return-to-duty/activity Enhancement (PREPARE) in military service members: a prospective, observational study protocol

BACKGROUND

Non-battle related musculoskeletal injuries (MSKI) are one of the primary medical issues diminishing Service member medical readiness. The MSKI problem is challenging because it is difficult to assess all of the factors that increase MSKI risk and influence post-MSKI outcomes. Currently, there are no high-throughput, clinically-feasible, and comprehensive assessments to generate patient-centric data for informing pre- and post-MSKI risk assessment and mitigation strategies. The objective of the "Pre-neuromusculoskeletal injury Risk factor Evaluation and Post-neuromusculoskeletal injury Assessment for Return-to-duty/activity Enhancement (PREPARE)" study is to develop a comprehensive suite of clinical assessments to identify the patient-specific factors contributing to MSKI risks and undesired post-MSKI outcomes.

METHODS

This is a phased approach, multi-center prospective, observational study (ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT05111925) to identify physical and psychosocial factors contributing to greater MSKI risk and undesired post-MSKI outcomes, and to identify and validate a minimal set of assessments to personalize risk mitigation and rehabilitation strategies. In Phase I, one cohort (n = 560) will identify the physical and psychosocial factors contributing to greater MSKI risks (single assessment), while a second cohort (n = 780) will identify the post-MSKI physical and psychosocial factors contributing to undesired post-MSKI outcomes (serial assessments at enrollment, 4 weeks post-enrollment, 12 weeks post-enrollment). All participants will complete comprehensive movement assessments captured via a semi-automated markerless motion capture system and instrumented walkway, joint range of motion assessments, psychosocial measures, and self-reported physical fitness performance and MSKI history. We will follow participants for 6 months. We will identify the minimum set of clinical assessments that provide requisite data to personalize MSKI risk mitigation and rehabilitation strategies, and in Phase II validate our optimized assessments in new cohorts.

DISCUSSION

The results of this investigation will provide clinically relevant data to efficiently inform MSKI risk mitigation and rehabilitation programs, thereby helping to advance medical care and retain Service members on active duty status.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PREPARE was prospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05111925) on 5 NOV 2021, prior to study commencement.

Association of Core Muscle Endurance with Weekly Workout Time, Speed, and the Symmetry of Frontal Core Motion during Indoor Walking and Cycling

This study investigated the factors that influence core muscle endurance, i.e., the symmetry of frontal core motion during indoor walking and cycling, the symmetry of lateral core muscle endurance, the symmetry of the hip abductor strength, the weekly workout time and fast walking and cycling speeds, while controlling for gender. Seventy-nine healthy young adults participated in this study. In a regression analysis, the core muscle endurance time was the dependent variable. The independent variables were the symmetry of frontal core motion (measured using a wireless earbud sensor during walking and cycling), the symmetry of side plank time and of hip abductor strength, the weekly workout time and fast walking and cycling speeds. In the multiple regression analysis, weekly workout time, fast walking speed, symmetry of frontal core motion during fast cycling and symmetry of lateral side plank time predicted core muscle endurance (adjusted R2 = 0.42). Thus, clinicians and fitness personnel should consider the association of core muscle endurance with the symmetry of frontal core motion during cycling and the symmetry of side plank holding time, as well as with the weekly workout time and a fast walking speed, when designing core muscle exercise programmes.

Associations of fundamental motor skill competence, isometric plank, and modified pull-ups in 5-year old children: An observational analysis of 2012 NHANES NYFS

There are purported relationships between fundamental motor skills (FMS), health-related physical fitness, physical activity, and obesity among children. The purpose of this observational, secondary data analysis was to further examine these associations in children from the 2012 National Youth Fitness Survey (NYFS). 121 five-year old children (51% female) from the NYFS database completed the Test of Gross Motor Development, 2nd edition (TGMD-2), muscular fitness measures of plank and modified pull-ups, and weight status based on body mass index (BMI) percentile. Significant positive correlations were identified between TGMD-2 scores and both pull-ups and plank. Linear regression models, controlling for sex, weight status, and Hispanic ethnicity also identified both modified pull-ups completed and plank time as significant predictors of TGMD-2 total raw score. No demographic factors were significant factors in any of the models. This secondary data analysis identified associations between FMS and health-related physical fitness (i.e., muscular fitness), with both modified pull-ups and plank performance, in five-year old children. Results underscored the importance of different facets of health-related physical fitness contributing significantly to FMS performance and the need for more work related to physical fitness in preschool-age children.

Justified Concerns? An Exploration of the Leg Tuck in a Tactical Population

The leg tuck was replaced by the plank in the Army Combat Fitness Test, in part because it was felt it discriminated against women. There is limited leg tuck research, including between-sex comparisons and relationships with other fitness tests. This study investigated the leg tuck in a firefighter trainee population (274 males, 31 females). Archival fitness test data included: Illinois agility test (IAT); push-ups; pull-ups; leg tucks; multistage fitness test; 4.54 kg backwards overhead medicine ball throw (BOMBT); 10-repetition maximum deadlift; and 18 kg kettlebell farmer's carry over a 91.44 m course. Independent samples t-tests (p < 0.05) and effect sizes (d) compared the sexes. Partial correlations and stepwise regression (controlling for sex; p < 0.05) calculated relationships between the leg tuck with the other tests. Male trainees outperformed females in all tests (p ≤ 0.003). The largest difference was for the BOMBT (d = 2.59) not the leg tuck (d = 1.28). The strongest leg tuck relationships were with pull-ups (r = 0.790) and push-ups (r = 0.553). Sex, pull-ups, and push-ups predicted the leg tuck (r² = 0.674). Approximately 80% of the females could complete one leg tuck, although female personnel may require specific strength and power training. Pulling strength may be a determining factor in leg tuck performance, which is likely not indicated by the plank.

Physique and performance in male sitting volleyball players: implications for classification and training

Background

This study assessed whether anthropometry, physical fitness and sport-specific sprint performance vary across the three groups of sitting volleyball (SV) athletes (athletes with a disability (VS1), athletes with a minimal disability (VS2) and able-bodied SV athletes (AB)) in order to explore the validity of the current system of classification. This study also investigated how the anthropometric and physical fitness characteristics of athletes relate to their sprint performance.

Methods

Thirty-five SV male athletes aged 37.4 ± 10.8 years and practicing SV at a national/international level volunteered for this study. Testing consisted in the evaluation of linear anthropometry, physical fitness (body composition by-means of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and upper-body strength) and sprint performance (5-meter sprint tests, agility test and speed and endurance test).

Results

Athletes in the three groups differed in fat mass percentage (%FM) which was higher in VS1 versus AB at the sub-total level (+9%), in the arms (+15%) and in the non-impaired leg (+8%) regions. Greater hand span, greater length of the impaired lower leg, lower %FM at both the sub-total and regional level and a higher level of strength in the upper body are all associated with better performances in the considered sprint tests (P < 0.05 for all). These results do not confirm the validity of the current system of classification of athletes adopted in SV. Professionals dealing with SV athletes should include specific exercises aimed at improving whole-body and regional body composition and the strength of the trunk and upper limbs in their training programs.

Prevalence of muscle imbalance and its potential influence on injury among female acrobatic dancers

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of muscle imbalance among young adolescent acrobats (n=15) and if there was a potential link to injury.

Methods

Isokinetic strength of the lower extremity, isometric strength of the trunk, and flexibility of both the trunk and lower extremity were assessed. Pearson correlation (r) and χ² correlation tests were performed on all explanatory variables.

Results

Significant correlations were found between isokinetic peak torque of the quadriceps and hamstrings (p=0.000) and the plantar flexors and dorsiflexors (p=0.000) on both sides, along with plantar flexor dominance (p=0.000). Non-significant findings were seen when identifying dominance between the quadriceps and hamstrings (p=0.933) as well as when correlating peak torque and flexibility of the lower extremity (right hamstrings: p=0.668, left hamstrings: p=0.338, right quadriceps: p=0.171, left quadriceps: p=0.707, right plantar flexors: p=0.282, left plantar flexors: p=0.382, right dorsiflexors: p=0.297 and left dorsiflexors: p=0.393).

Conclusion

Acrobats demonstrated noticeably high ranges of flexibility, and the most common injury site was found to be the ankle. However, these mentioned injuries were not all due to acrobatic participation. The limited sample size warrants extensive research with a larger sample size to further verify or dispute the results found in this study. Muscle imbalances found within this population could increase the risk of injury.

Classification of Plank Techniques Using Wearable Sensors

The plank is a common core-stability exercise. Developing a wearable inertial sensor system for distinguishing between acceptable and aberrant plank techniques and detecting specific deviations from acceptable plank techniques can enhance performance and prevent injury. The purpose of this study was to develop an inertial measurement unit (IMU)-based plank technique quantification system. Nineteen healthy volunteers (age: 20.5 ± 0.8 years, BMI: 22.9 ± 1.4 kg/m²) performed the standard plank technique and six deviations with five IMUs positioned on the occiput, cervical spine, thoracic spine, sacrum, and right radius to record movements. The random forest method was employed to perform the classification. The proposed binary tree classification model achieved an accuracy of more than 86%. The average sensitivities were higher than 90%, and the specificities were higher than 91%, except for one deviation (83%). These results suggest that the five IMU-based systems can classify the plank technique as acceptable or aberrant with good accuracy, high sensitivity, and acceptable specificity, which has significant implications in monitoring plank biomechanics and enabling coaching practice.

Isometric Strength Database for Muscle Maximal Voluntary Endurance Field Tests: Normative Data

Background

Different field tests are used to evaluate muscle capacity, in particular maximal voluntary isometric endurance. However, although there are some normative values for a few muscle endurance tests, these do not consider the weight, height, gender, or age of individuals, which are well-known factors that influence muscle performance.

Hypothesis/Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the test–retest reproducibility of eight field tests and establish muscle endurance norms, in a healthy population, based on their anthropometric characteristics, which could allow the optimal evaluation of the entire muscle function in a quick manner.

Design

Case series.

Methods

This study was conducted in two phases. The first phase was to check the reproducibility inter- and intra-assessor for eight isometric muscle field tests on 20 volunteer subjects aged 40.9 ± 11.6 years old (age range, 21–58 years). The second part was to establish muscle maximal voluntary isometric endurance norms according to these tests on a total of 400 healthy participants grouped by age (50 males and females in each of the age brackets, 20–29; 30–39; 40–49; 50–59 years old, for a total of 200 males and 200 females).

Results

The intra- and inter-assessor reproducibility tests are good for all muscle measurements (the intraclass correlation coefficients varied between 0.915 and 0.996 and the coefficient of variation between 3.6 and 11.8%). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves demonstrates a good sensibility with values greater than 0.7 for each test. Each muscle belt presents same ratio regardless of the age and gender group. The simultaneous multiple regression analyses highlight that the anthropometric characteristics of subjects influence significantly the performance of isometric tests.

Conclusion

This study has permitted establishing prediction equations in a healthy population according to their anthropometric characteristics as well as agonist/antagonist ratios for eight muscle isometric field tests after demonstrating a good reproducibility of all tests.

Is Weekly Frequency of Yoga Practice Sufficient? Physiological Effects of Hatha Yoga Among Healthy Novice Women

Beneficial physical and physiological health outcomes of yoga practice are well-supported by empirical data. However, whether weekly frequency of training is sufficient to evoke positive changes, is still an open question. The present intervention study investigated the effects of 10 weekly sessions of beginner level hatha yoga with respect to indicators of physical fitness and physiological markers. 82 young women (mean age of 22.0 ± 3.83 years) participated in the study. The yoga group (N = 49) attended a yoga course consisting of 10 sessions (1.5 h each) on a weekly basis. The control group (N = 33) did not receive any intervention. BMI, body fat percentage, balance (one-leg-stand test with open and closed eyes, functional reach test), flexibility (side bend test, modified sit and reach test) core muscle strength (plank test) as well as resting heart rate (HR), and heart rate variability (HRV) were assessed 1 week before and after the course. Both frequentist and Bayesian analysis showed an improvement in flexibility and balance in the yoga group compared to the control group. The yoga group showed also increased core muscle strength. No changes with respect to BMI, body fat percentage, resting HR and HRV were found. Ninety minute beginner level hatha yoga classes were characterized by 93.39 HR and 195 kcal energy consumption on average. The present findings suggest that weekly setting of a 10-session long hatha yoga training leads to improvements in balance, flexibility and core muscle strength among healthy young women. However, for changes in BMI, body fat percentage, resting HR and HRV longer, and/or more intense interventions are needed.

Comparison of Fitness and Physical Activity Levels of Obese People with Hypertension

This study assessed the relationships between the current level of physical activity (PA) and PA in childhood and the level of physical fitness (PF) of obese people aged 40+ with co-existing hypertension (HT). The study included 82 obese patients with co-existing HT in their history. In order to assess the level of PA, we used the IPAQ. PF was assessed by observing the performance of patients in a fitness test (a 30-s chair stand, a handgrip strength test, a sit-and-reach test, a one leg stand test, a plank test, a wall squat test, and a 2-min step-in-place test). According to the IPAQ category, 24.4% were classified as having a high level of PA, 45.1% a sufficient level of PA, and 30.5% an insufficient level of PA. We noted that the higher the level of PA, the higher the PF—even in obese participants with HT. On the other hand, co-existing diabetes lowered almost all analysed parameters, both biochemical and fitness. The current PA level, a deficiency in which seems to be related to low PF and/or HT, does seem to be related to the degree of PF.

Trunk muscle endurance in individuals with and without patellofemoral pain: Sex differences and correlations with performance tests

OBJECTIVES

To compare trunk muscle endurance among females and males with and without patellofemoral pain (PFP), and to investigate the correlations between trunk muscle endurance and performance of the single leg hop test (SLHT) and forward step-down test (FSDT).

DESIGN

Cross-sectional.

SETTING

Laboratory-based study.

PARTICIPANTS

110 females and 38 males with PFP, 61 females and 31males without PFP.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Anterior and lateral trunk muscle endurance were assessed with the prone and bilateral side-bridge tests, respectively. Performance during the SLHT and FSDT was also assessed.

RESULTS

Lower anterior and lateral trunk muscle endurance were identified in females (p < .001; d = -0.74 to -0.86), but not in males (p ≥ .806; d = -0.04 to 0.05) with PFP as compared to sex-matched controls. Moderate to large, positive correlations between anterior and lateral trunk muscle endurance with performance in the SLHT and FSDT were identified in females (r = .27 to .50; p < .004) and males (r = 0.27 to 0.59; p < .031) with PFP and females without PFP (r = 0.26 to 0.40; p < .044).

CONCLUSION

Our findings highlight that assessing trunk muscle endurance is advised in females with PFP. Trunk muscle endurance of individuals with PFP may have a role in the performance of hopping and stepping down tasks.

Assessment of Lumbar Extensor Muscles in the Context of Trunk Function, a Pilot Study in Healthy Individuals

A comprehensive assessment of trunk function, including the lumbar extensor muscles, appears to be important in various conditions affecting axial musculature. This pilot cross-sectional observational study aimed to define a battery of tests that comprehensively assess trunk muscle function (strength and muscular endurance). Sixty subjects without low back pain (LBP) underwent measurement of isometric lower back extensor strength using a hand-held dynamometer (HHD) in three positions; measurement of respiratory muscle strength; and Biering-Sørensen, prone-plank, and side-bridge tests. The repeatability, short-term and long-term reliability using the HHD device in different postural positions was confirmed. The greatest isometric lower back extensor strength was generated in the sitting position by male subjects. Time of effort in the Biering-Sørensen test was longer in women and older subgroups than in men and younger individuals, although this was not the case for the other two muscular endurance tests. This pilot monitoring of trunk muscle strength and endurance in healthy volunteers may lead to a better understanding of trunk muscle function. Based on this methodological background, the authors aim to use the defined battery of tests in their further studies in a group of patients with LBP and certain neuromuscular diseases to verify its usefulness in clinical practice.

Estimation of Health-Related Physical Fitness (HRPF) Levels of the General Public Using Artificial Neural Network with the National Fitness Award (NFA) Datasets

Estimation of health-related physical fitness (HRPF) levels of individuals is indispensable for providing personalized training programs in smart fitness services. In this study, we propose an artificial neural network (ANN)-based estimation model to predict HRPF levels of the general public using simple affordable physical information. The model is designed to use seven inputs of personal physical information, including age, gender, height, weight, percent body fat, waist circumference, and body mass index (BMI), to estimate levels of muscle strength, flexibility, maximum rate of oxygen consumption (VO_2max), and muscular endurance. HRPF data (197,719 sets) gathered from the National Fitness Award dataset are used for training (70%) and validation (30%) of the model. In-depth analysis of the model’s estimation accuracy is conducted to derive optimal estimation accuracy. This included input/output correlation, hidden layer structures, data standardization, and outlier removals. The performance of the model is evaluated by comparing the estimation accuracy with that of a multiple linear regression (MLR) model. The results demonstrate that the proposed model achieved up to 10.06% and 30.53% improvement in terms of R² and SEE, respectively, compared to the MLR model and provides reliable estimation of HRPF levels acceptable to smart fitness applications.

Rationale and study protocol for the Movement Oriented Games Based Assessment (MOGBA) cluster randomized controlled trial: A complex movement skill intervention for 8-12 year old children within 'Made to Play'

There is a positive relationship between children's movement competence and physical activity, with a further relationship established between physical activity and childhood obesity. The Movement Oriented Games Based Assessment (MOGBA) is a delivery and assessment intervention designed to improve children's complex movement skills, based on principles of motor development and assessment theories. MOGBA aims to improve children's movement competence, physical fitness and self-perceptions (physical and game) and increase children's moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). MOGBA is to be used in the 'Made to Play' initiative, involving 105 sports and activity programs across 21 countries, involving over 25 million children. A multi-site cluster randomized controlled trial will take place across three global sites (UK, Ireland and Australia). Each site will recruit eight primary schools (four experiment, four control) with each school providing two separate classes of children from age ranges 8-12 years (Site n = ~300, total n = 904). After baseline assessments, schools will be randomly allocated to an experimental or wait-list control group. Following two half-day workshops, trained facilitators will deliver the MOGBA intervention for 9 weeks. The main intervention components include delivery of 14 games-based activities with associated assessments of children's movement and differentiation to meet children's needs by manipulating space, effort and relationships. The primary outcome of the trial is to improve children's' movement competence (The Dragon Challenge), with secondary outcomes of improving children's' in-activity and leisure-time MVPA (5-day accelerometer), physical fitness (standing long jump and push ups) and self-perceptions (physical and game). Data will be analysed using multilevel modelling approaches. The MOGBA intervention has been designed to improve children's movement competence and scalable interventions based on MOGBA could be applied across programs within the Made to Play initiative, globally. The trial is registered at the Australia New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ACTRN12619001320145p, 27 Sep 2019).

Reliability of an adapted core strength endurance test battery in individuals with axial spondylarthritis

OBJECTIVES

To adapt the core strength endurance test battery (aCSE), previously used for testing athletes, to a target group of patients with axial spondylarthritis (axSpA), to evaluate its intra-tester reliability and its associations with disease-specific factors.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted at axSpA exercise therapy groups, including both axSpA patients and the physiotherapist group leaders (PTs). The aCSE was used to measure the isometric strength endurance of the ventral, lateral, and dorsal core muscle chains (measured in seconds), as well as to assess the disease-specific factors of functional status, self-reported pain, and perceived strength performance. The aCSE was repeated after 7-14 days to measure intra-tester reliability for the same rater (PT group leader). Reliability was calculated as an intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) using a nested design. The associations between ventral, lateral, and dorsal strength endurance and the disease-specific factors were calculated using Pearson correlation coefficients.

RESULTS

Study participants were 13 PT group leaders and 62 axSpA patients. The latter were all capable of performing the aCSE, with the exception of one individual. A moderate to substantial intra-rater reliability (ICCs (95%CI)) was found for the ventral (0.54 (0.35, 0.74)), lateral (0.52 (0.33, 0.70)), and dorsal (0.71 (0.58, 0.86)) core muscle chains. None of the aCSE measures correlated with the disease-specific factors.

CONCLUSION

The aCSE was found to be a reliable test battery for assessing core strength endurance in axSpA patients. Interestingly, aCSE performance was not associated with any disease-specific factors. Key Points • The adapted core strength endurance test battery measures the isometric strength of the ventral, lateral and dorsal core muscle chains. • The adapted core strength endurance test battery showed a moderate to substantial intra-rater reliability for all three muscle chains tested in axSpA patients. • No correlations were found between the adapted core strength endurance test battery and the disease-specific factors of self-reported pain, functional status and perceived strength performance.

Reliability of five trunk flexion and extension endurance field-based tests in high school-aged adolescents: ISQUIOS programme

This study aimed to explore the inter-session reliability of the measures obtained from 2 trunk extension (Biering-Sorensen and Dynamic Extensor Endurance (DEE) tests) and 3 trunk flexion (Ito, Side Bridge and Bench Trunk Curl-Up (BTC) tests) endurance field-based tests in adolescents. A total of 208 (males, n = 100; females, n = 108) adolescents performed all the field-based tests on 2 separate testing sessions, 7-days apart. The inter-session reliability scores were explored through relative reliability, inter-session differences and precision of measurements. Most of the trunk endurance measures demonstrated acceptable relative reliability (the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) ranged from 0.75 to 0.94). However, significant inter-session differences were identified for measures from the DEE and BTC tests. Likewise, the precision of the measurement of each field-based test was poor (the the standard error of measurement expressed as a percentage of the mean score (CV_TE) ranged from 11.3 to 24.4%) with the minimal detectable change (MDC₉₅) revealing that changes higher than 42% for trunk extension endurance tests and 31.4% for trunk flexion endurance tests after an intervention are required to indicate a significant change above measurement error. Therefore, the findings from this study indicate that only the BTC test demonstrates acceptable inter-session reliability (ICC > 0.9, CV_TE ~ 10%, MDC₉₅ ~ 30%) to monitor the changes in trunk endurance scores that may be expected in adolescents after performing an intervention programme.

The Motor Impact of the Static Balance in the Up Plank Position on Three Different Balls in Physical Activities of Physical Education Students

The present study aimed to assess the capacity of stability and motor impact in the development of the balance of student athletes by reducing the support surface on the ball in the up plank position, by using three categories of balls of equal size, but with different elasticity and weight. In this study, the second aim was to investigate the differences in maintaining static balance, on different balls, between those who are practicing individual sports or team sports. The total study sample include 48 students, active athletes (45.8% of individual sports and 54.2% of team sports), age X ± SD 18.74 ± 1.94 years. The research included two test sessions (initial and final) applied in two stages. The static balance tests were performed by measuring the time maintaining the up plank position with two and three points of support on the three balls, with different characteristics of elasticity and ranges of deformation: medical ball, handball ball and fitness ball. The results of the study showed that the superior initial and final results were recorded on the fitness ball, and the inferior results on the medicine ball. The upper difference was recorded at the up plank position with two support points (arms, legs) on the fitness ball, at 4980 s, and the lowest in the same test on the medical ball, at 3420 s. The largest difference was recorded at the up plank position with three support points on the handball ball, at 7.082 s, and the lowest in the same test on the medical ball, at 3.093 s. The subjects of the study perceived that the most difficult position to execute was the up plank position on the medical ball with two support points, with 43.8%, and the easiest stability was registered in the up plank position on the fitness ball with three points of support, of 37.5%. The relevance of the research results from the possibility of using different balls in conditions of positioning and body posture with a diminished support base in order to improve physical fitness.

Physical Performance Measures of Flexibility, Hip Strength, Lower Limb Power, and Trunk Endurance in Healthy Navy Cadets: Normative Data and Differences Between Sex and Limb Dominance

ABSTRACT

Lopes, TJA, Simic, M, Alves, DdS, Bunn, PdS, Rodrigues, AI, Terra, BdS, Lima, MdS, Ribeiro, FM, Vilão, P, and Pappas, E. Physical performance measures of flexibility, hip strength, lower limb power, and trunk endurance in healthy navy cadets: Normative data and differences between sex and limb dominance. J Strength Cond Res 35(2): 458-464, 2021-The objectives were to provide normative data on commonly used physical performance tests that may be associated with musculoskeletal injuries in Navy cadets and assess for sex and limb dominance differences. A large cohort of Navy cadets were assessed for physical performance tests of flexibility (ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and sit and reach), isometric hip strength, lower limb power (single-leg hop), and trunk endurance (plank and side plank tests). Besides providing normative data tables, sex and limb dominance differences were assessed by a 2-way mixed analysis of variance. A total of 545 Brazilian Navy cadets (394 men) representing 79% of the cadets in the Academy participated. Normative reference values were reported as mean ± SD, 95% confidence interval and percentiles. For tests of muscle strength, power, and endurance, men performed better than women (p < 0.001). For flexibility tests, women achieved greater distances than men for the sit and reach test (p < 0.001), but no difference for ankle dorsiflexion (p = 0.51). Overall, there were no clinically relevant differences between limbs. In conclusion, normative data for commonly used physical performance tests were provided. Although no clinically relevant side-to-side differences were found, men presented higher values for lower limb strength and power, as well as trunk endurance than women, whereas women demonstrated increased flexibility. Valuable normative data are provided to professionals who work with young, active populations from the injury prevention or rehabilitation perspective because the current study may help professionals to identify athletes or cadets whose performance is outside the normative values and may be at risk for injury.

Evaluation of a Functional Restoration Program at Fort Bliss Interdisciplinary Pain Management Clinic

INTRODUCTION

In partnership with the Veterans Health Administration, in 2010, the Department of Defense/Veterans Health Administration Pain Management Task Force Final Report recommended a comprehensive pain management plan. Consequently, each Army medical center established an Interdisciplinary Pain Management Clinic (IPMC) for pain treatment, and each IPMC implements a multidisciplinary outpatient functional restoration program (FRP) as an alternative to or in addition to pharmacological therapy. This article reports our first-year FRP results at William Beaumont Army Medical Center IPMC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The FRP is designed to improve the participants' functionality and quality of life, both personally and professionally. Service members with chronic pain were evaluated for psychological and physical clearance before enrollment in an intense and structured FRP for 8 hours a day over 3 weeks. The program focused on physical and occupational exercises, yoga, acupuncture, and educational classes regarding pain medications, nutrition, and coping skills. The resulting data were analyzed using paired two-tailed t-tests with a predetermined significance level of 0.05 to examine the participants' mean changes upon completion of the FRP.

RESULTS

The pre-post comparison indicated significant improvement after completion of the FRP. The fear-avoidance of physical activities and the fear of movement scores were reduced significantly (P < 0.05); the Canadian occupational performance and satisfaction, physical strength and endurance were improved significantly (P < 0.0001) in sit-to-stand, plank balance, lifting and carrying, and 10-minute 7-to-1 Pyramid tests; however, fear-avoidance of work was not significantly reduced (P = 0.2319).

CONCLUSIONS

Because of the lack of randomization and the small number of subjects (N = 32, 7 cohorts), unknown sources of bias may have influenced the results. Despite these limitations, the results from this report support the program's effectiveness and are consistent with the outcomes from FRP programs in other military facilities and in civilian studies.

Disparities in physical fitness of 6-11-year-old children: the 2012 NHANES National Youth Fitness Survey

Background

Children’s physical fitness is an important predictor of metabolic health, physical function, and academic achievement. Although fitness is determined partially by heritable factors, it can be maintained and improved through regular physical activity. Because physical activity is known to vary by socioeconomic status, physical fitness may be expected to vary similarly. With this in mind, the purpose of this study was to examine disparities in physical fitness performance among a nationally-representative sample of 6–11 year-old children living in the United States.

Methods

We conducted secondary analysis of physical fitness data of children ages 6–11 years (n = 686) from the nationally representative National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHANES) Youth Fitness Survey (NNYFS) 2012. We estimated sex-stratified weighted means of four fitness performance tests: cardiorespiratory endurance, upper-, lower-, and core-muscular strength. The weighted mean for each fitness assessment was compared by income groups (federal income to poverty ratio – FIPR) accounting for complex sampling design and adjusting for age.

Results

Income disparities in physical fitness performance were evident among girls but not among boys. Girls from lower income groups (< 130% FIPR and 130–349% FIPR groups) showed significantly lower cardiorespiratory endurance and core muscle strength compared to those from the highest income group (≥ 350% FIPR).

Conclusion

These findings highlight the need to support health-promoting physical activity among girls from disadvantaged backgrounds prior to the adolescent period.

Performance, reliability and fatigue in prone bridge test and supine unilateral bridge test

INTRODUCTION

The core muscles can be evaluated through functional tests, such as the prone bridge test (PBT) and supine unilateral bridge test (SUBT). However, there are differences in reliability and muscle fatigue related to these tests.

METHODS

The study evaluated 30 sedentary individuals and 30 individuals who practiced resistance exercises. Participants performed the PBT and SUBT in association with muscle recruitment, through surface electromyography of the upper and lower limbs and trunk muscles. The order of the tests was random and the participants performed one repetition of each test until fatigue. After a 30-min rest interval the participants repeated the tests. After one week, the participants returned and repeated the tests.

RESULTS

The resistance group (RG) presented longer PBT holding time (RG 111.8 ± 9.4 and sedentary group (SG) 81 ± 7.7; p = 0.01), while the holding time in the SUBT was similar for both groups (RG = 100.7 ± 8.1 and SG = 79 ± 9.2; p = 0.09). Good to excellent reliability (ICC >0.836; SEM < 3.85) was established for the PBT and SUBT. Comparing the two groups there were no significant differences or interactions regarding muscle fatigue. The intragroup analysis on the PBT indicated greater gluteus maximus muscle fatigue, and for the SUBT the rectus abdominis presented greater fatigue, in both groups.

CONCLUSION

The PBT and SUBT are reliable. Resistance exercise practitioners maintain the PBT for a longer time. The PBT led to greater gluteus maximus muscle fatigue, while the SUBT generated greater fatigue in the rectus abdominis and gluteus medius, in both groups.

The Penn Vet Working Dog Center Fit to Work Program: A Formalized Method for Assessing and Developing Foundational Canine Physical Fitness

Fit to Work is a formalized working dog foundational physical fitness assessment and development program. The Penn Vet Working Dog Center developed this program to address the needs of working dog handlers, trainers, and programs for simple, effective, and efficient methods to develop and assess working dog physical fitness. Fit to Work focuses on the foundational fitness modalities of strength, stability, mobility, and proprioception. The Penn Vet Working Dog Center piloted and refined this program over 3 months in a closed population of 31 working dogs in training. Fit to Work consists of posture development and maintenance, warm-up and cool-down routines, training exercises, and assessment methods. To simplify implementation for dogs and personnel, the foundational training program incorporates a discrete number of exercises, standardized progression steps, defined criteria for progression, and a reduced emphasis on learned behaviors. Fit to Work also enables safe and progressive assessment of foundational fitness through a tiered and inexpensive process. Future research will focus on validation of training and assessment methods, development of assessment standards, and correlation of physical fitness with operational performance.

Fit to Perform: A Profile of Higher Education Music Students' Physical Fitness

The physical demands of music making are well acknowledged, but understanding of musicians' physical and fitness profiles is nonetheless limited, especially those of advanced music students who are training to enter music's competitive professional landscape. To gain insight into how physical fitness is associated with music making, this study investigated music students' fitness levels on several standardized indicators. Four hundred and eighty three students took part in a fitness screening protocol that included measurements of lung function, flexibility (hypermobility, shoulder range of motion, sit and reach), strength and endurance (hand grip, plank, press-up), and sub-maximal cardiovascular fitness (3-min step test), as well as self-reported physical activity (IPAQ-SF). Participants scored within age-appropriate ranges on lung function, shoulder range of motion, grip strength, and cardiovascular fitness. Their results for the plank, press-up, and sit and reach were poor by comparison. Reported difficulty (22%) and pain (17%) in internal rotation of the right shoulder were also found. Differences between instrument groups and levels of study were observed on some measures. In particular, brass players showed greater lung function and grip strength compared with other groups, and postgraduate students on the whole were able to maintain the plank for longer but also demonstrated higher hypermobility and lower lung function and cardiovascular fitness than undergraduate students. Seventy-nine percent of participants exceeded the minimum recommended weekly amount of physical activity, but this was mostly based on walking activities. Singers were the most physically active group, and keyboard players, composers, and conductors were the least active. IPAQ-SF scores correlated positively with lung function, sit and reach, press-up and cardiovascular fitness suggesting that, in the absence of time and resources to carry out comprehensive physical assessments, this one measure alone can provide useful insight into musicians' fitness. The findings show moderate levels of general health-related fitness, and we discuss whether moderate fitness is enough for people undertaking physically and mentally demanding music making. We argue that musicians could benefit from strengthening their supportive musculature and enhancing their awareness of strength imbalances.

The Relationship Between Army Physical Fitness and Functional Capacities in Infantry Members of the Slovenian Armed Forces

Šimenko, J, Kovčan, B, Pori, P, Vodičar, J, Vodičar, M, and Hadžić, V. The Relationship between army physical fitness and functional capacities in infantry members of the Slovenian Armed Forces. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2019-The primary purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between traditional army physical fitness test (APFT) and a novel functional testing battery that included counterMovement jump (CMJ) testing, stork balANce test, pUll-ups, single leg hAmstring bridge test, and loaded prone pLank test-MANUAL battery. The secondary purpose was to explore additional baseline fitness aspects traditionally not covered by APFT. This cross-sectional study involved 181 Slovenian Armed Forces (SAF) infantry members (age 31.4 ± 6.1 years) that were tested using both the regular annual APFT and the MANUAL battery (testing was conducted 2 weeks apart). At the significance level of p ≤ 0.05, significant but weak associations between the MANUAL testing battery and APFT battery (0.2 ≦ r < 0.5; p ≤ 0.05) were observed. The MANUAL battery has highlighted possible hamstring (less than 20 repetitions on a single leg bridge test in 26% of SAF infantry members) and posterior shoulder pull-up muscle weakness (mean score 5 ± 4 pull-ups). Functional predictors from the MANUAL explained only 33.6% of the APFT score (R = 0.336). Significant predictors of APFT score were single leg hamstring left (p = 0.048), loaded plank (p = 0.049), number of pull-ups (p < 0.001), CMJ (p = 0.01), and loaded CMJ (p = 0.026). The findings suggest that higher APFT marks are associated with better performance on the MANUAL tests and indicate the problem of hamstring and pull-up muscle weakness. The general recommendation is that the physical condition military programs should include more exercises to strengthen those muscle groups.

Trunk muscle endurance in Chinese adults

BACKGROUND

Previous studies in non-Chinese populations have found a relationship between performance on isometric trunk muscle endurance tests and low back pain (LBP). However, the relationship between trunk muscle endurance and LBP in Chinese populations has received little attention and age-referenced data have not been reported.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the relationship between age-referenced isometric trunk muscle endurance values and LBP in a Chinese cohort.

METHODS

One hundred and eighty-eight participants (20-59-years) performed four timed-endurance tests (Biering-Sørensen, plank, left/right side bridge) in random order. Participants with a history of LBP completed an Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and pain scale. Holding-times for the four tests were summed and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to differentiate participants with and without LBP.

RESULTS

Data were grouped by age. Analysis revealed similar endurance values to those reported in non-Chinese populations, except longer holding times were recorded in the 50-59 yr Chinese cohort. Pain scores were positively correlated with ODI scores. ROC curve analysis showed that the area under the curve was 0.723 and optimal cut-off was 288 sec (sensitivity and specificity both 0.75).

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to describe trunk muscle endurance reference data in Chinese people. Individuals with a summed endurance time of < 288 seconds appear more likely to suffer LBP.

Musculoskeletal examination in young athletes and non-athletes: the Finnish Health Promoting Sports Club (FHPSC) study

Objectives

To determine the inter-rater repeatability of a musculoskeletal examination and to compare findings between adolescent athletes and non-athletes in Finland.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, a musculoskeletal examination assessing posture, mobility and movement control was carried out by a sports and exercise medicine physician on 399 athletes aged 14–17 years and 177 non-athletes. Within 2 weeks another sports and exercise medicine physician repeated the examination for 41 adolescents to test the inter-rater repeatability.

Results

In total, 10 of the 11 tests performed had at least moderate inter-rater reliability (κ ≥0.4 or percentage agreement >80%). Athletes more often than non-athletes had one shoulder protruded (8.0% vs 4.0%, OR 2.81, 95% CI 1.16 to 6.81). Forty-six per cent of athletes had good knee control in the two-legged vertical drop jump test compared with 32% of non-athletes (OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.29 to 3.06). Athletes had better core muscle control with 86.3% being able to remain in the correct plank position for 30 s compared with 68.6% of non-athletes (OR 2.70, 95% CI 1.67 to 4.36). In the deep squat test, good lumbar spine control was maintained only by 35.8% of athletes and 38.4% of non-athletes.

Conclusion

A basic musculoskeletal examination is sufficiently reliable to be performed by trained physicians as a part of a periodic health evaluation. Shortfalls in mobility, posture and movement control are common in both athletes and non-athletes. These deficits could have been caused by sedentary behaviour, monotonous training, or both.

Field Test Performance of Junior Competitive Surf Athletes following a Core Strength Training Program

Lower body and core muscular strength are essential for optimal performance in many sports and competitive surfers have similar strength demands when maneuvering a surfboard to achieve competition success. Presently, the use of unstable surfaces is excessively utilized by surf coaches and trainers and to date, research does not support this as an effective training method for long-term improvements. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of an 8-week Core Strength Training Program (CSTP) on a battery of field tests specific to assessing core musculature and lower body strength for junior competitive surf athletes. Nineteen American junior competitive surf athletes (age:15.7±1.01yrs, height:1.77±0.007m, mass:64.67±9.08kg) completed pre- and post-tests with a transitional pre-season to in-season 8-week CSTP intervention. The battery of tests included: rotational power (RP), time to peak acceleration (TP), maximal acceleration (Ma), maximal countermovement jump (CMJ), estimated peak power (PP), core strength (CS), core endurance (CE), and rotational flexibility (RF). Means, standard deviations, RMANOVA with a significance level of p < 0.05, and effect sizes were computed. Results demonstrated significant improvements in L.RP, TP, CMJ, PP, CS, and RF. Based on the results, the CSTP is an effective training program for surf coaches and strength and conditioning professionals to improve strength in the core musculature and lower body. In addition, we conclude implementation of the CSTP enhances athletic performance measurements which will likely increase competition success.

Impact of Pilates Exercise in Multiple Sclerosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Pilates is a series of exercises based on whole-body movement and may improve mobility in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of Pilates on walking performance in people with MS.

Methods

30 individuals with MS who were not restricted to a wheelchair or scooter (Patient-Determined Disease Steps scale score <7) were randomized to receive Pilates (twice weekly) and massage therapy (once weekly) or once-weekly massage therapy only (control group). The Pilates was delivered in a group setting (five to ten participants per session). The primary outcome was change in walking performance (6-Minute Walk Test) after 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes included functional ability (Timed Up and Go test), balance (Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale), flexibility (sit and reach test), body composition (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), core endurance (plank-hold test), and muscle strength and voluntary activation (quadriceps). Intention-to-treat analysis was performed using a two-factor repeated-measures analysis of variance.

Results

Walking distance increased by a mean (SD) of 52.4 (40.2) m in the Pilates group versus 15.0 (34.1) m in the control group (group × time, P = .01). Mean (SD) time to complete the Timed Up and Go test decreased by 1.5 (2.8) seconds in the Pilates group versus an increase of 0.3 (0.9) seconds in the control group (group × time, P = .03). There were no other significant differences between groups over time.

Conclusions

Pilates improved walking performance and functional ability in persons with MS and is a viable exercise option to help manage the disease.

Evaluating abdominal core muscle fatigue: Assessment of the validity and reliability of the prone bridging test

The aims of this study were to research the amplitude and median frequency characteristics of selected abdominal, back, and hip muscles of healthy subjects during a prone bridging endurance test, based on surface electromyography (sEMG), (a) to determine if the prone bridging test is a valid field test to measure abdominal muscle fatigue, and (b) to evaluate if the current method of administrating the prone bridging test is reliable. Thirty healthy subjects participated in this experiment. The sEMG activity of seven abdominal, back, and hip muscles was bilaterally measured. Normalized median frequencies were computed from the EMG power spectra. The prone bridging tests were repeated on separate days to evaluate inter and intratester reliability. Significant differences in normalized median frequency slope (NMF_slope ) values between several abdominal, back, and hip muscles could be demonstrated. Moderate-to-high correlation coefficients were shown between NMF_slope values and endurance time. Multiple backward linear regression revealed that the test endurance time could only be significantly predicted by the NMF_slope of the rectus abdominis. Statistical analysis showed excellent reliability (ICC=0.87-0.89). The findings of this study support the validity and reliability of the prone bridging test for evaluating abdominal muscle fatigue.